Rhode Island (RI) Attractions

Audubon Society of Rhode Island

Environmental Education Center
1401 Hope Street, Route 114 Bristol, RI 02809 Phone: 401-245-7500

Connect people to nature and its astounding discoveries.

The purposes of the Audubon Society of Rhode Island are to foster conservation of wild birds and other animal and plant life, to conserve wildlife habitat and unique natural areas through acquisition or other means, to carry out a broad program of public conservation education, to focus public attention on natural resource problems, to provide leadership when action on natural resource problems is necessary, and to take other actions to foster better management of the natural environment for the benefit of humans and all other life.The Audubon Society of Rhode Island, independent and unaffiliated with the National Audubon Society, was founded in 1897. Today, with 17,000 members and supporters, the Audubon Society of Rhode Island is dedicated to education, land conservation and advocacy. Audubon independently protects or owns almost 9,500 acres of woodlands and coastal property embracing diverse natural habitats. More than 33,000 students from area schools participate annually in our educational programs. A voice in statewide ecological issues, the Society actively fulfills its environmental stewardship through preservation and protection of Rhode Island's natural heritage.

Newport & Bristol County Convention and Visitor's Bureau

23 America's Cup Avenue Newport, RI 02840 Phone: 401-849-8049 Toll-Free: 800-976-5122

Home to spectacular coastal scenery, awe-inspiring architecture, a thriving waterfront downtown, and welcoming hospitality, Newport, Rhode Island is considered by many to be a shining gem in the coastal crown of New England. From weekend getaways spent touring the famed Gilded Age mansions that were once the summer playground for socialite families with names like Astor and Vanderbilt to an afternoon of wine tour and tasting through Newport's three scenic vineyards, the options for interesting activities, distinctive stories, and enticing photo opportunities are countless!
Did you know that visitors to Newport can rent court time to play where the legends have played on the lawn courts of the International Tennis Hall of Fame? Or that guests looking for a unique bit of history can take a tour of the Astors' Beechwood mansion where they will be escorted by guides in character of the powerful family that once vacationed there? Home to the oldest operating synagogue in the United States, the oldest operating tavern in the nation, and rows of historic homes, walking tours through Newport offer visitors a unique way to experience and learn the many stories of the city-by-the-sea!
Discover Newport RI - a spectacular destination brimming with stories to be told!

Bird’s Eye View Helicopters

Jeff Codman
211 Airport Access Road Middletown, RI 02842 Phone: 401-843-8687 Toll-Free: 1-877-914-TOUR

The only way to see Rhode Island!

Experience the thrill of helicopter flight with Bird’s Eye View Helicopters. Fly in our 2007 Robinson R-44 helicopter and see Bellevue Avenue’s world renowned mansions from all sides. You’ll fly over Ocean Drive, one of the most beautiful coastlines in the country. Enjoy the majestic Castle Hill and Rose Island light houses as well as Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy's summer home, Hammersmith Farm. One of our many tours will astound you with a truly unique perspective. Open year-round and minutes from downtown Newport, call 401-843-8687 or visit our website today for reservations. The sky is waiting for you!

Naval War College Museum

686 Cushing Road Newport, RI 02841 Phone: 401-841-4052 Fax: 401-841-7074

Open year-round Mon-Fri 10a-4:30p; Weekends from June-Sept. 12-4:30p. Closed holidays.

The museum is in Founders Hall (1820), a National Historic Landmark, and features exhibits on the history of naval warfare and the history of the Navy in the region, as well as the naval history of Narragansett Bay. Founders Hall is where the college started in 1884 and where naval historian Capt. Alfred Thayer Mahan wrote the epochal The Influence of Sea Power Upon History, 1660-1783 - the book that helped to change the course of naval history at the start of the 20th century. Exhibits include milestones in naval warfare, the significance of the sea in international policy objectives, and the relationship between the U.S. Navy and Rhode Island in general. You may also access the U.S. Navy's History Database of ships and aircraft, available on a kiosk at the museum.

