6 Top Places to Visit When Driving From Branford, CT to South Kingstown, RI
Summer is the perfect time for road trips, and if you are located in Connecticut, there's no doubt that you are aware of the beautiful seaside towns and idyllic ocean views that the state has to offer. However, if you find yourself wanting to venture a little further north towards Rhode Island, you're in for a beautiful drive through the Northeastern coastline region. Along the way, there are several must-see attractions that you should consider visiting. Here are six top places to visit when driving from Branford, Connecticut, to South Kingstown, Rhode Island.
The Charm of Mystic Seaport
Just a short 30-minute drive from Branford, you will reach the charming town of Mystic, Connecticut, which boasts the popular Mystic Seaport. It's a perfect start for your road trip. This historic seaport museum consists of 19 acres of land and numerous exhibits that take visitors back in time to the 19th century. Some of the popular attractions here include the Charles W. Morgan, a restored wooden whale ship, and a museum of America and the Sea. With daily events, you can watch a demonstration of ship rigging or even take a historic whaling ship cruise, the Museum is not to be missed.
The Tranquility of Stonington Borough
Just a 10-minute drive from Mystic is Stonington Borough. This quaint New England village has a unique charm and tranquility that you cannot find elsewhere. As you stroll through the streets, you will feel like you've been transported back in time. You can visit any of the strolling parks nearby the lighthouse and relax or explore the streets and alleys filled with unique shops and eateries. If you are a movie buff, you can visit the Old Lighthouse Museum, which was built in 1840. This town is perfect for a relaxing lunch break and taking a scenic walk around the harbor.
The Enlightening Explore Mystic Aquarium
As you make your way towards Rhode Island, you will come across Mystic Seaport's sister attraction, the Mystic Aquarium. This aquarium is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the state. Here visitors can interact with over 5,000 marine animals across the 9 exhibit areas. The aquarium is home to numerous species, including penguins, beluga whales, and even African penguins. We recommend feeding time, where visitors can engage with the seals and sea lions. The Mystic Aquarium is a great place to explore and learn about the marine life of the region, making it perfect for a fun and educational family excursion.
The Serenity of Narragansett Beach
Narragansett Beach is undoubtedly one of Rhode Island's most well-known beaches, stretching the coastline of 2.5 miles. It's a perfect spot for a daytime adventure or an evening stroll. The beach holds clean white sand and gentle ocean waves for recreational swimming and surfing. If you arrive early in the morning, you will see fishermen casting their lines into the water, and throughout the early evening, you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes to palm down and enjoy the natural environments. Without a doubt, Narragansett Beach is perfect for soaking up the sun or taking in the cool ocean breeze, so don't forget to bring your beach towels.
The Historical Newport Mansions
If you have time, make your way down to Newport, Rhode Island – it's an absolute must! The architecture seen here is stunning and has been preserved from as far back as the late 1600s. Newport is known for historical mansions such as The Breakers, which was built for the Vanderbildt family early in the 1890s and became a National Historic Landmark. The Marble House, Rosecliff, and the Isaac Bell House are other prominent mansions that are worth the visit. You could spend an entire day touring these homes, gardens, and highly detailed historic sites. It's a bit of a bonus we think!
The Beautiful Point Judith Lighthouse
A trip to Rhode Island would not be complete without visiting a historic lighthouse. If you do head down to Narragansett Beach, we recommend a visit to the Point Judith Lighthouse. Built-in 1856, the lighthouse has a rich history of maritime navigation on the coast of Southern Rhode Island. The Lighthouse is open to visitors free of charge on weekends and is also an excellent spot to watch the sunset.
In Conclusion
There are numerous attractions to see when taking a road trip from Branford, CT, to South Kingstown, RI. These six locations mentioned above are just the tip of the iceberg, but they are all notable and highly recommended. From fascinating historical landmarks to the stunning coastlines, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your bags, plan your route and get ready for a perfect summer day out.