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Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: Italian
- Climate: Humid continental
- Timezone: America/New_York
- Population: Approximately 1.1 million people
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is late spring through early fall for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the United States do not require a visa to enter Rhode Island as it is a U.S. state. Citizens of the European Union, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter the United States visa-free for tourism or business purposes under the Visa Waiver Program, but must obtain an approved ESTA before travel. Other travelers may require a visa or e-visa depending on their nationality. It is advisable to check the latest U.S. visa policies before planning a trip.
About Rhode Island
Rhode Island offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural experiences that make it a compelling destination for travelers. Despite being the smallest state in the United States, it boasts an impressive array of attractions from sandy beaches and scenic waterfronts to charming colonial towns and lively urban centers. Visitors are drawn to its picturesque seaside villages like Newport, famous for its historic mansions and sailing culture, as well as Providence, known for its thriving arts scene and excellent dining. Rhode Island’s compact size makes it easy to explore diverse landscapes within a short distance, from tranquil beaches to rolling hills. The state’s maritime heritage is evident everywhere, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront dining. Festivals, art galleries, and a strong culinary tradition centered around fresh seafood add to its appeal. Whether you seek relaxation by the ocean, cultural enrichment, or outdoor adventure, Rhode Island provides a welcoming and accessible destination with a distinctive New England charm.
Top Attractions
1. Newport Mansions – Historic Gilded Age mansions showcasing opulent architecture and gardens. 2. Block Island – A scenic island getaway with beaches, hiking trails, and charming shops. 3. Roger Williams Park Zoo – One of the oldest zoos in the country, great for families. 4. Providence WaterFire – A unique urban art installation featuring bonfires on the river in downtown Providence. 5. Narragansett Bay – Offers beautiful coastal views, boating, and fishing opportunities.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy sailing and boating on Narragansett Bay, hiking and biking along coastal trails, and exploring historic sites and museums. Cultural experiences include attending WaterFire events in Providence, visiting art galleries, and enjoying live music and theater. Beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and fishing are popular during warmer months. Food tours and seafood festivals provide a taste of local culinary traditions. For adventure seekers, kayaking and paddleboarding along the coast are excellent options.
Rhode Island Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of USA
- Duration Range: Visitors can enjoy sailing and boating on Narragansett Bay, hiking and biking along coastal trails, and exploring historic sites and museums. Cultural experiences include attending WaterFire events in Providence, visiting art galleries, and enjoying live music and theater. Beach activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and fishing are popular during warmer months. Food tours and seafood festivals provide a taste of local culinary traditions. For adventure seekers, kayaking and paddleboarding along the coast are excellent options.
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is late spring through early fall for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Pack layers as coastal weather can be variable. Respect local customs, especially in small towns and historic sites. Safety is generally good, but standard precautions apply. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is useful for small vendors. Plan ahead for accommodations during summer months due to high demand.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $180
104 Available Tour Excursions in Rhode Island
Join us for this elegant stroll through time! Allow our historically costumed, local guides to lead you down the most beautifully preserved street in all of Providence, RI- Benefit Street! Guests will learn the history of some of Providence's most prominent residents and families, including the Dorr family, Roger Williams, and the Hoppin family. See architectural icons including the John Brown House, the First Baptist Church, the Fleur de Lys Building, and the original State House. Learn about the events that shaped our state and nation, including the suffrage movements (yes, there were two!) and the Civil War. This tour will leave you feeling more connected to the city's past and with a greater appreciation for Providence. Benefit Street is a mostly flat street and is suitable for people of most levels of health and fitness.
Price: $30.00
Duration: 1 hours
Enjoy a 12-minute Mansion Tour of Newport, RI for groups up to 3 passengers. A truly unique perspective above the treasures of Newport awaits you on this tour. Take in captivating views of Aquidneck Island, Rose Island, the mighty Newport Bridge, and Ocean Drive. Soar over miles of the most beautiful coastline in the country. Enjoy breathtaking views of Rosecliff Mansion, Marble House, The Elms and many other famous residences. Get up close and personal with Hammersmith Farm, the Kennedy’s Newport summer home, and of course experience The Breakers, all from your front row seat in the sky.
Price: $255.00
Duration: 0 hours
Your private minivan tour will introduce you to Newport, Ri to discover more than 385 years of history. You will quickly see why Newport, RI. become the go-to summer destination for the Gilded Age crowd and Mrs. Astor's " 400." The Tour is Fully narrated along the 15 mile route, passing over 100 local attractions, points of Interest and Historic Sights. Keep in mind this is a private tour, for up to 5 guests, so we explore Newport, RI and all its amazing aspects at YOUR pace!
