Top Tours & Activities in Rhode Island

Enjoy a historic scenic tour on a spacious shuttle bus boasting views of this iconic ocean city and her charming neighborhoods. Visit The Elms Mansion, which is used to film the popular HBO series, The Gilded Age. (When The Elms is closed guests will visit The Marble House, including the dates of November 3-21, 2025.) Throughout this tour not only will you learn the history of Newport, but you’ll also learn about some of her ghosts who still call Newport home today. We’ll also discuss the history of how pirates came to Newport only to meet their demise. This tour will take you throughout time where each century made its impact and stamped its mark, making Newport one of the most fascinating cities to visit!

Enjoy a 12-minute Mansion Tour of Newport, RI for groups up to 3 passengers. A truly unique perspective above the treasures of Newport awaits you on this tour. Take in captivating views of Aquidneck Island, Rose Island, the mighty Newport Bridge, and Ocean Drive. Soar over miles of the most beautiful coastline in the country. Enjoy breathtaking views of Rosecliff Mansion, Marble House, The Elms and many other famous residences. Get up close and personal with Hammersmith Farm, the Kennedy’s Newport summer home, and of course experience The Breakers, all from your front row seat in the sky.

Explore Newport's Revolutionary War history on this engaging walking tour, Road to Independence, which takes you to iconic sites like Washington Square and the Colony House. Discover Newport's pivotal role during the lead-up to the American Revolution, including European occupations, George Washington’s visit, and the city’s fight for freedom. Perfect for history buffs, families, and curious travelers, this tour offers an immersive experience filled with insider knowledge, captivating stories, and a deeper understanding of America’s path to independence!

Gansett Cruises offers a comfortable, entertaining and informative tour of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. Our vessel, Gansett, is a wooden 1969 classic lobster fishing boat that has been beautifully restored and maintained. A complimentary Mimosa is included. We also offer cash bar options and local favorites such as Del's frozen soft Lemonade and Yacht Club Soda available onboard. Sit back and relax while your Captain, Crew and Tour Guide take you through Newport's rich coastal history.

Board our 14 passenger black luxury van at 23 Americas Cup Ave in Newport, Rhode Island and enjoy Newport’s best narrated scenic tour in luxury and comfort! Our tour features a 90 minute narrated tour covering over 150 points of interest followed by an additional 90 minute tour inside The Breakers mansion provided by the Newport Preservation Society. Approximately 180 minutes later, you’ll return to your original pickup location at 23 Americas Cup Ave. Parking is available at the transit center lot for a fee.

This walk will acquaint you with the layout of Newport while telling the story of how it became what it is now. As a private tour, you can customize what you would like to see or not see, but generally we start along the harbor- Newport's reason for existence- and then make our way through town along some of the more off-the-beaten paths. You'll hear how Newport went from being one of the most thriving and active Colonial cities to the getaway for 19th century Industrialists to the beautiful spot it is today. While the original design of this tour is not particularly wheelchair friendly, it can easily be adapted to suit your needs. Please let us know if you have mobility concerns when booking your tour.

Walk through Providence's dark side! The eerie writings H.P. Lovecraft- one of the most significant supernatural horror fiction authors of the 20th century- are inexplicably bound to his hometown of Providence. This tour walks in the tortured author's footsteps through his traumatic upbringing and favorite haunts; guests also meet some of the fictional characters that Lovecraft wrote into the city's fabric through dramatic retellings of his creepiest tales. But Lovecraft isn't the only author that ambled the city's centuries-old sidewalks: Sarah Helen Whitman was an eccentric local spiritualist and poet who was briefly engaged to master of the macabre Edgar Allan Poe. This tour also explores her life and relives the couple's whirlwind- and doomed- romance.

Learn 3 eras of American history in this one-hour walking tour on the grounds of Smith’s Castle, even when the museum is closed! Bring your smartphone and meet the FreshMaps team to get your “digital clue packet” (app download and internet access required). Visit this colonial American treasure, built in 1678, and learn its rich history from pre-colonial times to today. Our digital story map delivers videos at several points around the property, then offers “challenges” – trivia, puzzles, and mini games that make learning history fun! You’ll learn about: – pre-colonial indigenous culture – early colonial trading & gardening – King Philips War stories – Revolutionary War connections – Renovations through the years to this small house museum

Calling all kids, dads, moms, grandparents, college students, and other kids at heart! Hop on the lively Fun Bus and join us for an entertaining, fast-paced exploration of our capital city! As we move around Providence, you will learn about the people and places while you search for clues and win prizes!

