The Spontaneous Road Trip Through Rhode Island That Is The Perfect Weekend Of Adventure
By Beth Price-Williams|Published June 28, 2024
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
A little bit of spontaneity spices up life, doesn’t it? When our lives are packed with responsibilities, we might need an extra push to channel our more adventurous side. Maybe this spontaneous road trip through Rhode Island will help. Set your GPS, pack up the car, and follow this road trip that will take you to some of Rhode Island’s iconic destinations and a few spots that will take you down Memory Lane.
Add a bit of spontaneity to your weekend with a road trip that will take you to some of the most epic destinations in Rhode Island. From roller skating to chasing waterfalls, this spontaneous road trip through Rhode Island has something for everyone. Here are the Google Maps directions. Customize them with your address, and add and remove stops to meet your interests and timeframe. Off we go!
1. Colt State Park – Bristol
Colt State Park, Route 114, Bristol, RI 02809, USA
Let's start this weekend getaway at Colt State Park, considered the gem of Rhode Island's state parks. Breathe in the fresh air as you stroll or bike along Narragansett Bay. Fly a kite, or have a picnic. Kayaking, canoeing, and saltwater fishing are also popular. If you're traveling during the winter, enjoy a day of skiing and snowshoeing.
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2. United Skates of America – Rumford
United Skates of America, 75 New Rd, Rumford, RI 02916, USA
How about some old-school fun? That's just what our next stop promises. Embrace the nostalgia at United Skates of America. Don't worry if it's been a while since you've gone roller skating; it's like riding a bike. You might fall a few times, but you'll be back in shape in no time. Glide around the rink; play arcade games, and grab a bite from the snack bar. Pizza or fries? How about both?
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3. Roger Williams Park Zoo – Providence
Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907, USA
Keep that nostalgia going as we move to our next stop. Snap photos of your favorite animals at Roger Williams Park Zoo. Animal encounters allow you to get up close with such residents as giant otters, sloths, and porcupines. Relax with a delicious snack or meal at one of the three eateries.
Our next stop brings us to Jerimoth Hill, the highest point, at 812 feet, in Rhode Island. A short and sweet path that tallies under half a mile will take you through the forest and to a marker denoting the highest spot.
A road trip certainly wouldn't be complete without a visit to Stepstone Falls, perhaps the most well-known waterfall in Rhode Island. You'll need comfy shoes for the nearly three-mile trek along the Ben Utter Trail to this beautiful cascade. The trail is short, sweet, and drenched in natural beauty, and the waterfall? Simply spellbinding in all seasons.
6. Brick Marketplace – Newport
Brick Marketplace, Goddard Row, Newport, RI 02840, USA
We'll next make our way to Brick Marketplace in Newport for a meal at one of the restaurants and a bit of shopping. Look for Umbrella Sky, an art installation that creates a canopy of, well, umbrellas.
7. Rail Explorers – Portsmouth
Rail Explorers: Rhode Island Division, 1 Alexander Rd, Portsmouth, RI 02871, USA
How about one final adventure to cap off our road trip? Rail Explorers offers a variety of rail bike tours throughout the day. For an enchanting experience, book an evening tour. The light of lanterns and the moon will guide you along the six-mile tour that takes around two hours.
Do you enjoy a spontaneous road trip through Rhode Island every now and then? What are your favorite destinations? Let us know in the comments! If you don’t have time for a road trip, set off on one of these unforgettable day trips in Rhode Island.
