Please note: Many of the places in our list have been closed for the time being due to the coronavirus. Kidoinfo.com takes the threat of the coronavirus very seriously. Due to an abundance of caution we do not feel it is appropriate at this time to urge you to go places with your children. We are leaving this list up for those who would like to plan future trips but urge you to stay home with your children. Read more about Kidoinfo.com’s response to the coronavirus.
Kidoinfo’s Bucket List, filled with things to do with your children before they grow up!
If you have or run a favorite activity that is missing from our list, please let us know at lisa@kidoinfo.com. Become a Kidoinfo Sponsor – it’s affordable and effective! Email susan@kidoinfo.com or call 401-337-9240.
Many free or discount passes are available at the library (please note this link is to an older article so it may not be fully up-to-date.)
Please note: All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website, however it is subject to change without notice. This list is for informational purposes. Kidoinfo does not assess the quality of nor endorses any business, non-profit organization, products, or services.
Thank you to these Things to Do With Kids Sponsors!
The things to do with kids below are separated into the following categories:
Animals
Visit a blue lobster at the Audubon Environmental Education Center
Located in Bristol, offers a nature center and aquarium with a variety of educational programming, conservation activities, birthday parties, and summer camps. Walk the trails through meadows and marshes to Narragansett Bay and say hello to Finn and Atlanta, the resident Red-tailed Hawks.
Visit the seals with Save the Bay Seal Watches
For more than 15 years, Save The Bay has been offering seal watch tours and nature cruises giving you the perfect opportunity to enjoy the cooler months, while observing local wildlife.
Learn about animals at the Audubon Center in Bristol, Exeter or Smithfield
Learn about birds and other animals at one of these three locations. The Bristol location offers a nature center and aquarium including a blue lobster. All sites offer public programs.
Get wild at Roger Williams Park Zoo
Located on 40 acres of woodlands, the Zoo offers animals from all over the globe – more than 160 species with a focus on environmental conservation. Music concerts, holiday events, Faces of the Rainforest exhibit, and animal feedings. Zip line in the Explore and Soar area and train excursions. Offers birthday parties and vacation and summer camps. Close by is Carousel Village, with a classic carousel and and Food Truck Fridays April-September.
Explore Narragansett Bay at the Save the Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium
An interactive marine science center in Newport that is home to more than 40 species from Narragansett Bay, as well as three touch tanks and dozens of exhibits to get up close and personal with dogfish sharks, seahorses, turtles, and more. A new theme each month, with scavenger hunts, story hour, crafts, and science experiments that introduce something new or unexpected about the Bay. With an ocean-facing beach just outside, continue the beachcombing experience after your visit.
Go birding at the Norman Bird Sanctuary
A wildlife sanctuary and environmental education center with more than 325 acres of diverse habitats and seven miles of hiking trails in Middletown. Offers educational programs, including multiple types of bird walks from Owls to Woodcocks, story times, fireside trivia nights, summer camps, and an 8th century Paradise Farmhouse where you can stay.
See exotic animals at 1661 Farm and Gardens on Block Island
A collection of exotic and domestic animals is maintained by Justin Abrams, owner of the 1661 Inn & Hotel Manisses. The small hobby farm between Spring and High streets is home to lemurs, kangaroos, llamas, emus, sheep, donkeys, goats, swans, ducks, even camels! They all live happily together on the hillside meadow south of the hotel. Visitors are free to view the animals here all year long.
Go horse back riding at C and L Stables/Goddard Park
Offers horseback riding in beautiful historical Goddard Park for the whole family. The park has 18 miles of scenic trails over looking East Greenwich Bay and they also offer beach bayside rides. C and L stables has been in the park going on 10 yrs. They pride our selves in their beautiful easy to ride horses and experienced friendly trail guides.
Visit with Alpacas at Shadow Pines Farm Alpacas
Visit Shadow Pines Farm Alpacas a 10 acre farm where Alpacas are bred (you can visit with them) and production of products can be purchased such as soft Fleeces , Knit items, Roving, Wool, Wool Blankets, and Yarn.
Encounter aquatic animals at Mystic Aquarium
In Mystic, CT, see and learn about water inhabitants from beluga whales to sea lions and see movies in a 4-D theater. Offers shows, animal feedings, penguin colony, birthdays, and weddings. Family memberships available.
Visit Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary
Experience life on a working farm in Lincoln, MA, and explore a wildlife sanctuary at the same time. Watch the pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, and cows in the farmyard; see how crops are sustainably grown; walk the trails explore field, forest, and wetland habitat; and observe resident owls, hawks, a fisher, and a fox in the native wildlife exhibit.
Visit nearby zoos in Massachusetts
Southwick’s Zoo in Mendon, Capron Park Zoo in Attleboro, and Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford.
Art & Music
Play and learn at Kidoinfo Play in the Park and Kidoinfo Storytime + Art in the Park (Free)
July & August, Burnside Park, Providence. Sponsored by Kidoinfo! On Tuesday afternoons, Kidoinfo Play in the Park offers art and music activities along with giant blocks and games. On Thursday mornings, Kidoinfo Storytime + Art in the Park, offers a professional storyteller and an art activity.
Get creative with the Artist’s Exchange
Explore the arts through classes, summer and vacation camps, school programs, birthday parties, and events in art, theater, music, and ceramics. ceramics. Multiple art studios, a gallery, art boutique, and secondary performance venue, Theatre 82, and Character’s Café. Fall Out of Summer Arts Festival and Gingerbread House Decorating Contest. During the school year, free Craft Bash art activities on the last Saturday of each month.
Get musical at the Ukulele Hall of Fame Museum in Cranston
Dedicated to the preservation of Ukulele history. Here you will find information about ukulele players and makers, ukulele music, and ukulele history.
Be artistic at Island Art Spot in Middletown
Their mission is to engage children & families through art, literacy, music, conversation and laughter. Classes, parties, and workshops.
Listen to Concerts Under the Elm
Pack a picnic supper and dine on the lawn of the John Brown House in Providence while listening to concerts Thursday evenings in the summer. Late June-August.
Learn about art at the Warwick Center for the Arts
Warwick Center for the Arts connects all ages and abilities through numerous forms of art, exhibits, educational programs, and cultural experiences.
Learn about music at the The Rhody Center for World Music and Dance in Coventry
Offers group classes and private lessons in music and dance, for adults and children, in a wide variety of traditions. Also hosts special events and workshops.
Visit the window displays of Big Nazo Lab (Free)
Located in downtown Providence at the corner of Eddy and Fulton Streets. If you’re lucky, you may get a sneak peak inside.
Visit the original Shepard Fairey mural (Free)
Commissioned by AS220 in 2010 and painted on the side of the Pell Chafee Theatre on Aborn Street.
Make art and enjoy live music at AS220’s annual FooFest
In August on Empire Street in downtown Providence. Music, food, all-ages activities. An annual summer block party fundraiser for AS220.
Books & Reading
Go to an event at a Barnes & Noble bookstore: Smithfield, Warwick, or Middletown.
Sells books, magazine, toys. Offers story times, author readings/signings, young adult book clubs, visits by characters, interactive gaming events, and book release events.
