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Experience WaterFire Like Never Before — From the Water Itself

By Discover Rhode Island Staff If you’ve lived in Rhode Island for more than five minutes, chances are you’ve heard of WaterFire — Providence’s signature celebration of fire, water, and community that lights up the city on select nights from May through November. But...

Providence Predicted to be #3 in the US for Hottest Real Estate Market

Providence, Rhode Island, has captured national attention as it lands the #3 spot in the list of hottest real estate markets predicted for 2025. The ranking, based on a combination of economic resilience, affordability, and lifestyle appeal, places the Creative...

Trinity Brewhouse Announces Holiday Market Dec 22nd

Trinity Brewhouse Holiday Market: A Festive Shopping Experience 🎁 Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 22nd, and head to the Trinity Brewhouse basement pub for a day filled with holiday cheer, craft beer, and local treasures! From 12 PM to 6 PM, the Trinity...

Nellie Gorbea named President and CEO of the Puerto Rico Green Energy Trust

Nellie Gorbea, the former Rhode Island Secretary of State, has been named President and CEO of the Puerto Rico Green Energy Trust, marking a significant milestone for the promotion of renewable energy on the island. Gorbea, a trailblazer as Rhode Island's first...

Trigger Points and Turning Points: How JMZ Wellness in Middletown is Redefining Recovery

By Discover Rhode Island Staff When Jamie Mey-Zappen left her job in 2022, she wasn’t walking away—she was stepping into something larger. A physical therapist by training and a healer by instinct, Mey-Zappen had long dreamed of building something that didn’t just...

Gray’s Ice Cream: New Owners of Rhode Island’s Sweetest Legacy

For over a century, Gray’s Ice Cream has been a beloved Rhode Island institution, known for its rich, handmade ice cream, rustic charm, and a legacy that stretches back to 1923. With its iconic roots in Tiverton’s Four Corners, has since evolved into a charming shop...

The Story of Brands of Portugal in East Providence

Bringing Portugal to Rhode Island Christopher Saraiva and his wife, Nelly, didn’t start their careers in the wine business. For two decades, they were deeply entrenched in the wedding industry—Chris as a DJ and Nelly as a photographer. Their world revolved around...

A Legacy of Craftsmanship: Barrington Plumbing and Heating

In the town of Barrington, a unique story of reinvention and resilience has given rise to one of the area’s most trusted plumbing and heating companies. Barrington Plumbing and Heating, founded in 2006 by Jim Kazounis, is not just a business but a testament to the...

Cucumber Hill Farm

The Discover Interviews: Cucumber Hill Farm https://youtu.be/x5cEIz_3ojQ

Business Story-Newport Equestrian

Thirty-seven years ago, Suzanne Hourihan, a professional hunter, jumper, and race horse rider who studied under the instruction of Irish Olympic rider, Nole McGee, bought a small horse farm in Middletown, walking distance to the beach. Now a multi-generational...

Business Stories: Newport Cooks

Newport Cooks-Middletown RI Nestled in Middletown, RI is a cooking school that teaches over 1,000 students a year. That school, Newport Cooks, was started in 2008 by Mary Weaver and her then business partner, Leonard Nihan, when they realized that Newport didn’t have...

Business Stories: Slim Possible-Middletown RI

Eleven years ago Alison Palladino walked into Slim Possible in Middletown and her life was never the same. At the time, Alison was a 6 th grade teacher, passionate about education, and focused on becoming a school administrator. She was also battling her own wellness...

Business Stories: Johnny’s Full Service Gas Station Middletown

In the early 1970s, John F. Gomes bought the gas station at 795 West Main Road in Middletown. More than 50 years later, now a third-generation business, Johnny’s Full Service Station is owned and managed by John’s grandson, Andrew Gomes. John Gomes easily won over the...

Review: The Quencher in Newport

A Hidden Gem with Harbor Views: Discover Rhode Island Visits The Quencher Discover Rhode Island visited The Quencher in mid-June, and it’s safe to say this Newport newcomer deserves a spot on your dining list. We chose to sit upstairs—and what a choice that was. The...

Discover Reviews: Slice of Heaven, Jamestown RI

A Slice of Heaven: Jamestown’s Breakfast Treasure Found in the downtown section of Jamestown, Rhode Island, Slice of Heaven has earned its reputation as a local favorite and a must-visit for anyone exploring this charming coastal town. Known for its cozy atmosphere...

Cru Cafe Newport: Review

Discover Cru Cafe in Newport, RI: A Cozy Café Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Local Charm If you're searching for one of the best breakfast or lunch spots in Newport, Rhode Island, look no further than Cru Cafe, a hidden gem tucked away just off Bellevue Avenue....