Avoid the stress of waiting for taxis or shuttle transfers and instead ensure peace of mind with this convenient private transfer to/from the Providence TF Green Airport (PVD) and/or Newport area. This airport transportation service operates to/from Newport, Providence, Warwick, Smithfield, North Kingstown or Bristol accommodations. We track flights for possible arrival time changes. And we do all possible so you reach the airport relaxed and with plenty of time before your flight!

Localgrapher is the largest network of professional photographers and videographers with more than 600 destinations around the globe! Book your private photographer and guide in Rhode Island to capture your picture-perfect moments while visiting amazing sites! SOLO TRAVELERS Fancy an insta-perfect photoshoot from your Rhode Island vacation? Localgrapher has years of experience with fashion and solo travel photography! Make your memories last a lifetime and share them on social media or display them in your home to receive an avalanche of compliments. COUPLES If you are about to propose to your loved one, honeymooning or just exploring what Rhode Island has to offer, put the selfie stick aside and let Localgrapher’s superb photographers take care of the photos for you both. FAMILIES & GROUPS A family trip, wedding, bachelorette party or grand get-together? Forget missing someone from pictures, we’ll capture them all!

Explore the rich flavors and fascinating history of Newport, Rhode Island on this unique food tour. Enjoy gourmet offerings from three local eateries while uncovering stories of Newport’s past, from its early days with the Narragansett Indians to its status as a Gilded Age playground. Enjoy a full meal with wine pairings and immerse yourself in a culinary experience that highlights the best of Newport’s dining scene. With small group sizes, personalized attention is guaranteed, making this tour perfect for food enthusiasts and history buffs alike. - Savor a full meal at 3 local eateries, complete with wine pairings - Learn about Newport’s intriguing history from its origins to the Gilded Age - Small group sizes ensure a personalized and immersive experience - Dietary accommodations available, including vegetarian and gluten-free options

Savor the flavors of Providence’s Little Italy on the Federal Hill Dinner Stroll, an intimate guided tour that takes you through the heart of one of New England's finest culinary neighborhoods. Enjoy a multi-course Italian dinner featuring antipasto, house-made pasta entrées, and delectable desserts, all while walking between the city’s iconic restaurants. With food, tax, and tips included, your only task is to relax and choose your favorite drinks at each stop. This 2.5 to 3-hour experience is perfect for food lovers and requires a minimum of four guests to run. - Explore renowned dining spots like Cassarino’s and Trattoria Appia. - Indulge in a 3-course meal paired with optional wine or cocktails. - Enjoy a guided stroll led by a knowledgeable host celebrating local traditions. - Convenient valet parking available at the meeting point for ease and comfort.

Our company has been a member of the Providence community for nearly two decades. Our company is a walking, haunted history tour of Providence's College Hill neighborhood. Our guides lead guests by lantern light as we explore the history, mystery, legends, and lore of our city. Learn about different types of hauntings, our spirits' most current activities, and the dark tales that have been forgotten over time. Our tour is a wonderful blend of history and mystery, perfect for believers and skeptics alike! The tour includes a portion of College Hill. We have chosen the most walkable route, but it is indeed a hill and our streets are old. Please wear shoes that are comfortable and stable. It is also outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather.

Join us for this elegant stroll through time! Allow our historically costumed, local guides to lead you down the most beautifully preserved street in all of Providence, RI- Benefit Street! Guests will learn the history of some of Providence's most prominent residents and families, including the Dorr family, Roger Williams, and the Hoppin family. See architectural icons including the John Brown House, the First Baptist Church, the Fleur de Lys Building, and the original State House. Learn about the events that shaped our state and nation, including the suffrage movements (yes, there were two!) and the Civil War. This tour will leave you feeling more connected to the city's past and with a greater appreciation for Providence. Benefit Street is a mostly flat street and is suitable for people of most levels of health and fitness.

