Nicknamed the Ocean State, the state of Rhode Island offers one of the most stunning coastlines in the nation. This can be enjoyed through visiting the state's beaches, dining at local seafood restaurants, and in so many other ways! One great way to experience the Rhode Island coast is to take the scenic route.
Historic routes abound throughout Rhode Island and New England, but none are as legendary as Route 1 which runs across much of the nation!
There are plenty of great places to stop for lunch found along the route including tons of options in Wickford, Iggy's in Narragansett, and even the Coast Guard House! Make sure to bring your beach gear so you can visit the many beaches along the way.
My love of reading has taken me to some pretty amazing places, from the literary haven of Dublin, where I walked the streets that James Joyce described in Dubliners to Harriet Beecher Stowe's home in Hartford. However, there's nothing that sparks my imagination more than the magnificent literary history and libraries and bookshops that are found right here in Rhode Island. Whether you're looking for your next great read, want to soak up timeless literature, or need a bit of inspiration, this literary road trip in Rhode Island is sure to do the trick.
Home to such prolific authors as HP Lovecraft and Cormac McCarthy (well, for the first few years of his life), Rhode Island is a book lover's dream come true. Explore some of the many amazing libraries and bookstores on this short but sweet road trip. You can easily customize the Google Maps directions to add or remove as many stops as you like.
Let's start our literary adventure at Westerly Library & Wilcox Park in Westerly. If you have a library card, bring it. You might want to check out a book in this beautiful library that features a rotating art gallery and hosts used book sales from time to time. Save time to go for a stroll in the gardens outdoors, where you can sit down and read or soak up the natural beauty.
Our next stop brings us to Twice Told Tales in Cranston. Nestled in Pawtuxet Village, the cozy bookshop boasts an eclectic selection of new and used books and one-of-a-kind gifts. Customers provide glowing reviews for the large selection of books and the affordable prices.
We're heading to Providence and the Providence Athenaeum, an independent library that's been a city staple for more than two centuries. You can't check out books unless you're a member, but you can explore this magnificent literary treasure on a self-guided tour and marvel at its large collection. Membership allows you to check out materials and join reading clubs, so it's worth considering joining.
If you've been traveling and exploring all day, you've probably worked up an appetite. That makes our next stop, archive book + snackery, come at just the right time. Meander past rows and rows of gently-used books in search of your next read. Then grab a chair for a snack and a drink. The menu features such tasty options as lettuce wraps, marinated white beans on toast, and tinned fish. Pair your snack with a cocktail, mocktail, or glass of homemade lemonade.
Tucked in Newport's Historic District, Charter Books is an independent bookstore that beckons readers from all over Rhode Island. Stop by to browse through the large selection of books, and keep an eye on the bookshop's calendar. It often hosts author signings and storytime and crafts for the little ones.
Our final stop brings us to Wakefield Books, a classic in the Wakefield Mall. Stock up on the latest bestsellers and dig through the bargain books to find those literary gems. The popular bookshop in Wakefield also sells a variety of games, puzzles, and unique gifts.
What do you think of this literary road trip in Rhode Island? What other stops would you add? Let us know in the comments! Road-tripping in Rhode Island is so easy and so much fun. We've got you covered with more of the best road trips in Rhode Island.
New England autumns are world-famous and for good reason. Most Rhode Islanders anxiously anticipate autumn's arrival all year long, awaiting that vibrant foliage. And while some traditional events and activities will have to wait until next year, going on some of the best scenic drives in Rhode Island is never canceled. Here are a few routes that are absolutely enchanting this time of year:
The Ocean Drive Historic District is only about a 10-mile trek, but every bit of it is breathtaking, especially in the fall. The winding drive offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Newport Mansions, and the stunning Cliff Walk. This is one of the best Rhode Island scenic drives.
Is rural farmland more your style? Route 138 takes you through the Hope Valley and North Kingstown, past the University of Rhode Island. It's one of the most magical scenic byways in Rhode Island.
Conanicut Island (also called Jamestown Island) is a delightful place to visit any time of year. Driving the roads of this island town will provide you with views of Narragansett Bay, rolling fields, historic homes, and its village center. And it's all sprinkled with beautiful fall foliage. This is one of the most breathtaking Rhode Island fall color drives.
When it comes to the best scenic drives in Rhode Island, you really can't go wrong this time of year - it's all getting more colorful by the day. This season is a real stunner in New England, and it's definitely a great time to explore your own backyard. And if you'd rather have an itinerary mapped out for you, just follow the path of our Rhode Island fall foliage road trip.