Read the Kids Reading Across RI book
Kids Reading Across Rhode Island is Rhode Island’s One Book, One State community read program for kids. The kick-off is held in May each year. This program, offered by the Rhode Island Office of Library and Information Services in partnership with the Rhode Island Center for the Book, encourages students across the state in grades 4 through 6 to read the same book, and engage in community discussions and programs.
Visit Barrington Books in Cranston (Garden City) and Barrington
Sells books, gifts, and toys. Offers story times on Monday, Thursday, and Friday. Story hour is for children 2-5 years of age but all ages are welcome. It is hosted by one of the store’s storytellers. Books are specially picked for each story time with a thematically related craft to follow.
Attend story time at Books on the Square
Story times are 10:30 am Mondays for babies and 11 am Saturdays for all kids. Suitable for 6 months-6 years. Also offers book launches, book clubs, and author events. See events here.
Visit the children’s room in one of America’s oldest libraries: Providence Athenaeum on Benefit Street in Providence (Free)
During its nearly 200 years of existence, the library has welcomed illustrious writers, spirited thinkers, and energetic community members through its doors to engage in reading, conversation, and debate.Tucked away in a quiet corner, the Children’s Library is a technology-free sanctuary designed to help children do what comes naturally: play, be silly, create, discover, and learn. Read a Kidoinfo article here.
Find a million things to do at your local library
This is a list of links to local libraries in Rhode Island. Libraries offer too many fun events to list here – check out their event pages!
Food, Farms, & Cooking
Shop from a local farmer at an outdoor market
Many outdoor farmer markets open May through November with a handful open indoors the remainder of the year. (Visit www.FarmFreshri.org for a complete list of markets.)
Take a cooking class at Taste Buds Kitchen
Offers cooking classes with fresh food, summer and vacation camps, and counselor in training.
Pick your own berries, and make your own jam
Find out when each type of berry is usually available and some local picking places.
Have a food truck lunch or dinner
Use this link to find a list of trucks and their routes. Visit the PVD Food Trucks Facebook.
Have a Del’s lemonade. Find the Del’s nearest you with the tool on this page
If you are from out of town, you must try this unique New England treat. And if you live here, well, you know it’s summer when Del’s opens! Del’s also offers lemonade carts at many festivals and events.
Play the Rhode Island Farm Scavenger Hunt
Take a road trip and explore 28 of RI’s 1,200 working farms. Download the map and clues or pick up a pamphlet at a participating farm.
Order a coffee cabinet at Delekta Pharmacy in Warren
It’s no longer a pharmacy but still offers its “delektable” coffee cabinets and other ice cream and candy related items.
Have a lobster roll at Blount Clam Shack on the waterfront in Warren
Open 7 days from Memorial Day to Labor Day. (Call during inclement weather). Also open for fewer days per week at Crescent Park by the carousel in Riverside. Includes a soup shop in Fall River, MA.
Travel back in time by visiting a 1790s New England farm: Coggeshall Farm Museum in Bristol
Experience first-hand how families lived on a tenant farm just after the American Revolution and before the sweeping changes brought in by the Industrial Revolution. Use their tools. Sit in their furniture. Taste their food. See life through their eyes! Offers seasonal workshops and birthday parties.
Take a cooking class or birthday party with Made by Me Cooking School
Offers multiple types of classes and different foods for birthday parties.
Visit Venda in DePasquale Plaza in Providence
In summer, eat near the fountain.
Eat yummy pizza at: Flatbread Pizza Company or Providence Coal Fired Pizza
Who doesn’t love pizza?
Have vegan ice cream at Like No Udder in Providence
Vegan means it uses no dairy or other animal products. Visit their store in Providence or food truck at multiple locations throughout the state.
Buy a house-made hotdog from The Wurst Window at Chez Pascal
Take your hotdogs to enjoy by the fountain in Lippitt Park in Providence.
Eat crepes or cupcakes at the Duck & Bunny
Eat out in the back garden, weather permitting.
Have lunch at Stanley’s in Central Falls, open since 1932
Comfort food at its finest with burgers, sandwiches, and clubs as well as milk shakes and floats. Offers veggie burgers and kids meals.
Have breakfast at the classic Modern Diner in Pawtucket
The first diner in the nation to be accepted on the National Register for Historic Places. Customized and factory-built, it is a Sterling Streamliner, a line of “modernistic” diners manufactured in the late 1930’s and early 1940’s.
Visit a real working dairy farm: Wrights Dairy Farm and Bakery in North Smithfield
They pasteurize and bottle their milk on the farm (since 1914) as well as bake their specialty cakes, pies, and pastries. See cows milked daily from 3 to 4:30 pm.
Visit a working farm: Dame Farm and Orchards in Johnston
They usually offer a corn maze and wagon rides in the fall. Apple and pumpkin picking, a farm stand, and sunflowers.
Devour homemade ice cream and visit the cows at the original Gray’s in Tiverton
Open since 1923 with so many ice cream, yogurt, and sherbet (seasonal) flavors, there’s something for everyone.
Visit Casey Farm in Saunderstown
Free for Historic New England members and Saunderstown residents.
Visit a working family farm: Watson Farm in Jamestown
Free for Historic New England members and Jamestown residents.
Head to Sweet Berry Farm in Middletown
Wander the grounds and pick various berries and apples. The beautiful market includes a café of prepared foods and baked goods.
Have a doughboy and walk the beach at Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House in Warwick (open year round) or in Narragansett (seasonal)
Enjoy this crazy local treat – fried dough and powered sugar. Also offers the Boardwalk Restaurant.
Have supper at Champlins
Champlin’s, founded 69 years ago, specializes in fresh lobster and shellfish from the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay. Retail and eating on the deck. Usually opens in April.
Enjoy live music and a fun meal at Buster Krab’s Burger Shack and Beach Bar in Narragansett
Located in the heart of Galilee, Buster Krab’s is a beach bar and grill which offers outdoor seating.
Have breakfast, lunch, or dinner at Crazy Burger Café and Juice Bar in Narragansett
It’s name says it all. Offers several vegan burgers. Offers juices, smoothies, milk shakes (vegan too), and a variety of other types of drinks. BYOB with a corkage fee.
Buy lobster off the boat in Point Judith in Narragansett
Point Judith is the location for the year-round ferry service to Block Island, an historic lighthouse, and contains the fishing hamlet of Galilee.
Have clam cakes at Aunt Carrie’s in Point Judith in Narragansett
Family-owned and operated, now in its fourth generation, Aunt Carrie’s serves traditional seafood and homemade cooking with cool ocean breezes and views.
Sample RI’s favorite donuts at Allie’s Donuts
Famous hand-made donuts. Check out their donut “cakes” – perfect for parties.
Pick-your-own seasonal flowers, berries, pumpkins, and more at Four Town Farm in Seekonk, MA.
Pick-your-own, seasonal farm stand, Christmas trees, and educational farm tours during the month of October.
