Rhode Island Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
state of the United States of America
About Rhode Island
The state's historic full name, as established by the Royal Charter granted by King Charles II in 1663, was "The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations." However, due to the connotation of plantation with slavery, the official name of the state has been shortened to "Rhode Island" in 2020 after a referendum. Despite east coast urban sprawl, there is still both gently-developed oceanside territory and farmland here. The origin of the name (pronounced "road island") is debatable. It is either derived from the nameRoode Eylandtgiven to it by Dutch explorer Adriaen Block, because of its red clay,orbecause Block Island reminded the Italian navigator Giovanni Verrazano of the Greek Island of Rhodes, and subsequent explorers became confused and renamed Aquidneck Island 'Rhode Island.'
Top Attractions in Rhode Island
Explore the best things to see and do in Rhode Island:
- ★Fishing
- ★RI State Pagan Pride Day
Where to Eat in Rhode Island
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴Del's Lemonade
Rhode Island Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 14 sections including: