Discover • Explore • Connect

Bay Communities and Coastal Streets

Rhode Island

Rhode Island brings Narragansett Bay, ocean beaches, inland villages, and compact cities into a small area. Providence is the capital and largest city; Newport is known for its waterfront and historic architecture. Towns around the bay and in the Blackstone Valley offer their own local history, food, and places to explore.

Rhode Island at a Glance

Population (2025 est.)1,114,521
CapitalProvidence
Largest CityProvidence
Counties5 geographic counties
Land Area1,034 sq mi
Water Area511 sq mi
Statehood1790
Highest PointJerimoth Hill — 812 ft
Explore Rhode Island

County Guides in Rhode Island

Choose a county to explore local information, resources and the businesses listed for that area.

Rhode Island county map

Counties of Rhode Island

Rhode Island landscape

Get to know the cities, towns and landscapes of Rhode Island. Browse the photographs and official resources on this page for places to explore and practical information.

Cullion Concrete advertisement
American landscape
ABOUT THE STATE

America

Local communities make a national story tangible. Across Rhode Island, libraries, schools, businesses, public spaces, and volunteer groups give neighbors places to meet, learn, work, and contribute. Exploring a community means listening to its people and understanding both its achievements and its challenges.

Places, People and Stories

Freedom to Build

Freedom gives people room to create businesses, raise families, serve their communities, and pursue a future they choose.

Community Makes Us Stronger

Strong communities grow when neighbors participate, local institutions serve well, and people invest time and care close to home.

Opportunity Within Reach

Education, work, entrepreneurship, and community connections can open practical paths for people to build more secure and meaningful lives.

Building Tomorrow Together

A shared future grows from responsible choices today—supporting families, strengthening communities, preserving local heritage, and creating room for new ideas.

Find Your Next StopAcross Rhode Island
LATEST FROM

Rhode Island Headlines

Latest reporting from Rhode Island Current. Coverage may include state and national stories.

Rhode Island Current

Voters sail through a mostly smooth Election Day, despite fears of federal interference

Read the full report at the linked publisher. Scenic image shown for illustration.

Read the full story
By Jonathan ShormanNov 3, 20262 min read
STATEWIDE COVERAGEPresented by Local Supporters
Cullion Concrete advertisement
STATE SYMBOLS

The Spirit and Symbols of Rhode Island

Symbols that represent Rhode Island

Rhode Island state flag
Nickname

Ocean State

Ocean State is a widely used name for Rhode Island.

Motto

Hope

Hope is the state motto.

Bird

Rhode Island Red

Rhode Island Red is the state bird of Rhode Island.

Flower

Violet

Violet is the state flower of Rhode Island.

Tree

Red maple

Red maple represents Rhode Island among its official tree symbols.

Marine Mammal

Harbor seal

The harbor seal is Rhode Island’s official state marine mammal.

A State with Many Stories

Bay Communities, Coastal Places, and Historic Streets. Explore the communities, public lands, and local traditions that give Rhode Island its own sense of place.

Narragansett BayOcean beachesHistoric streetsMaritime heritageBlackstone ValleyLocal foodCompact communities
Cullion Concrete advertisement
STATE RESOURCES

Rhode Island Resources

Explore Rhode Island through photographs, state facts and useful public resources.

Need a Place to Start?

Browse official links for public services, parks and visitor information.

HELP DESK

Questions About Rhode Island

Answers and links for residents and travelers.

Providence is the state capital. Providence is the largest city.

PLAN YOUR JOURNEY

Start with a region. Explore its towns.

My Local GuideMy Local Guide
© 2026 My Local GuideDiscover more locallyExplore more communitiesPhoto credits