Rhode Island: New England’s smallest state delivers its biggest surprises

Discover why Rhode Island deserves a place on every New England itinerary, from Newport’s Gilded Age mansions and sailing heritage to luxury hotels, fresh seafood and coastal helicopter flights.

America’s Ocean State is full of grand surprises

Rhode Island may be America’s smallest state, but size is deceiving. Nicknamed the Ocean State, this compact corner of New England offers a remarkable blend of maritime heritage, extravagant mansions, spectacular coastline and sophisticated dining, all wrapped into an easy-to-explore destination. It certainly packs a lot into its 4001 square kilometres.

On a recent two-week road trip through New England, fellow travel journalist Carolyne Jasinski and I discovered that Rhode Island is far more than simply a stop between Boston and Connecticut.

Newport – The Sailing Capital of America

Just 90 minutes from Boston, Newport has been synonymous with sailing for generations.

Newport was established way back in 1639, and it is a boat lover’s dream. To give you an idea of how much sailing is revered here, locals are taxed for toilet paper, but not for boats.

This picturesque harbour town wears its nautical heritage proudly, from the yachts lining its marina to the elegant waterfront homes overlooking Narragansett Bay.

No visit is complete without stepping aboard a boat, and a sunset cruise aboard the classic schooner Madeleine through Newport Classic Cruises proved the perfect introduction. As the evening light bathed the coastline in gold, we passed magnificent private yachts, secluded beaches, rugged rock formations and some of Newport’s most famous landmarks.

Among them were the former summer homes of Presidents John F. Kennedy and Dwight D. Eisenhower, historic Fort Adams and the curious Clingstone House – an extraordinary residence perched atop a rocky outcrop that looks as though it’s clinging to the coastline by sheer determination.

Following the legends of sailing

Newport’s connection to competitive sailing runs deep, and nowhere is this celebrated better than the Newport Sailing Museum and National Sailing Hall of Fame.

Housed in the historic Armory Building, the museum combines fascinating history with interactive exhibits. Visitors can test their sailing skills, design their own yacht, experience the physical challenge of America’s Cup racing and even create a personalised burgee to take home.

For Australians, there’s an added thrill. The museum honours the legendary 1983 America’s Cup victory that saw Australia II end the United States’ remarkable 132-year winning streak, with familiar names including Alan Bond, John Bertrand and Sir James Hardy featured among sailing’s greats.

Stepping inside America’s Gilded Age

While Newport’s harbour is captivating, its most spectacular treasures stand just beyond the shoreline.

The city’s famous Gilded Age mansions are astonishing examples of America’s late 19th-century wealth, when industrial titans transformed their “summer cottages” into palatial estates.

The crown jewel is The Breakers, the magnificent Vanderbilt mansion overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. We do a guided tour and learn so much from our guide, Maria DiMario. It was completed in just 28 months in 1895. The 70-room estate features soaring ceilings, 27 fireplaces, glittering Baccarat crystal chandeliers, opulent reception rooms and lavish interiors that rival Europe’s grandest palaces.

Walking through its ornate halls offers a fascinating glimpse into an era when extravagance knew few limits, and it’s little wonder these remarkable homes continue to feature prominently in HBO’s The Gilded Age. We were totally entranced by it all. Maria had our heads spinning with the sheer decadence of it all. Hard to say what my favourite room was, either the great room with its 50-foot-high ceilings or the formal dining room with its Baccarat crystal chandelier and 34-seat dinner table. Some bathrooms had ‘sit spas’, which apparently are great if you have had a long day in the saddle.

Fresh seafood with an ocean view

New England’s culinary reputation is well deserved, and Newport delivers some of its finest flavours.

Lobster appears on almost every menu imaginable – from classic lobster rolls to risotto, pizza and seafood platters – while creamy New England clam chowder is practically compulsory.

Two standouts are 22 Bowen’s, perfectly positioned on Bowen’s Wharf, and The Mooring, renowned for exceptionally fresh seafood served with panoramic harbour views. Even those who normally shy away from seafood will find plenty of tempting alternatives, including premium steaks and seasonal local produce. Carolyne was in heaven with all the seafood and I loved the steak at 22 Bowen.

Beyond the harbour

Newport rewards visitors who slow down.

The famous Cliff Walk combines dramatic Atlantic scenery with close-up views of the city’s grand mansions, while Fort Adams State Park offers peaceful walking trails, cycling paths and sweeping harbour vistas. Fort Adams, named after President John Adams, is the oldest and the largest coastal fortification in the USA.

Away from the waterfront, the Audrain Automobile Museum showcases an impressive collection of rare vehicles, while the recently reopened International Tennis Hall of Fame celebrates the sport’s greatest champions. Shopping is equally rewarding, with stylish boutiques, galleries and cafés embracing Newport’s refined coastal character without slipping into predictable nautical clichés.

Luxury takes flight

An hour south-west of Newport lies Westerly, where an unforgettable helicopter flight with HeliBlock reveals Rhode Island from an entirely different perspective.

The short but spectacular scenic flight traces the coastline above Watch Hill, offering breathtaking views of pristine beaches, elegant seaside estates and the famous Ocean House resort. It is an immaculate-looking hotel and it’s where people like Hillary Clinton, Hugh Jackman and Mark Wahlberg have stayed, and apparently still stay. But they have good taste, as Ocean House has five stars for accommodation, food and for its spa.

Our pilot Harrison also points out Taylor Swift’s house, which was having some work done. We thought maybe for the wedding, but no.

Back on the ground,  Ocean House’s sister property, Weekapaug Inn, epitomises relaxed New England luxury. Weekapaug Inn overlooks a tranquil tidal lagoon rich in birdlife, offering kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing and nature experiences alongside beautifully appointed accommodation that encourages guests to simply slow down and breathe.

We do a tour of the house which has 33 rooms and suites, some of which are named after birds. The signature suites are stunning – take your pick of the Osprey, the Piping Plover, the Great Egret, or the Green Heron. Because it’s the sister to the Coast House, guests at either property can use the amenities at the other.

Where to Stay

For visitors wanting to immerse themselves in Newport’s waterfront atmosphere, The Brenton Hotel is an outstanding choice.

This elegant boutique property captures the city’s coastal charm through sophisticated design inspired by sea, sand and sky rather than overt maritime themes. Spacious rooms, a rooftop bar overlooking the harbour and thoughtful touches – including complimentary ice cream from the guest pantry – create an experience that’s both luxurious and delightfully welcoming.

Why Rhode Island belongs on every New England itinerary

Rhode Island proves that extraordinary travel experiences don’t require vast distances. Within a relatively compact coastline, visitors can sail through one of America’s most celebrated harbours, wander through extravagant Gilded Age mansions, indulge in exceptional seafood, enjoy world-class luxury accommodation and finish the day watching the sun disappear over the Atlantic.

It may be America’s smallest state, but Rhode Island delivers one of New England’s richest and most memorable travel experiences.

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