Exploring Rhode Island with kids can be an unforgettable adventure filled with fun, learning, and family bonding. Known as the Ocean State, Rhode Island offers a variety of activities that captivate young minds and provide enjoyable experiences for the whole family. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Rhode Island with kids, you’ve come to the right place! Here are some top family-friendly activities to make your trip memorable.

Top Things to Do in Rhode Island with Kids

1. Visit the Providence Children’s Museum

The Providence Children’s Museum is a must-visit for families seeking interactive and educational fun. Kids can engage in hands-on exhibits, art activities, and imaginative play areas designed to stimulate creativity and curiosity. It’s the perfect place for children to learn through play while parents enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

2. Explore Roger Williams Park Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in the country, the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence is home to more than 100 species of animals. Kids will love the encounters with animals from around the world, the zoo’s petting area, and the lush gardens that surround the exhibits. Don’t miss the popular carousel and the Expedition Kenya exhibit for an immersive experience.

3. Discover the Beaches

Rhode Island is renowned for its scenic beaches, making beach outings a fantastic activity for families. Newport’s Easton’s Beach (First Beach) offers soft sands, calm waters, and a Victorian-era pavilion with family-friendly amenities. South County beaches like Scarborough State Beach and Narragansett Town Beach are also great spots for swimming, building sandcastles, and picnicking.

4. Take a Ferry to Block Island

A trip to Block Island is a fun-filled day trip for families. Catch a ferry from Point Judith or Newport and enjoy stunning ocean views on the way. Once on the island, explore the island’s lighthouses, go biking along scenic trails, or simply relax on the beaches. It’s an adventure kids will cherish.

5. Visit the Rhode Island State House & Downtown Providence

While the State House impresses visitors with its impressive architecture and domed roof, the surrounding downtown area offers parks, kid-friendly restaurants, and public art installations. Consider taking a guided tour that is often available for educational fun and learning about Rhode Island’s history.

6. Explore the Children’s Freshwater Fairyland

Located in Rogers Williams Park, Fairyland is a beloved storybook-themed park where children can enjoy puppet shows, themed rides, and play areas inspired by fairy tales and nursery rhymes. It’s a magical place where imagination takes center stage.

7. Discover Museum of Rhode Island History

For a quick dose of educational fun, visit the Museum of Rhode Island History. Interactive exhibits introduce kids to the state’s rich heritage, from colonial times to modern history. It’s a great way to combine learning and family time.

8. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at Colt State Park

Located in Bristol, Colt State Park boasts miles of biking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of Narragansett Bay. Kids can bike, roller skate, or enjoy a relaxing picnic while soaking in the natural beauty of Rhode Island’s coastal landscape.

Tips for Planning Your Trip to Rhode Island with Kids

• Plan Ahead: Check opening hours and book tickets where necessary for popular attractions.
• Pack Accordingly: Bring sun protection, water, and comfortable footwear for outdoor activities.
• Balance Activities: Mix educational visits with outdoor fun to keep kids engaged and energized.
• Stay Central: Consider staying in Providence or Newport for easy access to many family-friendly attractions.

Conclusion

From picturesque beaches and scenic ferry rides to interactive museums and historic parks, things to do in Rhode Island with kids are plentiful and diverse. This small but vibrant state offers plenty of opportunities for families to enjoy quality time, explore new places, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, educational experiences, or simple fun at the beach, Rhode Island is a perfect family-friendly destination.

Start planning your trip today and discover all the wonderful things Rhode Island has in store for your family!