Situated in the Northeastern part of the US lies Rhode Island. Considered one of the smallest US states in the country—and one of the least populous—this New England state is perfect for a fall-themed road trip. Sharing a border with states like Connecticut and New York, this cozy state offers heritage, history, and natural landscapes that are worth viewing this season. Fancy a road trip in the US this autumn season? Then consider visiting Rhode Island and these scenic towns!
10 Newport City
Farmer’s markets, refreshing beaches, leisurely coastal hikes, and scenic bike routes are some of the many things to enjoy at Newport this fall. Sample a taste of New England’s coastline and heritage at Newport! This city is a perfect chance to appreciate fall due to the city’s numerous fall events to its seasonal fall-flavored treats at local farmsteads.
9 Tiverton
History buffs will appreciate the New England history preserved at Tiverton, specifically their 18th-century architecture. Being only 30 minutes drive away from Newport, Tiverton offers a small-town charm worth checking out! Enjoy a leisurely stroll at the Four Corners Arts Center and Sculpture Park, or walk along Main Road to discover local boutiques selling unique goods.
8 Warwick
Discover the best of Southern New England through Warwick! This town features hip spots and happenings close to Newport that will attract any curious tourist. Enjoy the coast on a chilly autumn morning at the Rocky Point State Park, discover local history at the Clouds Hill Victorian House Museum, or watch the sunset at the Conimicut Lighthouse. This Rhode Island town also hosts some quality accommodations and restaurants for tourists wanting to stay a couple more days!
7 Pawtucket
There is a lot going on at Pawtucket, making it one of the best destinations to stop at while visiting Rhode Island. Visit Slater Mill to learn about Samuel Slater and his revolutionary innovation for automated cotton spinning over 200 years ago! Alternatively, Pawtucket is proud of its diverse community, showing it on display at attractions like Slater Memorial Park at the Rhode Island Watercolor Society. Plus, in October, visitors can scare themselves silly with ghostly tales told at places like Memorial Park’s Haunted Tunnel or at select nights in Slater Mills.
6 Middletown
Situated beside Newport city, this Newport County town was made for fall travel! Enjoy the crisp autumn weather while visiting Middletown’s Newport Vineyards, view some local wildlife at the Norman Bird Sanctuary, tackle some picturesque trails at the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, or feel the cool breeze of autumn at Pebble Beach.
5 Bristol
Named after England’s town of Bristol, this Rhode Island seaport offers a variety of attractions, whether on land or sea! To see breathtaking sights of the Maritime—while getting some serious workout regime—rent a bike and cycle through the East Bay Bike Path, which can conveniently take cyclers from various Bristol attractions, including its downtown core. Otherwise, hiking is a great way to explore the fall foliage at Bristol, especially at Colt State Park!
4 New Shoreham
Also known as Block Island, New Shoreham is the destination for travelers seeking breathtaking coastal views of the Atlantic, hiking excursions, and cozy small-town vibes. When in New Shoreham this season, visit the 150-year-old North Light Lighthouse or enjoy the peaceful sounds of crashing waves at the Frederick J. Benson Town Beach. Sitting on a small island in the region, travelers will have to 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. However, during the colder months, there are many other things to look forward to in this Rhode Island town! Often a favorite vacation destination for Rhode Island locals, travelers can easily book a stay at one of Narragansett’s hotels or inns, which conveniently overlook the Atlantic Ocean. Also, eateries—such as the Coast Guard House Restaurant—offer incredible views of the Maritime coastline!
2 Jamestown
Jamestown provides a charm that can’t be missed this season. Stay a couple of nights at a cozy bed and breakfast or at an inn that overlooks the Newport Bridge. This coastal gem has a ton of landmarks just waiting to be explored, including Taylor Point, the Windmill Hill Historic District, the Jamestown Historical Society, and the Beavertail Lighthouse at the Beavertail State Park.
1 Westerly
Being the southernmost town in Rhode Island, Westerly sits near the border with Connecticut. While in town, enjoy the fall foliage at Wilcox Park or go shopping at Westerly’s downtown core, which also includes attractions like Living Sharks Museum, the United Theatre, and the Tapped Apple Cidery and Winery. Outside the town core, tourists who visit Westerly during the weekends during the fall season can head to the Atlantic Beach Park for some ice cream or scenic sites of the Maritime coastline.