Hidden Gems Places To Visit in Rhode Island, United States

1. 5.0 Crescent Park Looff Carousel (100 reviews)
   - A Must Do Rhode Island Attraction
   Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
   
   
   An 1895 carousel featuring 66 hand-carved figures. See more..
   
2. 5.0 Warwick Public Library (99 reviews)
   - Best Library
   Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Libraries
   
   
   Excellent selections, fabulous private rooms, great internet capability, great youth area with activities, and wonderful staff. See more..
   
3. 5.0 Grey Sail Brewing of Rhode Island (65 reviews)
   - Nice brewery-kid and dog friendly
   Saturday: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM Breweries
   
   
   Proudly located in the seaside city of Westerly, Grey Sail Brewing of RI is southern Rhode Island's premier microbrewery equipped to produce up to 4,000 barrels of handcrafted beer per year. We are open for tours and tastings every Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. See more..
   
4. 5.0 Newport Polo (62 reviews)
   - Something different to do on a summer Saturday.
   Spent More than 3 hours Arenas & Stadiums
   
   
   Newport Polo, home of America's First Polo Club, celebrates the 30th Anniversary season of the Newport International Polo Series, featuring public exhibition polo matches every Saturday, June - September. Founded in 1876, charter member of the United States Polo Association, Newport Polo offers year-round polo club membership and polo instruction. See more..
   
5. 5.0 Morris Farm, Inc. (57 reviews)
   - Delicious Corn on the Cob
   Spent 1-2 hours Farms • Farmers Markets
   
   
   We were having company and decided to get the sugar/butter corn. They were $1 an ear which is very expensive, but were absolutely delicious. You can’t pick out your own, though. You tell them how many you want and they put it in a bag for you. All I can say is the produce is fresh and you get what you pay for. See more..
   
6. 5.0 The Farmer's Daughter (51 reviews)
   - Amazing Nursery!
   Spent 1-2 hours Farms • Gardens
   
   
   I'm in the nursery business and this is one of the MOST beautiful well thought out nurseries I've ever seen! See more..
   
7. 5.0 Seastreak Ferry (48 reviews)
   - Perfect
   Saturday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Ferries
   
   
   Experience the majesty of Narragansett Bay on your way to the charming New England enclaves of Newport, and Bristol, R.I. Whether traveling from Providence, Boston, or points north or south, skip the traffic and parking on your way to explore the distinctive shops, renowned restaurants, diverse accommodations, world-class events, and miles of unspoiled beaches and scenic trails. Our ferry features plush seating with spacious legroom, a climate controlled cabin and an open-air top deck, and a full-service cash bar with cocktails, beer, wine, sodas, tea, coffee, and snacks. Hands-down, the ferry from Providence really is the best way to get there. See more..
   
8. 5.0 Cranston Public Library, Central Library (43 reviews)
   - Wonderful experience
   Spent 1-2 hours Libraries
   
   
   I visit this library with my grandmother and sometimes my grandfather will go too. The staff are wonderful to deal with very helpful. Especially tahomi the security guard. She’s always so happy and greeting customers with a warm friendly hello and a pretty smile. When I go in she always greets me with a “ hi friend” how are you and when we leave it’s always “goodbye friend” “ thank you have a nice day see you next time. The selection of Materials is very good you can usually find what you need if not talk to the nice lady or man at the reference desk and they’ll order it for you. I checked out the lullaby girl cd and the cd feel what you feel a week before my grandmother passed away and they really helped me get through that I’m so glad you guys have both of those cds. I would recommend this place See you all soon See more..
   