Westerly, Rhode Island’s haunting past has been well documented for centuries – the small community may be familiar to most for it’s proximity to the beach but Westerly has tales of intrigue sure to spend a tingle up your spine. From deadly shipwrecks, cursed pirate treasure and actual witches, there’s no shortage of dark legends in Rhode Island’s hamlet on the Pawcatuck River. On this tour, you’ll hear tales of the Devil’s visit to Westerly, the spectral light formed by one of New England’s worst shipwrecks, tales of two souls trapped in one body and paranormal activity at Westerly’s known establishments. The 19th century industrial community roots run strong through a town whose importance was forged in the colonial era. Walk through the the bustling landscape of downtown Westerly and the banks of the Pawcatuck River as we uncover the supernatural tales and legends of the notable southern Rhode Island community.

During the picture-perfect hour before sunset, you will enjoy a lightly guided tour of the Newport waterfront. Raise a glass to the end of the day with our cash bar and complimentary champagne toast. You will see many inspiring sites along our route, such as gilded age estates, islands, lighthouses and 19th century forts.

Embark on an enchanting journey through Newport's fascinating transformation from its colonial Golden Age to its opulent Gilded Age summer colony with our "Golden to Gilded Walking Tour." Discover how the city evolved and its people thrived during these dynamic periods, long before the Vanderbilts' arrival. Let our knowledgeable guides lead you through the rich history, stunning architecture, and captivating stories that define Newport’s legacy. This tour is a must for anyone interested in learning how Newport became a Gilded Age playground for the likes of the Vanderbilts and Astors.

Join this 3-hour small-group food tour to savor 6+ food tastings in one of America's top food cities with a professional guide. Sip on alcoholic beverages (if option selected) at select locations. Explore this historic capital city's architecture while listening to fascinating stories about the history and view the art and culture as you walk through the Downcity Arts District. Tour is limited to a maximum of 14 people to ensure personalized service and includes a guide offering recommendations for you to further explore on your own.  

For ages 8+ only, experience Newport's only open air trolley tour with breath-taking views of Ocean Drive and the Gilded Age mansions along Bellevue Ave and the Cliff Walk. You will also visit the inside of the Breakers mansion for an additional 90 minutes. This narrated tour covers 150 points of interest including Newport's Gilded Age, Colonial and Naval History . Shopping, dining, boat tours, lighthouses, sunsets and Newport's best activities of today are also explained See TV and movie sets come to life such as Hocus Pocus 2, HBO's The Gilded Age, and classics such as Amistad, True Lies, The Great Gatsby, and a dozen others. Your guide also explains how to navigate the city on your own and the best places to park for free.

Discover Newport’s culinary side and let your local guide lead you on this three-hour walking tour through historic neighborhood streets. Explore the evolving diverse culinary landscape of Rhode Island while gaining insight into the history, architecture and cultural components of Newport, Rhode Island. Your tastings will take you to at least 5-6 diverse local restaurants off-the-beaten-path where the locals go, away from the more touristy areas of the city. A one-of-a-kind guided food tour for Rhode Island natives and visitors alike.  

See Newport, Rhode Island from the water on an exciting sunset sail around Newport Harbor on Schooner Adirondack. You'll pass by many iconic sights, bridges, lighthouses and more during this 1.5-hour experience!

Explore the history and see the beauty of Newport on this driver narrated 3-hour trolley tour. Pass beautiful buildings and grand mansions on Ten-Mile Ocean Drive and Bellevue Avenue while learning about their stories. Included in your tour is admission into the Marble House, the elaborate estate of William K. Vanderbilt.

