Rhode Island is tiny but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in history and other attractions. It is the smallest state in the United States but is also one of the oldest states/colonies in America having been first settled in 1636. Newport in Rhode Island is one of the top destinations in the state, and it boasts some excellent waterfront restaurants.

Rhode Island has a number of stunning beaches and was the site of the summer homes of some of America's richest people. In Rhode Island, one can select a beach based on one's favorite activity.

About Rhode Island And Its Unique History

While Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the United States, with 1.1 million people it has a population significantly more than the largest state of Alaska.

The state takes its name from the largest island in Narragansett Bay - even though most of the landmass is on the mainland.

  • Providence: State Capital and Largest City

Rhode Island was unique among the colonies. It was founded as a refuge for those fleeing religious persecution - not from Europe, but from the neighboring Massachusetts Bay Colony. It was founded by Roger William who had fled from Massachusetts in 1636 when he purchased land from the local tribes.

  • First: Rhode Island Was The First Settlement In North America With An Explicitly Secular Government
  • Rogue Island: A Moniker The State Earned For Being A Destination For Religious and Political Dissenters

Today Rhode Island with not only history but also a perfect combination of seaside views, colorful local culture, and various family activities. These are some of the top places to visit according to Trip Advisor.

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge

One of TripAdvisor's top-rated destinations is the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. It is located on a peninsula between the Sakonnet River and Rhode Island Sound. It is around 242 acres and a is very popular site attracting tens of thousands of visitors annually.

  • Visitor Center: Open Daily From 10.00 am to 4.00 pm
  • Nature Trails: The Refuge Has Over 2.5 Miles (4.0 KM) Of Nature Trails
  • Birds: The Refuge is Home to Over 200 Bird Species (Including the Snowy Owl, Northern Harrier, Peregrine Falcon)

It is famous for great saltwater fishing and for having the presence of the largest winter population of harlequin ducks on the East Coast. The site is rich in history having been a horse racing area, and then a Naval communications site. One can see more information on its official website.

Related: You Can Tour The Breakers, Rhode Island's Most Prestigious Historic Mansion, And Others Like It

The Breakers

Rated at the best thing to do in Newport by TripAdvisor, The Breakers is the grandest of Newport's summer "cottages". It is a symbol of the Vanderbilt family's social standing and financial wealth at the turn of the century. It was designed to be a 70 room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo inspired by the 16th palaces of Genoa and Turin.

This Gilded Age mansion was built between 1893 and 1895 as a summer residence. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971 and as a National Historic Landmark in 1994. Today it is owned and operated by the Newport Preservation Society as a museum and is open for visits year-round.

  • Monday To Wednesday: Opens At 10.00 am Closes At 5.00 pm (Last Admission 4.00 pm)
  • Thursday to Sunday: Opens At 10.00 am, Closes At 4.00 pm (Last Admission 3.00 pm)
  • Evenings: Thursday to Sunday Open From 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm for Sparkling Lights at The Breakers

Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art

Another top-rated TripAdvisor attraction is the Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art. This is an internationally renowned museum showcasing over 80,000 works of art. The collection comes from Paul Revere's silver and caricatures of 18th century Europe to French Impressionists and the avant-garde works of recent alumni. Additionally, a 12th century Japanese Buddha has its own room for meditating (with benches).

  • Hours: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday
  • Hours: Noon to 7.00 pm Thursday and Friday
  • Closed: June 19th, July 4th, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day.
  • Admission: $17.00 (Free on Chase Free Sunday (10 am–5 pm) and Free After Five Presented by Chase on Thursdays and Fridays (5–7 pm)

Related: A Day On Block Island: Exploring Rhode Island's Most Iconic Vacation Spot

The White Horse Tavern

While not one of TripAdvisor's top-ranked attractions, Rhode Island is home to the oldest pub in the United States. The White Horse Tavern was established all the way back in 1673 - that is deep into the early history of colonial America and even before the th4e United Kingdom even existed.

  • Oldest: Oldest Operating Restaurant In The United Stated
  • Established: In 1673
  • Served As: A Tavern, City Hall, General Assembly, Courthouse, Barracks, And Boarding House
  • Address: 26 Marlborough St, Newport, RI 02840

Next: Est. 1673! Grab A Beer At "America’s Oldest Tavern” In Rhode Island