Attractions Nearby Providence, Day Trips and Excursions

(Providence, Rhode Island - RI, USA)

Rhode Island is a tiny state on the far northeasterly side of the USA, where it stands next to both Connecticut and Massachusetts. Countless attractions present themselves to those holidaying in Providence, particularly if you are up for traveling a little.

Lying around 13 miles / 21 km to the south of the Rhode Island coastline and directly 50 miles / 80 km south of Providence, the attractions of Block Island are connected by regular ferries, which dock at the Old Harbor. Also in Rhode Island is the popular city of Newport, while both Boston in Massachusetts and Hartford in Connecticut are also possible day trips. If you have the time, then an excursion to New York is even feasible.

Block Island

The island's settlement of New Shoreham was formerly a fishing town, although it now operates as a popular summer resort. Block Island is just 7 miles / 11 km end to end, and is especially rich in native flora and fauna. The summer attractions are plentiful, with the sailboat racing competition, known as the Block Island Race Week, being especially noteworthy and always drawing sizable crowds.

Boston

Address: Massachusetts (MA)
The biggest city in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Boston is also the state capital and is located approximately 51 miles / 82 km to the north of Providence, being just over an hour away by car. A day trip or longer excursion to Boston is simply a must - this really is an extremely appealing and friendly harborfront city. The attractions of Boston are innumerable and far too many to see in just one day, although if you are short of time, then do consider taking a stroll along the Boston Freedom Trail, which takes in 16 of the most prominent historical sites, such as the Common, the State House, Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, the Paul Revere House, the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Hartford

Address: Connecticut (CT)
Across the state border and in Connecticut is the state capital of Hartford. Day trips from Providence are relatively straightforward, since Hartford is just 75 miles / 121 km to the west. If you are planning to visit Hartford, then the main attractions worth exploring are the Harriet Beecher Stowe House, Bushnell Park, the Pump House Gallery, the Mark Twain House and the Wadsworth Atheneum. It is also possible to take a guided tour of the granite Connecticut State Capitol building, which boasts Neo-Gothic architecture and a huge gold-leaf dome.

Newport

One of New England's most popular tourist destinations, Newport lies a mere 40 miles / 64 km to the south of Providence, making it a popular excursion. Those headed to Newport can expect to find attractions in the form of countless well-preserved 19th-century mansions, such as the Beachwood, Breakers, Kingscote and Rosecliff. For the very best views, be sure to take a stroll along the elevated Cliff Walk, which stretches between the Memorial Boulevard and Bailey's Beach, and hugs the easterly side of the peninsula. Also of interest at Newport is the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the Fort Adams State Park, the Touro Synagogue, Eaton's Beach (First Beach), Sachuest Beach (Second Beach) and the Navy Beach (Third Beach).

New York

Address: New York (NY)
Perhaps the most famous city on the entire planet, New York is home to countless exceptional attractions, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, Times Square and the Rockefeller Center, the latter of which is best known for its open-air winter ice-skating rink. Those planning to pay a visit to New York will find that this epic city is well connected by both rail and road, and is around 180 miles / 290 km to the southwest of Providence. New York's Manhattan district is where much of the action lies, being brimming with sights, high-rise hotels and acclaimed global restaurants.