Pull out your bucket list, add some of the best things to do in Rhode Island in 2025, and make it your most memorable year yet.
I’ve never been one to make resolutions at the dawn of a New Year, usually because I find it difficult to keep the momentum going, especially when life is so busy. However, my enthusiasm rarely dims when it comes to exploring. I decided instead of resolutions, I would create a list of things to do in Rhode Island in 2025 and begin a year of epic adventures.
1. Ben Utter Trail – Exeter
Rhode Island might not have as many waterfalls as some states, but those we have are simply majestic. That’s why a stroll along the easy 2.7-mile Ben Utter Trail, leading straight to Stepstone Falls, sits at the top of my must-do list in 2025.
2. Lincoln Woods Trail – Lincoln
A walk through the woods, with leaves crunching beneath my feet as I take deep breaths of the fresh air, helps relieve life’s built-up stress. Meandering through Lincoln Woods State Park, the short, sweet, and easy Lincoln Woods Trail promises a fairy tale adventure, including views of Olney Pond and chiseled rock formations, and the chance to reconnect with nature. Even better, I don’t have to worry about getting lost after downloading AllTrails+.
3. Colt State Park – Bristol
Heralded as the gem of the state park system in Rhode Island, Colt State Park, with its breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay and historic stone walls, promises plenty to do, including walking trails and picnicking. I like the idea of flying a kite by the water on a windy spring day.
4. Ghost Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour – Providence
Only one thing comes close to chasing waterfalls (at least for me) and that’s ghost hunting, so it’s only natural to add the Ghost Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour in Providence to my itinerary in 2025. Will I experience the paranormal or see an apparition? Fingers crossed.
5. City Center Rink – Providence
A chilly winter day in Providence is meant for bundling up, lacing up ice skates, and gliding around City Center Rink, one of my favorite winter activities in Rhode Island. But before relaxing as I circle the ice, I’m going for an epic adrenaline rush with a ride on the ice bumper cars.
6. Yawgoo Valley Ski Area & Water Park – Exeter
I usually prefer staying inside, curled up under the blankets, and sipping a hot chocolate, rather than spending a cold winter day outdoors. But after a fresh snowfall, there’s no place I’d rather be than snow tubing at Yawgoo Valley Ski Area.
7. Newport Winter Festival – Newport
Wintertime, especially after the hectic pace of the holidays dies down, can get a little gloomy, so I try to find fun things to do in Rhode Island while counting down until spring. With a full menu of family-friendly fun, including live entertainment and tasty food, the Newport Winter Festival is a must-visit this February.