The biggest little state in the union proudly declares in its motto, “Rhode Island Is It For Me!” If one were to make the trip up the East Coast to any town along the Atlantic seaboard in the Ocean State and ask a local, they’d likely agree wholeheartedly.
A certain amount of pride is found in “Little Rhody,” as it’s affectionately called. The locals and homegrown citizens seemingly take great honor in their place as the smallest state in the U.S.
But far from just a “gimme” answer to a trivia question, Rhode Island‘s story is as integral to the story of the U.S. as any of its contemporaries in the 13 colonies. Roger Williams fled the burgeoning Massachusetts area to avoid religious persecution. He founded the now state capital of Providence in 1636 on lands purchased from the local Indigenous Tribes that had lived on it for centuries.
When the time came for the young American colonies to break away from English rule, it was Rhode Island that first called for the forming of the original Continental Congress. It was also the first to renounce its allegiance to the British.
To say that Rhode Island has always been a tough little state would be an understatement! While small in area, it is beautiful, rich in history and stunning vistas, containing a multitude of natural and historical wonders in its State Parks system.
Below are some can’t-miss spots when dropping in on “Little Rhody”:
Beavertail State Park: Speaking of remarkable vistas, this site in Jamestown, RI, offers perhaps the best views in the whole state. A true gem of the New England coastline, this park has pristine beaches and four overlooks to sit back and take in the sunrise on a crisp Atlantic morning. Due to its diverse marine life and geology, a popular spot for fishermen and science enthusiasts. It also holds the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum, which gives travelers endless knowledge of the surrounding area, past, present, and future. An authentic Rhode Island experience, Beavertail is a must-see.
Colt State Park: This site makes no bones about its place in the State Parks system, referring to itself as the “gem” of the little state that could. The park sits on the shores of the famous Narragansett Bay, and its 360-degree views of the legendary waterway are unmatched in the area. With more than 400 acres for public use, popular activities include hiking and biking or exploring the historic stone walls and learning more about the history of nearby Bristol, which boasts the oldest Fourth of July parade in the country. Don’t forget to bring a fishing pole or a kayak. This destination has it all for water lovers!
Lincoln Woods State Park: Somewhere between routes 146 and 123 lies Lincoln Woods, Rhode Island’s first State Park. This popular inland hotspot of the Blackstone Valley is just a short drive from the surrounding bigger cities and is a welcome oasis from the hustle and bustle of city life for the locals. Hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating are popular activities. It even has a covered bridge that looks like it was torn from the pages of a storybook. Lincoln Woods is a popular destination for a good reason and should rank right at the top of the list for any trip to the mighty Ocean State.
