The 5 Most Stunningly Scenic Drives in Rhode Island

Don’t let size fool you. Although this lovely state is the smallest in the country, it has no shortage of beautiful scenic things to see. You don’t even have to get out of the comfort of your car to experience the wonders of this state. Here we have the five most stunning scenic drives in Rhode Island. Who knows, maybe this list may inspire you to plan your next scenic road trip!

1. Ocean Drive in Newport

The first Rhode Island scenic drive on our list is the best for a reason. Ocean Drive in Rhode Island is iconic. It’s located in Newport. Technically, there is no official scenic drive mapped out, so your starting point may vary. However, many people recommend beginning your scenic and peaceful drive at the intersection of Thames Street and Wellington Avenue. Starting at Thames Street is an excellent way to start your trip as you can admire sailboats in Newport Harbor. This lovely road is also called the Ten Mile Drive. While driving this calm and iconic road, you can pass grand houses, jaw-dropping cliffs, and sparkling blue water.

Although you don’t have to get out of the car to enjoy the drive and the scenery, you can stop at many notable points. Some excellent places to visit along your drive are Brenton Point State Park, Eisenhower House, and Rough Point.

2. Bellevue Avenue

The second incredible scenic drive in Rhode Island on our list is the drive through Bellevue Avenue. Although not as long as Ocean Drive, it’s still impressive. This is a perfect scenic drive for architecture and history lovers. Technically, Bellevue Avenue is part of Ocean Drive, but can be completed alone. It runs for about 2.5 miles and is fascinating.

Bellevue Avenue is breathtaking. It’s lined by old historic homes. Most of these impressive Gilded Age mansions were used as summer homes and vacation spots for rich families. Both the Vanderbilt and Astor families vacationed on Bellevue Avenue. Some of the most notable spots within this scenic road are the Isaac Bell House, Chateau-sur-Mer, Marble House, William Watts Sherman House, and the Breakers.

3. Hope Street

Next on our list is Hope Street, which is also an official . The official scenic roadway is called Route 114, and it runs for five miles along Route 114 and High Street from the Warren town line to the Mt. Hope Bridge. It was designated as an official designated scenic roadway in August of 2000.

This lovely route is known for its lush and shady canopy of mature trees. You can also see many historic homes while on your drive. Some places of interest heading down Hope Street’s scenic drive are Colt State Park and Blithewold Gardens and Arboretum.

4. Paradise Avenue and Associated Roads

Another official Rhode Island Scenic Roadway is the drive through Paradise Avenue and Associated Roads. This lovely and dazzling scenic drive runs for about 8.3 miles and is in Middletown. This scenic drive runs through multiple roads including Paradise Avenue, Berkeley Avenue, Wyatt Road, Mitchell’s Lane, Wapping Road, Peckham Avenue, Indian Avenue, and Hanging Rock Road. It has been an official scenic roadway since May of 1983.

The Paradise Avenue and Associated Roads Drive feature locally significant buildings and beautiful nature. Not only can you drive along this 8-mile roadway, but also stop and enjoy Sachuest Beach.

5. Snake Den Fall Foliage Drive

Last but not least is another extremely popular scenic drive, the Snake Den Fall Foliage Drive. This is a long and excellent drive if you’d like to enjoy cool weather and beautiful fall foliage. Rhode Island experiences stunning fall weather and color-changing leaves. The leaves in Rhode Island change color throughout October. The peak changes each year but is generally the second or third week of October. Plan accordingly to feast your eyes on vivid red, orange, pink, and yellow falling leaves.

Snake Den scenic drive generally begins at Johnston in . You then continue to Route 6 towards Scituate. It’s a short drive, well worth the adventure. While on this drive, visitors pass through small towns, backroads, and local farms. It typically ends at West Greenwich, although you can keep going. Before taking the drive, you can also explore Snake Den State Park which offers miles of hiking trails and excellent scenic outlooks.