Rhode Island is located in the Northeast of the United States. Reputed to be one of the smallest US states in the country – and one of the most sparsely populated – this New England state is perfect for a fall road trip. Bordering states like Connecticut and New York, this cozy state offers heritage, history and natural landscapes worth visiting this season. Fancy a road trip in the US this fall season? Then you should visit Rhode Island and these picturesque towns!
10 Newport City
Farmers’ markets, refreshing beaches, leisurely coastal walks and scenic bike routes are just a few of the many things to enjoy in Newport this fall. Taste a taste of New England’s coastline and heritage in Newport! This city is a perfect opportunity to enjoy fall, as there are numerous fall events around the city and seasonal fall-flavored treats at local homesteads.
9 Tiverton
History buffs will appreciate Tiverton’s preserved New England history, particularly its 18th-century architecture. Tiverton is just 30 minutes’ drive from Newport and has a small town charm worth discovering! Take a leisurely stroll at the Four Corners Arts Center and Sculpture Park, or stroll along Main Road to discover local boutiques selling one-of-a-kind wares.
8th Warwick
Discover the best of Southern New England through Warwick! This city offers hip places and events near Newport that will attract any curious tourist. Enjoy the coast on a cool fall morning at Rocky Point State Park, discover local history at Clouds Hill Victorian House Museum, or watch the sunset at Conimicut Lighthouse. This Rhode Island town is also home to some quality accommodation and restaurants for tourists who want to stay a few more days!
7 pawtucket
There is a lot going on in Pawtucket, making it one of the top stopover destinations when visiting Rhode Island. Visit Slater Mill to learn more about Samuel Slater and his revolutionary innovation in automated cotton spinning over 200 years ago! Alternatively, Pawtucket prides itself on its diverse community and shows it in attractions like the Rhode Island Watercolor Society’s Slater Memorial Park. Also, in October, visitors can drive themselves insane with spooky tales told at locations like the Haunted Tunnel at Memorial Park or at Slater Mills on select nights.
6 middle town
Located next to Newport City, this city was in Newport County did for autumn trips! Enjoy the clear fall weather while visiting Middletown’s Newport Vineyards, spot native wildlife at the Norman Bird Sanctuary, explore scenic trails at the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge or feel the cool fall breezes at Pebble Beach.
5 Bristol
Named after the English city of Bristol, this Rhode Island seaport offers a variety of attractions whether on land or at sea! Hire a bike and cycle the East Bay Bike Path, which can conveniently take cyclists from various Bristol attractions, including the city centre, to see stunning Maritime sights while maintaining a serious workout regimen. Otherwise, hiking is a great way to explore the fall foliage in Bristol, especially at Colt State Park!
4 New Shoreham
New Shoreham, also known as Block Island, is the destination for travelers seeking stunning Atlantic Ocean views, hiking excursions and a cozy small-town vibe. If you’re in New Shoreham this season, visit the 150-year-old North Light Lighthouse or enjoy the peaceful sound of the waves at Frederick J. Benson Town Beach. Travelers based on a small island in the region must take a ferry from Point Judith in Narragansett to get to New Shoreham.
3 Narragansett
Narragansett offers some of the best surfing spots in New England, perfect for warmer weather. During the colder months, however, there are plenty of other things to look forward to in this Rhode Island city! Often a favorite vacation spot for Rhode Island locals, travelers can easily book a stay at one of Narragansett’s hotels or inns that offer a comfortable view of the Atlantic Ocean. Plus, restaurants – like the Coast Guard House Restaurant – offer incredible views of the seafront!
2 Jamestown
Jamestown offers a charm not to be missed this season. Spend a few nights in a cozy bed and breakfast or inn overlooking the Newport Bridge. This coastal gem just has a lot of sights waiting to explore including Taylor Point, the Windmill Hill Historic District, the Jamestown Historical Society and the Beavertail Lighthouse in Beavertail State Park.
1 West
As the southernmost city in Rhode Island, Westerly is near the Connecticut border. In town, enjoy the fall foliage at Wilcox Park or shop in downtown Westerly, which also includes attractions like the Living Sharks Museum, the United Theater and the Tapped Apple Cidery and Winery. Outside of downtown, tourists visiting Westerly on weekends during the fall season can head to Atlantic Beach Park for ice cream or to visit scenic seaside spots.