9. 5.0 Lock & Clue Escape Rooms (41 reviews)
   - Great Escape room options for Kids
   Saturday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
   
   
   Just off I95, we're RI and all of Southern New England's most exciting escape room venue! An interactive and immersive, real-life game experience where a group of up to 10 people must solve puzzles with clues provided in order to escape the room within an hour. Each room is themed and staffed with actors who enhance your experience. Exciting, collaborative and loads of FUN! Perfect for date night, families, friends, birthday parties, bachelor or bachelorette parties (sorry no alcohol permitted - you'll never get out!), pre or post-wedding activities, pre or post-graduation activities. LGBTQ friendly. Whether you are an experienced escape room artist or a first-timer looking for something different to do, Lock & Clue is for YOU! Open Thursday and Friday Nights, All Day Saturday and Sunday. Book right on our website! See more..
   
10. 5.0 The Vets (27 reviews)
    - Nice Venue for Music, Theatre and Concerts
    Theaters
    
    
    This is a beautiful theatre. Large, but not too large. Comfortable seating and good acoustics. Nicely decorated. It is adjacent to a Renaissance Hotel that has a nice restaurant. You can park there or in the Mall lot near Nordstrom's for $2 for 5 hours. Lots of nearby restaurants. See more..
    
11. 5.0 Clouds Hill Museum (26 reviews)
    - Museum quality surrounds and amazes you
    Speciality Museums
    
    
    This family summer retreat high on a hill overlooking Greenwich Bay is a gem of Victorian architecture and wondrous items from around the world. It is still a work in documentation progress and restoration. Wayne, our docent, made us welcome. He had a wealth of knowledge about each item and Rhode Island's history of the affluent, industrial class. A word to the wise: this is not a place to bring children unless they have patience and maturity. Too many breakables. The grounds need some TLC but as at most places, money is a factor. Call ahead. They are very accommodating. See more..
    
12. 5.0 Hartley's Pork Pies (25 reviews)
    - Goodness in a pie
    Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Their pies were delicious! Walked out with 6 small pies of each: pork, beef, meat & potatoes and chicken. Each one is the size of a cup. The crust was firm and crisp enough to keep everything in. Each was extremely tasty, not overly salty. Perfection. See more..
    
13. 5.0 Verde Vineyards (24 reviews)
    - Quaint Vineyard
    Spent < 1 hour Wineries & Vineyards
    
    
    We had so much fun here. Jim is a wealth of knowledge and is very happy to share the history of his property and his experiences in Europe drinking all the wine. ;). It’s more casual than other wineries in area but to us, it’s part of the charm. We bought 6 bottles of wine, he has 5 types, 3 white and 2 red. Only 4 bucks to taste. Tried to convince him to up the price and get some glasses that guests can take home but he’s old school lol. He’s really a very sweet man who works very hard to produce a tasty wine. (All less than 20/bottle). We’ll return for more. See more..
    
14. 5.0 Rocky Point Blueberry Farm (24 reviews)
    - Well worth a visit!!
    Saturday: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM Farms
    
    
    Pick your own blueberries in July and August. Buckets and liners provided. Children welcome. Farm stand also sells pre picked berries, local honey and maple syrup. Stonewall Kitchen blueberry products, handmade crafts and candles. Books on blueberry and bird topics. Great fun for the whole family. See more..
    
15. 5.0 Jamestown Outdoors (24 reviews)
    - Great Experience - Highly Recommend!
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Gear Rentals • Stand Up Paddleboarding • Kayaking & Canoeing
    
    
    We had a great kayaking experience with Jamestown Outdoors! Beth was very accommodating of our large group and great to communicate with. They helped us with some local recommendations for lunch afterwards as well. Highly recommend booking a trip with them! See more..
    
16. 5.0 Providence Art Club (23 reviews)
    - See this exhibit!
    Saturday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Art Galleries
    
    
    This is said to be the oldest art club in the nation, designed to foster an appreciation for local arts. See more..
    
17. 5.0 Bristol Bikes (23 reviews)
    - Learning by doing at Bristol Bikes
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Gear Rentals
    
    
    A unique bike shop located in the heart of the Bristol Historic Waterfront District, just steps from the East Bay Bike Path. Dealers for several brands of electric bikes including Yamaha, Biria, Bagi, Magnum, Gocycle, and Batch ebikes. Providing sales, rentals, and bike service. They also carry Onewheels! See more..
    
