Rhode Island, the smallest state in the US, is known for its stunning coastline, historic mansions, and delicious seafood. It’s no wonder that it’s becoming a popular destination for weddings. If you’re an out-of-state wedding guest planning to attend a wedding in Rhode Island, this guide will help you navigate the state and make the most of your trip.
Rhode Island Overview Rhode Island is located in the New England region of the United States and is bordered by Massachusetts to the north and east, Connecticut to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. The state is known for its charming coastal towns, sandy beaches, and historic landmarks. Providence, the capital city, is home to Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, making it a hub for arts and culture.
Key Takeaways
- Rhode Island is a small state in the New England region of the US known for its coastal towns, beaches, and historic landmarks.
- Providence is the capital city and a hub for arts and culture, home to Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.
- Rhode Island is becoming a popular destination for weddings due to its stunning scenery and delicious seafood.
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Rhode Island Overview
Rhode Island, also known as the Ocean State, is the smallest state in the United States by land area. It is located in the New England region and is bordered by Connecticut to the west and Massachusetts to the north and east. Rhode Island has a population of approximately 1.1 million people and is known for its scenic coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture.
Geographical Insight
Rhode Island covers an area of just over 1,200 square miles and has a diverse landscape that includes beaches, forests, and rolling hills. The state’s coastline stretches for 400 miles and is home to many popular beaches and coastal towns, including Newport, Narragansett, and Block Island. Inland, visitors can explore the state’s many parks and nature reserves, including the Roger Williams National Memorial and the Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor.
Historical Background
Rhode Island has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. The state was founded by Roger Williams in 1636 and was one of the original 13 colonies that declared independence from Great Britain in 1776. Rhode Island played a key role in the American Revolution and was home to many important figures, including the famous naval hero John Paul Jones. Today, visitors to Rhode Island can explore the state’s many historic sites and landmarks, including the Newport Mansions, the Rhode Island State House, and the Roger Williams Park Zoo.
Wedding Venues in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is a popular destination for weddings, and for good reason. With its stunning ocean views, charming country estates, and historic mansions, there are plenty of beautiful wedding venues to choose from. Here are a few of the top options for couples looking to tie the knot in the Ocean State.
Oceanfront Venues
For couples who want to say “I do” with the ocean as their backdrop, Rhode Island has plenty of options. One popular choice is the OceanCliff Hotel in Newport. This historic mansion sits on 10 acres of oceanfront property and offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception spaces. Another option is the Weekapaug Inn, which is located on a private beach in Westerly. This luxurious resort offers a variety of wedding packages and can accommodate up to 200 guests.
Country Estates
Rhode Island is also home to many beautiful country estates that make perfect wedding venues. Blithewold Mansion in Bristol, for example, is a 45-room estate that sits on 33 acres of gardens and arboretum. The property offers a variety of indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception spaces, including a tented terrace that overlooks Narragansett Bay. Another option is the Glen Manor House in Portsmouth, which is a 1923 mansion that sits on 33 acres of waterfront property. The property offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception spaces, as well as accommodations for up to 14 guests.
Historic Mansions
For couples who want to add a touch of history to their wedding day, Rhode Island’s historic mansions are a great option. The Vanderbilt Grace in Newport, for example, is a restored mansion that dates back to 1909. The property offers a variety of indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception spaces, including a rooftop deck with stunning views of the harbor. Another option is the Aldrich Mansion in Warwick, which is a 70-room mansion that sits on 75 acres of waterfront property. The property offers a variety of indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception spaces, as well as accommodations for up to 24 guests.
No matter what type of wedding venue you’re looking for, Rhode Island has plenty of options to choose from. From oceanfront hotels to historic mansions, there’s something for every couple in the Ocean State.
Travel and Accommodation
Air and Ground Transportation
Rhode Island is a small state, but it has a few airports that may be convenient for out-of-state wedding guests. T.F. Green Airport (PVD) in Warwick is the largest airport in Rhode Island and is located about 10 miles south of Providence. It is served by several major airlines, including Delta, American, Southwest, and JetBlue. Another option is Logan International Airport (BOS) in Boston, which is about an hour’s drive from Providence.
For guests who prefer to drive, Rhode Island is easily accessible from the north and south via I-95. The state is also served by Amtrak, with stations in Providence, Kingston, and Westerly. Greyhound and Peter Pan Bus Lines also provide bus service to Rhode Island.
Hotel and Lodging Options
Rhode Island has a variety of lodging options for out-of-state wedding guests, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Here are a few options to consider:
- The Providence Biltmore Hotel: This historic hotel is located in downtown Providence and offers elegant rooms and suites. It is within walking distance of many attractions, including WaterFire Providence and the Rhode Island State House.
- The Ocean House: This luxurious resort is located in Watch Hill and offers stunning ocean views. It features a private beach, a spa, and several on-site dining options.
- The Chanler at Cliff Walk: This boutique hotel is located in Newport and offers luxurious rooms and suites with ocean views. It is within walking distance of the famous Cliff Walk and several historic mansions.
- The Francis Malbone House: This charming bed and breakfast is located in Newport and offers cozy rooms and suites. It is within walking distance of many attractions, including the Newport Art Museum and the Newport Mansions.