Learn how ice cream is made at Bliss Dairy in Attleboro, MA
Many flavors and types, including some with no sugar added. Offers a function room with make your own sundae parties. Also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Festivals & Fairs
Catch the mystery at WaterFire (Free) in Providence
Food, music, eclectic shows, and fire on the water as up to 80 braziers are filled with wood and lit up. Donations accepted. Takes place throughout the year.
See films from around the world at the Providence Children’s Film Festival
Presents the best of independent and international children’s cinema to inspire, delight, educate and connect a diverse community of children and families from Rhode Island and throughout New England. Happens every February.
Celebrate Gaspee Days in Cranston
Best known for its parade and arts and crafts festival, Gaspee Days also offers a blessing of the fleet, a Colonial Encampment, and burning of the Gaspee. Happens in May and June.
Get creative at PVD Fest in Providence
The Creative Capital comes alive for a free four-day festival that celebrates artists from all corners of the globe. Takes place in June.
Show support and pride at Rhode Island Pride Festival in Providence
Rhode Island Pride brings together the greater LGBTQIA+ community to commemorate its diverse heritage, foster inclusion, educate and create awareness of issues, and celebrate achievements in equality. Includes a day-long festival with music and vendors, plus a night-time parade. Day-time festival offers a children’s area where they can get face painting and play games. Takes place in June.
Play at the Black Ships Festival in Bristol and Newport
From Arts & Crafts, Taiko Drumming and Martial Arts to the Sushi & Sake Sail and the Black Ships Gala there are a variety of events and activities for all ages and interest. Takes place in June.
Eat at Smith’s Castle Strawberry Festival in North Kingstown
Enjoy a fun day with delicious strawberry shortcake. Strawberries are here! Enjoy the favorite fruit of the indigenous people and early colonists alike. Takes place in June.
Experience the Newport Folk Festival
Worldwide known festival at Fort Adams State Park in Newport in July.
Fly high at the annual Newport Kite Festival in mid-July (Free)
Happens for two days each July at Brenton Point State Park in Newport. Kites of all sizes and shapes. Leashed dogs are welcome.
Enjoy a walk through the Wickford Art Festival
Historic Wickford is set on beautiful Narragansett Bay and the village comes alive for this annual event which attracts over 60,000 visitors over the course of the two days of the festival. Happens in July.
Visit the Washington County Fair in Richmond during one long weekend in mid-August
The Fair is Rhode Island’s largest agricultural event. One of the biggest draws to the Fair is today’s Country Music stars! The Fair runs for five days (Wednesday – Sunday), taking place in August. Admission includes access to all daily concerts, special acts and events, the giant midway and kiddy land area (all ride tickets and games separate), all agricultural events and shows, exhibits and displays, tractor and horse pulls, the farm museum, and more.
Learn fun history at the Rhode Island Heritage Festival in Providence
Presents cultural exhibits, visual art, and craft demonstrations from all over the world. Food trucks offer an array of traditional foods and drinks. The children’s area has free face painting, arts, and crafts. The day begins with a parade of international flags of over 30 countries. Happens in September.
Celebrate the start of fall with the Fall Out of Summer Arts Festival in Cranston
Offers live music, raffles, a marketplace of local artisans, art activities, installations, contests, food, beer, wine, and much more. This event is pet friendly and admission is free. Happens in September.
Get into fall at the Apple Festival in Johnston
A free kids zone, Apple Pie Baking Contest, live entertainment, and carnival rides – all based on apples. Happens in September.
Visit Pawtucket while enjoying the Pawtucket Arts Festival
Presents dance, music, theatre, film, visual, and folk-traditional arts that evoke the City’s historic legacy and diverse communities. Takes place for a week in September.
Get your dance on at the Rhythm & Roots Festival in Charlestown
Food, craft vendors, and of course, music. Takes place on Labor Day weekend in September.
Get your feet wet at the Newport International Boat Show
Encompasses thirteen acres of Newport’s downtown waterfront. View exhibitors from near and far with a full range of new powerboats and sailboats, plus a medley of marine products, services, and accessories to enhance the nautical lifestyle. Special events, seminars, and in-water boating courses for the whole family are offered on all show days. Happens in September.
See amazing pumpkins at Roger Williams Park Zoo Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Providence
Hundreds of carved pumpkins, completed by area artists on display as you walk through the zoo. Takes place in September and October.
Have fun at the Norman Bird Sanctuary Harvest Fair in Middletown
Activities include Pony Rides, Barrel Train, Mud Pit, Midway Games & Children’s Tent; Crafters’ Tent featuring more than 70 talented artisans and crafters; 16 local food trucks and vendors offer an array of appetizing selections; A fun lineup of bands set the festive mood in the Ragged Island Beer Garden. Happens in October.
Dress up for the Rhode Island Comic Con in Providence
A weekend of comic characters, famous actors and producers, toys, and more. Takes place in November.
General Things to Do
Experience virtual reality at Base Station VR in Johnston
Whether you’re looking to relax and spend time in the Arizona sunshine shooting zombies or go a bit wild and create virtual artwork that fills an entire room sized canvas in 3D, Base Station VR has the room for you.
Have a party or see a show with Mad Science
Mad Science of Southern MA and RI offers free performances around Rhode Island and Massachusetts. They also offer birthday parties, after school programs and assemblies, vacation and summer programs, workshops, and pre-school programs.
Play indoors at KidsZone in North Kingstown
A place where your young children can play, paint, party, and learn. Offers classes, special events, and birthday parties.
Have fun at Kidz Kastle in Warwick
A 5000-square-foot state of the art children’s birthday party and play center. Designed for children under 49 inches in height.
Play at West Side Play Space in Providence
A volunteer-run cooperative on the west side of Providence where families and children can come together to play, learn, and build community. WSPS offers children opportunities for active play, quiet reading, art, and imaginative play, as well as special programming and events. First visit is free.
Make up your own fun at Let’s Pretend in Middletown
Let’s Pretend is a play center. It was developed with the idea that adults and children would play together free of modern day distractions. Offers birthday parties and special events.
Get bouncy at Bounce U in Warwick
An indoor playground, jam-packed with awesome inflatables. They offer birthday parties, open bounce times, and vacation camps.
Play games at Chuck E. Cheese in Warwick
Come in for an outing of family fun center games, in-store show entertainment, and pizza! Kids will be delighted by the wide variety of stand up, multi-player, and interactive games. Parents and kids will be excited to try our fresh menu options, including salad, sandwiches, and wings.
Play indoors at the Pitter Patter Playhouse in Portsmouth
Providing a clean, safe, creative, imaginative play space for children ages 1-7. Parents can relax while their children interact with peers and play with a variety fun and educational toys.
Visit every carousel in Rhode Island
Crescent Park Looff Carousel (East Providence); Flying Horse Carousel (Watch Hill); Slater Memorial Park Carousel (Pawtucket); Carousel Village, Roger Williams Park (Providence); and Easton’s Beach Carousel (Newport).
Test your wits at the Curiosity Shop
Test your wits in their unique escape room game of ciphers and problem solving. The Curiosity Shop RI has the ability to push your mental skills and leadership capabilities to the absolute limit with their devious puzzles and fun interactive games!