18. 5.0 Little Compton Adventures (22 reviews)
    - Best way to see Little Compton, Rhode Island
    Saturday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Bike Tours • Gear Rentals
    
    
    Little Compton Adventures is the ideal way to see not only Little Compton but some surrounding areas. If you've not been to LC before, do the bike tour with Dan first then book a second or third day to explore on your own as well. I did two different days and two different tours -- a shorter tour followed by exploring on my own then a longer tour that took up most of the morning. Dan's passion for the beauty of Rhode Island has him taking you to all the hidden spots that no guidebook has captured yet. See more..
    
19. 5.0 Goosewing Beach Preserve (20 reviews)
    - Off the beaten path
    Beaches
    
    
    We were visiting Newport and were looking for a nice beach day. The Newport crowds are not really our scene, though, so we did our research and came up with Goosewing. It was a bit of a trek from Newport but totally worth the effort. The beach was rocky, the water was refreshing, the surf was suitable for riding but not overly rough. It wasn’t crowded and those other groups that were there kept their distance. Many, many shells if that’s your thing. The drive over took about 40 minutes but it was mostly back road, country driving. Highly recommended off the beaten path beach. See more..
    
20. 4.5 Prospect Terrace (100 reviews)
    - Elevated view of the city
    Lookouts • Parks
    
    
    I thoroughly enjoyed the elevated view offered by this small park that overlooks the city. The view of the state house in particular was impressive. Well worth the time and effort involved in making the short walk from my downtown hotel. See more..
    
21. 4.5 Newport Playhouse and Cabaret (98 reviews)
    - Good Value
    Theaters
    
    
    Found this on TA and chose it for a rainy vacation day. The food was average, generous, and filling. Waitstaff and all staff was friendly and grateful for our patronage. Facility was clean and nice. The actors were approaching “pro” quality and worked very hard to entertain the crowd during both the 3(?) act comedy and the 40-45 minute Caberet (after) the play. We thot the meal and total (5 hr?) experience was well worth the price. See more..
    
22. 4.5 Newport Art Museum (97 reviews)
    - Wonderful Changing Exhibits
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
    
    
    This is a great museum that is the right size. They have ongoing and special exhibitions, all very different/exclusive. It is small enough to experience all the exhibits but still experience lots of Newport. Small free parking lot. Just a couple of blocks up from the touristy waterfront. See more..
    
23. 4.5 Slater Memorial Park (94 reviews)
    - One of Pawtucket's Gems
    Saturday: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Parks
    
    
    Slater Park is located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. It consist of walking paths, a farm, a beautiful river and lots of wildlife. It starts at Dagget field on Dagget Ave and continues to East Providence It has a dog park, carousel, farm with chickens and more. Worth the trip. See more..
    
24. 4.5 Norman Bird Sanctuary (92 reviews)
    - Natural and Beautiful
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    
    
    All I can say is “wow”! We went on a Friday and the curiosity lab was open. What an absolute treasure! A nice volunteer named Chuck engaged the children and showed them so many neat things! In addition, walking by the chickens and the tractor were added fun. The hike to hanging rock is NOT to be missed! The view from the top is awe inspiring. I can’t recommend this happy and beautiful location more. See more..
    
25. 4.5 Jamestown Newport Ferry (90 reviews)
    - One very chill way to explore Newport
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Boat Tours
    
    
    This was a very relaxing and affordable way to see the ports in the area, and get great views of the water. Our favorite stop was seeing the light house and barracks and Rose Island. My suggestion is to get an early start around 9, because the schedule on the brochure and my understanding of when it stops and arrives was not clear until I actually got on it and listened to our guide. Maybe you can make sense of it. We parked for free in Jamestown, purchased our tickets on the boat, and loved the fact that it was not a crowded tour. We could ask the operators random questions and they were super nice and engaged in casual conversation. We met an older couple who used this as their daily mode of transportation for three days of their trip. See more..
    
