When is the Best Time to Visit Rhode Island?

The best time to visit Rhode Island might shock you. It’s in the fall between the months of September and October! This is for numerous reasons, including the great fall foliage, cooler weather, and smaller crowds than those you’d experience if you were to visit during the summer.

The fall in Rhode Island is truly the best time because of the beautiful colors and because there is so much to do there, including picking apples, going to corn mazes, and even heading out on a road trip across the state. During this time of year, the temperature is perfect sweater weather, so what’s not to love? On average, the temperature will generally be in the high 40s or 50s but can drop depending on how late into the season it is. 

Learn more about what it’s like to visit during other times of the year below.

Best Things to do in Rhode Island in Winter

Lighthouse by the water surrounded by snow.

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Best Things to do in Rhode Island in Spring

People walking near a lake in the middle of a city.

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Best Things to do in Rhode Island in Summer

Aerial view of a town near the ocean with a giant beach.
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  • See all the mansions that Newport is famous for by going on a Newport RI Mansion Tour! You won’t want to miss eleven different mansions, including The Breakers, Rosecliff, and Hunter House. Even if you don’t like architecture, you’ll be in awe at some of these homes.
  • Relax and catch some rays at a Rhode Island beach! Some of the best spots to go for beaches include Newport, Block Island, Middletown, Narragansett, and Westerly. Pretty much anywhere near the coast!
  • Have the absolute best Rhode Island summer! Get wet and go wild at Yawgoo Valley, visit the Capitol, wine and dine in Newport, and even quench your thirst at the vineyards (seriously, these are a must-do).
  • Step back in time by heading to historical sites throughout the state! This can be a great way to learn more about Rhode Island’s history. Even if you’re not a history buff, the historic sites are pretty cool and interesting.
  • Hit up the Rhode Island state parks, which are highly underrated. You can even camp under the stars at some of them with just a tent, or rent a lean-to if you’re feeling really adventurous!
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Best Things to do in Rhode Island in Fall

Capitol building surrounded by fall foliage.

  • Head to Pippin Orchard or Dame Farm & Orchards, some of the best places to go apple picking in Rhode Island! Save yourself some money by buying a whole bag that you can just fill with apples as you pick – you won’t regret it.
  • Go to a pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin to carve! This is a super fun activity to do for families visiting the area. Some of the patches even have hayrides and other fun activities that you won’t want to miss out on.
  • Time yourself and your friends to see how long it takes you to escape a corn maze! There are Scary Acres in Hope, Salisbury Farm in Johnston, and even Cucumber Hill Farm in Foster.
  • Go on a ghost tour, see the foliage on a fall foliage cruise, or even attend Jack O Lantern Spectacular, some of the top things to do during fall in Rhode Island.
  • Visit Newport, which is lovely year-round! There’s so much fun there, with activities like the Cliff Walk, the Ocean Drive, and even the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
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