Experience Rhode Island’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. is small state has some of America’s largest concentrations of registered historic landmarks, from 17th-century colonial houses and churches to the opulent mansions of Newport. An exceptional appreciation of the performing arts is evident in the state’s many ne professional and community theatres, dance and musical and cultural organizations.
One of the best ways to discover the state is to make good use of the Rhode Island Heritage Trails. ey were speci cally developed to help visitors discover the state, and have been arranged by region as well as by theme. Some trails have themes such as nature, art and culture, maritime or military. Along the trails, you will experience local food favourites. Where to shop for gi s, works of art and antiques will be pointed out, and you will be given tips on places to enjoy local theatre and art as well as the best vantage points for your photography.
Where To Go
- Rhode Island Beaches: 400 miles of coastline and 100 salt and freshwater beaches.
- Casinos: Twin River Casino in Lincoln and Grand Slots in Newport. Both have slot machines, virtual table games, live entertainment and dining options.
- The International Tennis Hall of Fame: includes a fun exhibit of tennis fashions through the years.
Where To Stay
To complete the experience, choose one of the grand hotels that whisper of the past. is is an experience you don’t want to miss. e wrap-around verandahs and splendor promise a great experience, combining tradition with modern conveniences. Check out Ocean House, ranked the number one resort in continental U.S. and number ve in the world. Weekapaug Inn, dating back to 1899, is another historic, quintessential New England seaside Inn that combines the graceful past with all the modern conveniences. e Break, in Narragansett, is the rst boutique hotel in the area. And the Attwater in Newport is close to old mansions as well as being a hip party scene.
Travel Tips
Here are three popular experiences you may want to check out while you’re there:
- The nine Newport mansions. The most popular are The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms and Rosecliff.
- The Roger Williams Park Zoo; the finest zoo in New England.
- The Crescent Park Carousel in East Providence, built in 1895 by famous designer Charles I.D. Loof.
For more information, visit rhodeisland.com.
Originally published in Today’s Bride magazine, Spring/Summer 2016.