26. 4.5 Garden City Center (89 reviews)
    - Better than ever!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Shopping Malls
    
    
    Just outside of Providence, RI, Garden City Center has served the area for 70 years. A true New England village, GCC brings commerce and community together around a common green space, creating a setting that’s equal parts relaxation and inspiration. As the exclusive RI location for numerous sought-after national brands and the home to an ever-expanding selection of dining favorites, Garden City has become a true destination for locals and visitors alike. But it’s more than just an exceptional retail experience that’s keeps people coming back. It’s friendly faces who smile as you wait for a table at your favorite diner. The quaint gazebo where you sip your coffee. Lovely landscaping and plenty of space to push your stroller or walk your dog. Whether stopping by for a quick errand or spending the day, it’s easy to see why Garden City is the most popular outdoor center in Rhode Island. See more..
    
27. 4.5 John Brown House Museum (88 reviews)
    - Benefit Street Tour - interesting but long!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums
    
    
    The premier 18th-century historic house and museum in the state, presenting important aspects of the social and cultural history of the period when our country was new. The Museum is maintained by the Rhode Island Historical Society. We are currently in our seasonal hours and only open on Saturdays from December 2019 until April 2020. Guided Tours may be at 10:30, 12:00, 1:30, & 3:00 pm on Saturdays but are subject to volunteer availability. Audio and Self Guided Tours are available from 10:00 until 3:15 PM. Last admission into the museum is at 3:30 pm. We have a free parking lot located off of Charlesfield Street. We hope to see you soon! See more..
    
28. 4.5 East Beach (87 reviews)
    - Nice sand and surf, not too crowded
    Beaches
    
    
    We arrived at just before 3pm on a cloudy Saturday in July and was able to park fine. $14 for out of state visitors, paid cash. There was a sign farther up the road saying the lot was full, but we took a chance figuring that other people had left and, sure enough, there were spaces available. I think the beach is above average for the area. The beach was wide, clean, and long, with enough room to have plenty of space between groups. The water was refreshing and pretty choppy, which is the way I like it; more fun than the calm CT beaches farther west on the Sound. There is no housing or commercial development so only dunes were behind us, making for a very relaxing atmosphere. No amenities beyond some composting toilets and port-a-potties in the parking lot. We'd definitely come back! See more..
    
29. 4.5 Rocky Point State Park (87 reviews)
    - Great place to take a walk along Narragansett Bay!
    State Parks
    
    
    Rocky Point Park is wonderful to walk,, jog, walk dogs and people watch. You can also fish from a brand new pier and also there is a beach for swimming. Ample parking (two lots) and they have about 8 handicap parking spots right on the water! See more..
    
30. 4.5 Third Beach (86 reviews)
    - 3rd Beach
    Beaches
    
    
    Calm waters and a wide sandy area make this a favorite spot for families with children. See more..
    
31. 4.5 Pawtuxet Village (75 reviews)
    - Lovely
    Saturday: Neighborhoods
    
    
    This is a very charming and upcoming area. It is rich with tradition, very safe and clean. The few restaurants are very individual in style and menus. The town is reviewing plans for a beautiful structure of a boutique hotel or apartments with a lux restaurant. The future here is trending upscale. See more..
    
32. 4.5 East Matunuck State Beach (73 reviews)
    - Beautiful state beach down the road from Matunuck Oyster Bar.
    Spent More than 3 hours Beaches
    
    
    Beautiful beach on one of RI’s coasts. The sand can be hit, so be careful. Lifeguards, which conduct safety/saving drills which really keeps them on their toes. The pavilion is great; but a bit pricey on Del’s lemonade, treats and grilled lunches. There’s also an area where you can purchase, t shirts, sweatshirts, hats, etc. I found the restrooms cleaner than most public facilities. Waves are often perfect for boogie boarding. Long stretch of beach is flat, which makes it easy to stroll. See more..
    
