RIRhode Island GuideArea first, coastal food in context
Search
Getting around

Getting around Rhode Island

Rhode Island is the smallest state, so a car covers it easily and is the simplest way to reach the beaches and bay towns. RIPTA buses link Providence, Newport, and the airport, Providence and Newport are walkable, and Block Island is best on foot or by bike.

Last checked October 10, 2026

By car

A car is the most flexible choice for combining South County beaches, Newport and the East Bay towns. Distances are short compared with larger states, but allow for bridge traffic, road work, parking and the exact route rather than assuming every journey takes less than an hour.

The exceptions are summer weekends, when beach-bound traffic on Route 1 and the Newport bridges backs up, and Newport itself, where parking is tight and expensive in season — arrive early or use the periphery lots.

Buses and trains

RIPTA buses connect Providence with Newport, T. F. Green Airport and other parts of the state. Check the current route, operating day and last return before building a trip around a bus or seasonal beach service. A useful airport connection or city route does not mean every beach has equally frequent service.

Within Providence the walkable downtown, College Hill, and the river make a car optional for a city-only stay; the MBTA commuter rail and Amtrak also connect Providence to Boston.

Newport and Block Island on foot

Newport's waterfront, Thames Street and the northern start of the Cliff Walk are reachable on foot from a central base. Route 67 serves Bellevue Avenue and the mansions; Discover Newport confirms free rides from May 22 through October 31, 2026. Check the current schedule and any detours. The Cliff Walk itself has a signed detour between Narragansett Avenue and Webster Street. This free period does not cover the mansion holiday season beginning November 21; check winter fares and the last return. Cliff Walk is open sunrise to sunset, so use a road route after an evening event.

On Block Island, leaving the car on the mainland can simplify a visit centered on Old Harbor. Walking, cycling, taxis and rentals offer different ways to reach the rest of the island. Choose for your group’s fitness, road comfort, luggage and accommodation location rather than assuming every beach or bluff is an easy walk.

Sources

Reviewed source trail