The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chester, CT and Smithfield, RI
Chester, Connecticut, and Smithfield, Rhode Island are two charming towns filled with historic sites, picturesque landscapes, and cultural treasures. A road trip between these two destinations provides an opportunity to explore the scenic New England countryside, taste local cuisine, and discover hidden gems. Halfway through the journey lies the quaint town of Hopkinton, Rhode Island, which offers a variety of attractions for travelers. This article highlights the top five things to do on a road trip from Chester, CT to Smithfield, RI.
Mystic Seaport Museum
Mystic Seaport Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in maritime history and culture. Located in Mystic, Connecticut, about 30 miles from Chester, the museum showcases the rich legacy of New England's seafaring past. Visitors can explore historic ships, such as the Charles W. Morgan, the last remaining wooden whaling ship in the world, and the L.A. Dunton, a fishing schooner built in 1921. The museum also houses a working shipyard, where skilled craftsmen restore and maintain vintage vessels. Other highlights include exhibits of maritime art, artifacts, and instruments, as well as demonstrations of traditional skills such as sail-making and blacksmithing.
Fun Fact: The Mystic Seaport Museum was founded in 1929 by maritime enthusiasts who wanted to preserve America's maritime heritage.
Foxwoods Resort Casino
For those seeking excitement and entertainment, Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, is the perfect place to visit. As one of the largest gaming destinations in the world, Foxwoods offers a wide range of gaming options, from slot machines and table games to poker and sports betting. However, the resort is more than just a casino - it also features numerous restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment venues, such as the Grand Theater, which hosts world-class concerts and shows. After a day of gambling and fun, visitors can relax in one of the resort's luxurious spas or hotels.
Fun Fact: Foxwoods Resort Casino covers an area of 9 million square feet, making it larger than the Pentagon.
Newport Mansions
The Newport Mansions are a testament to the opulence and glamour of America's Gilded Age. Located in Newport, Rhode Island, about 35 miles from Smithfield, these historic homes were built by wealthy families such as the Vanderbilts and Astors, who used them as summer retreats. Today, visitors can tour these magnificent estates, which feature lavish decorations, landscaped gardens, and stunning ocean views. Some of the most popular mansions include the Breakers, a 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo, and the Marble House, a Beaux-Arts mansion featuring 500,000 cubic feet of marble.
Fun Fact: The Breakers has a floor area of 65,000 square feet, making it one of the largest private homes in the United States.
WaterFire Providence
WaterFire Providence is a unique and magical event that takes place on the rivers of downtown Providence, Rhode Island. Created by artist Barnaby Evans in 1994, WaterFire is a multisensory experience that combines music, lights, and fire. Visitors can watch as dozens of braziers are lit on the river, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of flames and smoke. Throughout the night, performers showcase their talents on several stages, while food vendors offer a variety of local and international dishes. WaterFire events are held several times a year, and they attract thousands of visitors from around the world.
Fun Fact: The WaterFire installation consists of 100 burning braziers, which are tended by a team of dedicated volunteers.
Slater Mill Historic Site
Slater Mill Historic Site is a well-preserved industrial complex that played a pivotal role in the history of America's textile industry. Located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, about 10 miles from Smithfield, the site consists of several buildings, including the Slater Mill, built in 1793, which was the first successful cotton-spinning factory in the United States. Visitors can take guided tours of the mill and learn about the inventions and innovations that transformed the textile industry. The site also features a museum that showcases the lives of the workers who toiled in the mills, as well as exhibits of contemporary art and craft.
Fun Fact: The Slater Mill was powered by water wheels, which harnessed the energy of the Blackstone River to turn the machines.
In conclusion, a road trip from Chester, Connecticut, to Smithfield, Rhode Island, offers a wonderful blend of history, culture, and fun. With stops at Mystic Seaport Museum, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Newport Mansions, WaterFire Providence, and Slater Mill Historic Site, travelers can discover the best of what New England has to offer. The route covers about 100 miles and takes about two hours to drive, making it a perfect weekend getaway or day trip. So grab your car keys and hit the road for a memorable adventure!