Go on Save The Bay Lighthouse Cruises
Join one of the narrated lighthouse cruises to see as many as two dozen of Rhode Island’s historic lighthouse sites in Narragansett Bay. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Newport Pell Bridge, Gaspee Point, Prudence Island and historic Fort Adams, and be amazed by how many notable sites you can see in just one tour. Discover the lighthouses that played an important role in the history of the Bay and those that are actively assisting in marine navigation.
Find a million things to do at your local library.
This is a list of links to local libraries in Rhode Island. Libraries offer too many fun events to list here – check out their event pages!
Play games at Dave & Buster’s of Providence
Enjoy food and drink, play hundreds of awesome arcade games, and watch your favorite teams on TV in the newly renovated Sports Lounge.
Have fun at CW Lanes and Games in Lincoln
Featuring a full-service Sports Bar and Grill, redemption arcade, laser tag, and, of course, bowling.
Welcome spring by attending Daffodil Days at Blithewold Mansion in Bristol
Bring your camera! Blithewold is a 33-acre summer estate with grand views of Narragansett Bay and is nationally significant in American history as one of the most fully developed and authentic examples of the Country Place Era.
Take a class at Gather Glass Blowing Studio in Providence
One hour and four week classes in glass blowing. Make things such as paperweights, glasses, and ornaments.
Play games at Ryan Amusements in Newport
Play more than 50 of the hottest and coolest arcade and skill games. Two floors of fun and games!
Watch glass being blown at The Glass Station in Wakefield
The Glass Station is a fully functioning glass blowing studio and gallery in the heart of scenic downtown Wakefield. The studio is open to the public and anyone is free to watch them make their work as they blow glass in the studio.
Take the Underdog Tour (Free)
Visit all the Providence locations used in the film. Self-guided and free.
Book a group tour of the Johnston Landfill (Free)
90-minute Full Facility Tour – bring your own bus or register to take one at the site. 45-minute Materials Recycling Facility Tour. Spanish tour available upon request.
Tour downcity Providence from a new perspective with Providence River Boat Company
Daytime, sunset, and Waterfire cruises available.
Take a gondola ride
In downtown Providence, for couples, families, weddings, group outings. March to November.
Play games at Pow! Science! in Wakefield
Pow!Science! is a “Mom and Pop” educational toy store located in Wakefield, RI. Offers special events on different days of the week, science programs, and birthday parties.
Journey with Blackstone River Cruises
Learn about the river’s Industrial Revolution past and recovery to vibrant ecosystem. Stay overnight on a canal boat.
Tour a Newport Mansion
See historic mansions which offer events during different times of the year.
Go underground with Beneath the Breakers
Explore the underground tunnel, boiler room and basement of The Breakers! You’ll see and learn about the new domestic technology that transformed daily life, including The development of electricity and how it changed the Gilded Age; The emergence of the modern elevator; The revolutionary infrastructure that heated and cooled the great house; The modern plumbing & laundry facilities that affected attitudes about hygiene and cleanliness And you’ll hear about the house engineer whose detailed daily journals have helped us understand how it all worked.
Solve a mystery at the Riddle Room in East Greenwich
Offers an immersive, team-based experience where guests have sixty minutes to solve interactive puzzles and riddles to win the game and escape.
Get loud and fast at the Seekonk Speedway
Noisy, fast fun with a race or demolition derby in Seekonk, MA. You might get dirty.
Get lost at Escobar Farm with their corn maze
This popular Portsmouth labyrinth, the largest maze in Rhode Island, draws thousands of visitors each fall, and will once again get curious maze-goers lost when it opens to the public in late August.
Explore Green Animals Topiary Garden in Portsmouth
This is the oldest and most northern topiary garden in the United States.
Step back into history and explore Smith’s Castle in Wickford
Smith’s Castle is an award-winning historic site where four centuries of Rhode Island history are preserved and interpreted through tours, historic reenactments, and educational programs for both adults and children.
Go camping in Hope Valley’s Arcadia Management Area
At over 14,000 mostly forested acres, the Arcadia Management Area is the state’s largest recreational area, offering users a great variety of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Visit the imPossible Dream Playground in Warwick. (Free)
An accessible playground for all kids.
Find adventure at Adventureland in Narragansett
Mini-golf, bumper boats, go-karts, batting cages, Bankshot™ Basketball, extreme air jumper, birthday parties, Carousel Pavilion with Burdick’s ice cream, and a carousel. Open June-October.
Escape at the Lock & Clue Escape Rooms
All Lock & Clue escape rooms are private experiences. In order to reserve a room, you must book at least half the room maximum capacity to reserve, but then the room belongs exclusively to you and your group!
Go shopping and eating at the Fantastic Umbrella Factory (Free admission)
Visit shops and feed the animals at this Charlestown 19th Century international bazaar and farmyard. Free admission. Check the website for what’s open during different times a year.
Literally make a new friend at the Build-A-Bear Workshop in Providence
An interactive make-your-own stuffed animal retail-entertainment experience. They’ve got over 30 teddy bears, bunnies, dogs and other stuffed animals to choose from. Kids can personalize their new best friend with bear-sized outfits, accessories, embroidery, a sound or even a recorded message. Located in Providence Place Mall.
Take a seminar or historic walking tour with URI Marine Scientists
Learn about various marine subjects in seminars offered by the Graduate School of Oceanography. Take a 90-minute free, public Historic South Ferry Walking Tour, which includes a presentation of historical facts, pictures, and tour which includes sites of the old ferry landing, WWI bunkers, and the URI Bay Campus.
Take the ferry round trip to Block Island for the day
Located 12 miles from coastal Rhode Island, Block Island offers a variety of festivals, farmers markets, restaurants, environmental programs, free public beaches, dramatic bluffs, preserved open spaces, and fun-filled activities for visitors of all ages. While on the Island, search for one of 550 Glass Floats – glass orbs about the size of an orange which are dated, numbered and stamped with the shape of Block Island.
Ride the Prudence Island Ferry round trip from Bristol for a daytrip or overnight stay
Prudence Island is the third-largest island in Narragansett Bay and part of the town of Portsmouth. It is located near the center of the bay. The Prudence Island School offers summer camps and the Island offers the Narragansett Bay Research Reserve and Farnham Farm. Here is the Prudence Island Wikipedia page for more details.
Learn at the Kettle Pond Visitor Center
In Charlestown, learn about wildlife refuges in RI and the animals that inhabit them. Offers exhibits, a large classroom, migratory bird map, and more.
Ride amusement rides at Fantasyland Family Entertainment Center in Seekonk, MA
The indoor attractions include seven amusement rides, arcade games, and the Food Court featuring Fantasyland’s homemade pizza.
Party and play at Monkey Joe’s in North Attleboro, MA
Offers a play area of wall-to-wall fun, features inflatable slides, jumps, and obstacle courses, and additional entertainment.
Watch the drawbridge raise and lower for boats in downtown Mystic, CT. (Free)
Bonus: a toy store, ice cream, and playground are all nearby.
See life-size ancient creatures at The Dinosaur Place in Montville, CT
Explore a 60 acre outdoor adventure park home to over 50 life-sized dinosaurs on pristine nature trails! Stop by New England’s largest SplashPad® (A Unique Zero-Depth Water Park), a dinosaur-themed maze, Monty’s Playground, featuring TRex Tower & more!
