Cumberland Hill, Rhode Island: 10 Short Road Trips Worth the Drive

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10 Easy Road Trips Near Cumberland Hill, Rhode Island (All Out of County!)

If you live in or near Cumberland Hill, Rhode Island and you’re itching to get out of town for the day, you’re in a perfect spot. In just 30–60 minutes, you can reach beaches, historic mills, cozy New England towns, and even a few “hidden gem” parks most tourists never see. This guide covers 10 short road trips outside Providence County to help you find fun things to do near Cumberland Hill. All of these spots are in neighboring areas like Northeastern Connecticut, Bristol County (MA), Norfolk County (MA), Worcester County (MA), Bristol County (RI), and Kent County (RI). So fill up the gas tank, grab some snacks, and let’s go.

1. Historic Bristol, Rhode Island – Harbor Views & the Oldest 4th of July

Approx. drive from Cumberland Hill: About 40–45 minutes County: Bristol County, RI Bristol feels like the classic New England postcard come to life. Colorful houses, a pretty harbor, and plenty of spots to just stroll and breathe in that salty air.
  • Walk along the Bristol Harbor and watch the boats.
  • Visit the beautifully landscaped grounds of Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum.
  • Explore downtown shops, ice cream stands, and casual seafood spots.
If you’ve only visited for the Fourth of July parade, try coming on a random weekend. It’s calmer, but just as charming.

2. Crescent Park & Rocky Point Views in Warwick, RI

Approx. drive: 30–35 minutes County: Kent County, RI Warwick is more than just an airport stop. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Cumberland Hill and has surprisingly pretty bay views.
  • Walk the shoreline at Rocky Point State Park and imagine the old amusement park that used to stand there.
  • Check out the old carousel building at Crescent Park in nearby East Providence, then loop back through Warwick for dinner.
  • Grab a clam cake and chowder at a local seafood shack.
On a clear day, the breeze off Narragansett Bay can make you forget you were in your car just half an hour ago.

3. Wickford Village – Small-Town Coastal Charm

Approx. drive: 45–50 minutes County: Kent County, RI Wickford is one of those places where you park the car and just wander.
  • Browse small boutiques and antique shops on the main streets.
  • Walk along the water, checking out the boats in the harbor.
  • Grab coffee and sit on a bench to people-watch.
If you like low-key, walkable towns with water views, Wickford is an easy win for a relaxed Rhode Island day trip from Cumberland Hill.

4. Colt State Park – Oceanfront Picnics in Bristol, RI

Approx. drive: 40–45 minutes County: Bristol County, RI Colt State Park is one of the most popular outdoor road trip destinations near Cumberland Hill, and for a good reason. It’s huge, open, and right on the water.
  • Pack a picnic and set up at one of the many tables overlooking Narragansett Bay.
  • Bike or walk the paved paths that wind through fields, trees, and shoreline.
  • Catch a sunset if you don’t mind driving back a little later.
Think of Colt as “Rhode Island’s backyard.” It’s simple, beautiful, and you can make the day as active or as lazy as you want.

5. Blackstone River Bikeway in Woonsocket & North Smithfield (MA/RI Edge)

Approx. drive: 15–25 minutes, depending on which access point Counties: Edges of Worcester County, MA & beyond Providence County While parts of the Blackstone River Bikeway run through Providence County (which we’re avoiding for attractions), you can hop on segments that lead you right toward the Massachusetts border and beyond.
  • Bike or walk along the river for peaceful views.
  • Stop at small overlooks to watch the water and wildlife.
  • Use it as a “scenic connector” into Massachusetts for further exploring.
If you like easy, mostly flat paths and don’t want a long drive to get outdoors, this is a nice choice.

6. Sturbridge, Massachusetts – Old Sturbridge Village & Country Roads

Approx. drive: 45–55 minutes County: Worcester County, MA Sturbridge is a classic New England day trip, especially if you like history.
  • Spend a few hours at Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum that recreates life in the 1800s.
  • Walk the village paths, talk with costumed interpreters, and peek inside historic buildings.
  • Grab lunch or dinner at one of the cozy roadside restaurants along Route 20.
If you’ve got kids (or you’re just a history buff), this makes a full and satisfying day without feeling rushed.

7. Wrentham, Massachusetts – Outlets & Lake Time

Approx. drive: 30–35 minutes County: Norfolk County, MA If you’re in the mood for shopping, Wrentham is a quick and easy trip from Cumberland Hill.
  • Browse deals at Wrentham Village Premium Outlets—clothes, shoes, home goods, and more.
  • Take a break from the crowds with a short drive to local ponds and small parks in town.
  • Pair your shopping day with dinner at a nearby restaurant or bar.
It’s not all nature and history—sometimes a little retail therapy is the perfect short road trip.

8. Foxborough, Massachusetts – Patriot Place & Stadium Energy

Approx. drive: 30–40 minutes County: Norfolk County, MA Even if you’re not a football fan, Foxborough is still a fun out-of-county destination.
  • Walk around Patriot Place, the plaza next to Gillette Stadium, with shops, restaurants, and a movie theater.
  • Check out the atmosphere on non-game days—it’s still lively but much less crowded.
  • If you time it right, catch a concert or event at the stadium.
It’s an easy road trip if you want a “bigger” night out without going all the way into Boston.

9. Taunton & Fall River, Massachusetts – Mills, Museums & Portuguese Eats

Approx. drive: Taunton: 35–40 minutes Fall River: 45–50 minutes County: Bristol County, MA Head east for a day of exploring old mill cities with tons of history and character.
  • In Taunton, check out the town green and historic buildings.
  • In Fall River, stroll along the waterfront and see the battleships at Battleship Cove from the outside (or go in if you want a full museum visit).
  • Try some classic Portuguese dishes—Fall River is known for them.
This is a great choice if you enjoy urban exploring, old architecture, and food with real local flavor.

10. Northeastern Connecticut – “The Quiet Corner” Country Drive

Approx. drive: 30–60 minutes, depending on your route Region: Northeastern Connecticut (sometimes called “The Quiet Corner”) If you’re craving back roads, farm stands, and real peace and quiet, point your car west.
  • Drive through small towns like Putnam, Killingly, or Woodstock.
  • Stop at local diners, coffee shops, or general stores.
  • Look for farm stands selling fresh produce, maple products, or baked goods.
This area of Connecticut feels a world away, but you can be there in under an hour. It’s ideal for a slow Sunday drive with no strict plan—just see where the road takes you.

Tips for Easy Road Trips from Cumberland Hill

To make these short road trips from Cumberland Hill, RI even more enjoyable:
  • Leave with a flexible plan: Pick one main destination, but stay open to side roads and surprise stops.
  • Pack light: Water, snacks, a light jacket, and maybe a small cooler are usually enough.
  • Check hours & events: Especially for museums, mansions, or seasonal attractions.
  • Time your drive: Late morning departures and sunset returns make for a relaxed day.

What’s Your Favorite Road Trip Near Cumberland Hill?

You don’t need a long vacation to feel like you’ve gotten away. From quiet Connecticut towns to busy outlet malls and Rhode Island’s scenic coastline, there’s a lot waiting less than an hour from your driveway. Now it’s your turn:
  • Have you tried any of these day trips near Cumberland Hill?
  • Do you have a favorite hidden gem in Bristol, Kent, Worcester, Norfolk, or Northeastern Connecticut?
Share your ideas and road trip stories in the comments—I’d love to hear what you discover. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends and family who live in the Cumberland Hill area or anywhere in northern Rhode Island. It might just inspire their next spur-of-the-moment adventure.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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