33. 4.5 Roger Williams Park Botanical Center (71 reviews)
    - Small but nice
    Saturday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Parks • Gardens
    
    
    Not much to see outside in October, except the roses. But some nice displays in the large greenhouses and there are goats! That was the best part. Worth the small admission fee, would be a great cool weather activity as the majority of plants are inside. See more..
    
34. 4.5 Museum of Work and Culture (70 reviews)
    - A compelling story with interesting often interactive exhibits. Well worth your time
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums
    
    
    Located in a 1915 textile mill, the museum is dedicated to the political and cultural lives of the working class. It also serves as a visitors center for the Blackstone Valley National Corridor. See more..
    
35. 4.5 Linden Place Mansion (65 reviews)
    - Christmas Spirit at Linden House
    Saturday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings
    
    
    A visit to Linden Place is to experience two centuries of American history in one place. Long before it appeared in the movie The Great Gatsby, this exceptional example of Federal architecture was the dramatic stage for one family’s multi-generational journey from the dark days of the slave trade through the boom times of the Industrial Age. Since 1810, its owners faced reversals of fortune, praise and scandal, disgrace and redemption. Beyond being the seafarers responsible for Bristol’s initial prosperity and later financial decline, they ended up captaining some of the country’s most dynamic industries. Along the way, they hosted presidents, married into a world-famous theatrical family, and collected a wide array of treasures, which are on display. Though it’s unfortunate Linden Place’s walls can’t talk, audio tours during museum hours provide a good account of one of the country’s most beautiful and fascinating house museums. Arrangements can also be made for docent-led tours. See more..
    
36. 4.5 Exploration Center & Aquarium (65 reviews)
    - Small but Mighty!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Aquariums
    
    
    Whether you're a local or just visiting the Newport area, the Save The Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium, with its beachfront location, is the perfect family destination. This interactive marine science center is home to more than 140 species from Narragansett Bay, three touch tanks, and a craft center. Children can get face-to-fin with lobsters, crabs, and fish from local waterways. With Newport's only ocean-facing beach just outside the front door, visitors can continue the beachcombing experience after their visit. See more..
    
37. 4.5 Gilbert Stuart Museum (64 reviews)
    - One of the Most Beautiful and Peaceful of Historic Places
    Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 30, 2023 Historic Sites • History Museums
    
    
    Birthplace of George Washington's foremost portraitist. Located on 23 acres, the Gilbert Stuart Birthplace and Museum contains the authentically restored and furnished 1750home and snuff mill where Gilbert Stuart was born. The Museum has the working Stuart snuff mill, an operating gristmill, fish ladder, millpond, nature trails, and colonial herb garden. Our handicapped accessible art gallery contains original works by Stuart, his daughter Jane Stuart, and changing exhibitions of notable Rhode Island Masters. See more..
    
38. 4.5 Brown and Hopkins Country Store (63 reviews)
    - Don’t Miss!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    We stopped in the store to buy a souvenir magnet and ended up staying for almost an hour. Apparently this is one of the oldest country stores in business in the United States. The clerk that work there spent a lot of time explaining when the building was constructed and showing us some of the interesting architectural features. See more..
    
39. 4.5 Phantom Farms (62 reviews)
    - All the Fall in One Place.
    Saturday: 6:00 AM - 4:00 PM Farms
    
    
    Pumpkins, cornstalks, mums, treats, specialty gifts. You can get it all. I just love it here. Prices are reasonable and merch is good quality. See more..
    
40. 4.5 Jaswell’s Farm (61 reviews)
    - Apple cider donuts are the best..
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Farms
    
    
    Go for the apples, leave with the donuts! Best apple cider donuts in the state. And wonderful pies, yummy See more..
    
41. 4.5 Providence College (57 reviews)
    - Always a special place
    Educational sites
    
    
    The grounds of the college itself are very well kept. We were there to visit St. Dominics chapel and then St. Pius across the street. the surrounding blocks are full of gorgeous old homes, nice place to visit and find peace See more..
    
