Top Things to Do in Rhode Island This Weekend for Fun, Food, and Coastal Charm

In fact, though, the smallest state in the US offers an impressive array of destinations perfect for weekend escapes. If you and your family, friends, or significant other are seeking the ideal destination and the perfect ideas for a unique weekend getaway, consider Rhode Island – we guarantee, you will not be disappointed. It’s got everything you’ve ever dreamed of in a fantastic weekend destination - from coastal retreats to charming villages, Rhode Island’s towns and communities await. Want to get in on the fun? Here’s a fascinating look at the top ten weekend getaways in Rhode Island.

But first – the facts. Here’s what you should know about the Ocean State:

And now, without further ado, we present to you the best weekend escapes in Rhode Island. These weekend getaways have been chosen for their popularity, accessibility, and innate appeal, so if you are looking for something to do in the Ocean State or would like to catch a glimpse of what the state has to offer, head on up to these stunning locales and destinations, starting with Newport, the quintessential vacation destination, and ending with Chepachet Village, with its quaint and charming antique shops and art galleries.

1. Newport

Places to see: Newport Mansions, Newport Historic District, Eisenhower Park, Cliff Walk

Where to stay: The Hamilton Hoppin House, Hammett's Hotel, Wayfinder Newport, Newport Harbor Island Resort

Where to dine: The White Horse Tavern, The Red Parrot Restaurant, The Brick Alley Pub

Activities to enjoy: Sailing, beachcombing, joining a cruise, visiting museums and historic sites, going on a trolley tour

If you weren’t aware of it yet, Newport is renowned for its Gilded Age mansions, and this port town in Narragansett Bay offers a blend of history, luxury, and coastal charm. The place became the playground of the wealthiest families on the east coast, from the Vanderbilts to the Astors, in the 19th century, and their glorious mansions still stand today – a total of nine in all. Visitors today can tour the opulent estates like The Breakers (from the Vanderbilts), Marble House (from William Kissam Vanderbilt), and Chateau-sur-Mer (from William Shepard Westmore), stroll along the scenic Cliff Walk, and enjoy sailing in the harbor – after all, Newport is often dubbed the Sailing Capital of the World! If you can, visit the city's vibrant downtown, as it boasts boutique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. Accommodations range from historic inns to luxury hotels. ​A stroll along the many beaches – including First Beach or Easton’s Beach, the largest public beach – would make the perfect end to the perfect weekend holiday.

2. Block Island

Places to see: Block Island North Light and Block Island Southeast Light (lighthouses), Mohegan Bluffs, Rodman’s Hollow, Block Island Wind Farm, Crescent Beach, Mansion Beach

Where to stay: Blue Dory Inn, The 1661 Resort, Avonlea: Jewel of the Sea

Where to dine: Block Island Oyster Bar and Grill, McAloon’s Restaurant, The Lunch Bucket

Activities to enjoy: Visiting the lighthouses, beachcombing, hiking, horseback riding, cycling, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, sailing

Located 13 miles off Rhode Island's coast in the Outer Lands coastal archipelago, Block Island is a haven of natural beauty with its towering bluffs, sandy beaches, and rolling hills. It is a popular summer destination where visitors can explore the Mohegan Bluffs, visit the historic Southeast Lighthouse, and enjoy activities like biking, hiking, and kayaking. If you are visiting during the summer, you can plan your visit so it coincides with Block Island Race Week, a week-long sailboat race. The island's quaint town offers charming shops and lots and lots of eateries – including crowd favorites like Kimberly’s and The Beachead Restaurant. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with Block Island’s restaurants, and there are so many but all have the best food, especially seafood!

