Cranston Rhode IslandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cranston, Rhode Island.
1. Garden City Center
HISTORIC SHOPPING VILLAGE
Garden City Center has served the area for over 70 years as a true New England village shopping experience. The center brings commerce and community together around a common green space, creating a unique shopping atmosphere. With numerous shops and restaurants, it offers visitors a walkable and enjoyable retail destination just outside of Providence.
2. Pawtuxet Village
HISTORIC WATERFRONT NEIGHBORHOOD
Pawtuxet Village is a charming historic neighborhood in Cranston with rich history dating back to the War of Independence. Visitors can enjoy several excellent restaurants and various shops in this very walkable village. The area offers a well-preserved glimpse into Rhode Island's past while providing modern amenities.
3. Governor Sprague Mansion
HISTORIC GUBERNATORIAL HOME
The Governor Sprague Mansion serves as an important historic site in Cranston with connections beyond its gubernatorial past. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that highlight the mansion's historical significance and architectural details. The mansion offers a fascinating glimpse into Rhode Island's political and social history.
4. Pawtuxet Oxboes Park
RIVERSIDE NATURE RESERVE
Pawtuxet Oxboes Park offers a peaceful natural escape in the middle of Cranston's busy streets with the 2.3-mile Pawtuxet River Trail running through it. The park is considered a birding hotspot in the area, making it perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Pawtuxet River while exploring Rhode Island's natural beauty.
5. Buttonwoods Brewery
LOCAL CRAFT BEER
Buttonwoods Brewery is a popular craft brewery in Cranston offering locally made beers. Visitors can sample a variety of unique brews in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. The brewery represents Cranston's growing craft beverage scene and provides a taste of local culture.
6. Cranston Public Library, Central Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER
The Cranston Public Library's Central Library is a vibrant community hub offering books, resources, and programs for all ages. Visitors praise the helpful and friendly staff who create a welcoming environment. The library serves as an important cultural and educational resource for Cranston residents and visitors alike.
7. Roger Williams Park Zoo
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION CENTER
Roger Williams Park Zoo is a beloved attraction near Cranston featuring diverse wildlife from around the world. The zoo focuses on conservation efforts and educational programs that engage visitors of all ages. With beautifully maintained exhibits and regular special events, it provides an entertaining and informative experience for families.
8. Roger Williams Park Botanical Center
LUSH INDOOR GARDENS
The Roger Williams Park Botanical Center houses New England's largest indoor display gardens with an impressive collection of plants from around the world. Visitors can explore themed garden spaces including tropical environments and desert landscapes regardless of the weather outside. The center offers a tranquil escape and educational experience about plant life and conservation.
9. RISD Museum
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
The RISD Museum houses an impressive collection of art from ancient times to contemporary works, making it a cultural gem near Cranston. Affiliated with the Rhode Island School of Design, the museum showcases paintings, sculptures, textiles, and decorative arts from across the globe. Visitors can experience a world-class art collection that rivals those found in much larger cities.
10. Audubon Davis Memorial Wildlife Refuge
SERENE NATURE SANCTUARY
The Audubon Davis Memorial Wildlife Refuge offers a peaceful natural escape with hiking trails through diverse ecosystems just a short drive from Cranston. The sanctuary protects important habitats for native plants and wildlife while providing opportunities for nature observation. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, photography, and connecting with Rhode Island's natural heritage throughout the seasons.
11. Museum Of Natural History And Planetarium
SCIENCE AND SPACE EXPLORATION
The Museum Of Natural History And Planetarium, located in Roger Williams Park, offers fascinating exhibits including the South Pacific Ocean, Earthquake, and Urban Wildlife displays. The planetarium hosts shows on Sundays, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about outer space. Open daily with affordable admission, it's an educational destination that appeals to curious minds of all ages.
12. Historic Providence Boat Tours
SCENIC WATERWAY EXPLORATION
Historic Providence Boat Tours offer a unique perspective of the region's landmarks and history from the water. Passengers cruise along Providence's waterways while knowledgeable guides share stories about the area's rich heritage and development. These tours provide both entertainment and education about Rhode Island's capital city just minutes from Cranston.
13. White Horse Tavern
AMERICA'S OLDEST TAVERN
The White Horse Tavern, established in 1673, holds the distinction of being America's oldest operating restaurant. The historic tavern combines colonial charm with upscale dining featuring locally-sourced ingredients and traditional New England cuisine. Visitors can dine in the same rooms that once hosted colonial legislators, British soldiers, and founding fathers.
14. Fort Adams
HISTORIC MILITARY FORTRESS
Fort Adams is an impressive coastal fortification that once served as a key defensive position for Narragansett Bay. The massive stone fort offers guided tours that explore underground tunnels, soldier quarters, and defensive positions while explaining military history and architecture. Beyond historical interest, the fort now hosts major events including the Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival.
15. Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum is a meticulously preserved Victorian mansion showcasing the opulent lifestyle of one of Rhode Island's prominent 19th-century families. The house features original furnishings, elaborate woodwork, and stained glass that exemplify high-style Victorian design and craftsmanship. Guided tours provide insight into the social history, domestic life, and architectural significance of this National Historic Landmark.