10 Must-See Scenic Drives in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is an incredible state to explore with your Volkswagen. From the coastline to the rolling hills of southern Rhode Island, this small state packs a lot into its 48 miles of land. Here are ten of the most scenic drives you can take in the Ocean State that will make you fall even more in love with your VW.
Newport Coastline Drive – This drive along the coast offers stunning views of the ocean and beautiful beaches. It starts at Castle Hill Inn and takes you past Fort Adams and Fort Wetherill, before ending up at Brenton Point State Park.
South County Trail – If you’re looking for some peace and quiet while driving around Rhode Island, then this is definitely the drive for you. The South County Trail takes you through rural villages, past freshwater ponds, and into beautiful woods full of wildlife.
Block Island Ferry – Take a ride on one of the Block Island ferries from either Galilee or Point Judith Harbor. The ferry ride itself is quite scenic as it gives you great views of both Block Island and mainland Rhode Island from out on the water. Once on Block Island, hop back into your VW and explore all that this little island has to offer!
Scenic Tour Through Narragansett Bay – Start off at Jamestown Beach then head east to Conanicut Park via Mackerel Cove Road where there are plenty of opportunities to stop for a picnic lunch or just take in the view of Narragansett Bay from shoreside cliffs! From there, continue east through North Kingstown before looping back towards Jamestown Beach via Old Tower Hill Road for some great views over Narragansett Bay again!
Westerly Sunsets – Head west from Watch Hill across Little Narragansett Bay to Weekapaug Point where you’ll be treated to some amazing sunsets over Block Island Sound each night! On your way back make sure to stop off at Napatree Point which is known for its incredible beachfront sunsets too!
Lincoln Woods State Park - Head north through Providence towards Lincoln Woods State Park where you can explore 6 miles of trails perfect for walking/hiking/biking with lots of scenic spots along the way like Olney Pond and Moonstone Beach!
Beavertail Lighthouse - Take a short drive south down Route 1A towards Beavertail Lighthouse located at one end of Conanicut Point in Jamestown RI for some spectacular views out over Narragansett Bay that will take your breath away!
Tiverton Four Corners - Drive east from Tiverton Four Corners towards Sakonnet Point where there are plenty of great spots along this route that offer amazing views including Fogland Marsh (a great spot for bird watching!), Historic Main Street/Water Street, and Seapowet Marsh (another great spot for bird watching!).
Newport Mansions & Cliff Walks - Head south down Bellevue Avenue which is lined with some incredible mansions right near the edge of Cliff Walk which provides breathtaking views down onto Easton’s Beach below!
Providence Waterfront Loop - Taking a drive around Providence’s waterfront loop provides fantastic views out over Narragansett Bay as well as glimpses into Providence’s diverse neighborhoods like Federal Hill, Armory District etc., making it a must do when in RI regardless if driving a VW or not!