Keep the Kids Entertained & Make Family Memories
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but families certainly won’t run out of things to do here. From beautiful beaches and state parks to museums, zoos, farms and exciting indoor attractions, the Ocean State offers activities for children of all ages. Whether you’re looking for an inexpensive afternoon outdoors, an educational adventure or a place to let the kids burn off some energy, there are plenty of family-friendly options to explore.
Spend a Day at the Beach
Rhode Island’s beaches are among the easiest and most enjoyable places to spend a day with children. Families can build sandcastles, search for shells, play in the shallow water and enjoy a picnic while taking in the scenery.
Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly is a popular choice for families, with plenty of room for children to play along the shoreline. The beach is located at 257 Atlantic Avenue, Westerly, RI Save 10% on select Rhode Island stores when you sign up for our free online monthly magazine.Subscribe For Free & Save 10%
Scarborough State Beaches in Narragansett also offer beautiful ocean views, sandy shores and opportunities for a traditional Rhode Island beach day. The address is 870 Ocean Road, Narragansett, RI 02882.
For families with younger children, arriving earlier in the day can make it easier to find parking and a comfortable spot near the water. Don’t forget sunscreen, water, snacks and plenty of sand toys.
Explore Roger Williams Park Zoo…1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, RI 02907
A visit to Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence can turn an ordinary afternoon into an adventure. Children can see animals from around the world while walking through the zoo’s outdoor exhibits and learning about wildlife and conservation.
The zoo features a variety of animals, making it interesting for children of different ages. Younger kids often enjoy seeing familiar favorites, while older children can learn more about habitats, animal behavior and conservation.
The surrounding Roger Williams Park provides even more opportunities for family fun. After visiting the zoo, families can explore the park, enjoy a picnic or simply take a walk through the beautiful grounds.
Discover the Rhode Island Children’s Museum…100 South Street, Providence, RI 02903
For younger children, the Rhode Island Children’s Museum in Providence is a great place to combine play and learning. Interactive exhibits encourage children to explore, create, experiment and use their imaginations.
Instead of simply looking at exhibits, children can become part of the experience. Hands-on activities allow them to investigate science, art, nature and everyday life in ways that feel more like play than school.
The museum is particularly useful on rainy or extremely hot days when families need an indoor activity. Parents can participate alongside their children, making the visit an experience the whole family can enjoy.
Visit the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium…1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, RI 02907
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Children fascinated by dinosaurs, animals, science and outer space may enjoy visiting the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium in Providence. The museum offers exhibits that can introduce children to natural history and the world around them.
A planetarium show can be an especially exciting experience for kids who are curious about stars and space. Looking up at a simulated night sky provides an opportunity to learn about planets, constellations and the universe.
The museum is also located in Roger Williams Park, making it easy to combine several activities into one family outing.
Spend the Day at a Rhode Island Farm
Rhode Island’s farms provide plenty of opportunities for children to experience the outdoors and learn where food comes from. Depending on the season, families can pick fruit, visit farm animals, explore farm stands and participate in special activities.
Confreda Greenhouses & Farms in Cranston is a popular family destination where visitors can find seasonal produce, plants and special activities throughout the year.
2150 Scituate Avenue, Cranston, RI 02921
Salisbury Farm in Johnston is another destination for families looking for seasonal farm fun and locally grown products.
11 Peck Hill Road, Johnston, RI 02919
Fall is especially fun at local farms, when children can pick apples, choose pumpkins, take hayrides and enjoy seasonal treats. Some farms also offer corn mazes and other activities designed specifically for families.
A farm visit can be both entertaining and educational. Children can see crops growing, learn about agriculture and experience a side of Rhode Island that they might not encounter in everyday life.
Get Outside at Rhode Island State Parks
Families looking for inexpensive entertainment can head to one of Rhode Island’s state parks. Parks provide opportunities for hiking, walking, fishing, picnicking, biking and simply enjoying nature.
Lincoln Woods State Park in Lincoln is a popular destination for families. Its trails, picnic areas and outdoor spaces provide plenty of room for children to explore.
2 Manchester Print Works Road, Lincoln, RI 02865
Beavertail State Park in Jamestown is another beautiful choice. Families can enjoy spectacular ocean views, explore the area around the lighthouse and have a picnic while watching boats travel through Narragansett Bay.
670 Ocean Avenue, Jamestown, RI 02835
For children who love adventure, spending time outdoors can be just as exciting as visiting an indoor attraction.
Take the Kids to Block Island
A trip to Block Island can feel like a vacation without leaving Rhode Island. Families can take the ferry, explore the island and spend the day visiting beaches, walking around town and enjoying the scenery.
Children may especially enjoy riding bicycles around the island, exploring the beaches and searching for interesting shells and rocks. Families can also stop for ice cream or a casual meal before heading back to the mainland.
The main ferry terminal is located at 1 Water Street, Block Island, RI 02807. Because transportation requires planning, families should check ferry schedules before making the trip.
Enjoy Indoor Play and Entertainment
When the weather doesn’t cooperate, Rhode Island has plenty of indoor options for energetic children. Indoor play centers, trampoline parks, bowling alleys, arcades and movie theaters can provide hours of entertainment.
These activities are particularly useful during rainy weekends or winter months when outdoor play isn’t practical. Older children may enjoy bowling, arcade games or indoor climbing, while younger kids can burn off energy at an indoor play center.
Families can also look for special children’s programs offered by local libraries, recreation centers and community organizations. Story hours, craft programs, movie afternoons and seasonal celebrations are often inexpensive or free.
Make Family Memories in Rhode Island
One of the best things about living in or visiting Rhode Island is how easy it is to combine several activities into one family outing. A morning at the zoo can be followed by lunch and a walk through Roger Williams Park. A trip to the beach can become an afternoon of exploring a nearby town. A farm visit can be combined with seasonal treats and a scenic drive.
Families don’t have to spend a lot of money to have fun, either. Parks, beaches, hiking trails, libraries and many community events provide affordable ways to spend time together.
Whether your children love animals, science, the beach, sports, farms or simply having room to run and play, Rhode Island offers countless opportunities for family fun. From Providence to the coastline and from the state’s parks to its farms, there is always another place to discover and another adventure waiting just around the corner.