Discover Reviews: Pasta Beach-Newport

Pasta Beach Newport, nestled on Bellevue Ave, is a beacon of Italian culinary tradition in the picturesque town of Newport. Known for its authentic approach to Italian cooking, Pasta Beach stands out for its use of high-quality ingredients and simple yet flavorful...

Weddings: Your Engagement Announcement on a Billboard

Billboard Famous: MRT Jewelers' Unique Way to Celebrate Engagements MRT Jewelers is introducing an extraordinary way to celebrate couples who purchase their engagement rings from the store—by making them billboard famous. Owner David Audette wanted to offer a unique...

The Cost of Love in the Ocean State: What Rhode Island Weddings Really Cost in 2024

Part 1 of 12 in Our Wedding Industry Deep Dive Series By Discover Rhode Island Weddings Staff If you’ve recently found yourself asking, “Why does it cost so much to get married?” — you’re not alone. In 2024, the price of a wedding remains one of the most significant...

Do Wedding Vendors Deserve Better? The Knot Faces Scrutiny

A Summary of the New Yorker’s In-Depth Investigation into Allegations from Wedding Vendors A recent New Yorker exposé has shed light on troubling claims from wedding vendors who say they’ve been misled by The Knot, one of the most influential wedding platforms in the...

The Hidden Dangers of Hiring the Wrong Wedding Vendor in Rhode Island

The Risks of Hiring Unlicensed or Uninsured Wedding Vendors to work in Rhode Island What every bride should know before signing a contract When you're planning a wedding, there's a natural tendency to look for savings — especially with costs adding up quickly. But...

The Discover Preferred Awards—Recognizing Rhode Island’s Top Wedding Venues and Vendors

At Discover Rhode Island, we know that finding the right venue or vendor is one of the most important parts of planning an event. That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Discover Preferred Awards, our new program recognizing the best wedding and event venues in...

Breaking Down the Cost of a Rhode Island Wedding

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting yet financially significant events in a couple’s life. In 2023, Rhode Island weddings generated over $222.9 million in total sales, with an average spend of $32,134 per wedding. But where does that money actually go?...

Why Newport is Rated as One of the Best Places in the World for Weddings

Last year, Travel + Leisure magazine rated Newport as one of the top 20 wedding destinations in the world. This seaside New England town—famed for its Gilded Age mansions and sailboat-dotted harbor—has become one of America’s most celebrated wedding destinations....

Coming Soon: The 2026 Rhode Island Wedding Guide

Coming Soon: The 2026 Discover Rhode Island Wedding Guide – The Ultimate Resource for Brides & Planners Rhode Island is one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in New England, and Discover Rhode Island is excited to announce the upcoming 2026 Discover...

The Rhode Island Wedding Industry: A Flourishing Market

As one of the nation’s premier wedding destinations, Rhode Island thrives as a hotspot for couples looking to tie the knot. With its picturesque coastlines, historic venues, and vibrant culture, the Ocean State hosted 6,937 weddings in the last 12-month reporting...

Weddings in Rhode Island: A Dream Destination for Every Couple

Rhode Island, affectionately known as the Ocean State, offers a stunning array of wedding venues that cater to every couple’s vision of their perfect day. From seaside ceremonies and historic mansions to rustic barns and charming vineyards, Rhode Island’s diverse...

Property of the Month-10 Coulter Street in Jamestown

 is a breathtaking newly constructed shingle-style estate perched above Narragansett Bay, offering expansive 180-degree views of the water, Newport Bridge, and Mount Hope Bridge. This four-bedroom, seven-and-a-half-bathroom home spans over 6,000 square feet and...

Real Estate: Providence’s Adaptive-Reuse Renaissance

Mills in Transition: Providence’s Blueprint for Revitalization Providence’s industrial relics are finding new life in a city-wide adaptive-reuse boom—turning former mills and power plants into housing, offices, maker spaces, and food halls. Legislative...

Property of the Month: Bayberry Farm, 441 West Main Road, Little Compton, RI

Found along Rhode Island’s stunning Sakonnet Passage, Bayberry Farm is a rare convergence of architectural brilliance, natural beauty, and modern luxury. This 108-acre waterfront estate, situated at 441 West Main Road, Little Compton, offers a once-in-a-lifetime...

The Beauty of Rhode Island Real Estate

The Rhode Island real estate market continues to capture attention for its diversity and dynamism, offering opportunities for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. As of now, Zillow shows 1,696 properties listed by agents for sale across the Ocean State, spanning...

Exploring the Charm of Rhode Island: A Real Estate Perspective

Rhode Island, affectionately known as the Ocean State, may be the smallest in the United States, but its appeal is enormous. This state is a treasure trove of scenic beauty, from the majestic shores of Narragansett Bay to the historic and vibrant streets of...

