Rhode Island

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Welcome to Rhode Island
Although the smallest state geographically, Rhode Island is big on attractions and activities for group tours. With seven spectacular regions all beckoning to groups, there is no shortage of places to visit and things to see. Whoever said big things come in small packages must have had Rhode Island on the mind, and it's about time your group discovers why!

America’s “Ocean State” may only be a short trip from north to south, but it offers more than 100 miles of sandy beaches carved out of an extraordinary 400 miles of coastline.  There’s nowhere else in the country that provides such a high concentration of group attractions per square mile than Rhode Island.  In fact, with its fabled festivals, architectural masterpieces, history, sporting events (this is the original home the America’s Cup yacht race), and fine dining, it’s often said that Rhode Island is all of New England in one compact package.  Best of all, wherever your group is at any point in your Rhode Island tour, you know that a change of scenery is just around the corner.

Home to more than 20 percent of the nation’s historical landmarks, Rhode Island is set apart by its incredible character and diversity.  Victorian architecture and ultra-modern skylines are as much a part of Rhode Iland as are urban excitement and rural tranquility.  From the legendary Newport Mansions to Providence’s Benefit Street Mile of History and everything in between your group will be awed by this state’s deep-rooted story from its beginnings in the 1600s.  And for something truly unique, groups can visit Block Island, off the state’s south coast, via return ferry from Galilee, RI, or New London, CT.  The island’s Victorian architecture and unhurried pace make it a getaway from the everyday.

With its easy access to Massachusetts and Connecticut, and points beyond, Rhode Island couldn’t be more accessible to motorcoach traffic.  Buses arriving in Rhode Island from Boston or New York can drive via Interstate 95, a major highway that runs from Maine to Florida along the east coast.  Interstates 95 and 195 offer access to most of Rhode Island’s major cities from Westerly to Providence and Pawtucket to Narragansett.  Also, US Route 6 links Providence and points west with the Connecticut state line.

state icons
State Nickname - Ocean State
State Bird Rhode - Island Red Hen
State Fish - Striped Bass
State Flower - Violet
State Tree - Red Maple
State Mineral - Bowenite
State Shellfish - Quahog
State Rock - Cumberlandite
State Song  - “Rhode Island It’s For Me”
State Motto - “Hope”
State Drink - Coffee Milk

Jewels of the Bay

Like a precious gem in a fine-jeweled setting Narragansett Bay is the sparkling geographic center of Rhode Island. Sailing, boating, fishing, kayaking, cruising, swimming and seal watching are a few of the great recreational opportunities enjoyed by millions of visitors each year. Historic villages nestled along the scenic coast offer waterfront dining, shopping, adventure sport outfitters and more.

We have scores of ways for groups to explore the Bay for fun and learning. Relax on a narrated boat cruise along the islands of the Bay. Sail into the sunset on a historic schooner. Relive America 's Cup heritage by crewing on a twelve-meter yacht. Cast your line while enjoying a fishing boat excursion. Paddle your kayak along the Bay's pristine coastline for an unforgettable experience. Whatever you choose, we've got all the details for you to enjoy our Jewels of the Bay. 

Water Sports & Off-Shore Adventure
Narragansett Bay's protected harbors and inlets provide a perfect refuge to enjoy water related recreation.  Whether your group favors scuba diving, parasailing, or simply frolicking on the beach, there are plenty of options available.  A variety of local outfitters can supply all of your adventure needs, from charter booking services to boat launches and rental locations.

Excursions and Bayside Sites
Scheduled departures leave daily throughout Rhode Island on a variety of bay sightseeing excursions. Schooner cruises, narrated boat tours, sail boat lessons, catamaran voyages and more. Enjoy an unobstructed view of historic points of interest located along the bay.

Bay Facilities and Licensing
Narragansett Bay is a user-friendly destination. Click on to VisitRhodeIsland.com/jewelsofthebay/ to learn specifics about fees, licensing, restrictions, and boating. You will find information about harbor masters, fishing, telephone and web resources, Coast Guard stations and more.

For more information on Narragansett Bay and other wonderful Rhode Island itinerary ideas,
log onto VisitRhodeIsland.com.