The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charlestown, RI to Providence, RI

Charlestown, Rhode Island, and Providence, Rhode Island, both hold unique and rich historical backgrounds, making for an unforgettable road trip. With long stretches of scenic coastal routes connecting both towns, travelers have various stops and sights to enjoy along the way. The trip covers a distance of approximately 45 miles and takes around an hour. The halfway point of the journey is situated in the charming town of Narragansett, Rhode Island. Here are the top-five things visitors should add to their itinerary.

The Towers

The Towers, located in Narragansett, is a historical landmark only feet away from the Atlantic Ocean. Originally built in 1883, the granite structure was part of a large resort hotel that housed over a thousand guests during its peak season. The hotel closed in 1962, but The Towers still stands as a testament to Narragansett's grandeur past. Visitors can see a small exhibit of the hotel's history and explore the interior of The Towers. Its breathtaking views of the ocean are nothing short of picturesque. Impressive.

Scarborough State Beach

Scarborough State Beach is a prime location for tourists seeking long stretches of white sandy beaches. The beach was named after Governor William Sprague's seaside estate known as Scarborough. The beach spans over a half-mile and has ample parking for visitors. The cool waters of the Atlantic Ocean make it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Locals often come here in the early mornings to watch the sunrise accompanied by the sound of the ocean's waves. Fun fact, Scarborough State Beach was one of the six original state beaches created in 1937 in Rhode Island.

Providence Performing Arts Center

The Providence Performing Arts Center, located in Downtown Providence, is the perfect spot for visitors to experience one of the best acoustics in the country. It opened in 1928 as an updated cinema theater and has since undergone several renovations to comfortably seat close to three thousand guests. A tour of the theatre showcases the Beaux-Arts architectural style of the building and its history that dates back more than 90 years. Visitors who appreciate art and culture will find the Providence Performing Arts Center a unique experience.

Roger Williams Park Zoo

Located in Providence, the Roger Williams Park Zoo offers interesting animal exhibits and educational opportunities for all ages. Visitors can observe over 150 species from across the globe, including elephants, zebras, giraffes, and rhinos. The park is home to the only red panda in Rhode Island. The zoo has an extensive breeding program that supports the growth of endangered species. The Roger Williams Park Zoo has been named one of the top zoos in the country, and a vast portion of its earnings is donated to conservation efforts.

Culinary Arts Museum

The Culinary Arts Museum in Providence offers visitors a unique blend of education and culinary history. It displays over 250,000 items, including cookware, kitchen appliances, and historic menus. The museum's mission is to showcase the tools and techniques used throughout culinary history. Visitors can explore the history of Native American cuisine, the impact of the industrial revolution on mass-produced products, and a gallery to honor the lives of millions lost during the Holodomor genocide in Ukraine. The museum is a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for food and the culinary arts.

The road trip from Charlestown, Rhode Island, to Providence, Rhode Island, can be completed in around an hour, but the memories will last a lifetime. Along the way, tourists can capture breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast and learn about the local historical landmarks. From The Towers in Narragansett to the Culinary Arts Museum in Providence, there is something for everyone in Rhode Island.