Why is the state of Rhode Island called the Ocean State? Because you can drive the entire coast of the smallest state of the US in just an hour. The state is small, but packs a punch. And even though you may think – been there, done that – you’d be surprised to learn you probably haven’t seen all of Rhode Island just yet. Whether this is your first time or your 11th time, this iconic and authentic weekend in Rhode Island has something for you. In this weekend guide, you get to visit the iconic Newport or more authentic and less known Farm Coast. And you won’t have to broke visiting it either when you make your homebase the Farm Coast next door. Regardless, Rhode Island makes for a perfect weekend trip from anywhere in the North East.
This guide doesn’t include Block Island – Rhode Island’s second island located in the Atlantic Sea. A trip to Block Island requires a ferry ride and full weekend of it’s own!
~ Day 1: Wharfs, lobster rolls and historical splendor ~
No weekend in Rhode Island is incomplete without a stop in Newport. Arrive into Newport first thing in the morning, a coastal village known for two things: being the sailing capital of the word and having the highest concentration of colonial homes in the United States. During the Gilded Age, it was a popular spot for the wealthy who liked to “summer” in one of their Italian Renaissance palazzo style mansions. And yes, you can tour them. Newport itself is picturesque, with colonial shingles, galleries, and cafes. It’s also home to the historical Bowen wharf.
At Bowen’s wharf you’ll find a number of lunch options. Lobster rolls and rum punch, a typical Sailors beverage, are a no brainer here.
Hop on your bike or walk on over to Bellevue Historic district where you can walk by some of Newport’s most lavish mansions. Take it one step further and tour one of these palaces like The Breakers, owned by the Vanderbilts. It’ll feel like your stepping into Versailles in Europe.
Outside of The Breakers is Cliff Walk, worthy of a stroll in its own right, if you have time. These mansions have made appearances in films such as The Great Gatsby. The walk includes seaside mansions and expansive vistas of the coast with 40 Steps as one of the primary coastal attractions.
If you’ve still got time, drive or bike down Ocean Drive and stop for a drink at one of the institutional resorts. If you’re in the mood for a beach, you can always try and find a spot at Second Beach or Sachuest Point National Wildlife refuge.
For dinner, drive on over to the Farm Coast just 40 minutes away and stop by Boathouse at Tiverton. Voted one of the most beautiful outdoor dining restaurants in America according to Open Table.
~ Day 2: Farm coast, a winery and some of the best pastries on the East Coast ~
Day 2 of your weekend in Rhode Island will be more based in the down-to-earth farming side of the state. The breakfast menu at Groundswell Cafe + Garden in the National Register for Historic Places Tiverton Four Corners is impressive. The pastries are made from scratch fresh daily using ingredients from the farms nearby. You’ll want to go back for seconds and thirds so come hungry.
Then hop on your bike and go biking across the Farm Coast from Tiverton to Little Compton. The Farm Coast is located right across from Newport and is named after a small group of local businesses looking to promote local food, farms, art, and sustainable culture. While biking you’ll come across horses, farms, and wineries with a stunning New England coast back drop.
Galleries and antiques are what this area is known for. It’s something of an artists hub so come with space in your car. If you’re hungry, stop by any of the farm stands along the way and take your lunch to Sakonnet Point where you can see the Sakonnet Lighthouse.
Where to stay for a weekend in Rhode Island
You won’t find much in terms of bargain stays for a weekend in Rhode Island. But my recommendation would be to stay outside of villages like Newport and find quaint and local bed and breakfasts or inn on the Farm Coast. It’s a stones throwaway from Newport and allows you to get a more local feel to the State. It’s a great home base location. Plus, it’s more affordable.