******FOR AGES 8+ ONLY****** This approx 3-hour tour is our scenic overview trolley tour PLUS a 90-minute visit inside the Vanderbilt Breaker's Mansion. After boarding our luxurious and comfortable trolley at Bus Platform #2 of the Newport Transit Center, your driver starts the tour with a brief history of Colonial-era downtown and explains the Gilded Era history and events that occurred over the centuries. Then you will experience breath-taking views of scenic Ocean Drive prior to seeing the strip of mansions lining Bellevue Ave. Along the route, movie and TV sets will come to life, such as HBOs The Gilded Ages. Today's happenings are also thoroughly covered such as the best dining spots, boat tours, and other fun activities. Your tour guide will detail the best way to navigate this bustling city as well as explain the Cliff Walk attractions. This tour is 160-180 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Join us aboard a classic sailboat for a 1.5-hour sunset sail in Newport! Sunset sailing is one of the best evening activities to do during your stay in Newport, RI. Enjoy a relaxing sail around Narragansett Bay on a classic sailboat and see all of Newport's iconic sights from the water including historic lighthouses and landmarks, other classic vessels, bridges, mansions, and more! We'll sail from historic downtown Newport and arrive back at the same meeting point.

Since 1962 Viking Tours has shown visitors the Newport that we know and love! Explore the history of Newport on this 3-hour trolley tour. Pass the grand mansions on the scenic Ten-Mile Ocean Drive and Bellevue Avenue while learning about their stories. Experience The Breakers, the elaborate estate of Cornelius Vanderbilt. Wheelchair Accessible Trolley Upon Request with 24 Hour Notification, please contact us to confirm ADA requirements.

Sail on a classic sailboat in Newport, RI, and enjoy a sightseeing sailing experience around Narragansett Bay. Pass by many iconic sights during the sail, including Newport's historic lighthouses and landmarks, bridges, mansions and more! We'll even see Newport Bridge, New England's largest suspension bridge from the water. Relax on deck of Schooner Madeleine, a beautiful classic sailboat, as the crew raises sail. Drinks are available for purchase onboard and guests are welcome to bring a snack. This sightseeing sailing experience is great for locals and those visiting Newport in the spring, summer and fall.

We're thrilled to kick off our 35th season of boat tours along the shores of Downtown Providence, Rhode Island in May 2026! Join us for an award-winning, historic journey through the heart of Rhode Island's capital city, and learn about Providence’s rich history, stunning architecture, and fascinating landmarks from our USCG licensed Captains and expert guides. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong local, Providence River Boat Company delivers an exceptional on-the-water experience, and the perfect way to experience Providence from a whole new perspective. Book your spots in advance, as we often sell out, and discover why we have led Providence tourism for over three decades!

A food tour with a felonious twist! The Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence is one of its hottest destinations, home to some of the best Italian food in the world. This tour will give you a smorgasbord of its best bites and drinks, from fine wines to family recipes passed down through generations. Come hungry! Every guest will also get a memento from their time on the Hill to take home with them. Spoiler alert: it's delicious! The Hill was also home to some historic characters who dabbled on the wrong side of the law. Follow the intrigue of State v. Patriarca, when a future mayor took on a mob boss; learn about the corruption which brought Rhode Island's banking system to its knees in the '90s, and about a raid on an illegal dice game that sent a Providence Police Officer through a second-story window. Guests under 21 will not be served alcohol on this tour.

Enjoy delightful food from five restaurants while strolling the historic streets of Newport, Rhode Island! Our tour begins in front of the Wave sculpture on the corner of America's Cup Ave. and Memorial Blvd..  We will talk about Newport's infamous pirates, Revolutionary War armies, the Gilded Age of mansions and industrialists, the Irish American heritage up to and including the condominium boom. Our tour will last 2.5 hours and will cover approximately 1.75 miles.  Bring your appetites, you will not be disappointed!

On this 1.5-hour tour, take in the beauty of Newport from a trolley. Listen to the history of the buildings and restored homes on Ten-Mile Ocean Drive, along with the mansions on Bellevue Avenue. Enjoy the charm of Newport on this trolley tour.

Downtown Providence is experiencing a renaissance of its historic brewing scene- join us for a walking tasting tour of Providence's local libations, including delicious beer and spirits produced right here in Rhode Island's capital city. Between tastings, learn about the incredible history of Rhode Island prohibition in a state that never ratified the Prohibition amendment. Immigrant-rich Providence found it a little too difficult to part with its Old World drinking cultures, despite what the Feds had decided was "moral." From the zealous coalition who brought it to Congress, to liquor loopholes, to famous bootleggers and undercover agents and corrupt officials, Providence's Prohibition history is rich with characters and culture you won't find anywhere else.