Newport & Bristol County Convention and Visitor's Bureau

23 America's Cup Avenue Newport, RI 02840 Phone: 401-849-8049 Toll-Free: 800-976-5122

Home to spectacular coastal scenery, awe-inspiring architecture, a thriving waterfront downtown, and welcoming hospitality, Newport, Rhode Island is considered by many to be a shining gem in the coastal crown of New England. From weekend getaways spent touring the famed Gilded Age mansions that were once the summer playground for socialite families with names like Astor and Vanderbilt to an afternoon of wine tour and tasting through Newport's three scenic vineyards, the options for interesting activities, distinctive stories, and enticing photo opportunities are countless!
Did you know that visitors to Newport can rent court time to play where the legends have played on the lawn courts of the International Tennis Hall of Fame? Or that guests looking for a unique bit of history can take a tour of the Astors' Beechwood mansion where they will be escorted by guides in character of the powerful family that once vacationed there? Home to the oldest operating synagogue in the United States, the oldest operating tavern in the nation, and rows of historic homes, walking tours through Newport offer visitors a unique way to experience and learn the many stories of the city-by-the-sea!
Discover Newport RI - a spectacular destination brimming with stories to be told!

Newport County Chamber of Commerce

Newport, RI 02840 Phone: 401-847-1600

Newport County is steeped in history and beauty. The City on the Sea, in addition to the famous mansions, has the distinction of having more authentic colonial era structures than any other American city. The region, which also includes Jamestown, Portsmouth and Middletown, features beaches, vineyards, scores of great and interesting shops, an array of restaurants, luxury hotels and quaint inns and B&Bs. Beautiful parks and dramatic vistas are found along Ocean Drive. Also not to be missed are the Tennis Hall of Fame, Fort Adams, and Newport’s world famous folk, jazz, and classical music festivals. The Newport County Chamber of Commerce can provide you complete information and help in planning your visit.

Newport Vineyards

909 East Main Road (Route 138) Middletown, RI 02842 Phone: 401-848-5161 Fax: 401-848-5162

Newport Vineyards is a family owned winery, founded in 1978. Paul and John Nunes, whose local roots date back to 1917, purchased the winery in 1995. Since that time, the winery has grown to 50 acres of varietal and hybrid grapes. Visitors are offered public tours at 1 and 3 pm, seven days a week. These include a tour in the vineyards, a behind the scenes look at the winemaking process and a tasting of five wines. The winery features an art gallery and retail shop with wine accessories and signature clothing. Private tours and tastings for groups of ten or more are available. Newport Vineyards specializes in rehearsal dinners, corporate affairs and custom labels. The winery hours are Monday thru Saturday 10-5 and Sunday noon-5 year around. Receive a $2 discount off the admission price, valid for up to two adults by presenting this web page.

Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau

One Sabin Street Providence, RI 02903 Toll-Free: 800-233-1636 Fax: 401-521-3465

Providence - The Creative Capital

A unique blend of historic New England town and hip, sophisticated city, Providence, Rhode Island offers visitors a broad spectrum of dining, shopping, cultural and entertainment options – all within walking distance of each other. Recognized as one of the country’s hottest culinary destinations, Providence is home to Johnson & Wales University, the world’s largest culinary educator. Many of the university's chefs remain in Providence after graduation, which is reflected in the city’s much-lauded dining scene. Just an hour from Boston and three hours from New York City, Providence is both easy to get to and easy to get around in. Start planning your visit at www.GoProvidence.com!

Atlantic Beach Park

321-338 Atlantic Avenue Misquamicut, RI 02891 Phone: 401-322-0504

Located on the south shore of Rhode Island in Misquamicut, Atlantic Beach Park has been a charming landmark in this area dating back to 1920, and is still owned and operated by the same family.

Our Herschell-Spillman carousel, circa 1915, is the centerpiece of our amusement area. Along with the carousel, other rides for children include: Monkey Barrels, Jumpin' Star, Mini-Himalaya, Flying Chairs, Dodgem Cars, and a 9-Hole Mini-Golf Course and Game Room. Other amenities include 500’ of beach, Dusty’s Dairy Bar, and a full service snack bar.