Rhode Island in Top Ten for Highest Income Needed for Homebuying

Rhode Island's Real Estate Market: A Surprising Second in New England Affordability In the picturesque landscape of New England, where historic charm meets the Atlantic's serene beauty, the real estate market tells a story of diversity and demand. Among its states,...

David Audette of MRT Jewelers — The Discover Rhode Island Jewelry Expert

We’re proud to welcome David Audette, President of MRT Jewelers, as the official Discover Rhode Island Jewelry Expert. Each month, David will contribute to a new advice column in Discover Rhode Island magazine, offering readers trusted guidance on fine jewelry—from...

Discover Rhode Island’s Experts: Desautel Browning Law

​Our Discover Rhode Island legal expert in environmental law is Desautel Browning Law, based in the heart of Newport, Rhode Island. Why Environmental Law Matters in the Ocean State With over 400 miles of coastline, a deep maritime heritage, and a growing focus on...

Chris Benoit of CB Capital, Our Financial Advisor Expert

We asked Chris Benoit, President of CB Capital what to look for when choosing a financial advisor.Chris is the Principal at CB Capital in North SmithfieldWhen selecting a financial advisor, there are three different types to choose from registered investment advisors,...

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Discover Rhode Island: Small State, Endless Stories

Welcome to Rhode Island, the Ocean State—where coastal beauty, colonial history, vibrant culture, and innovative spirit come together in one compact, captivating place. At just 1,214 square miles, Rhode Island may be the smallest state in America, but its legacy and lifestyle pack a serious punch.

Where America Began (in a Bold Way)

Founded in 1636 by Roger Williams, Rhode Island was the first colony built on the principles of religious freedom and separation of church and state. It played an outsized role in early American history, from the rebellious Gaspee Affair to becoming the first colony to declare independence from Britain—two months before the rest of the country.

You’ll see reminders of Rhode Island’s revolutionary roots throughout its historic towns like Bristol, Newport, and Providence, where cobblestone streets meet cutting-edge universities and world-class cuisine.

400 Miles of Coastline, One Endless Escape

Despite its size, Rhode Island boasts more than 400 miles of shoreline, with sandy beaches, working harbors, and stunning cliffside vistas. Whether you’re sunbathing in Narragansett, biking the bluffs of Block Island, or sailing through Newport Harbor, you’re never far from the water—or from the next adventure.

A Hub of Towns with Unique Personalities

From the colonial elegance of Wickford Village to the creative buzz of Providence’s arts scene, each of Rhode Island’s 39 cities and towns offers something distinct. In the East Bay, you’ll find scenic bike paths and the country’s oldest Fourth of July parade. In the Blackstone Valley, history and innovation intersect with textile mills turned tech hubs.

Home to Some of the Brightest Minds

Rhode Island is also a magnet for higher learning. Brown University and RISD (Rhode Island School of Design) anchor the state’s capital with intellectual energy, while University of Rhode Island in Kingston leads research in marine sciences, pharmacy, and sustainability. Bryant University in Smithfield continues to grow its reputation for business and entrepreneurship.

Culinary Identity with Local Flavor

Rhode Island’s food scene is a reflection of its ethnic roots and coastal geography. Here, a perfect day might start with a coffee milk, continue with clam cakes and chowder, and end with a hot wiener all the way. Don’t skip icons like Del’s Lemonade or Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House.

For fine dining, Rhode Island holds its own with top-rated chefs and restaurants in Providence, Newport, and Westerly, often drawing national acclaim.

The Wedding State?

Yes, that’s a thing. With its Gilded Age mansions, coastal vineyards, historic barns, and oceanfront resorts, Rhode Island has become a sought-after destination for weddings. In 2023 alone, the wedding industry generated over $222 million for the local economy. Whether it’s an intimate elopement on Goat Island or a grand affair in a Newport estate, Rhode Island makes every wedding story unforgettable.

Driving Economic Growth in Surprising Ways

Beyond tourism and education, Rhode Island supports thriving industries in marine trades, healthcare, technology, and even a growing startup ecosystem centered in Providence. Its network of auto dealerships also plays a major role, providing jobs, supporting local media, and helping Rhode Islanders get behind the wheel with confidence.

Discover More, Explore Deeper

Whether you’re discovering lighthouses along Ocean Drive, catching a show at Trinity Rep, or walking the Cliff Walk at sunset, there’s always more to experience.

And that’s what Discover Rhode Island is all about—uncovering the stories, the people, and the hidden gems that make this state more than just a place on the map. It’s a community, a lifestyle, and a destination all in one.

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