Discover Block Island

Block Island offers a variety of discoveries for nature and culture enthusiasts: more than 28 miles of hiking trails, opportunities to observe wildlife, a museum about the island’s history, and a historic lighthouse. A bike tour with stops at points of interest is another option. Which of these aspects you’d like to shape your stay can help guide you in choosing a suitable vacation rental in Block Island.

Hiking Trails and Nature Experiences

The more than 28 miles of hiking trails are open to the public free of charge. They provide access to the island’s nature, heritage, and wildlife. You can make exploring on foot the focus of your stay while also accommodating different interests: take in the landscape one day, and focus on nature or history another. The trails offer a distinct focus for anyone who wants to get to know Block Island beyond its individual attractions.

Fishing, hunting, wildlife observation, environmental education, and photography are possible year-round at the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. The range of activities spans everything from active pursuits to observing and learning. If seeing wildlife is your main interest, the Lewis-Dickens Farm Wildlife Refuge offers another natural area, described separately: easy walks there lead through coastal meadows. In fall, you can observe birds of prey and migratory birds. This seasonal wildlife viewing is a specific reason to consider the timing of your trip when planning around your interests.

Island History and Notable Landmarks

The Block Island Historical Society Museum is devoted to the history of Block Island. Its extensive collection of significant artifacts includes Manissean stone tools and points, early New England maritime and agricultural exhibits, and colonial memorabilia. Enlarged historical photographs from the Victorian era provide additional perspectives. The museum is located at Bridgegate Square, at the intersection of Old Town Road and Ocean Avenue.

Another historic destination is the Southeast Lighthouse, built in 1875. It stands on the Mohegan Bluffs, 200 feet above the water; the lighthouse grounds are open to visitors. This lets you combine a visit to the structure with a view of its setting on the bluffs, without making a museum collection the focus. History on Block Island takes different forms: from artifacts and historical photographs to a structure in a striking location.

Getting There and Choosing a Location

You’ll need to travel by boat or plane to reach Block Island. Passenger ferries run from Newport and Montauk in summer, and year-round from Point Judith. The island has no public transportation or ride-hailing services. These factors are part of trip planning and may also influence your vacation rental search. Consider which experiences matter to you and how your arrival and travel around the island during your stay should fit with them. The ferry information helps you determine the right departure point and season for your crossing; it does not provide information about travel from an accommodation to individual destinations.

Explore the South by Bike

The Block Island Bicycle Tour follows a 7.5-mile loop with nine stops at notable attractions in the south of the island. The set route length and number of stops give this option a clear framework. You can consider it as a focus in its own right, alongside hiking, wildlife viewing, or cultural history. If you’d rather explore the island on a cycling route, this tour is a specific alternative to hiking; the details provided refer to its loop in the south.

More destinations: Bonnet Shores, North Kingstown, Point Judith, Charlestown, South Kingstown, Westerly, Narragansett.

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