Overall, out-of-state wedding guests have plenty of options for travel and lodging in Rhode Island. Whether they prefer to fly or drive, and whether they prefer luxurious hotels or cozy bed and breakfasts, there is something for everyone in the Ocean State.
Rhode Island Cuisine
Rhode Island’s cuisine is a unique blend of traditional New England fare and coastal seafood. Visitors to the state should take advantage of the opportunity to sample some of the local delicacies and dine at the best restaurants.
Local Delicacies
Rhode Island is known for its iconic dishes, including:
- Hot Weiners: These are small hot dogs served with a special meat sauce, onions, and mustard. They are a must-try for anyone visiting the state.
- Clam Cakes: These are small fried balls of dough filled with clams. They are often served with chowder and are a popular snack or appetizer.
- Stuffies: These are stuffed quahogs, which are large clams filled with a mixture of chopped clams, bread crumbs, herbs, and spices. They are a hearty and delicious meal.
- Coffee Milk: This is a sweetened milk drink flavored with coffee syrup. It is a beloved beverage in Rhode Island and can be found in many diners and cafes.
Recommended Restaurants
Rhode Island has a thriving culinary scene, with many excellent restaurants serving a variety of cuisines. Some of the best restaurants to try include:
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Al Forno | Italian | Providence |
| The Mooring | Seafood | Newport |
| Birch | Contemporary American | Providence |
| Los Andes | Peruvian | Providence |
| The Red Fez | Mediterranean | Providence |
These restaurants have received critical acclaim and are popular with locals and visitors alike. Visitors should be sure to make reservations in advance, as these restaurants can be busy, especially on weekends.
Overall, Rhode Island’s cuisine is a unique and delicious blend of traditional and modern flavors. Visitors to the state should be sure to sample some of the local delicacies and dine at the best restaurants to fully experience the state’s culinary scene.
Tourist Attractions
Rhode Island offers a variety of tourist attractions that cater to every interest. From historical landmarks to natural attractions, the state has something for everyone. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Rhode Island.
Historical Landmarks
Rhode Island is home to many historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history. Some of the most popular landmarks include:
- The Breakers: This Gilded Age mansion was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1895 and is now a National Historic Landmark.
- Newport Mansions: These mansions were built by wealthy families during the Gilded Age and offer a glimpse into the opulence of the time.
- Roger Williams National Memorial: This memorial honors the founder of Rhode Island and offers a chance to learn about the state’s early history.
Natural Attractions
Rhode Island has many natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top natural attractions include:
- Block Island: This island is home to beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and stunning views.
- Newport Cliff Walk: This scenic walk offers views of the ocean and the historic mansions of Newport.
- Roger Williams Park Zoo: This zoo is home to over 100 species of animals and is a great place for families to visit.
Shopping and Entertainment
Rhode Island has many shopping and entertainment options for visitors. Some of the top destinations include:
- Providence Place Mall: This mall offers over 170 stores and restaurants, as well as a movie theater.
- WaterFire Providence: This art installation features over 80 bonfires on the water and is a popular attraction during the summer months.
- Thayer Street: This street is home to many shops, restaurants, and bars and is a popular destination for college students.
Overall, Rhode Island offers a wide range of tourist attractions that are sure to please any visitor.
Rode Island Wedding Etiquette
When attending a wedding in Rhode Island, it’s important to follow proper wedding etiquette. Here are some tips to help out-of-state guests navigate the customs and traditions of Rhode Island weddings.
Dress Code
Rhode Island weddings typically have a formal or semi-formal dress code. Guests are expected to dress in cocktail or evening attire. Men should wear a suit and tie, while women should wear a dress or dressy separates. It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed, so if you’re unsure, err on the side of caution and dress up.
Gift Giving
When it comes to gift giving, it’s customary to give the couple a wedding gift. Guests can choose to give a monetary gift, a physical gift from the couple’s registry, or a personalized gift. The amount of money given as a gift is usually determined by the guest’s relationship to the couple and their budget. It’s important to give the gift either at the wedding or send it to the couple’s home shortly after the wedding.
In Rhode Island, it’s also common for guests to give a separate gift to the bride and groom. This gift is usually something small and sentimental, such as a piece of jewelry or a photo album. It’s not necessary to give this type of gift, but it’s a nice gesture if you have a close relationship with the couple.
By following these tips, out-of-state guests can ensure that they are respectful of Rhode Island wedding traditions and customs, while also having a great time celebrating the happy couple.
Conclusion
Rhode Island is a charming and picturesque destination for out-of-state wedding guests. With its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and quaint towns, Rhode Island offers a unique and memorable experience for wedding attendees. From the stunning Newport mansions to the delicious seafood, there is something for everyone in this small but mighty state.
When attending a wedding in Rhode Island, it is important to plan ahead and make travel arrangements in advance. Guests should also consider the time of year and pack accordingly, as the weather can be unpredictable. Additionally, it is recommended to book accommodations early, as hotels and rentals can fill up quickly during peak wedding season.
While in Rhode Island, guests should take advantage of all that the state has to offer. Whether it’s exploring the charming streets of Providence, taking a sunset cruise in Newport, or indulging in some delicious clam chowder, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy.
Overall, Rhode Island is a fantastic destination for out-of-state wedding guests. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, it is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
