Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Charlestown, RI to Burlington, MA

Charlestown, Rhode Island and Burlington, Massachusetts are cities located in the northeastern part of the United States. A road trip from Charlestown to Burlington offers a scenic view of the coast, the mountains, and the historical landmarks of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The trip is an easy drive, and the halfway point is marked by the vibrant city of Central Falls, Rhode Island.

The trip starts from Charlestown, a coastal town that boasts numerous beaches, parks, and historical sites. One of the highlights of the trip is the visit to the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, which is located in the southern part of Charlestown. The Refuge encompasses more than 1600 acres of protected land, including wetlands, salt marshes, and freshwater ponds. The Refuge is home to many species of native wildlife, including the American bog turtle, the osprey, and the moose. Visitors can take guided tours of the Refuge, hike the trails, or observe the wildlife from the observation decks.

Interesting fact: The Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge is named after the Narragansett Indian Chief Ninigret, who lived in the area in the 17th century.

The next stop on the road trip is Newport, Rhode Island, which is located about 30 miles north of Charlestown. Newport is a historic city that was founded in the 17th century and played a crucial role in the American Revolution. One of the must-visit attractions in Newport is the Newport Mansions, a collection of opulent 19th-century mansions that were built by some of the wealthiest families in America.

Tourists can visit the Newport Mansions and explore their lavish interiors, including intricately decorated rooms, grand staircases, and fascinating antique collections. The Marble House, The Breakers, and Rosecliff are some of the most popular Mansions, each with its unique style and story.

Interesting fact: The Marble House was owned by the multimillionaire William Vanderbilt and was completed in 1892. The mansion has more than 500,000 cubic feet of marble and was the most expensive house in Newport at the time.

The third stop on the road trip is Providence, Rhode Island's capital city, located about 20 miles north of Newport. Providence is a vibrant and eclectic city that has a rich cultural and culinary scene. One of the top attractions in Providence is the WaterFire, a unique art installation that consists of more than 100 bonfires that are lit on the Waterplace Park and Riverwalk several times a year.

Tourists can enjoy the WaterFire experience and indulge in the local cuisine at the many excellent restaurants and cafes located in the city center. Federal Hill is a particularly popular area for dining, and visitors can explore various trattorias, pizzerias, and seafood spots.

Interesting fact: Providence is known as the "Creative Capital" for its thriving arts community and has been named one of the "Best Food Cities" in the United States by Travel + Leisure magazine.

The fourth stop on the road trip is Worcester, Massachusetts, located about 35 miles north of Providence. Worcester is a medium-sized city that offers a range of cultural and historical attractions. One of the top things to do in Worcester is visiting the Worcester Art Museum, which is home to more than 35,000 works of art from various periods and styles.

Visitors can explore the permanent collection of the Museum, which includes ancient Greek and Roman objects, medieval and Renaissance artworks, and contemporary paintings and sculptures. The Museum also hosts many temporary exhibitions and interactive programs for visitors of all ages.

Interesting fact: The Worcester Art Museum was founded in 1896 and is famous for its collections of arms and armor, European paintings, and Japanese prints.

The final stop on the road trip is Burlington, Massachusetts, located about 30 miles northeast of Worcester. Burlington is a small but charming town that has a range of outdoor and cultural attractions. One of the top things to do in Burlington is going to the Burlington Mall, which is one of the largest malls in the New England region.

Tourists can shop at more than 150 stores, including high-end fashion brands, electronics retailers, and specialty boutiques. The Mall also boasts several dining options and entertainment venues, making it a perfect spot to spend a day or an evening.

Interesting fact: The Burlington Mall was opened in 1968 and underwent extensive renovations in the 1990s, adding a new wing and a food court.

In conclusion, a road trip from Charlestown, Rhode Island to Burlington, Massachusetts, offers a unique and exciting experience that encompasses the natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural diversity of New England. The trip takes approximately three hours, covering a distance of about 130 miles, and is an excellent option for a weekend getaway or a family vacation. Whether visitors are interested in the outdoors, art, history, or shopping, they are bound to find something that they will enjoy on this fantastic journey.