We’ve made it to our third stop in the According to the Kids travel series, and this time, it’s all about America’s smallest state with one of the biggest personalities: Rhode Island. After the bright lights of New York and the sweet charm of Connecticut, we weren’t quite sure what to expect in Rhode Island. But between ocean views, hidden birds’ nests, and the best root beer floats around, this state delivered.
If you’re looking for places to visit in Rhode Island with kids, here’s what stood out most to each of us.
Sam’s Pick: The Bird’s Nest at the International Tennis Hall of Fame
While the International Tennis Hall of Fame celebrates legendary athletes and iconic tennis moments, Sam’s favorite moment was more unexpected: spotting a bird nesting quietly in a window ledge. Sometimes the best part of a museum visit isn’t what’s in the exhibits, it’s what you discover while exploring. (He did like the trophies too.)
👉 Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame
Paige’s Pick: International Tennis Hall of Fame (also!)
Paige enjoyed soaking in the elegance of the grounds—the ivy-covered buildings, the vintage courts, and the museum’s blend of sports and style. She especially loved the interactive exhibits that let you test your tennis reaction time. And yes, she too appreciated the bird sighting.
Andrew’s Favorite: Brick Alley Pub
Andrew will tell you this was the best meal of the trip. With its cozy, colorful atmosphere and a menu that goes from nachos to New England seafood, Brick Alley Pub hit the sweet spot. His favorite? The root beer float. A classic done just right.
👉 Check out Brick Alley Pub
Mom & Dad’s Picks: Cliff Walk & Coastal Architecture
We couldn’t get enough of the Cliff Walk, where sweeping ocean views meet historic mansions in the most dramatic way. It’s a 3.5-mile coastal trail that gave us the perfect blend of fresh air, exercise, and eye candy. Newport’s architecture—with its ornate Gilded Age mansions and charming cottages—had us pulling over for photos more than once.
👉 Explore the Cliff Walk
👉 Newport Mansions Info
If You’re Planning a Trip to Rhode Island…
Don’t let the size fool you. Rhode Island is packed with family-friendly fun, especially in Newport. Whether your crew prefers museums and mansions or pub food and wildlife spotting, there’s something here for everyone. All kinds of spaces and places to visit in Rhode Island with kids!
Here are a few helpful resources:
Final Thoughts
Rhode Island surprised us in the best way—with stunning views, unexpected quiet moments, and food that made the kids cheer. As our According to the Kids adventures continue, we’re learning that every state has its own story—and when we let the kids tell it, we remember the little things that make the biggest memories.
Next stop? You’ll have to wait and see…
