10 Easy Out-of-County Road Trips from Melville, Rhode Island
If you’re based in
Melville, Rhode Island and feel like you’ve already done “all the things” around Newport, you’re not stuck. In fact, you’re in a great launch point for a bunch of short, fun
road trips to nearby counties and even across the state line into Massachusetts.
All of the ideas below are outside Newport County, but still close enough for a half‑day or full‑day trip. Think casual drives, pretty views, good food, and plenty of spots to stretch your legs.
1. Bristol, RI – Waterfront Charm and the Oldest 4th of July Parade
The town of
Bristol, Rhode Island in Bristol County is only about a 30–40 minute drive from Melville, depending on traffic. It feels like a mini coastal vacation without the long highway slog.
- Stroll along the Bristol Harbor waterfront and watch the sailboats.
- Walk or bike a piece of the East Bay Bike Path (paved and mostly flat).
- Visit the charming downtown with its cafés, ice cream shops, and small boutiques.
- If it’s July, check out the famous Bristol Fourth of July Celebration parade route with its red, white, and blue-striped main street.
On one of my own visits, I grabbed a coffee, wandered down to the docks, and just watched a summer storm roll in across the bay. Simple, but honestly one of those “this is why I live in New England” moments.
2. Colt State Park – Big Views, Easy Picnics
Also in Bristol County, RI,
Colt State Park is a classic day trip from Melville. It’s just a few miles from downtown Bristol and perfect if you want open space.
- Pack a picnic and find a table with a bay view.
- Walk or bike the paved paths that run right along the water.
- Catch sunset over Narragansett Bay with plenty of room to spread out.
If you’ve got kids or a mixed‑age group, Colt State Park is an easy win. Everyone can go at their own pace, and nobody has to hike miles to see something pretty. It’s one of the best
family-friendly road trips near Melville.
3. Warren, RI – Small-Town Arts and Great Food
Just up the road from Bristol, the town of
Warren is small, walkable, and has a growing art and food scene. From Melville, you’re looking at roughly a 35–45 minute drive depending on your route.
Things to do in Warren, RI:
- Explore the little downtown packed with art galleries and quirky shops.
- Grab brunch or dinner at one of the locally loved restaurants.
- Walk near the waterfront and enjoy views of the Warren River.
If you like places that feel a bit “undiscovered,” Warren gives that vibe. It’s less polished than some coastal hot spots, but that’s part of its charm.
4. Warwick, RI – Easy Shopping, Beaches, and Bay Views
Hop over into
Kent County, Rhode Island and you’ll hit
Warwick, one of the state’s larger cities. From Melville, it’s usually about 30–40 minutes by car.
What makes Warwick a good road trip from Melville?
- Check out Oakland Beach for casual seaside snacks and views.
- Walk along the water at Goddard Memorial State Park in nearby Warwick Neck.
- Do some shopping or grab a movie if the weather turns bad.
Warwick is one of those places where you can mix errands with fun. Need a big-box store run plus a quick beach walk? This is your spot.
5. Goddard Memorial State Park – Trails, Horses, and Golf
Also in Kent County,
Goddard Memorial State Park deserves its own mention. It’s a short hop off Route 1 and feels surprisingly peaceful for how close it is to everything.
You can:
- Walk the wooded trails or stroll along the shoreline.
- Check out the equestrian trails and watch riders pass by.
- Play a round at the small public golf course inside the park.
If you like the idea of a “mini state park day” without driving hours into the woods, this is a perfect, low‑stress escape from Melville.
6. Narragansett, RI – Classic New England Beach Day
Heading into
Washington County, Rhode Island (often called South County), you’ll find
Narragansett, one of the state’s most iconic beach towns. From Melville, expect about a 45–60 minute drive, depending on summer traffic.
Highlights in Narragansett:
- Spend the day at Narragansett Town Beach, known for its waves and surfing.
- Snap a photo at the famous Narragansett Towers right on the seawall.
- Walk the seawall, grab clam cakes, and watch surfers and paddleboarders.
If you’re craving a true
Rhode Island beach day near Melville, this is exactly what you’re looking for: salty air, sandy toes, and maybe a soft‑serve cone on the ride home.
7. Wickford Village – Storybook Harbor Town
Also in Washington County,
Historic Wickford Village in North Kingstown feels like stepping back in time. From Melville, plan on around 35–45 minutes by car.
What to do in Wickford:
- Stroll narrow streets lined with 18th- and 19th‑century homes.
- Browse cozy shops and galleries that spill out onto the sidewalks.
- Walk along the harbor; watch kayakers and small boats come and go.
If you like slow-paced days, this little village is ideal. You can easily spend a few hours just wandering, window‑shopping, and taking photos.
8. Blithewold Mansion & Gardens – Gilded Age Escape
Back over in
Bristol County, RI,
Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum is a lovely, relaxing half‑day trip from Melville. It’s perched on the water with sweeping views of Narragansett Bay.
Why it’s worth the drive:
- Tour the historic Gilded Age mansion and learn about Rhode Island’s high-society past.
- Wander through multiple themed gardens and an impressive arboretum.
- Enjoy peaceful lawns that roll down to the shoreline.
If you’re into photography, this place is a dream in spring and summer. Even if you’re not, it’s a great spot to slow down and unplug for a few hours.
9. New Bedford, MA – Whaling History and a Working Waterfront
Ready to cross the state line? Head into
Bristol County, Massachusetts to explore
New Bedford, about an hour from Melville depending on your route.
This is a fantastic trip if you’re a history buff or just like authentic harbor towns.
Top things to do:
- Visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum, one of the best maritime museums in New England.
- Walk the cobblestone streets in the historic district.
- Watch fishing boats in the harbor and grab some locally caught seafood.
New Bedford feels more “real working port” than polished tourist town. That’s part of its charm—and it gives you a different flavor than coastal Rhode Island.
10. Fall River, MA – Battleship Cove and Waterfront History
Also in Bristol County, MA,
Fall River makes a solid day trip from Melville, usually under an hour by car. It’s especially good if you’re into military history or traveling with kids who love big machines.
Don’t miss:
- Battleship Cove, home to the USS Massachusetts and other historic naval vessels you can actually walk through.
- The Fall River waterfront for views of the Braga Bridge and the river.
- Nearby parks where kids can run around after exploring the ships.
Climbing around an old battleship is a totally different experience from your typical beach day. It’s hands‑on, eye‑opening, and surprisingly fun for adults too.
Tips for Planning Road Trips from Melville, Rhode Island
To make your
out-of-county day trips from Melville smoother:
- Check traffic on summer weekends, especially around beaches.
- Pack layers; coastal weather can flip from warm to breezy fast.
- Bring snacks and water so you’re not stuck hunting for food when you’re already hungry.
- Keep a beach chair or blanket in your trunk for last‑minute bay or beach stops.
Sometimes the best part of these short road trips is the in‑between: the little farm stands you spot on the way, or that random ice cream shop you decide to try “just because.”
Where Will You Drive Next?
Living in or visiting
Melville, RI gives you easy access to a whole circle of great towns and scenic spots in
Bristol County, RI,
Kent County,
Washington County, and
Bristol County, MA. Whether you’re craving a quiet garden, a busy boardwalk, a historic harbor, or a sandy beach, you’re rarely more than an hour away.
Have you tried any of these road trips from Melville?
Which one is your favorite, or which are you planning to visit next?
Drop your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear what you discover. And if you know someone in Rhode Island looking for new weekend ideas,
share this post with them so they can start planning their next short escape too.
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