Rhode Island may not be the biggest, but it doesn’t need to be. There are plenty of events, activities, and beautiful sights to see. Hidden gems like here, too, and you don’t have to pay much money to see them. With our list of fifteen family activities to do cheaply, you can see everything Rhode Island offers without breaking the bank.
Biomes Marine Biology Center
Children and adults alike will be engrossed and impressed by the variety of life. This area’s difference from others like it is that it lets you interact with the wildlife—not behind a fence, but directly. They host demonstrations and feedings regularly so that people can see them, and they’re specifically hosted for that purpose. Kids love this, and families have a lot of fun. You have to pay for a ticket, but there are countless activities for you to enjoy with no time limit.
Dunes Park
Westerly’s Dune Park is designed solely for families and is one of the best beaches in Rhode Island. The bathrooms are clean (a true gift), you can shower and hit the snack bars, and there are lifeguards. Your family is completely safe here. You can get a cab to the beach to avoid the parking fee, but if you’re willing to pay the fee and spend around $20, you can spend the night at the resorts available at the park.
Greater Fall River Children’s Museum
Children’s museums are extraordinary—they are free or cost very little if they charge at all. This one does, but if you wait to go on weekdays after 3 PM, you’ll only have to pay three dollars for admission. You can do anything here, and it’s immersive and innovative. Check out the LEGO rooms, or if you’re musically inclined, explore the music rooms. There is something for everyone, and it’s a lot of fun.
Roger Williams Park
This park has a planetarium, a zoo, and botanical gardens. You get your bang for your buck here because admission is only two to three dollars, depending on age. Some events have free admission, so be sure to check their calendars. They’ve also got Little Free Libraries and playgrounds for your children.
Pawtucket Park
The park in Pawtucket is clean and well-managed. It is incredibly well-received in the summer, hosting free performances, and the Veteran’s Memorial Amphitheater is one of a kind. The concerts attract enormous crowds. This is a great way to spend time with your family and relax while not having to spend much money.
Audubon
This education center allows your children to learn about sustainability and how to care for the environment. You can see diverse wildlife through various activities, and they have community events—including camps and nature studies. Audubon also has a family day every month on the first weekend. Fear not if you are worried about activities for your child’s age; they have kid-friendly options, too!
Farmer’s Markets
Farmer’s markets are fun and can provide enjoyable entertainment for families. You’ll find fresh food, homemade crafts, and more. Likewise, seek out the craft fairs where many people sell local items, putting money back into the community while avoiding fast fashion or mass-produced pieces. Not to mention that farmer’s markets are a great place to learn about the environment and sustainability.
Shark Bay
Shark Bay is a noteworthy choice for those who dislike traditional outdoor activities but love the sea and the living world. The area is covered with coral reef displays, which visitors love because they’re made entirely from recycled materials. A ticket costs only fifteen dollars, allowing a family to enjoy a full day together.
Brown University’s Ladd Observatory
The observatory is found at the uppermost point in the entire city. If you want to see the stars, go on Tuesdays. Admission is free, and astronomers from the physics department will point out constellations. It’s a great way to teach your children about the stars and an excellent opportunity to learn more yourself.
Providence Public Library
The architectural tour of this building is free at 11 AM on Wednesdays. You’ll enter through the Washington St. entrance. The tour takes about sixty minutes and is well worth the trip. They offer free resources, incredible learning opportunities, and a variety of activities, so keep an eye on the calendar.
Historic Tour
The Province Walks offer self-directed historical tours, with phenomenal architecture at every point. Check out Benefit Street to see some of the country’s most beautiful colonial buildings. The architecture is stunning and unlike anything you’ve seen before. The city was established in 1636 as a place for freedom and equality where people have a conscience.
RISD Museum
This museum regularly hosts exhibitions that the public is almost always invited to see. The exhibitions range from amazing textiles to important historical moments, and each area is diverse. Although the displays require a ticket on regular days, they’re free on Sundays. With a collection of more than 90,000 objects ranging from ancient to modern, there’s plenty to explore—and if you have a bit more pocket money, check out the workshops!
Purgatory Chasm
A natural wonder that’s constantly changing, Purgatory Chasm is a beautiful sight. Between two cliffs, you’ll see a deep fissure that reaches into the seawater below. Glaciers may have created the chasm thousands of years ago, but erosion continues to shape it. Known for its beauty and depth, it’s 70 feet deep, and it’s not recommended that you climb or jump—since a fall or jump could be fatal. Instead, enjoy the easy hiking trails, which are safer for families.
Lincoln Woods
If you love to take a dip or see stunning sights, this is the area for you. Enter via the Breakneck Hill entrance to see the breathtaking covered bridge. Thousands of people come here yearly to enjoy the sights and have a great time with their families. If you visit in winter, be careful of the ice. During horse riding season, you can enjoy rides all day.
Fort Adams
Getting inside the fort itself and doing a tour can be expensive, and if you’re trying to stay on a budget, this may not fit the bill. However, it makes the list because of all the activities you can do outside the fort for free or for little money—such as picnics, games, and other outdoor activities. Just get there early to beat the crowds.
Join The Fun
Rhode Island has so much to offer for families. Parks, libraries, excellent museums, and more await. With our 15 places to see, you’ll have the best time exploring and having fun with your family. Take lots of pictures and make fond memories with your kids; it will be a time you will never forget.