Price: $100.00
Duration: 1 hours
Embark on an enchanting journey through Newport's fascinating transformation from its colonial Golden Age to its opulent Gilded Age summer colony with our "Golden to Gilded Walking Tour." Discover how the city evolved and its people thrived during these dynamic periods, long before the Vanderbilts' arrival. Let our knowledgeable guides lead you through the rich history, stunning architecture, and captivating stories that define Newport’s legacy. This tour is a must for anyone interested in learning how Newport became a Gilded Age playground for the likes of the Vanderbilts and Astors.
Price: $20.00
Duration: 1-1 hours
Enjoy a beautiful boat ride out of the famous Newport Harbor and see all it has to offer. Then experience the thrill of a lifetime by being gradually lifted off the back of our specialized parasailing boat and soar hundred of feet over Narragansett Bay to take in all the surrounding views and famous landmarks. We are a family friendly activity and love sharing what we do with each and every guest.
Price: $139.00
Duration: 1 hours
This walk will acquaint you with the layout of Newport while telling the story of how it became what it is now. As a private tour, you can customize what you would like to see or not see, but generally we start along the harbor- Newport's reason for existence- and then make our way through town along some of the more off-the-beaten paths. You'll hear how Newport went from being one of the most thriving and active Colonial cities to the getaway for 19th century Industrialists to the beautiful spot it is today. While the original design of this tour is not particularly wheelchair friendly, it can easily be adapted to suit your needs. Please let us know if you have mobility concerns when booking your tour.
Price: $325.00
Duration: 2 hours
Gansett Cruises offers a comfortable, entertaining and informative tour of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. Our vessel, Gansett, is a wooden 1969 classic lobster fishing boat that has been beautifully restored and maintained. A complimentary Mimosa is included. We also offer cash bar options and local favorites such as Del's frozen soft Lemonade and Yacht Club Soda available onboard. Sit back and relax while your Captain, Crew and Tour Guide take you through Newport's rich coastal history.
Price: $37.00
Duration: 1 hours
Experience 300 years of architectural history as you cruise the Providence waterways! This 75-minute boat tour, led by Providence preservation experts, highlights the stories, sight lines, and subtle details that define Providence, Rhode Island. From the most eye-catching landmarks on the city skyline to hidden architectural gems, come discover historic Providence from the best seat in town. Historic Buildings: Explore Providence’s storied past through its well-preserved architecture. ️Modern Marvels: Admire the blend of old and new with contemporary additions to our iconic skyline. Scenic Views: Enjoy picturesque water-level perspectives of landmarks like the Rhode Island State House and the Michael Van Leesten Memorial Bridge. Cultural Insights: Learn about the city’s art, design, and the influence of prominent architects. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a relaxing, informative outing, this tour is a must-do in Providence, Rhode Island!
Price: $45.00
Duration: 1 hours
Come with us on a lovely autumn journey by tour bus through the Rhode Island countryside splashed in the brilliant colors of fall. On this trip you will take a horse-drawn wagon ride through a picturesque woodland, visit with a wide variety of farm animals, pick apples at one of Rhode Island’s prettiest farms, take pictures at the last covered bridge on a public road in Rhode Island, go to Rhode Island’s oldest country store in a quaint rural village, and more, all while hearing the tales of the unique people and places in our state’s forest region. This day will definitely make you fall in love with Rhode Island!
Price: $100.00
Duration: 6 hours
Calling all kids, dads, moms, grandparents, college students, and other kids at heart! Hop on the lively Fun Bus and join us for an entertaining, fast-paced exploration of our capital city! As we move around Providence, you will learn about the people and places while you search for clues and win prizes!
Price: $35.00
Duration: 1 hours
Explore the Mysteries of Green Jacket Shoal! Join Captain Tom and special guest David Robinson, Director of the Massachusetts Board of Underwater Archaeological Resources, for an unforgettable 75-minute boat tour through the historic Providence waterways & Green Jacket Shoal at Bold Point! What You’ll Discover: Sunken maritime history beneath the waves Fascinating stories of Providence’s waterfront past Expert insights into underwater archaeology Reserve your seat today – space is limited! Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see Providence’s hidden history from the water!
Price: $50.00
Duration: 1 hours
Avoid the stress of waiting for taxis or shuttle transfers and instead ensure peace of mind with this convenient private transfer to/from the Providence TF Green Airport (PVD) and/or Newport area. This airport transportation service operates to/from Newport, Providence, Warwick, Smithfield, North Kingstown or Bristol accommodations. We track flights for possible arrival time changes. And we do all possible so you reach the airport relaxed and with plenty of time before your flight!
