Day trips from Providence, RI
From Providence, Rhode Island
12 Amazing Destinations
Perfect for day trips
Providence, Rhode Island, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions. However, the surrounding region offers a wealth of day trip opportunities that cater to diverse interests. From the scenic beauty of coastal towns and state parks to the charm of historic villages and the thrill of adventure sports, there's something for everyone within a 200-mile radius. Whether you're looking to explore nature, indulge in culinary delights, or immerse yourself in local history, these day trips from Providence promise unforgettable experiences.
1. Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic is a charming coastal town known for its historic sites and maritime heritage. The Mystic Seaport Museum is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the region's seafaring past. The Mystic Aquarium is another highlight, featuring a variety of marine life exhibits. Stroll along the Mystic River, enjoy a meal at one of the local seafood restaurants, and explore the quaint shops and galleries.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Mystic Seaport Museum
- ✓Mystic Aquarium
- ✓Mystic River
- ✓Local seafood restaurants
2. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod is a picturesque peninsula with beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and historic sites. Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore for stunning coastal views and hiking trails. Explore the charming town of Chatham, known for its lighthouse and historic architecture. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants and relax on the pristine beaches.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Cape Cod National Seashore
- ✓Chatham Lighthouse
- ✓Waterfront restaurants
- ✓Pristine beaches
3. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is a coastal city known for its Gilded Age mansions, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Visit the Cliff Walk, a scenic path that offers stunning views of the ocean and the historic mansions. Explore the Newport Mansions, including the Breakers and the Elms, for a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the past. Enjoy a meal at one of the city's many fine dining restaurants and stroll along the harbor.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Cliff Walk
- ✓Newport Mansions
- ✓Fine dining restaurants
- ✓Harbor stroll
4. Stockbridge, Massachusetts
Stockbridge is a historic town in the Berkshire Mountains, known for its charming New England architecture and cultural attractions. Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum to see the works of this famous American artist. Explore the Housatonic River and enjoy a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside. The town is also home to several art galleries and unique shops.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Norman Rockwell Museum
- ✓Housatonic River
- ✓Scenic drives
- ✓Art galleries
5. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is a picturesque island known for its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and quaint villages. Take a ferry ride to the island and explore the cobblestone streets of the historic district. Visit the Nantucket Whaling Museum to learn about the island's maritime history. Relax on the pristine beaches and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Historic district
- ✓Nantucket Whaling Museum
- ✓Pristine beaches
- ✓Local seafood restaurants
6. Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts
Martha's Vineyard is a beautiful island known for its scenic landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant arts scene. Take a ferry ride to the island and explore the charming towns of Edgartown and Oak Bluffs. Visit the Martha's Vineyard Museum to learn about the island's history. Enjoy a meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants and relax on the pristine beaches.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Edgartown
- ✓Oak Bluffs
- ✓Martha's Vineyard Museum
- ✓Waterfront restaurants
7. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is a stunning national park known for its rugged coastline, scenic mountains, and diverse wildlife. Drive the Park Loop Road to see the park's highlights, including Cadillac Mountain and Thunder Hole. Explore the park's hiking trails and enjoy the breathtaking views. Visit the nearby town of Bar Harbor for dining and shopping options.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Park Loop Road
- ✓Cadillac Mountain
- ✓Thunder Hole
- ✓Hiking trails
8. Salem, Massachusetts
Salem is a historic city known for its role in the Salem Witch Trials and its rich maritime history. Visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the trials and the city's history. Explore the Peabody Essex Museum, which features a diverse collection of art and artifacts. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy a meal at one of the city's many restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Salem Witch Museum
- ✓Peabody Essex Museum
- ✓Waterfront
- ✓Local restaurants
9. Vermont's Green Mountains
The Green Mountains in Vermont offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and scenic drives. Visit the Stowe Mountain Resort for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, or hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Explore the town of Stowe, known for its charming shops and restaurants. Drive the scenic Route 100 for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Stowe Mountain Resort
- ✓Town of Stowe
- ✓Scenic Route 100
- ✓Outdoor activities
10. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is a historic city known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse cultural attractions. Visit the Freedom Trail to see the city's historic sites, including the Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution. Explore the Museum of Fine Arts, which features a diverse collection of art and artifacts. Enjoy a meal at one of the city's many restaurants and stroll along the Charles River.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Freedom Trail
- ✓Paul Revere House
- ✓Museum of Fine Arts
- ✓Charles River
11. Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island is a beautiful island known for its pristine beaches, scenic landscapes, and vibrant arts scene. Take a ferry ride to the island and explore the charming town of New Shoreham. Visit the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge for hiking and birdwatching. Relax on the pristine beaches and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
What to See & Do:
- ✓New Shoreham
- ✓Block Island National Wildlife Refuge
- ✓Pristine beaches
- ✓Local seafood restaurants
12. Maine's Mid-Coast
Maine's Mid-Coast region is known for its scenic coastline, charming towns, and vibrant arts scene. Visit the town of Camden, known for its picturesque harbor and historic architecture. Explore the Camden Hills State Park for hiking and scenic views. Enjoy a meal at one of the region's many waterfront restaurants and stroll along the rocky shoreline.
What to See & Do:
- ✓Camden Harbor
- ✓Camden Hills State Park
- ✓Waterfront restaurants
- ✓Rocky shoreline
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