Hotels in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is well known for its long sandy beaches, Gilded Age mansions, and pretty colonial towns—and also for being the state that isn’t actually an island. Fascinating historic houses, intriguing museums, and a celebrated food culture are all to be found in the small towns and cities of Rhode Island. You’ll also sure to find new friends—the smallest state in the U.S. may well be its friendliest, famed for its easy-going community vibe.

Hotels in Rhode Island

You won’t find the biggest, boldest, or brashest hotels in Rhode Island. But you will find some of the finest. This wealthy state can count numerous 5-star hotels among its accommodation options, including many that make the most of the mansions and grand houses they’re housed in. Clifftop views, exquisitely designed rooms, and beautiful grounds make a stay at a luxury Rhode Island hotel truly unforgettable. Cosy little bed and breakfasts in the state’s seaside towns can provide more affordable room rates, while the best Rhode Island hotel deals can often be found in its boutique seaside hostels.

Things to see in Rhode Island

Magnificent mansions spanning the centuries are a real plus in RI. Perhaps the most impressive is The Breakers, a glitzy Gilded Age house built by the Vanderbilts. With its 70 rooms, Neo-renaissance stylings, and ornate ceiling paintings, it’s as much a work of art as a home. For the show-homes of an earlier era, head to Providence’s Benefit Street. Its collection of early Victorian buildings harks back to a time when this was the intellectual powerhouse of the state. A more contemporary side to Providence is revealed at the downtown multi-sensory art installation called WaterFire—a long line of bonfires placed in the river. These play some haunting music when lit, creating a romantic evening atmosphere in the restaurants either side. You’re never far from a beach in Rhode Island, and some of the most scenic are found in Block Island. Here, golden sands lie at the bottom of a 200-foot cliff, topped by a pretty lighthouse.

Where to stay in Rhode Island

Providence is the state’s capital and largest city. Most visitors will find good selection of Rhode Island accommodation here. Downtown, with its charming old-town streets, classy Italian restaurants, and great nightlife, can make for a great weekend break for couples. Wealthy Newport offers more luxurious vacations, with its mansions, yachts, upscale shopping, and great beaches. The best beach resort in Rhode Island, though, is probably Narragansett. Its seafront is lined with shops, restaurants, and safe, sandy beaches, making it a great spot for families. Lastly, Warwick is an historic town whose role in colonial times—and the Revolutionary War—transformed it into a fascinating stayover for history buffs.

How to get to Rhode Island

TF Green International Airport in Warwick is where the majority of Rhode Island-bound flights land. Those wanting to drive will find the “Ocean State” better connected from some places than others. From Boston, I-95 will take you southwest into the state in an hour. But from Connecticut or western Massachusetts you’ll have to take state highways into Rhode Island, or make large detours on the interstates. On the railways, Boston’s MBTA is the quickest rail service into Providence, while Amtrak also offers 3 separate train services from cities along the east coast.