3. Providence

Places to see: Burnside Park, the Providence Riverwalk, Roger Williams Park, Prospect Terrace Park, Brown University, Federal Hill, Benefit Street

Where to stay: The Beatrice, Hotel Providence, Christopher Dodge House

Where to dine: Gracie’s, Massimo Restaurant, Hemenway’s Restaurant

Activities to enjoy: Taking a walking tour, wine tasting, boating, taking a river cruise, visiting museums, shopping, watching a show or concert, strolling in the parks

As Rhode Island’s capital and largest city, Providence combines a rich history with a vibrant arts scene. It is actually one of the oldest towns in the whole of New England, and the city is home to renowned institutions like the Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University. If you make it your weekend destination, you can explore the RISD Museum, enjoy performances at local theaters, or watch a concert, and dine in the diverse culinary scene. Note: the historic Federal Hill neighborhood is known for its Italian cuisine and culture, and you can splurge and indulge in the best food and wine. If you visit Providence in the summer, you could take part in WaterFire Providence – one of the most celebrated activities along the three rivers in downtown Providence. It is a spectacular fire sculpture installation with plenty of activities – and food! - to go along with it.

4. Watch Hill

Places to see: Ocean House, Watch Hill Historic District, Highwatch along Bluff Avenue, Watch Hill Lighthouse, Ninigret Statue, Watch Hill Merry Go Round & Beach

Where to stay: Ocean House, Watch Hill Inn, Blue Whale Inn

Where to dine: Verandah Raw Bar, The Bistro, Olympia Tea Room

Activities to enjoy: Golfing, sailing, playing tennis, fishing, sport fishing, swimming (in season), getting a couple’s massage, sandcastle-building, strolling, shopping

A charming coastal village in Westerly and one of the more affluent neighborhoods in Rhode Island, Watch Hill is known for its pristine beaches and historic landmarks. It has one of the lowest populations in the state – in 2010, for instance, its population was just 154. The Ocean House, a luxurious waterfront resort and historic site, offers world-class amenities and dining opportunities, and it also takes pride in being the only AAA Five Diamond Hotel in the entire state. Visitors can explore Napatree Point for scenic hikes and birdwatching, ride the historic Flying Horse Carousel, and enjoy local shops and eateries. ​Its notable celebrity inhabitants include Taylor Swift and Conan O’Brien, and its former inhabitants were Henry Ford, Clark Gable, and Andrew Mellon.

5. Jamestown

Places to see: Jamestown Windmill, Beavertail Lighthouse, Watson Farm, Fort Wetherill State Park, Gooseberry Beach, Fort Getty Park

Where to stay: OceanCliff Hotel, Club Wyndham Newport Overlook, Wyndham Bay Voyage Inn

Where to dine: Our Table, JB’s On The Water, The Narragansett Café

Activities to enjoy: Swimming, strolling, beachcombing, biking, sightseeing, fishing, boating

Located on the second largest island on Narragansett Bay, Conanicut Island in Newport County, Jamestown offers a tranquil retreat with scenic landscapes and historic sites. Visitors can explore Beavertail State Park, home to the Beavertail Lighthouse and panoramic ocean views. In addition, the village center features local shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. Accommodations include charming bed and breakfasts and waterfront inns like the Wyndham Bay Voyage Inn. If you are seeking a more relaxed, laid-back weekend, Jamestown definitely fits the bill. You can also go camping in Fort Getty Park, which has RV campgrounds.

6. Westerly

Places to see: Misquamicut State Beach, Weekapaug Beach, Wilcox Park, Napatree Point Conservation Area, Grills Preserve

Where to stay: Pleasant View Inn, Weekapaug Inn, Shelter Harbor Inn, The Hotel Maria

Where to dine: Ella’s Fine Food and Drink, Cooked Goose, B&B Dockside, Olympia Tea Room

Activities to enjoy: Join a boating tour, swimming, exploring the sights, food-tripping, sunbathing, hiking, horseback riding

Located on the southwestern coast of Rhode Island’s Washington County, Westerly combines coastal beauty with a vibrant arts and music scene. The town population actually doubles during the summer months, and it is also in the spring and summer when a lot of the activities are held, such as Pawcatuck River Duck Race in April, the Virtu Art Festival in May, followed by the Summer Pops and Shakespeare in the Park in the month of June, and lastly, Riverglow in July. The town's beaches, such as Misquamicut State Beach, offer sun and surf, while the downtown area features stylish hotels and shops. You can also enjoy live performances and films at the historic United Theatre (now showing this spring of 2025: The Minecraft Movie and Snow White) and explore the many local art galleries.