Price: $32.00
Duration:
This cruise is slightly shorter than our usual Afternoon Grand Tour. Cruise in comfort through Newport Harbor and the southern end of the Narragansett Bay. Afternoon cruises offer a complimentary Rhode Island specialty: Del's frozen soft lemonade. A cash bar with a selection of wine, beer, signature cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages is available on board.
Price: $37.00
Duration: 1 hours
Localgrapher is the largest network of professional photographers and videographers with more than 600 destinations around the globe! Book your private photographer and guide in Rhode Island to capture your picture-perfect moments while visiting amazing sites! SOLO TRAVELERS Fancy an insta-perfect photoshoot from your Rhode Island vacation? Localgrapher has years of experience with fashion and solo travel photography! Make your memories last a lifetime and share them on social media or display them in your home to receive an avalanche of compliments. COUPLES If you are about to propose to your loved one, honeymooning or just exploring what Rhode Island has to offer, put the selfie stick aside and let Localgrapher’s superb photographers take care of the photos for you both. FAMILIES & GROUPS A family trip, wedding, bachelorette party or grand get-together? Forget missing someone from pictures, we’ll capture them all!
Price: $300.23
Duration: 0 hours
Our 2 hour tours leave from Wickford Harbor on our rustic, 25ft. work skiff, and include: * A history of aquaculture and a brief lesson on marine sustainability * A hands-on harvesting experience * A shucking demonstration * An oyster tasting, straight from the source Tours can accommodate up to six curious oyster-lovers. Children are welcome (and life jackets are provided for all)!
Price: $125.00
Duration: 2 hours
Explore Newport's Revolutionary War history on this engaging walking tour, Road to Independence, which takes you to iconic sites like Washington Square and the Colony House. Discover Newport's pivotal role during the lead-up to the American Revolution, including European occupations, George Washington’s visit, and the city’s fight for freedom. Perfect for history buffs, families, and curious travelers, this tour offers an immersive experience filled with insider knowledge, captivating stories, and a deeper understanding of America’s path to independence!
Price: $20.00
Duration: 1 hours
Walk through Providence's dark side! The eerie writings H.P. Lovecraft- one of the most significant supernatural horror fiction authors of the 20th century- are inexplicably bound to his hometown of Providence. This tour walks in the tortured author's footsteps through his traumatic upbringing and favorite haunts; guests also meet some of the fictional characters that Lovecraft wrote into the city's fabric through dramatic retellings of his creepiest tales. But Lovecraft isn't the only author that ambled the city's centuries-old sidewalks: Sarah Helen Whitman was an eccentric local spiritualist and poet who was briefly engaged to master of the macabre Edgar Allan Poe. This tour also explores her life and relives the couple's whirlwind- and doomed- romance.
Price: $30.00
Duration: 2 hours
During the picture-perfect hour before sunset, you will enjoy a lightly guided tour of the Newport waterfront. Raise a glass to the end of the day with our cash bar and complimentary champagne toast. You will see many inspiring sites along our route, such as gilded age estates, islands, lighthouses and 19th century forts.
Price: $45.00
Duration: 1 hours
1. Choose Your Tour
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2. Check Details
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3. Book Online
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Rhode Island’s cuisine is heavily influenced by its coastal location, with seafood playing a starring role. Signature dishes include clam chowder, clam cakes, stuffies (stuffed quahogs), and fresh lobster. The state is also known for its unique coffee milk, a sweet coffee-flavored syrup mixed with milk. Italian-American cuisine is prominent, especially in Providence, with excellent pasta and pizza offerings. Noteworthy restaurants include those in Newport and Providence that focus on fresh, local ingredients and innovative seafood dishes. Dining customs are casual but emphasize fresh, high-quality food often enjoyed with a view of the water.
Getting Around
Rhode Island is accessible by car via major highways and is served by T.F. Green Airport near Providence, which offers domestic flights. Amtrak and regional trains connect Providence to other major cities. Local transportation includes buses in urban areas, but many visitors find renting a car the most convenient way to explore the state. Driving distances are short, and parking is generally available but can be limited in busy tourist spots during peak season. Costs for taxis and rideshares are moderate.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Pack layers as coastal weather can be variable. Respect local customs, especially in small towns and historic sites. Safety is generally good, but standard precautions apply. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is useful for small vendors. Plan ahead for accommodations during summer months due to high demand.
Culture & Customs
Rhode Island’s culture reflects its New England roots with a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. Social customs emphasize politeness and respect for history and nature. Local festivals celebrate maritime heritage, Italian-American culture, and arts, such as the Newport Folk Festival and WaterFire. Visitors should be mindful of quiet residential neighborhoods and historic preservation rules. Tipping in restaurants is customary, typically 15-20%. Engaging with locals about the state’s history and food is appreciated.