Visit Mystic Seaport in Mystic, CT
Climb aboard the last wooden whale ship in the world. Meet blacksmiths, coopers, printers, and shipwrights in an authentic setting. View world-class exhibitions in five galleries. See the stars in a planetarium and take a waterfront cruise.
See actual dinosaur tracks at Nash Dinosaur Track Site and Rock Shop
Walk where the dinosaurs walked. Touted as the “the best place in the world to find dinosaur footprints.” Purchase dino tracks in South Hadley, MA. Seasonal.
Museums
Learn about past cultures at the Peace Dale Museum of Art and Culture
Founded in 1892, South County’s oldest museum houses more than 15,000 archaeological and ethnological objects from around the world. Changing exhibits in the period Southwest Mission-style gallery explore two million years of world culture and more.
Look at cars at Audrain Automobile Museum
A collection comprised of more than 160 of the rarest and most remarkable automobiles in history, and houses fully restored vehicles ranging from the beginning of the 20th Century to modern day.
Learn about the history of cars at the Newport Car Museum
The private collection of 75+ automobiles at the Newport Car Museum focuses on seven decades of modern industrial automotive design and celebrates cars as works of art.
See some amazing rides at New England Wireless & Steam Museum in East Greenwich
The museum has one of the largest displays of operational stationary steam engines, including the only George H. Corliss engine running under steam.
Get active learning at the Rhode Island Museum of Science and Art (RIMOSA) in Providence
Offers a supportive and fun environment in a progressive museum setting with exhibits/experiences that offer opportunities for open-ended experimentation and creative problem solving.
Discover at the Providence Children’s Museum
For children ages 1 to 11 and their adult caregivers. They offer birthday parties, summer camps, group visits and field trips. See events here. Offers many exhibits such as: Water Ways; Play Power (Air tubes and magnetic mazes); The Climber (A two-story-high climbing maze); Coming to Rhode Island (An interactive adventure to meet people who immigrated to RI); Littlewoods(For infants to age 4); and Discovery Studio (Weekly science and nature exploration projects).
Step into the golden age at Lippitt House Museum in Providence
A property of Preserve Rhode Island, Lippitt House is Providence’s Victorian house museum. Built in 1865, it captures the brilliance of Victorian design and represents a time in Providence’s industrial history. They offer tours and children’s programs.
Discover the past at Portsmouth Historical Society
The main museum of the Portsmouth Historical Society is housed in the former Union Church building, built in 1865. Also on the museum grounds is the Southermost School building, a one-room schoolhouse which is the oldest preserved such schoolhouse in Rhode Island and may be the oldest in the nation, and the “Old Town Hall” that was used as one of the first town administrative buildings. The museum has a number of artifacts of Portsmouth’s history that date back to when native Americans lived on the land.
Visit RISD Museum of Art and think like an explorer
Find the mummy or hunt for food motifs. Free on Sundays and third Thursday of the month. They offer a variety of events and classes.
Visit the Edna Lawrence Nature Lab (Free)
Located just around the corner from the RISD museum. See an amazing variety of specimens on display, including birds, bears and bones.
Visit the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology in Providence
The Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology is Brown University’s teaching and research museum. The museum offers exhibits, public lectures, performances, symposia, festivals, and a broad range of programs and events for all ages.
Visit the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium in Providence
Rhode Island’s only natural history museum and home to the state’s only public planetarium. Offers many kid’s classes, events, and exhibits and is a low-cost adventure.
Visit the Museum of Work and Culture in Woonsocket
The Museum of Work & Culture shares the stories of the men, women, and children who came to find a better life in Rhode Island’s mill towns in the late 19th and 20th centuries. The Museum features: Nine immersive exhibits; audio & film presentations; hands-on activities & games; changing exhibits & special events; and rental space
Visit Slater Historic Mill, the birthplace of the industrial revolution in Pawtucket
Children provide the power and operate miniature machinery in the Apprentice Alcove. The Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark is recognized internationally as the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. Samuel Slater’s 1793 Old Slater Mill, Oziel and David Wilkinson’s 1810 Wilkinson Mill, and Sylvanus Brown’s 1758 early Pawtucket cottage, are located on the banks of the lower Blackstone River.
Be yourself at the Newport Art Museum
Offers classes and workshops for youth and adults, summer camps, community-based programs and partnerships, homeschool at the Museum, family programs, an immersive career readiness program for high schoolers, rotating exhibitions, and studio rentals.
Visit Touro Synagogue, America’s oldest synagogue, in Newport
Learn the history of Jewish residents of Newport and take a tour. The Synagogue is the home of Congregation Jeshuat Israel, which holds religious services and conducts lifecycle events, while also sponsoring educational, social, and cultural programs.
Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport
The International Tennis Hall of Fame preserves and promotes the history of tennis and celebrates its champions. See it’s museum and watch tennis being played during tournaments.
Visit the Jamestown Fire Department Memorial Museum in Jamestown
Jamestown Fire and EMS is an all volunteer organization serving Jamestown and the Island of Conanicut. The Jamestown Fire Museum is located next door to the main Station at 50 Narragansett Ave., Jamestown.
Learn about Barrington’s history at the Barrington Preservation Society
The museum is a center for displaying, housing and protecting memorabilia relating to Barrington. It also serves as a center for the research and education concerning Barrington’s history, with programs, tours, books and written materials made available to Barrington citizens and visitors.
Visit Kenyon’s Grist Mill in Usquepaug
Free with a food or clothing donation for the Jonny Cake Center.
Visit the Biomes Marine Biology Center in North Kingstown
The Biomes Center teaches children and adults through interactive biology programs about the marine animals of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. They also offer field trips, classes, and birthday parties.
Visit the Frosty Drew Observatory on Friday evenings to get closer to the night sky
Frosty Drew Observatory opens every Friday night year round to the public free of charge, though donations are accepted. If the sky is clear and wind is manageable, you will be looking to the sky through one or more of their telescopes. During cloudy, rain, or snow conditions, there are presentations in the Sky Theatre with astronomers to answer questions and give tours of the observatory and astronomical equipment. They also offer special programs on other days of the week.
Learn why we honor Gilbert Stuart by visiting the Gilbert Stuart Birthplace & Museum in Saunderstown
With its authentically restored and furnished 1750 home, working gristmill, gardens, woodland trails, art exhibitions of period works, and more, the Gilbert Stuart Museum was home to one of America’s best-known portraitists, Gilbert Stuart.
Visit the Navy Submarine Force Museum in Groton, CT (Free)
Visit the website here. The Museum, located on the Thames River in Groton, CT, maintains the world’s finest collection of submarine artifacts. It is the only submarine museum operated by the United States Navy, and is the primary repository for artifacts, documents, and photographs relating to U.S. Submarine Force history.
Visit the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center in Mashantucket, CT
The Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, part of the government of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, is a non-profit educational institution that seeks to further knowledge and understanding of the richness and diversity of the indigenous cultures and societies of the United States and Canada.
