Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cambridge, Massachusetts and Barrington, Rhode Island

CAMBRIDGE, MASS. - If you're looking for a quick weekend escape that's not too far from Boston, then a road trip to Barrington, R.I. could be exactly what you need. With picturesque views of the ocean, quaint small towns, and lots of history, this route is perfect for those who love to explore and experience the East Coast's charm.

Halfway through the trip, you'll find yourself in Foxborough, Massachusetts, known not only for being the home of Gillette Stadium but also for the locally owned and operated cafés and boutiques that give the town its unique character.

Here are the top five things you should do on your road trip:

Visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, R.I.

The Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence offers guests an opportunity to see a variety of animals up close and personal. From elephants to giraffes, to zebras and kangaroos, these animals are seemingly living their best lives in an environment that was designed with their comfort in mind. The zoo also features many interactive exhibits like the "Big Backyard," where visitors can pet farm animals, as well as rideable camels and a train.

Fun fact: Roger Williams Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country, opening its doors for the first time in 1872.

Walk the Cliff Walk in Newport, R.I.

Newport's Cliff Walk is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Rhode Island. The walkway, which features stunning views of the rugged coastline and pristine mansions from the gilded age, is somewhat challenging and can be more than three miles long if you choose to complete the entire trail. If you're looking for an easy walk, there are several shorter paths to take that still offer stunning views of the ocean.

Fun fact: Some of the original wooden walkway from the Cliff Walk remains in sections of the trail.

Tour the Breakers Mansion in Newport, R.I.

If you're interested in history, architecture, and the opulent lifestyles of the wealthiest people in the United States during the Gilded Age, then the Breakers Mansion is a must-visit location. The Breakers was once the summer home of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt II, and it features 70 rooms, including a ballroom, a music room, and numerous guest rooms. The grand entrance and marble staircase evoke a sense of awe and wonder that make for an unforgettable visit.

Fun fact: The Breakers Mansion was designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt, who was also responsible for designing the base of the Statue of Liberty.

Take a dip in Scarborough Beach State Park in Narragansett, R.I.

Narragansett's Scarborough Beach State Park is a popular destination for people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The beach offers a long stretch of sandy shoreline, perfect for lounging, sunbathing, and swimming in the ocean. For those looking to do more than relax, there are plenty of activities nearby like volleyball, basketball, fishing, and hiking trails.

Fun fact: Scarborough Beach State Park was originally part of a Native American reservation, and the early colonists named it after a sachem named Ninigret.

Visit the New England Wireless and Steam Museum in East Greenwich, R.I.

The New England Wireless and Steam Museum in East Greenwich is a unique museum that combines two very different topics: radios and steam power. The museum features an extensive collection of wireless communication equipment from the early 1900s, including telegraphs, radios, and telephones. The steam-powered exhibits are just as impressive, and visitors can see steam engines in operation that date back to the 1800s.

Fun fact: The museum is run entirely by volunteers who are passionate about preserving and sharing the history of wireless communication and steam power.

After all these activities, the trip should take about 2-and-a-half hours, depending on traffic, making it an ideal mini-vacation for a weekend getaway from Cambridge and Barrington. Whether you're interested in history, adventure, or just relaxing on the beach, this trip has something for everyone. Just remember to pack sunscreen, your camera, and some comfortable walking shoes.