42. 4.5 Clayhead Nature Trail (56 reviews)
    - Shhhhh best beach on the Island
    Hiking Trails
    
    
    Tell no one. At the end of a pleasant 1/2 mile walk through some lovely woods is a gorgeous, semi-deserted beach. Sandy not rocky, cool but not cold, waves but not life- threatening... Strap on a beach chair, bring your dog and a soft cooler (and be nice and take your trash out with you when done) and feel like you are in on an awesome secret. It's a great place for rock collecting....though hauling them out is a bit of a schlep. See more..
    
43. 4.5 Avon Cinema (51 reviews)
    - An enjoyable trip back in time
    Theaters
    
    
    Local Providence theater. See more..
    
44. 4.5 Atwells Avenue (51 reviews)
    - Come Hungry
    Points of Interest & Landmarks
    Providence street home to many restaurants. See more..
    
45. 4.5 Johnson & Wales University - Providence, RI (48 reviews)
    - These guys KNOW their marketing!
    Educational sites
    
    
    Rhode Island university known for its food program. See more..
    
46. 4.5 Purgatory Chasm (47 reviews)
    - I live right down the road and I have not been here. So I decided to make the small trip
    Spent < 1 hour Geologic Formations
    
    
    Oh how I loved this place, you must be very careful and aware of your surroundings. As tree roots are exposed, wear sensible boots or sneakers with a a good grip the views are amazing. Unfortunately I did not have a lot of time to explore but what I got to see was perfection. See more..
    
47. 4.5 The Providence Flea (44 reviews)
    - Unique Artisan Flea
    Saturday: Spent 2-3 hours Flea & Street Markets
    
    
    Award-winning community market with changing lineup of 75 local vintage vendors, indie makers, artisans, food trucks, bakeshops, live music and community nonprofits. FREE ADMISSION & FREE PARKING. NO TICKETS NEEDED. 2023 Winter/Spring: Sundays, Feb. 5 - May 7, 2023. 11am - 3 pm. Indoors at Farm Fresh RI Market Hall, 10 Sims Ave in Providence. Dogs not allowed indoors. 2023 Summer/Fall: Sundays, June through September, 10am-3pm. Outdoors at 275 South Water St, Providence, RI. Dogs allowed outdoors. 2023 Winter/Holiday: TBA Select Friday Night Markets: Check providenceflea.com for latest. See more..
    
48. 4.5 Lippitt House Museum (39 reviews)
    - A must see in PVD
    Saturday: Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • History Museums
    
    
    A National Historic Landmark, Lippitt House has one of the best preserved interiors in America, allowing visitors to experience exceptional Victorian design and American craftsmanship. Surround yourself in the Golden Age and experience what city life was like for one of Providence's leading manufacturing families. The guided tours with advance online reservation, take guests through the elaborately decorated rooms of Lippitt House, exploring how Providence’s history shaped the Rhode Island of today. During the tours, staff share the stories of those who lived and worked in the house, illustrating ideas about industry, immigration, design, and civic engagement. See more..
    
49. 4.5 Rhode Island School of Design (39 reviews)
    - Another great campus
    Universities & Schools
    
    
    Another great campus in the center of Providence. It basically runs into the Brown campus. Worth seeing if you’re in the area. They also have a craft fair on the weekends, which is worth checking out as well. See more..
    
50. 4.5 New England Sailing Center (37 reviews)
    - Best Day With Friends
    Boat Tours • Water Sports • Boat Rentals
    
    
    Friends and I went out on the catamaran a couple weeks ago and all agreed, it was the best day we have all had in a very long time. Our captain Evan exceeded our expectations with a great balance of showing us around the harbor, jumping in the water, and of course a great sail. I couldn’t have asked for a better day out on the water to kick off the summer in Newport! See more..
    

What's a Hidden gem?

We call places hidden gems that are new, extremely good, but are not that popular yet - you should check them out. The criteria is to have a rating of 4.5 or more and more than 20 reviews and less than 100 reviews.