For ages 8+ only, this approx 90-min tour is an overview of scenic Newport. Please arrive 10 minutes before tour start time for boarding. Tours leave on time . After boarding our luxurious and comfortable trolley at platform #2 of the Newport Transit Center, your driver starts the tour with a brief history of Colonial-era downtown and explains the Gilded Age history and events that occurred over the centuries. Then you will experience breath-taking views of scenic Ocean Drive prior to seeing the strip of mansions lining Bellevue Ave. Along the route, movie and TV sets will come to life, such as HBOs The Gilded Ages., Hocus Pocus 2, The Great Gatsby, andf more. Today's happenings are also thoroughly covered such as the best dining spots, boat tours, and other fun activities. Your tour guide will detail the best way to navigate this bustling city as well as explain the Cliff Walk attractions. This tour is approximately 70-90 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Our "Discover Colonial Newport" tour offers a unique and immersive journey into Newport's vibrant colonial history. Walk the old streets as our expert guides bring to life the tales of bold entrepreneurship, rich African American heritage, and the city’s remarkable legacy of religious tolerance. This tour is not just a glimpse into the past but an exploration of the diverse and dynamic forces that shaped Newport into the historic treasure it is today. Don't miss this opportunity to uncover the stories that make our city truly special.

Start your day with a morning sightseeing sail around Newport on a classic sailboat. Sailing aboard Schooner Madeleine is a great experience for friends and family to see all the iconic waterfront sights of Newport and Narragansett Bay. Sail by the Newport Bridge, which is the largest suspension bridge in New England, see historic lighthouses, Fort Adams, Newport's mansions, Hammersmith Farm and more from the water. Watch the crew raise sail and relax on deck with a mimosa. Once the sails are up, guests will enjoy sailing around the bay powered by the wind. This is a classic Newport experience that's great for friends and family, locals and visitors that want to see all that Newport has to offer from the water!

Sunset sailing is one of the best evening activities to do during your stay in Newport, RI. Enjoy a relaxing sail around Narragansett Bay on a classic sailboat and see all of Newport's iconic sights from the water including historic lighthouses and landmarks, other classic boats and sailboats, bridges, mansions and more!

Bathed in the serenity of a softer light, the city's architecture, picturesque bridges and cobblestone walkways take on a whole new life beneath the setting sun. Climb aboard and wind down with a selection of complimentary wine and Prosecco from RI's own Gooseneck Vineyards while you experience unparalleled views of the evening skies! This is the perfect way to spend a relaxing date night, a fun girls night out, or an unforgettable after-dinner adventure in downtown Providence, Rhode Island. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind boating experience in Providence — your summer memories await! Additional Info: - This is an evening cruise ONLY. There is NO NARRATION offered during this boat ride. - This tour is ages 16+ - Not a wine drinker? Other beverages are available for purchase at The Landing.

Experience Newport's only open air trolley tour with breath-taking views of Ocean Drive and the Gilded Age mansions along Bellevue Ave and the Cliff Walk. This narrated tour covers 150 points of interest including Newport's Gilded Age, Colonial era, and Naval History . Shopping, dining, boat tours, lighthouses, sunsets and Newport's best activities of today are also explained See TV and movie sets come to life such as Hocus Pocus 2, HBO's The Gilded Age, and classics such as Amistad, True Lies, The Great Gatsby, and a dozen others. Your guide also explains how to navigate the city on your own and the best places to park for free.

Who better to tell the story of Newport's history and social and cultural scene than someone who has, and continues to be living the 'Newport life'?  What sets our Tours apart is that we provide a 'Native Newporter' as your guide and chaperone, with the lifelong experiences and knowledge only obtained from being born and raised and attending the City's public and private elementary Newportschools Newport. In short, we offer a clear, comprehensive, and fun experience of the "City-By-The-Sea".  Furthermore your Tour, your time...stops for photos and walking are not only included but encouraged as well. Thank You

Join us for this delightful tour of one of America’s favorite cities! As you relax comfortably on our climate-controlled tour bus, we will take you to the most exciting neighborhoods in Rhode Island’s capital city, and tell you the story of this special place and its most famous citizens. From America’s first hero to the mafia to the mayor, this city is filled with intriguing tales. As we travel from College Hill to Federal Hill, and Brown University to the State House, you will admire the loveliest settings in the city, and discover places you will want to go back to and explore on your own. Along the way, there will be opportunities for you to get out, take pictures, and see things up close. Enjoyed by all ages, get ready for one of the most enjoyable tours you have ever taken!

