The smallest state in the union is packed with 400 miles of coastline and 20 percent of the country’s historical landmarks yet it is only 48 miles long by 37 miles wide.
Newport is the sailing capital of the world and home to the famed Gilded Age mansions. Block Island’s natural beauty beckons you to unwind. South County’s pristine beaches, East Bay’s magnificent coastal bikeway and shopping in Warwick are all part of an authentic Rhode Island.
Rhode Island is located in the southeastern corner of New England within easy traveling distance of several major northeast cities. It’s just 60 miles from Boston, MA, 180 miles from New York City and 350 miles from Montreal, Canada.
Roger Williams founded the first permanent white settlement in Rhode Island a Providence in 1636 on land purchased from the Narragansett Indians. The settlement was established on a policy of religious freedom. Farming and sea trade soon followed resulting in a period of prosperity with Providence and Newport among the busiest ports in the New World. On May 4, 1776, Rhode Island was the first colony to renounce allegiance to Great Britain and declare independence. Although no major battles took place in the state, Rhode Islander regiments participated in every campaign of the Revolutionary War. It was the last of the 13 original colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution, demanding that the Bill of Rights which guarantees individual liberties, be added.
There’s always something interesting to do and see in Rhode Island. Special events, fairs, festivals, theatre and concerts entertain year-round throughout the state. Galleries and distinguished art museums abound where students’ works hang next to those of the masters. Dramatic, expansive gardens surround countless great estates built during the nineteenth century.
There’s so much history here. Rhode Island is virtually a living museum waiting to be explored on foot, by boat, by auto and from the air.
So if it’s jut a long walk on the beach, the excitement of fishing for “the big one”, exploring Heritage Trails, culinary arts, watersports, golf, birding and nature trail walks or joining in the excitement of Rhode Island’s night life, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in beautiful and unique Rhode Island.
