Road Tripping from Barnstable, Massachusetts to Providence, Rhode Island

Are you planning to drive from Barnstable, Massachusetts, to Providence, Rhode Island? This route will take you approximately one and a half hours straight down the coast for about 70 miles. During this ride, you'll have several great opportunities to explore some of the beautiful towns and landmarks along the way.

If you're looking for ideas on where to go, don't worry! We've rounded up the top places to visit during your journey. In this blog post, you'll find recommendations that include everything from beaches, nature reserves, and historical sites to shopping areas, themed parks, and cozy diners. So buckle up, and let's hit the road!

Experience New England's Best on the Way

1. Sandy Neck Beach Park

If you're driving from Barnstable, one of the first stops you should make is the Sandy Neck Beach Park in Sandwich. This beautiful spot, with its 6-mile long beach, great views of Cape Cod Bay, and diverse wildlife, attracts both beach lovers and hikers. Visit the Beachcomber store to buy souvenirs, grab something to eat, or rent a bike to explore the trails. If you're looking for more adventure, try off-road driving with some guided tours.

2. Roger Williams Park Zoo

Moving towards Providence, make sure to stop by the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence. This expansive park features more than 150 species of animals from around the world, along with carousel rides, food kiosks, and a new Rainforest exhibit. With plenty of indoor and outdoor space, both kids and adults would enjoy wandering around and learning about animals in touch gardens.

3. Wickford Historic District

As you drive closer to Providence, don't miss a chance to visit the colonial town of Wickford. This charming village with its 18th-century buildings and scenic harbor is an excellent example of the state's historic district. Walking through the narrow streets, you'll discover art galleries, boutiques, antique shops, and an array of seafood restaurants. Experience a relaxing atmosphere and picturesque scenery as you discover this one of a kind spot.

4. Johnson & Wales Culinary Museum

If you love food, you won't want to miss the Johnson & Wales Culinary Museum, located within the campus of Johnson & Wales University in Providence. The museum tells the story of culinary history and popular food trends from the 1600s to the present day. The exhibits include thousands of artifacts, cookbooks, kitchenware, and a large collection of menus from various historical periods and famous fine-dining restaurants.

5. Slater Memorial Park

Finally, just before reaching Providence's city center, head over to Slater Memorial Park, a public park in Pawtucket. The park boasts plenty of greenery, picnic areas, walking trails, play areas, and a large pond. It's also home to the historic Looff Carousel, built in 1894, which still operates during the summer months. If you're with kids, make sure to visit Daggett's Farmhouse, a small animal farm in the park where they have chickens, rabbits, and miniature horses.

Conclusion

As you can see, driving from Barnstable to Providence offers a great variety of exciting and unique stops. Whether you want to take a swim in the ocean, explore new museums, or learn about historic landmarks, you'll be sure to enjoy this journey. So pack your bags, make sure your car is ready, and embark on a fun adventure along the southern New England cruising route. Safe travels, and have fun!