Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US, but it still offers plenty of great driving opportunities. Here are some of the top places you can go for a drive in the Ocean State:
Newport
Newport is renowned for its scenic coastline, Gilded Age mansions, and lively downtown. Some top drives include:
- Ocean Drive – This famous route runs along the rocky coastline and passes by mansions like The Breakers and Marble House.
- Bellevue Avenue – Lined with historic mansions, this boulevard makes for a beautiful drive through Newport’s ritzy neighborhoods.
- Thames Street – Cruise this cobblestone street to see historic buildings, shops, restaurants and the waterfront in downtown Newport.
Block Island
This charming island off Rhode Island’s southern coast is ideal for laid-back drives. Top routes include:
- Island Tour Road – Circumnavigate the island on this scenic 10-mile loop past unspoiled beaches, farms, and ponds.
- Mohegan Bluffs – Drive to the southeast tip of the island for cliff-top ocean views.
- Beach Roads – Waterfront roads like Corn Neck Road offer nonstop coastal views.
The Blackstone Valley
The Blackstone River Valley in northern RI is filled with historic charm. Don’t miss:
- Route 122 – Follow the river and the famous Blackstone bike path on this picturesque drive.
- Cumberland Hill Road – Wind over gently rolling hills for sweeping valley vistas.
- Main Street, Woonsocket – Explore this former mill city’s historic downtown district.
Providence
As RI’s capital and largest city, Providence offers plenty of sights. Top drives include:
- Benefit Street – This street on College Hill is lined with preserved Colonial homes.
- Prospect Terrace Park – Offers panoramic city views.
- Waterfront – Cruise along the Providence River and Canal Walk for great views.
Acadia National Park
Though mainly located in Maine, part of Acadia National Park extends into Rhode Island. Here you can find:
- Ocean Drive – Nature lovers will love this scenic loop with ocean overlooks.
- Black Point Road – Provides more breathtaking coastal views.
Rhode Island Beaches
With over 400 miles of coastline, Rhode Island has no shortage of great beach drives. Top picks include:
- Narragansett – Drive along the sea wall for waterfront restaurants and beaches.
- Matunuck – Potter Pond Road weaves past freshwater ponds to South Kingstown’s sandy shores.
- Watch Hill – Bay Street is lined with Victorian inns and provides beach access.
Scenic Country Drives
Venture inland from the coast for beautiful countryside. Don’t miss:
- Route 216 – From Connecticut through western RI’s rolling woodlands.
- Route 102 – Winds through rural Foster and Glocester’s farms and villages.
- Snake Den Road – Offers lake views in Johnston.
Seasonal Drives
Rhode Island has beautiful drives year-round. Some seasonal highlights include:
- Fall Foliage – Route 77 through Exeter/Richmond or Route 102 in Foster/Glocester.
- Winter Lights – Newport mansions or Providence’s WaterFire.
- Spring Blossoms – Historic Wickford on Route 1A.
Driving Tips
To make the most of your Rhode Island drive:
- Go at off-peak times to beat traffic.
- Make use of scenic overlook parking lots.
- Watch for cyclists and pedestrians.
- Obey all posted signs and speed limits.
Conclusion
With stunning coastline, historic towns, and pastoral countryside, Rhode Island offers top-notch driving. Be sure to take a memorable drive exploring all the Ocean State has to offer.