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Rhode Island Summer Family Vacation

Summer Family Vacations in Rhode Island

The state of Rhode Island combines a range of exciting options for a family summer vacation or weekend getaway. You can spend an entire summer exploring the gorgeous beaches on the miles of coastline and go swimming with the kids in the sheltered bays.

When planning a Rhode Island beach vacation, you can also take your kids back in time and give them a taste of the state’s history. Visit some of the many significant landmarks and admire the exquisite architecture. Even if you’re a Rhode Island resident, you need not go far for some great vacation ideas.

Although Rhode Island is one of New England’s smallest states, lodging options are plenty. Between stunning coastal resorts and beautiful, historical inland properties, you and your family will have a lot to choose from when planning your next summer vacation.

Newport Summer Vacation
Castle Hill, RI. Credit: Newport Harbor Corp/Discover Newport

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is wonderful for family vacations because of the unique blend of attractions it offers. From regal mansions, charming lighthouses, to its gorgeous ocean drive, Newport leaves little to be desired for curious and adventurous vacationers.

Newport is widely known for is its famous mansions, which were originally constructed as summer homes in the 1850s and 1900s for wealthy New York and Philadelphia elite. These beautiful mansions are now open to the public and offer docent led tours which showcase the elegant architecture, interiors, and gardens of these historical properties.

Newport’s 3.5-mile-long Cliff Walk is another great way to get to know this beautiful historic city by foot. The walk, which hugs Newport’s beautiful shoreline, starts at the Eastern end of Bailey’s Beach and ends at the western end of First Beach and showcases Newport’s mansions, beautiful wildflowers, birds, and more.

If your feet feel tired after all of that walking, go for a ride along Newport’s Ocean Drive to further explore Newport’s shores. This acclaimed 10-mile drive offers spectacular views of the coastline with popular points of interest including Fort Adams State Park, the U.S. Coast Guard Station, Hammersmith Farm, and Fort Adams.

If you would like to book your family vacation stay in historic Newport; New England Inns and Resorts has a selection of the most unique lodging properties to choose from. View our entire selection of Newport properties here https://www.newenglandinnsandresorts.com/properties/rhode-island#state~ri+region~63

For a short getaway right outside of the Newport city limits, Middletown, Rhode Island offers thousands of acres of unspoiled natural reserves, historic attractions, and miles of wide sandy beaches. While there, take your family to visit the Sweet Berry Farm, a local farm-market and café that is situated on 100 acres of conserved farmland that serves season fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as delicious prepared foods.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Your Rhode Island summer vacation would not be complete without a trip to Block Island. With 17 miles of coastline, this island offers plenty of beach for you and your family to comfortably stretch out on. Head on over to the Mohegan Bluffs, which boast clay cliffs that reach 200 feet into the sky. Trekking to the top of the cliffs can be a strenuous hike, but you will be rewarded by breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and plenty of opportunities to take memorable photographs.

Be sure to check out the Southeast Lighthouse, another great landmark at Block Island that provides even more stunning views of the Atlantic.

If you want to get a good walk in, be sure to visit the Clayhead Nature Trail. Walking along the trail great way to soak up Block Island’s natural flora and fauna, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of a baby seal! The trail ends on the beach so be sure to bring your bathing suits along.

For a less traditional island experience, take the kids to the 1661 Farm and Gardens which is home to a variety of animals including kangaroos, alpacas, and camels. Animal felting and crochet kits can be purchased in the farm store for a unique souvenir.

For a lovely seaside stay, The 1661 Inn is a great option as it is just a short walk away from Block Island’s historic old harbor, and offers rooms with stunning ocean views. Enjoy biking, boating, horseback riding, and more at this charming, family run boutique inn

Rhode Island Vacation - Block Island
Sunset at Sachem Pond, Block Island Credit: Rhode Island Commerce Corporation

Providence, Rhode Island

As Rhode Island’s capital and most populous city, Providence is a must-visit during any Rhode Island vacation. This city boasts a thriving art community, many diverse neighborhoods, and tons of free activities to keep you and your family busy for an entire vacation.

For a comfortable stay in the heart of downtown Providence, be sure to check out Hotel Providence which is located conveniently in the Providence Arts and Theatre District. This historic property offers guest rooms, and a variety of suites ranging from junior to king, to suit families of all sizes.

Check out one of Providence’s many museums, and be sure to include the Museum of Natural History & Planetarium as well as the Providence Children’s Museum among your stops. The Roger Williams Park Zoo is another great option for an interactive family day. Spread across 40 acres, this zoo, recognized as one of the finest in New England by the Boston Globe, features train and zip rides, food truck Fridays, and plenty of other exciting activities for you and your little ones.

To learn about Providence’s fascinating history, take your family on a guided, historical walking tour of the city. There are three walking tours that guide tourists through the the city’s east side, downtown, and west side for a fun, unique, and educational experience.

South County, Rhode Island

Ready to head back to the coast? South County offers more than 100 miles of Rhode Island coastline as well as historic villages, loads of fresh seafood, and plenty of hiking and biking trails for those who wish to stay active.

South County is also home to the picturesque Narragansett Town Beach that is well-known for its 19 acres of gorgeous sand beaches for surfing, swimming, and building sand castles.

If you’re looking for something to do that’s more inland, take a stroll through the beautifully maintained Wilcox Park, which is surrounded by beautiful Victorian homes and features fountains, ponds, festivals, and other entertainment.

The South County museum is another great option for families, and includes farm animals, blacksmith lessons, and other unique artifacts.

For an elegant and sophisticated stay, be sure to book a room at The Break in Narragansett, Rhode Island. This retro-chic hotel offers a variety of suites, rooms, as well as an ocean view rooftop lounge and bar. Take the kids on a bike ride, on a canoeing trip, or fishing while there.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next vacation to Rhode Island today!

Rhode Island - Quahogging on the Bay,
Quahogging on the Bay in Warwick, Rhode Island Credit: Warwick Tourism

New England Inns and Resorts is looking forward to helping you select the perfect, unique lodging for your next trip.  Check out our seasonal Special Offers and Packages to get great ideas for your New England travel plans.