Things To Do
Beaches, events, outdoor activities, and attractions across Rhode Island.
83 articles
Best things to do in Newport RI 2026
The essential Newport experiences are the Cliff Walk, the Gilded Age mansions, Fort Adams State Park, and the Thames Street harborfront. Add a sailing trip and Second Beach in Middletown for a complete visit. Go in September or early October for good weather without July crowds, and book mansion tickets and restaurant reservations in advance during summer.
RI250: How Rhode Island Is Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary in 2026
Rhode Island is marking America's 250th anniversary (the semiquincentennial) throughout 2026 with signature events: the Bristol 4th of July Parade's own 250th edition, a full WaterFire lighting with the RI Philharmonic on July 4th weekend, public display of the state's copies of the Declaration of Independence at the State House, and commemorations of RI's claim as the first colony to renounce allegiance to the King in May 1776.
Best mini golf in Rhode Island 2026
Rhode Island offers several excellent mini golf courses for 2026, with top picks including Mulligan's Island Golf & Entertainment in North Kingstown (featuring two 18-hole courses and arcade), Adventure Land in Narragansett (a classic family-run course operating since 1959), and Lazer Gate in Cranston (combining mini golf with laser tag). Most courses open seasonally from April through October, with prices typically ranging from $10-15 per round for adults and $8-12 for children.
Best antique shops in Rhode Island
Rhode Island offers exceptional antique shopping experiences, with top destinations including the historic Wickford village in North Kingstown (home to over a dozen antique shops within walking distance), Providence's Benefit Street and Wickenden Street districts, and Newport's Thames Street and Franklin Street corridors. The state's concentration of 18th and 19th-century estates and maritime history makes it a treasure trove for American furniture, nautical antiques, and colonial-era collectibles, with shops ranging from high-end dealers to affordable vintage finds.
Best state parks in Rhode Island 2026
Rhode Island operates 11 state parks that offer diverse outdoor experiences, from coastal beaches to forested hiking trails. The top state parks for 2026 include Colt State Park in Bristol for waterfront picnicking and cycling, Lincoln Woods State Park in Lincoln for freshwater swimming and trails, Beavertail State Park in Jamestown for dramatic ocean views and lighthouse visits, and Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick for family activities and equestrian trails. Each park requires a seasonal parking fee ($7 weekdays/$14 weekends for out-of-state visitors, with Rhode Island residents receiving discounted rates).
Providence nightlife guide 2026
Providence nightlife in 2026 offers a diverse mix of entertainment across distinct neighborhoods, with the main action concentrated on Washington Street in downtown, Broadway in the West End, Thayer Street near Brown University, and Federal Hill's Atwells Avenue. The city features over 50 bars, clubs, and live music venues ranging from craft cocktail lounges and dive bars to dance clubs and comedy venues, with most establishments open until 1 AM or 2 AM depending on their license. Cover charges typically range from free to $20 for special events, while craft cocktails average $12-16 and local beers run $6-8.
Newport Folk Festival Guide: Tickets, Ferry, Parking, and What to Bring
The Newport Folk Festival takes place at Fort Adams State Park each summer and routinely sells out within minutes of tickets going on sale — often before the lineup is announced. The smartest way in is the festival ferry from downtown Newport or Providence, since parking at Fort Adams is extremely limited. Bring a low beach chair, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle.
Halloween events in Providence RI 2026: haunted houses, corn mazes, and more
Providence and surrounding Rhode Island areas offer diverse Halloween events in 2026, including haunted houses like Fright Nights at the Providence Rink (typically $25-35), corn mazes at local farms in nearby Scituate and Foster, the Federal Hill Stroll (usually late October), and Roger Williams Park Zoo's Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular ($18-25). Events typically run from late September through early November, with peak activities during October weekends.
Ice skating rinks in Rhode Island: indoor and outdoor options 2026
The Alex and Ani City Center rink in downtown Providence is Rhode Island's signature outdoor skating experience and about twice the size of the Rockefeller Center rink. For indoor year-round skating, try the state-run rinks in Providence, Warwick, Woonsocket, and North Smithfield. Most offer public skate sessions plus rentals for a modest fee.
RISD Museum Providence guide: hours, tickets, and top exhibits
The RISD Museum at 20 North Main Street in Providence is open Thursday-Sunday from 10 AM-5 PM. Adult admission is $20, seniors (62+) $18, and children under 18 are free. Top exhibits include the Rodin Gallery, ancient Egyptian collection, and contemporary art installations. The museum houses over 100,000 works spanning ancient to modern art, making it one of New England's premier university art museums.
Providence food tour guide 2026
Providence offers several guided food tours in 2026, with Rhode Island Red Food Tours and Taste of Rhode Island Tours leading the market at $65-85 per person for 2.5-3 hour walking experiences through Federal Hill, Downtown, and the East Side. Self-guided food tours are also popular, focusing on neighborhoods like Broadway in the West End, Thayer Street, and Wickenden Street, where you can explore Providence's diverse culinary scene from Italian bakeries to Southeast Asian restaurants at your own pace.
Top craft breweries in Rhode Island 2026
Rhode Island's craft beer scene has flourished with over 30 breweries operating across the state as of 2026. The top craft breweries include Tilted Barn Brewery in Exeter, known for its innovative New England IPAs; Proclamation Ale Company in Warwick, famous for hoppy ales and sours; Foolproof Brewing Company in Pawtucket, offering year-round favorites; Long Live Beerworks in Providence, specializing in experimental brews; and Narragansett Beer (craft division) in Providence, blending heritage with modern craft techniques.