Rhode Island: Great Outdoor Adventures

As I approach the maritime city of Newport by bridge, the sun sparkles brightly on the beautiful blue waters of Narragansett Bay. I can see hundreds of sailboats in every direction, reaffirming Newport’s status as “the sailing capital of the world.”

Upon arrival, I head to the International Tennis Hall of Fame, right in the heart of Newport, to play a round of tennis amidst historic surroundings. With its classic architecture and legendary grass courts, this National Historic Landmark is not to be missed.

At Newport Harbor, the activities are plentiful. Sail aboard a legendary America’s Cup winning yacht, rent a boat or just take in the incredible surroundings from shore. Whatever activity you choose, there’s no shortage of ways to experience Rhode Island’s breathtaking waterways.

To appreciate Narragansett Bay from land, I take a bicycle ride along the East Bay Bike Path, which passes mostly along or near the shore. Extending from the vibrant capital city of Providence to historic and charming Bristol along an abandoned railroad line, the 23-kilometer asphalt path connects eight parks and offers unobstructed cycling for bikers of all ages and skill levels.

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I head to Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick to take a horseback ride on the beach. My gentle horse Pepper is patient with my novice status. With the help of a trail guide, we take a ride through serene woodland trails and along a stunning beach. With many bridle trails, hundreds of picnic tables, nearly a dozen game fields and a golf course, it’s no surprise that Goddard Park is Rhode Island’s most popular metropolitan park.

A short ferry ride from Point Judith takes me to spectacular Block Island, a picturesque and unspoiled island paradise. With pristine beaches, hiking trails, historic lighthouses and moped and bicycle rentals, it’s hard to know where to start. I decide to check out the Mohegan Bluffs to appreciate the island’s breath-taking Atlantic Ocean views. The experience is almost spiritual – the soothing sound of crashing waves, shimmering blue ocean waters as far as the eye can see and a family building sandcastles on the beach 30 meters below me.

For those looking for an exciting and adventurous holiday, Rhode Island is the perfect fit. With so much to do, and so little time, I’m already planning my next trip back to incredible Rhode Island.