Have you ever noticed that we sometimes become complacent when we live in a place for a while? We begin to take all of the beauty, attractions, and restaurants for granted, not stopping to soak in all that is around us. Rediscover our beautiful state by visiting the best hidden gems in Rhode Island this year.

1. Beaver River Preserve – Richmond

With so many non-touristy things to do in Rhode Island, we might wonder where to start. How about a visit to Beaver River Preserve? This lesser-known natural wonder won't take all day to explore, and you'll be treated to such scenic beauty as a forest, a swamp, and streams. Just make sure you wear a pair of comfy shoes.

2. Living Sharks Museum – Westerly

Even if we haven't seen Jaws, we all know the bad rap sharks tend to get. Learn more about these magnificent creatures with a visit to the Living Sharks Museum, one of the most unique places to visit in Rhode Island and the first shark history museum in the United States. View exhibits that include shark fossils, how to survive a shark attack, and more.

3. Providence Zen Center – Cumberland

Whether you want to meditate or go on a retreat, Providence Zen Center, one of the best kept secrets in Rhode Island might be just what you need. The Zen Center welcomes guests for retreats, meditation workshops, getaways, and more.

4. Fort Wetherill State Park – Jamestown

As the smallest state park in Rhode Island, Fort Wetherill State Park packs quite a bit to do in its mere 61.5 acres. Whether you go on a hike to abandoned ruins or sit on a bench and gaze out at the water, you'll quickly discover this is one of those cool places in Rhode Island that deserves a spot on your bucket list.

5. Veterans Memorial Museum – Woonsocket

Pay homage to service members through the years at the Veterans Memorial Museum, one of the best hidden gems in Rhode Island. Explore the museum that showcases thousands of artifacts. You won't need a ton of time, around an hour, to see everything in this small but poignant Rhode Island museum.

6. Sacred Labyrinth – New Shoreham

Go off the beaten path in Rhode Island when you visit the Sacred Labyrinth on Block Island. The tiny but beautiful hidden gem promises an idyllic way to relax, reflect, and gaze out over the ocean. While you're there, find the wooden box, filled with notebooks. Pick one with an empty page, and share your thoughts.

7. Goddard Memorial State Park – Warwick

Among one of the hidden beautiful places in Rhode Island, Goddard Memorial State Park ranks as one of the best state parks in all four seasons. The nearly 500-acre state park offers something for everyone - hikers, boaters, sunbathers, and golfers.

8. Yawgoo Valley Ski Resort – Exeter

Set off on a summer or a winter adventure at Yawgoo Valley Ski Resort. Winter's all about skiing and snow tubing while summertime means wading in the pool and zipping down waterslides. It's one of the best and most unique places to visit in Rhode Island.

9. Kinney Azalea Gardens – Kingston

Go on a relaxing stroll through Kinney Azalea Gardens, a hidden gem in Rhode Island. At just 16 acres, the garden is brimming with natural beauty and more than 500 varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas. If your visit inspires you to take up gardening, you can purchase plants before you leave.

10. Wickaboxet Management Area – West Greenwich

Get outdoors and explore Wickaboxet Management Area, one of the best kept secrets in Rhode Island. This natural space, a predominately forested area, is best explored on a hiking trail that will lead you past a historic cemetery from the 1800s.

What are your favorite gems in Rhode Island? What others would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments! Up for more adventures? Set off on this road trip to the best hidden gems in Rhode Island. Explore even more by following one of the best hiking trails in Rhode Island.

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