Rhode Island

Rhode Island is the smallest state, measuring 37 x 48 miles, but don't let that fool you when it comes to things to do and see. There are 400 miles of coastline and over 2,300 acres of parks. The state is rich in history and culture and because of the compact size of the state everything is within an hours drive.

Visitors from around the world have come to South County for more than a hundred years to enjoy wide, sandy beaches, woodlands, comfortable inns and the charming historical villages. Beach combing, whale watching and a variety of water sports and activities are available. The rolling countryside offers unlimited opportunities for enjoying the historic sites, shopping, cycling, hiking and boating.

There is an abundance of local museums, theater productions and bed & breakfast inns that provide visitors a personal experience of the Colonial and Victorian era of the country. The simplicity of the area with beachfront cottages, roadside vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to hot, homemade pies and the opportunity to dig for clams or build sandcastles is a nice change from the theme parks and the hustle and bustle that has taken over the vacation scene in the past years.

Blackstone Valley is the site of the first cotton mill built in 1793. Samuel Slater ushered in the Industrial Revolution in Pawtucket with this invention and factories sprung up along the Blackstone River providing employment to generations of families and immigrants. Today many of these old, historic buildings are home to factory outlet stores, art studios and lofts. The Slater Mill Historic Site is open to visitors and there are riverboat cruises that offer a look into the important and lasting effects this area has on America's growth as a manufacturing leader.

Twelve miles off the coast of Rhode Island is an 11 square mile seaside resort called Block Island. Consisting of high bluffs and rolling hills it reminds many of Ireland. There are restored Victorian hotels and inns to relax in. The beaches run forever, it seems and there are hundreds of freshwater ponds to explore. There is an extensive trail system offering hikers a look at meadows, woods and beaches. Old Harbor also offers shops and restaurants to explore. Oh, and one other note: The island is accessible by ferry boat or plane only. There ferry ride is an hour, and the most popular way to access this unique resort.

East Bay is an area rich in Colonial and British history, and until recently, an area not well known to visitors. This village is home to the oldest Fourth of July Parade in the United States. There are Colonial Inns and bed & breakfasts along Bristol Harbor and miles of old stone fences to admire. The 14 mile long East Bay Bike Path offers a fantastic view of Narragansett Bay. The 33 acre Blithewold Mansion & Gardens boasts of a 45 room manor house and breathtaking gardens. Several other museums including Linden Place, Coggeshall Farm Museum, Herreshofff Marine Museum (6 successful America's Cup defenders were built here) and the Crescent Park Carousel which is one of the finest surviving hand-carved carousels in the country.

Newport is the resort city famous for the America's Cup yacht racing. It is also home to some of the most magnificent turn of the Century Gilded Age Mansions. At one time only the very well to do elite could afford to own these palatial "summer cottages". Today, many are open to the public for touring. There are year-round activities here now including the beaches, cultural attractions, festivals and Christmas celebrations.

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