Have a whale of a time at the New Bedford Whaling Museum in New Bedford, MA
Explore the region’s centuries-old relationship with the sea and the many people who contributed to its dynamic past and diverse present.
Touch history at Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, MA
New England’s largest outdoor living history museum. Put your hands on history and be inspired by costumed historians at work on the farm, in trade shops, and in homes.
Go back in time at Plimouth Plantation in Plymoth, MA
See a 17th-Century English Village; Wampanoag Homesite, Mayflower II, Plimoth Grist Mill, Rare Breeds Animals, and Craft Center.
Get into STEAM at the Discovery Museums in Acton, MA
Focuses on hands-on science, nature, and play. STEAM exhibits and a 550-square foot, fully-accessible treehouse and surrounding nature playscape. Free on Summer Friday nights between 4:30-8:30 pm.
Look at pictures at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA
Seeks to inspire a love of art and reading through picture books. Carle wrote “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” Houses more than 11,000 objects, including 7,300 permanent collection illustrations, three art galleries, an art studio, a theater, picture book and scholarly libraries, and educational programs for families, scholars, educators, and schoolchildren.
Visit the Ecotarium: Museum of Science and Nature in Worcester, MA
An indoor-outdoor experience: Explore three floors of indoor interactive exhibits, live animal habitats, digital planetarium shows, daily Science Discovery programs, hikes through forest and meadow nature trails, outdoor imaginative play, and a train ride around the 45+ acre campus (seasonal).
Visit deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln, MA
DeCordova’s mission is to inspire, educate, and delight with contemporary art from New England and beyond through sculptures in the landscape and museum exhibitions.
Explore the Adventure Park and Hidden Hollow at Heritage Museums and Gardens in Sandwich, MA
Hidden Hollow, a family-friendly outdoor discovery area, is a place for exploration of the outdoors and our place in it. The Hundred Acre School is open to children ages 4 to 8 (preschool to entering grade 2) for fun that helps combat summer learning loss with a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) focused program.
Visit the Museum of Science in Boston, MA
Free with your Roger Williams Park Zoo membership. One of the world’s largest science centers and New England’s most highly attended cultural institution, the Museum promotes engineering education awareness, bringing science, technology, and mathematics alive through its exhibits, programs, and more.
Visit the Boston Children’s Museum in Boston, MA
The second oldest and one of the most influential children’s museums in the world. It’s exhibits and programs emphasize hands-on engagement and learning through experience, employing play as a tool to spark the creativity, curiosity, and imagination of children. Free with Providence Children’s Museum Family PLUS membership.
Visit PaperHouse, a house made ONLY of paper, in Rockport, MA
The Paper House is an actual house made from newspaper. It was built by Elis F. Stenman, a mechanical engineer who designed the machines that make paper clips. He began building his Rockport summer home out of paper as a hobby in 1922. Eventually, not only was the house made of paper, but furniture as well, including some intricate and beautiful pieces.
Discover a sailor’s life at Battleship Cove in Fall River, MA
A maritime museum where you can explore the largest collection of historic Naval ships in the world. Also attend programs on maritime and war-related history, and even stay overnight in a ship with their Nautical Nights Program.
Learn at the Children’s Museum of Southeastern Connecticut
An interactive, hands-on, educational place for children to try on new roles, let their imaginations soar and feel safe while exploring the world around them. With 5,000 square feet – all on one floor and 2 outdoor play spaces, nearly all is wheelchair accessible. They engage, encourage, and challenge children from 9 months to 9 years in the arts, sciences, health, and world cultures.
Parks & Beaches
Visit the Chapel-By-The-Sea in Colt State Park in Bristol. (Free)
Colt State Park has 464 acres of lawns, stone walls, and curving drives along one of the state’s most spectacular shorelines. Open year round, the park offers bicycle trails, 10 playfields, a historical museum, 400+ picnic tables, and its open air Chapel-By-The-Sea.
Take a hike up the old ski lift at Diamond Hill Park (Free)
Once a former ski slope in Cumberland, Diamond Hill offers spectacular views and a fairly gradual climb. It’s also a great place to picnic and little ones will love checking out the small p
Climb and play at Brandon’s Beach at Burnside Park, a nautical-themed playground
The playground is appropriate for toddlers and young children of all abilities, and offers a wide variety of sensory-rich equipment, including pagoda bells, drums, and music pipes. It also features classic swings, slides and spinners. This playground was built in memory of Brandon Goldner and made possible by the generosity of his family and friends.
Cool off at the Waterpark at Yawgoo Valley in Exeter
Open daily, 10 am-5 pm, June 22 – Labor Day. Includes 2 slides, a swimming pool, and a kiddie pool. Slides are a combined length of over 750 feet. Swimming pool ranges from 4-6 feet deep, while the kiddie pool is one-foot deep. Offers summer camps, birthday parties, and catered gatherings.
Discover what’s possible at the imPOSSIBLE Dream Playground
Features swings, slides, merry-go-rounds, basketball, see saws, a fort, a life-size doll house, a castle and miniature golf. Facilities specifically designed so children with disabilities can play alongside able-bodied children. Picnic tables available on the grounds. Accessible Restrooms.
Go bouldering in Lincoln Woods (Free)
Enjoy swimming at the fresh water beach, trout fishing, playing ball, hiking, jogging, horseback riding, or just relaxing under a shade tree. Permits required for fields and picnic areas.
Play at Atlantic Beach Park
Located on the south shore of Rhode Island in Misquamicut, Atlantic Beach Park has been a charming landmark in this area dating back to 1921. Over 90 years later, Atlantic Beach Park remains a local Misquamicut summer tradition.
Play at Roger Williams Park
This Providence park’s 435 acres feature over 100 acres of ponds that weave their way through the rolling landscape. Here are things to see in the park. Rent a swan paddle boat, canoe, kayak. Visit the Botanical Center, Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, Roger Williams Park Zoo, and Village Carousel.
Swim at the Burrillville Spring Lake Beach Facility and play in the arcade
The beach penny arcade is home to some of the oldest arcade games in the country. Includes a swim dock, food concessions, restrooms with outdoor showers, picnic tables, recreational activities, and children’s slides at the water’s edge. Full time lifeguard staff during hours of operation. Champlin Recreation Hall is available for rent during the season.
Scramble across glacial rock formations at Purgatory Chasm (Free)
Purgatory Chasm in Sutton, MA, is a unique natural landmark offering exciting adventure. Follow trails to rock formations such as The Corn Crib, The Coffin, and Lovers’ Leap.
See the great view at the Save the Bay Center
A state-of-the-art education center, built on a former brownfields site. The grounds include demonstrations of stormwater management, coastal buffer planting and salt marsh restoration.It features two classrooms, lab space, a large meeting room. Save The Bay’s administrative offices and an adjacent boathouse with a fixed pier and dock.
Go fishing, search for sea glass, and play on the playground at Sabin Point Park
This 4.0-acre park in East Providence juts out into Narraganset Bay. It includes a playground, basketball courts, pavilion, fishing pier, picnic tables and concrete walking paths. Open year-round – sunrise to sunset.