Open daily Memorial to Labor Day 11am-10pm. Children’s Birthday Party packages available. Call 401-322-0504 for bookings. Visit us on Facebook at "Atlantic Beach Park" or at www.atlanticbeachpark.com

Misquamicut Business Association

Misquamicut Beach Westerly, RI 02891 Phone: 401-596-9441 Toll-Free: 877-622-2930

Named by leading magazines as one of the great beach destinations, Rhode Island's Misquamicut Beach is the seaside resort for families and couples. With seven miles of ocean beach there's room aplenty for sunbathing to volleyball, and great surf for swimming. Misquamicut has a wide array of great restaurants, lodgings, and fun activities. The nightlife is the best to be found along the shoreline. Misquamicut beach is the ocean beach nearest to Mystic, Connecticut, and also is convenient to Newport and is just minutes from Interstate 95. For a summer getaway the way it should be--with a great beach, fun restaurants and nightlife, plenty of family activities, and comfortable lodgings--make Misquamicut Beach your destination.

Mystic Country

27 Coogan Bolevard Mystic, CT 06355 Phone: 860-536-1205 Fax: 860-536-1480

Have you ever discovered Mystic, Connecticut? Mystic Country is defined by the three very different experiences that exist only miles from one another. These experiences take visitors from Adventure on the Coast to Entertainment at the Casino and back to Calm in the Mystic Quiet Corner. That contagious New-England hue that’s felt in Mystic comes from over 400 years of history and evolution. The Mystic locals, the landscapes, and the culture brim with life that still remains untouched – definitely something worth seeing! Rediscover New England and check out all Mystic has to offer for your family getaway here at MysticCountry.com

Westerly/Pawcatuck Chamber of Commerce

Misquamicut/Watch Hill/Historic Downtown Westerly, RI Phone: 401-596-7761

Enjoy the perfect family vacation with a visit to Westerly, RI. Discover Westerly's seven miles of beaches, including Misquamicut, a mecca of family fun and activities that include water slides, mini-golf, night clubs, and more. Explore the picturesque village of Watch Hill, a charming Victorian seaside resort with a lighthouse and famous flying horse carousel. Take a walking tour of historic downtown Westerly-Pawcatuck, a two-state downtown named one of the 12 Most Distincitve Destinations by the National Trust For Historic Preservation. You'll find a 14-acre park, quaint shops, superb restaurants, and a river walk. The area features six golf courses, 40 restaurants, more than 50 hotels and bed and breakfasts, and hundreds of retail shops just eight miles from Mystic, Connecticut, and 30 miles from Newport. Call today for a free Go Westerly Magazine.

Samuel Slater Canal Boat

Central Falls Landing, Madeira Avenue Central Falls, RI Phone: 401-724-2200

The Samuel Slater Canal Boat, built in Cambridgeshire, England, offers guests a scenic cruise on the historic Blackstone River and overnight luxury accommodations with breakfast. Summer operations only. An extra fee brings a sumptuous New England clambake dinner. Day trips include a traditional British Tea tour. The canal boat docks at Madeira Avenue in Central Falls. During the cruise, you'll observe wildlife such as swans, deer, great blue herons, turtles and more. Travelers aboard this amazing cruise are enchanted by the beauty and uniqueness that the river offers. The boat is in drydock in 2009, but will return to operations in 2010.

Slater Memorial Park Carousel

Newport Avenue (Route 1A) Pawtucket, RI 02861 Phone: 401-728-0500 ext. 252

The stately grounds of this park include an early carousel by Danish immigrant Charles I. D. Looff. The carousel boasts 42 horses, three dogs, and a lion, camel, and giraffe; they are some of the earliest examples of Looff’swork. Rides are a mere 25 cents. Open during warm weather: Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Call ahead for changes in hours.

Barrington Preservation Society Museum

Rte. 114 Barrington, RI 02806 Phone: 401-246-0999

On the lower floor of the Barrington Public Library, this museum houses a fine collection of artifacts and memorabilia from Barrington's rural past and industrial background. Exhibits change frequently. Open Tuesdays and Saturdays, 10 am-2 pm, and by appointment.

Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum

101 Ferry Road / Route 114 Bristol, RI 02809 Phone: 401-253-2707

This 45-room mansion was built in 1908 as the summer home of coal magnate Augustus Van Wickle. The property features gardens and arboretum on 33 acres overlooking Narragansett Bay. The mansion is open to visitors interested in a look into High Society at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries. Grounds are open year-round, 10 am-5 pm; Mansion is open April 13-October 14, 10 am-4 pm.