7. Narragansett

Places to see: Narragansett Town Beach, Scarborough State Beach, Point Judith Lighthouse, Central Street Historic District, The Towers

Where to stay: The Break Hotel, The Shore House, Aqua Blue Hotel, Atlantic House

Where to dine: George’s of Galilee, Coast Guard House, Spain of Narragansett, Inc, The Bike Stop Café

Activities to enjoy: Surfing, swimming, beachcombing, strolling, shopping, sailing, taking a ferry ride

Known for its beautiful beaches and surfing spots, Narragansett in Washington County is a popular summer destination. Just like any New England destination by the sea, the town’s population more than doubles during the summer season, rising to over 30,000. It is famous for its strip, which many revelers like strolling in, but the town's iconic Towers, remnants of a historic casino, now serve as an event venue and the town’s most famous landmark. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, take ferry rides to nearby islands, and explore the scenic Point Judith Lighthouse.​ It is also popular with surfers during the off season because of its huge swells, and its many state beaches – including Scarborough State Beach and Narragansett Town Beach - have picnic tables, boardwalks, and an observation tower.

8. Little Compton

Places to see: Wilbor House, Sakonnet Point Lighthouse, Fort Church, Goosewing Beach, South Shore Beach, Friends Meeting House and Cemetery

Where to stay: Stone House Inn, Harmony Home Farm B&B, The Cliffside Inn

Where to dine: The Common’s Lunch, The Barn Restaurant, Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyards, Art Café

Activities to enjoy: Sport fishing, wine tasting, swimming, beachcombing, hiking, visiting the historical sights, shopping in the farmers markets

A quaint rural town in Newport County bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one end and the Sakonnet River on the other, Little Compton offers a peaceful retreat with its rolling farmlands, berry farms, vineyards, and quiet beaches. Goosewing Beach Preserve, for instance, provides a serene spot for nature walks and birdwatching. The town center also features historic buildings, local shops, and cozy cafes – in fact, it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Accommodations include charming bed and breakfasts and country inns (such as the very popular Stone House Inn), and Little Compton is also known for its historic cemeteries as well.

9. Bristol

Places to see: Roger Williams University, East Bay Bike Path, Colt State Park, Joseph Reynolds House, Bristol Town Common

Where to stay: Bristol Harbor Inn, William’s Grant Inn B&B, Founder’s Brook Motel and Suites

Where to dine: Portside Tavern, Bristol Sunset Café, Leo’s Ristorante, Bristol Oyster Bar

Activities to enjoy: Biking, swimming, sunset-viewing on Colt State Park, sightseeing, strolling

Steeped in history, Bristol, located in Bristol County, is known for its historic homes and the country's oldest Fourth of July celebration, when it was first celebrated in July of 1777. Visitors can explore the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, and the Joseph Reynolds House, a National Historic Landmark. You can also enjoy waterfront dining along the harbor. The East Bay Bike Path offers scenic routes for cycling enthusiasts, and it meanders through the town, giving a glimpse of the surrounding nature.

10. Chepachet Village

Places to see: Brown & Hopkins Country Store, Mulberry Vineyard, Old Stone Mill Antiques and Treasures, Petersen Farm

Where to stay: Grace Note Farm Inn, Blueberry Pointe on the Lake, White Rock Motel

Where to dine: The Village Bean, Aegean Pizza, Cady’s Tavern

Activities to enjoy: Strolling, exploring the shops and galleries, antiquing

Located in the town of Glocester, Chepachet Village offers a glimpse into Rhode Island's past with its well-preserved 19th-century buildings – as a matter of fact, it was the first town in the state to be placed in the National Register of Historic Places way back in 1971. As of 2020, the village has a small population with just over 400 households, but the population increases during the summer. If you visit, you can explore the many antique shops, art galleries, and enjoy local eateries – the town is known for its seafood, of course. The Brown & Hopkins Country Store is a must-see, as it is one of the oldest country stores in America – and don’t forget to buy the penny candy. In addition, the village hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich history and community spirit. ​

Each of these destinations showcases the diverse attractions Rhode Island has to offer, making them perfect choices for memorable weekend getaways.