There are many unique places and activities for the entire family to enjoy in and around Providence, but if you are feeling like spending time outdoors in the fresh air and looking for options, then you’ve arrived at the right place!
If you’re tired of being indoors all day and want to make every moment count, away from screens and just enjoying some time under the sun, take a look at our top picks for fun outdoor activities in Providence that you can enjoy with children!Â
1
475 Valley St, Providence, RI 02908, USA
Waterfire Providence
WaterFire Providence® is an independent, 501(c)3 nonprofit arts organization whose mission is to inspire Providence and its visitors by revitalizing the urban experience, fostering community engagement and creatively transforming the city by presenting WaterFire for all to enjoy.2
160 Yawgoo Valley Rd, Exeter, RI 02822, USA
Yawgoo Valley Ski Area and Water Park
This is the perfect place for outdoor family fun! Families will get to Ski and Ride on 12 trails, learn to ski or snowboard, glide in the tubing park, or slide at the water park in the Summer!3
101 Dyer St, Providence, RI 02903, USA
Providence Kayak
Providence Kayak offers single and tandem kayak rentals on the Providence River in downtown Providence. Families can enjoy guided tours of approximately 90 minutes and all the equipment and tour are included.4
1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907, USA
Roger Williams Park Zoo
With over 100 rare and fascinating species from around the planet, visitors will get to pet an armadillo, see New England’s only Komodo dragon, experience an exhilarating zip ride, and so much more!5
2 Kennedy Plaza, Providence, RI 02903, USA
The Providence Rink
Families will forget about the cold while enjoying fun and exciting activities such as ice bumper cars and ice skating during winter (and roller skating during summer).6
112 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, RI 02882, USA
Adventureland
From Go Karts to Bumper Boats, Mini Golf to Spin Zone Bumper Cars, Adventureland is sure to have attractions for everyone.7
1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907, USA
Roger Williams Park Botanical Center
When visiting The Roger Williams Park Botanical Center, families will be stepping foot in New England’s largest glasshouse display garden.8
1000 New London Ave, Cranston, RI 02920, USA
Mulligan's Island
Mulligan's Island in Rhode Island is a 64-acre complex offering a wide range of activities suitable for all ages, making it perfect for families.9
583 3rd Beach Rd, Middletown, RI 02842, USA
Norman Bird Sanctuary
The Norman Bird Sanctuary stands as a beacon of nature conservation and environmental education.10
23 America’s Cup Ave, Newport, RI 02840
Newport Travel Trolley Tours
Newport Travel Trolley Tours offers sightseeing tours and charter services in luxury and comfort for the whole family to enjoy! Kids will love the narrated trolley tour of Newport’s mansions and breathtaking scenery, and everyone will have a blast while learning something new!11
The All-Time Favorite: Visit a City Park!
Parks always have one thing going for them: they’re free! And when parks have unique features and fun playgrounds, they instantly become our kids’, and ourselves, new favorite spots to spend the days!12
2 Manchester Print Works Rd, Lincoln, RI 02865
Visit Lincoln Woods State Park
Lincoln Woods State Park is just a short ride from Providence, and it offers so much to do! Kids will have a blast swimming at the freshwater beach, trout fishing, playing ball, hiking, jogging, horseback riding, or just relaxing under a shade tree! This is a must for families who are in Providence or northern Rhode Island. You will enjoy scenic trails, and many other cheap and free kids’ activities!13
Go on a Kid-Friendly Hiking Trail
Rhode Island is brimming with picturesque hikes, many of which are suitable for the little ones! Get ready to explore some of the most awe-inspiring areas near Providence with comfortable shoes, and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones!14
2321 Hartford Ave, Johnston, RI 02919
Snake Den State Park
The whole family will have a blast enjoying this 1,000-acre undeveloped property that boasts self-guided walking trails, beautiful trees, flowers, plants, and a working farm as well. Snake Den State Park is a terrific and fantastic nature escape for travelers of all ages.15