Visit Roger Williams National Memorial in Providence (Free)
Learn why the founder of Rhode Island was also a champion of the ideal of religious freedom. Bonus: Lovely spot for an outdoor picnic in Providence.
Stroll through Swan Point Cemetery in Providence (Free)
Find the resting place of famous souls like horror, fantasy, science-fiction writer H. P. Lovecraft.
Jump aboard the sunken ship The Hannah in Burnside Park
Open all year long in downtown Providence. Bonus: Attend Kidoinfo Storytime and Art in the Park during July and August.
Watch the sunset over downtown Providence from Prospect Terrace
This beautiful site offers great views of the city.
Park or hike to the top of Neutaconkanut Hill (Free)
Check this out for another great view of the city.
Explore Slater Park in Pawtucket
See the animals at Daggett Farm, ride the swan boats on the pond, enjoy the playground, and visit the home of the Rhode Island Watercolor Society.
Run in the breeze at India Point Park in Providence (Free)
Find the pirate ship in the 49-foot ceramic mural located near the playground.
Get wet at Water Wizz of Westerly
A water slide fun park with more than 1,000 feet of thrills and spills, tunnels and dips that twist and turn into two treated pools of refreshing fun for all. Located right near the picturesque Misquamicut State Beach.
Play at Dexter Park located next to the Cranston Armory in Providence. (Free)
The Cranston Street Armory is an historic building in the Broadway–Armory Historic District of Providence. It was built in 1907.
Have multiple kinds of fun at Bayview Fun Park
Bayview Fun Park, Bayview Aquatic Rentals, Kickin’ Bass Fishing Charters. A family entertainment center featuring an 18 hole Mini-Golf course, Slick Track Go-Karts, Splashing Bumper Boats, 2 Multi-Speed dual Softball/Baseball batting cages and 4 place Bungy Jump. Also offers daily beach parking with access to their Bayside Beach, Kayak & Stand Up Board rentals and local Fishing Charters.
Stroll the Newort Cliff Walk (Free)
While you walk this 3.5-mile rocky trail in Newport, imagine living in the opulent mansions. Memorial Boulevard and Eustis Avenue.
Walk along spectacular ocean views at Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
Stop at the visitor center first. Walking the nearly 3 miles of trails in Middletown, experience several habitats where animals and plants can be observed and photographed. The refuge is home to the second largest wintering population of harlequin ducks on the Atlantic coast (Nov-March).
Swim at Middletown’s Beaches
Sachuest Beach, locally known as Second Beach, is a South facing, mile long, family friendly beach with good surf and great sand. Third Beach is a family friendly East facing beach. Third Beach has fewer waves and overlooks Third Beach Harbor located near the mouth of the Sakonnet River.
Spend the day or night at the Rose Island Lighthouse
This Newport lighthouse is scheduled to reopen in April 2019 after repairs and renovations. Day visits and overnight stays available. Guides provide historical information. Tour the lighthouse museum where each room is fully restored just as if keepers of old still lived there. Not recommended for children under age 5.
Cruise the boardwalk at Easton’s Beach in Newport
Enjoy the carousel, water slide, skateboard park, and playground. Located on Memorial Boulevard at the start of the Cliff Walk, a ¾-mile-long surf beach that also offers musical shows and Beach Idol.
Camp and hike at Fort Getty Park and Campground
Located in Jamestown, Fort Getty Park is a town-owned facility that is 41 acres in size. It is primarily a recreational-vehicle campground that also contains a tent camping area. The Park has old fortifications, a rocky beach, a public boat ramp, walking trails, a wildlife observation platform, views of the Jamestown Bridge, and a dock.
Visit a former military fort with a history dating back over two centuries at Fort Wetherill State Park in Jamestown. (Free)
Fort Wetherill State Park, situated upon 100-foot-high granite cliffs across the water from Fort Adams State Park, is a former coastal defense battery and training camp. Known for its spectacular view of Newport Harbor and the East Passage of Narragansett Bay, Fort Wetherill has been a popular sight for viewing the numerous Tall Ship Events and America’s Cup Races.
Fly a kite at Breton State Park along Ocean Drive in Newport
The park is located at the point of land where Narragansett Bay meets the Atlantic, midway along renowned Ocean Drive. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, fishing, or just relaxing with the cool breezes and majestic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Check out the tide pools at Beavertail State park in Jamestown. (Free)
Sightseeing and can be done from the comfort of a vehicle, in one of the four overlooks, or on foot, from the rocky coastline. Provides saltwater fishing, hiking trails, and a naturalist program. It is a premiere site for marine education with tide pools accessible for ecology or marine biology field studies.
Have a picnic at Goddard State Park in Warwick. (Free)
The park offers spacious lawns, fields, and forested areas with a variety of trees from all over the world, a nine hole golf course, an equestrian show area, 18 miles of bridle trails, 355 picnic tables, 11 game fields, and a performing arts center for weddings, concerts, picnics and special events.
Have a picnic and swim at Roger W. Wheeler State Beach in Narragansett
This beach includes a pavilion and concession building, 63 picnic tables, coin-operated hot showers, a paved parking lot, children’s playground, a life-guard tower, and an environmental educational area. Life guards on duty 9 am to 6 pm (seasonally, weather permitting).
Swim, fish, play, or go boating at Ninigret Park in Charlestown
Established in 1970, Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge consists of 858 acres of diverse upland and wetland habitats including grasslands, shrub lands, wooded swamps, and freshwater ponds. Here is a list of visitor activities and list of year-round events. Also offers Wildlife Wednesdays Lecture Series.
Shows & Movies
See films from around the world at the Providence Children’s Film Festival
Presents the best of independent and international children’s cinema to inspire, delight, educate and connect a diverse community of children and families from Rhode Island and throughout New England. Happens every February.
See a kid’s show at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium (The VETS) in Providence
With just over 1,900 seats, it is acclaimed for its unique combination of size and intimacy. The theater celebrates flawless acoustics, a breathtaking proscenium stage and an exquisite interior.
See a Broadway musical at Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC)
In Providence, PPAC presents a full roster of touring Broadway theatricals and contemporary engagements. With 3100 seats, it is the second largest theatre of its kind in the country and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
See Shakespeare in the Park (Free)
Colonial Theater of Rhode Island brings Shakespeare to Wilcox Park in Westerly during the summer.
See a music or theater show at Stadium Theater Performing Arts Center
Built in Woonsocket in 1926, the Stadium Theater and is one of the few remaining examples of the majestic Vaudeville Theatre era in operation today. Since being restored in 2001, it has developed into a community center where touring theater and music shows share the stage with community theatre, dance, and local music.
Watch Movies on the Block outside on Thursday evenings (Free)
From June-September in downtown Providence.
Watch a film at the Rustic Tri-View Drive-In in North Smithfield
Open May through September.
Watch an IMAX movie at Providence Place Mall
Be wowed by the giant screen and possibly see a 3D movie!
Watch children’s films at Cinemaworld in Lincoln every morning, all summer long
Free films, seven days a week, all summer long! Every day at 10am, Cinemaworld features a family-friendly G or PG rated film, with new movies premiering on Fridays. Children are free. Adults are just $2 or free with the donation of a non-perishable food item to benefit the local food pantries.
