Save this summer with these free family activities (2024)

by: Lauren Drapeau, Elizabeth Turley

Posted: Jun 28, 2024 / 03:18 PM EDT

Updated: Jun 28, 2024 / 03:18 PM EDT

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Now that students are on summer vacation, families may be looking for some kid-friendly activities that won’t break the bank.

Below is a list of free (or really cheap) things to do this summer in Rhode Island.

NOTE: The events below are subject to change. Be sure to call or check the website ahead of time.

Statewide

• For anybody looking to get outside this summer, the RI Walks challenge offers just that. Hidden on each trail are steel-creature sculptures inspired by nature. A map of the trails can be found here. Prizes are available to individuals who find all of the creatures.
• Check out the state parks around Rhode Island.

Northwest

• Chase Farms in Lincoln will have food trucks and concerts throughout the summer — find the schedule here. On other days, visitors can enjoy walks with rolling hills and fields.
• Visit Jerimoth Hill in Foster and hike to the highest point of elevation in the state.
• Blackstone Valley Bikeway: Shaded by trees along the river, this bike path is the second-largest in the state and offers scenic views.

Providence

• The Avenue Concept offers self-guided art tours through its free app. Explore murals spanning the height of buildings in the city.
• WaterFire Providence: The full list of dates can be found here.
• The Museum of Natural History ($2 entry fee) is reopening on July 22.
• Silent Book Club: Looking to read a good book with some new scenery? Join the Landing PVD on Thursdays.
• Jala Studio in Providence will host Free Park Yoga at 195 District Park on Wednesdays from 5:30–6:30 p.m. and at Roger William National Memorial on Saturdays from 9–10 a.m.
• Observe the Sunset Celebration brought to 195 District Park by the Providence Drum Troupe every Tuesday. These celebrations take place from 6–8 p.m.
• Brown University Public Arts tours, which are student-led and free, take place on Saturdays.
• Prospect Terrace offers a lovely atmosphere to set down a blanket, read a good book and enjoy the view of Providence from above. This site is also home to Roger Williams’ remains.
• RISD Museum: Free on Sundays 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Thursdays from 5–8 p.m.

Blackstone Valley

• Interested in learning a bit more about Rhode Island’s historical ties to the Industrial Revolution? Learn more about the free guided tour here.
• Pawtucket Arts Festival: August 31–September 8.

West Bay

• Cranston YMCA is launching its Community Swim Program from July 5 to Aug. 10. Proof of Cranston residency and a registration waiver are required in order to attend. Get more information here.
• The Cranston Parks and Recreation Free Summer Concert Series will bring music to the William Hall Library and ITRI Park throughout July and August. These will take place primarily on Thursdays with two dates on Tuesdays.
• Rocky Point hosts free outdoor movies throughout the summer. The Movies in the Park event includes two more dates for 2024:
  7/11: DC League of Super Pets (8:30 p.m.)
  7/25: Trolls Band Together (8:30 p.m.)

East Bay

• Join Bristol for the Rockin’ Out at Rockwell Summer Concert Series at no cost, located at the Amphitheater at Rockwell Park. Dates stretch from June to August and take place weekly.
• Cliff Walk in Newport: This well-known tourist attraction will soon have life-size elephant sculptures. A map of the entrances to the Cliff Walk can be found here.
• Take a trip down Ocean Drive! This stretch begins on historic Bellevue Avenue and continues along the rocky coast of Newport. To let the view last longer, stop for a relaxing picnic at the historic Brenton Point State Park.
• Take a tour of the historic Jamestown Windmill on JHS Windmill Day, July 27. With this free event, attendees can visit the Friends Meetinghouse, play cornhole, create art and enjoy free cookies, cornbread and lemonade.

South County

• North Kingstown Town Beach will have concerts every Tuesday hosted by the North Kingstown Arts Council. Specific information can be found here.
• The Fantastic Umbrella Factory in Charlestown, R.I. is home to chickens, emus and an overall friendly landscape. Feel free to enjoy the different shops and animals on site.
• Trustom Pond in South Kingstown offers a series of hiking trails for visitors. The Trail Map can be found here.
• Embark on the Ninigret Park troll trail, where two of five 16-foot trolls with intricate backstories and themes have been installed. If you are looking for a fun and mystical scavenger hunt, this is the perfect place! You may even stop by the Umbrella Factory on your way home, which is just down the road.
• Look up at the stars each Friday with the Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center in Charlestown. Admission is free and the schedule can be found here.
• Wickford Art Festival: July 13–14. It’s one of the best times and places to purchase art, as there will be no sales tax.
• Wilcox Park in Westerly: Go for a walk and enjoy the landscape.

Block Island

• Clayhead Trail: Interested in finding a quiet and immersive trail experience? Get more information about the trail, as well as a map, right here.