Marvel at the Architecture
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Click on photo to enlarge
Random Beautiful Homes, RI
From the Breakers to West Kingston, beautiful estates and homes line many streets in the small state of Rhode Island.
Bristol, RI
One of New England's finest garden estates is harbored in the town of Bristol, RI. This 19th century 45-room mansion rests on 33 acres and every inch is meticulously landscaped. There are over 300 woody plants including the largest Redwood tree east of the Mississippi River standing over 100 feet tall. The inside is absolutely gorgeous! There is even a built-in elaborate phone system so each room can converse with each other. It even has it's own pier! Oh, the finer luxuries of the 19th century!
Various Lighthouses, RI
Since there is no public access to Sakonnet Lighthouse, one can enjoy a magnificent view from the coastal beach. It was built in 1884 and has many nicknames, Sparkplug, Bug Light, and Coffee Pot, because of its unique style.
An astonishing fact is the smallest state in the Union, measuring only 37 miles wide and 48 miles long, has a coastal line of 400 miles with a whooping 21 lighthouses! Two of those lighthouses are Point Judith (1810) and Castle Hill (1898).
Narragansett, RI
It's unmissable! You can drive right through it! Locals refer to it as the Towers. In the 1800s, this historic landmark was the hub of high society. The only original part left of the casino is the towering skyward spires, as the rest succumbed to devastating fires, nor'easters (violent sea storms), and hurricanes. The state of Rhode Island officially handed it over to the city of Narragansett. Now, weddings, festivals, and seasonal events breathe life into this historic edifice throughout the year.
Providence, RI
The Rhode Island State House is a beautiful building. It took nine years to build, starting in 1895. It was one of the first public buildings to have electricity. A gold-covered statue known as the Independent Man stands on top of the building. The statue weighs over 500 pounds and is 11 feet tall. It represents freedom and independence. Fun fact: The State House was the City Hall in Disney's film Underdog.
The Capital has one of the largest self-supported domes in the world! Standing beneath the center of the dome, looking upwards, shows off the brilliant American Renaissance architecture. Each room is impressive (Senate Chamber shown).
The State Library is worth visiting to see the narrow, spiral staircases leading to thousands of books.