Enjoy fairy tales with the Kaleidoscope Children’s Summer Theater
A professional touring theatre company based in Cranston, which offers educational performances in schools and fairy tale musicals in theaters throughout southern New England. On Tuesdays in July and August at the Scottish Rite Auditorium in Cranston. Also shows at Theatre by the Sea in Wakefield.
Sports & Active Activities
Tailgate at the Newport International Polo Series
Pack a picnic and head to Glen Farms in Portsmouth. During time-outs, kids run on to the field to stomp down divots. Saturday evenings in summer.
Play all kinds of golf at Mulligan’s Island Golf & Entertainment
From a 60 stall driving range to Scottish designed 9-Hole Pitch n Putt Course, to Mini-Golf and Par-3 Executive Golf Course – complete with water hazards and sand traps, they have it all! The 64-acre Island escape also features baseball and softball batting cages and accommodations for group events.
Play golf indoors at Westerly Virtual Golf in Westerly
Leagues offered, indoor golf simulation equipment, BYOB. All levels of golfers.
Knock down pins using our Duckpin Bowling KidoGuide
No actual ducks involved! Our list offers duckpin bowling alleys located in Rhode Island.
Go for a ride on a Rhode Island bike path (Free)
On the East Bay bike path from Providence to Bristol, make ice cream stops in Riverside, Warren, and Bristol.
Ride the rails with Rail Explorers
Rail Explorers offers a scenic ride along historic Aquidneck Island and spectacular Narragansett Bay on custom built pedal-powered vehicles. The eco-friendly business is all about rail bikes and aims to provide an amazing journey using existing railroad tracks. The Rail Explorers are easy to pedal, the terrain is mostly flat and the ride is relaxing and enjoyable. Everyone can enjoy this activity: couples young and old, groups of friends, and families of all ages and abilities. The pedal powered Explorers provide a smooth and comfortable adventure suitable for all. Available from mid-May through October, the tour takes approximately 2 Hours.
Watch some baseball with the Ocean State Waves
The Ocean State Waves is a member of the New England College Baseball League. Players come from top collegiate programs throughout the country. In just five years, the Ocean State Waves have had 29 players get drafted or sign a pro-contract.
Find hikes with Rhode Island Families in Nature (Free)
Choose from almost four dozen trails throughout Rhode Island.
Climb high at Central Rock Gym
An indoor climbing, fitness, and community experience through state of the art facilities, expansive climbing walls, cutting edge fitness equipment, professional yoga classes, and various youth programs and summer camps.
Go boating with REI Boathouse at Lincoln Woods
Looking for classes, outings, or kayak rentals at Lincoln Woods State Park? They provide instructional classes on kayaking and paddleboarding.
Attend a PawSox youth clinic
Takes place before the Red Sox minor league baseball team’s game in Pawtucket. The clinic is free. Tickets required for game.
Learn about baseball at K R Baseball Academy
Coin-operated Iron Mike batting cages are set up to offer four different hitting options. Programs combine an experienced staff with a structured teaching agenda that challenges students while encouraging them to have fun and enjoy the game of baseball.
Cheer on the P-Bruins at a hockey game in Providence
This is the farm team for the Boston Bruins so you never know what future stars you might see.
Run around with Warzone Paintball & Airsoft
35+ acres of trenches, villages, forts and bunkers. They cater to bachelor parties, birthday parties and corporate events and also to individual players who want to come join in the fun. Warzone can provide all the equipment and ammo you need for an exciting day at the field.
Climb the walls at Rock Spot Climbing in Wakefield and Lincoln
Group instruction, beginner packages and private instruction. All ages and abilities. Rentals and sales.
Play paintball at Providence Indoor Paintball
Kids as young as 10 can play here. Offers birthday parties with up to three hours of play time. For kid’s parties, they turn the speed of the paintball markers down to lessen the impact and have a referee on the field.
Go fast at RI Indoor Karting Entertainment Center
Buckle Up! R1 Indoor Karting has a super long, custom designed, European style asphalt track for you to enjoy. Plus, bowling and billiards, events and parties, Fuel restaurant/bar, and an Axe Bar for anyone 16 and older.
Jump for joy at Skyzone
Indoor trampoline park in East Providence.
Jump high at Launch
Indoor trampoline park in Warwick
Roll to the tunes at United Skates of America
Roller skating, learn-to-skate, laser tag, rock climbing, game room, birthday parties, group events, summer and winter camps. 75 New Road, Rumford.
Get scared at Monster Mini Golf in Warwick
Offers mini-golf, an arcade, laser tag, virtual reality, bowling, laser maze, ropes course, and a snack bar. Located at 33 Lambert Lind Hwy (Route 5), Warwick.
Get your sports on at Teamworks Warwick
For more than 20 years, Teamworks Warwick has been providing fun, family-oriented activities for participants ages 2-60+. All manner of sports offered.
Zoom at the Seekonk Grand Prix
Go-kart racing for all ages, game room, ropes course, mini-golf, bumper boats and cars, character nights, and birthday parties in Seekonk, MA.
Winter Activities
Skate away at Gurney’s Ice Skating Rink
Skate by the sea at this outdoor skating rink. This year (2020) guests and locals are encouraged to “Donate to Skate” by bringing any item of clothing to receive complimentary skate rentals. They are partnering with the Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Rhode Island.
See the seals with a Save the Bay Seal Watch Cruise
Newport and Westerly seal watch cruises. Don’t miss your chance to see the Rhode Island state mammal at play. Runs during colder months.
Go ice skating indoors at the Cranston Veterans Memorial Ice Rink
Public skating times change regularly at this Cranston rink so check the website for details.
Ski and snow tube at Yawgoo Ski Area & Snow Tubing Park
The Ski Area is operational early December through late March and the Snow Tubing Park opens later into December through March. They offer snow sport lessons
Skate downtown at the The BankNewport City Center in Providence
Provides outdoor ice skating for adults and children plus a Subway concession area rink-side. The Bank Newport City Center is available in the winter for private events on full ice, corporate and social outings, school groups, and in the summer as an event center. Go ice skating, learn-to-skate, and ride bumper cars outdoors in winter.
Go maple sugaring at Spring Hill Sugar House in Richmond
Founded in 1980, Spring Hill Sugar House is a 22 acre farm. Open weekends in late February-March for Maple syrup demonstrations. (Be sure to call ahead – dates change for this. 401-788-7431) In fall, pick your own pumpkins, fresh pressed apple cider, maple syrup, and corn maze.
Play and learn skating at the Boss Ice Arena
The arena offers numerous public programs year-round, catering many different types of interests including a Learn to Skate program, Public Skating, Open Hockey, Figure Skating, Stick and Puck, Rock and Skate and an array of in-house clinics.
Go skating at The Washington Trust Community Skating Center in Westerly
The Washington Trust Community Skating Center, located in downtown Westerly, offers 12,000 square feet of real ice on a 100’ X 120’ rink. Offers skate rentals.
Learn about everything made with maple at Uncle Buck’s Sugar House in Hopkinton
Tours, demonstrations and maple productions including maple cream, maple syrup, maple candy, and kettle corn.
