A mansion with a storied past, scenic woodlands, lush clearings, and picturesque ponds combine to weave a remarkable tapestry of Borderland State Park. Delighting nature lovers and history buffs alike, parts of the park and Ames Mansion have appeared in movies such as Ghostbusters, Mermaids, and Knives Out. Tour the interiors of the striking mansion, embark on hikes through the woods, go fishing, or explore the wilderness on horseback. Known for its diverse recreational activities, beautiful landscapes, and historic gardens, Borderland State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a mix of outdoor adventures and natural beauty.
Riverwalk & Waterplace Park is pegged against the confluence of the Woonasquatucket and Providence rivers in a little corner of downtown Providence. It's best known for its WaterFire events, which are mini-bonfires that bob atop the water to the beat of world and classical music. The city revitalized the entire area in 1994 and the walk makes an otherwise droll stroll into a pleasant one when walking to College Hill over the Washington Street bridge. The park's bridges are fashioned after those classical ones in Venice, and it's not uncommon to see gondoliers gliding under them.
Prospect Park was one of writer H.P. Lovecraft's favorite places to wander. When you arrive, it is not hard to see why he enjoyed it so much. The park sits atop Congdon Street in historic College Hill and it offers one of the best views of downtown Providence. Another highlight here is a the statue of Roger Williams, one of the founders of Rhode Island. In fact, his remains lie underneath the statue. Overall, it's a worthwhile stop, especially if you're here when the sun goes down in the West.
The Norman Bird Sanctuary is the perfect venue in Newport for bird watching, hiking and family outings. Located just beyond Newport's Third Beach, the park blends ponds and woodlands with ocean breezes and sandy terrain. Trail maps and public restrooms are available at the entrance to the park, along with ample parking spaces. There are over seven miles of trails, allowing visitors to bird watch from designated posts or enjoy views of the sea from the rocks and hills.
Purgatory Chasm is a tiny strip of State Park enveloping a gorgeous view of the open ocean just steps from the park entrance. In the park, visitors can stand on a wooden bridge and admire a deep chasm and the rushing waters from the safety of distance, or take a brisk nature walk along the trail. The other trails at Purgatory Chasm end on the rocky cliffs, which forces hikers to turn back quickly.