Step aboard a classic boat and get a great overview of Newport’s historic waterfront, Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. This tour is fully narrated and includes passing by all the iconic sites Newport has to offer from the water. Sightsee along the shoreline, see some Newport mansions, see Fort Adams and some of the largest private yachts that summer in Newport.

Enjoy a scenic sunset cruise aboard a classic yacht, Rum Runner II. See views of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay from the water. Relax on a comfortable, classic boat and enjoy an evening on the water with friends or family. Please note this is not a narrated cruise. Check with the ticket booth staff to purchase beverages before getting underway.

On this narrated tour, our guides will tell you about the lighthouses of Goat Island, Rose Island, Castle Hill, Lime Rock and the neighboring sites—including the harbor mansions, churches, historic Fort Adams, Jamestown, the Pell Newport Bridge, Clingstone, Hammersmith Farm and more. You may even see a local seal or two in the water! The boat's main deck is spacious and weatherproof for comfortable cruising and there is a covered top deck with clear, roll-down side curtains, for comfort and great sightseeing. Cruises depart from Bowen's Wharf, Newport.

Come aboard spacious tour boat Coastal Queen at Bowen's Wharf, Newport, and see magnificent Newport Harbor and the Narragansett Bay area sites. This narrated, 75-minute Scenic Bay Cruise tour is a great way to experience Newport from an entirely different waterfront perspective. Sit back, relax and enjoy the breathtaking views while sipping on your favorite beverages from the beautiful teak wood bar. The guides will point out and share their knowledge of the many scenic sites that make up historic Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay while you cruise by harbor estates, lighthouses, forts, yachts and more. This 57-foot, pristine tour boat offers maximum comfort and panoramic views from every seat. Coastal Queen has both a cozy and weatherproof main salon and an open-air covered top deck for catching fresh ocean breezes.‍

The story of Providence is told by its buildings. Our city's downtown blossomed during America's Gilded Age, and has well-preserved examples of Art-Deco, Beaux-Arts, Neoclassical, and many more architectural styles. But this tour goes beyond bricks and windows: peer into the past by learning some of the human stories behind the facades. This tour also explores the city's vibrant arts and cultural scene, a key ingredient of its dramatic turnaround from mid-century urban decay to regional arts center. Experience and learn the inspiration for Providence's most breathtaking murals: these massive works weave into the city’s visual landscape for a result unparalleled anywhere in the United States.

Experience Newport in style and comfort with our one-of-a-kind LSV tour. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of exploring the city in a luxurious open-air electric vehicle while learning about its rich history from a knowledgeable local guide. Our personalized itineraries and intimate group size create a truly unforgettable experience.

Walk the historic cobblestone streets of Newport's historic downtown, past quaint shops, wharfs, restaurants, and historic landmarks and discover their revolutionary history. Why choose us? Tour at your own pace and schedule Professionally produced, narrated and musically edited immersive experience Ditch the tour group and explore on your own. The technology makes it feel like the guide is next to you every step of the way. This historic adventure is smart phone guided. You go to the first stop, open the tour, enter your experience code from Viator and press play. From there you are guided turn by turn through Dallas step by step. You'll learn about the city's colonial history, its role in the American Revolution, how it became a home of freedom of religion, its historic eating spots, and its transformation into a fashionable summer resort in the 19th century. Grab your camera and your walking shoes, I’ll meet you just outside the white horse tavern.

The Olde Town Ghost Walk is Newport, Rhode Island's original and most popular paranormal walking tour. Accept no imitations or copycat local ghost tours. Join Newport, Rhode Island's #1 walking tour! Your lantern led walking tour will take you to Newport's oldest and most haunted locations. These are true ghost sightings and discovered with nearly 20 years of research and firsthand witness accounts. Bring a camera or cell phone as well. Numerous guests capture ghostly images during the tour! Don't wait, make tonight your time to Discover Newport, RI's haunted Past!