Bristol Fourth of July Celebration

Bristol, RI 02809 Phone: 401-253-0445

Started in 1785, the Bristol Fourth of July celebration is the oldest in the United States. Each year the Bristol Fourth of July Committee raises approximately $200,000 to put on the celebration. The event includes the annual button and essay contests and concludes with a parade and fireworks display over Bristol Harbor.

Charles W. Greene Museum

Main Street Warren, RI 02885 Phone: 401-245-7686

This museum houses the Charles R. Carr collection of pre-Columbian, Peruvian, and North American Indian artifacts including wampum and glass beads. Colonial fishing and farm also are featured. Open Wednesday from 2 pm to 4 pm and by appointment.

Coggeshall Farm Museum

Off Route 114 Bristol, RI 02809 Phone: 401-253-9062

Open: October-March, Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; for self-guided tours; April-September, Tuesday –Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

This is a 35-acre colonial farm, established in 1750. The museum features rare breeds of livestock, a barn, cooling house, blacksmith, and springhouse. Cost: Adults, $3; children, $2.

Colt State Park

Route 14 Bristol, RI 02809 Phone: 401-253-7482

Enjoy the Ocean State

This is a 464-acre state park on the shore of Narragansett Bay, with four miles of hiking and biking trails, gardens, 10 playing fields, and six picnic groves. Fishing, concerts, and naturalist programs offered in season. Open year-round.

Crescent Park Carousel

Crescent Park, 700 Bullocks Point Avenue Riverside, RI 02915 Phone: 401-435-7518

The Crescent Park Carousel, one of the finest surviving examples of hand-carved carousels in the country, was built just prior to 1900 by Charles I. D. Looff as a display model. Open Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 7 pm. Easter weekend and Memorial Day weekend and from June through Labor Day. After Labor Day through Columbus Day, open Saturday and Sunday, noon to 8 pm. Wheelchair accessible.

Fire Museum

Baker Street Warren, RI 02885 Phone: 401-245-7600

This former fire barn on Baker Street once housed the Narragansett Steam Fire Co. Station #3 in the 1800s. Faithfully restored, it now houses the volunteer fire department’s museum and The Little Hero, the first fire engine purchased by the town in 1802. Open by appointment. Call the fire chief.

Herreshoff Marine Museum and America's Cup Hall of Fame

1 Burnside Street Bristol, RI 02809 Phone: 401-253-5000

Open: April 26-November 2; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The Herreshoff Marine Museum and America's Cup Hall of Fame present the story of the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company and the America's Cup competition. From 1863 to 1945, the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company, on the site of the present day museum, produced the world's finest yachts on the cutting edge of design and engineering. The collection includes 60 original Herreshoff boats, steam engines, artifacts, and photographs related to America's greatest naval architect and builder during The Golden Age of Yachting.

East Greenwich Chamber of Commerce

580 Main Street East Greenwich, RI 02818 Phone: 401-885-0020 Fax: 401-885-0048

The eighth oldest community in Rhode Island, East Greenwich is a blend of the old and the new. Perched above Greenwich cove just off Narragansett Bay, the town is in the exact center of the state. A safe haven for colonial-era whaling boats and sailing ships, the cove today is filled with hundreds of recreational power and sail boats. The quaint Main Street, which includes a few homes among the stores, is a mixture of unique shops and services. Numerous bridal gown shops have located here, attracting other wedding related services and giving the town the self proclaimed title of Wedding Capital of Rhode Island. The signature building of the community is the Town Hall at 125 Main Street, restored in 1995 after standing vacant for many years. Originally the Kent County Courthouse, it was built in 1804 and served as the seat of state government until 1854. The town is filled with historic homes and structures. These blend with newer homes housing many of the corporate leaders of the state.

NEW ENGLAND

Rhode Island attractions guide vacationers to the heart of this quirky state

Audubon Society of Rhode Island

Connect people to nature and its astounding discoveries.

Newport & Bristol County Convention and Visitor's Bureau