New England Islands (Providence to Providence)

Providence, the state capital of Rhode Island, is known as the "Renaissance City," offering a host of attractions for visitors, including acclaimed theaters, fine arts, Philharmonic performances, and its WaterFire art installation, a multisensory spectacle that combines fire, water, music, and sculpture along the riverfront on select evenings. Over three centuries of the city's fascinating history has been preserved, from Benefit Street’s “Mile of History” to the immaculate examples of Colonial and Victorian architecture that line the streets. This historical and cultural depth makes Providence a captivating destination for any traveler.

In the mid-19th century, New Bedford earned the title of the whaling capital of the world, serving as the inspiration for Herman Melville's classic American novel, "Moby Dick," which was published in 1841.Today, New Bedford proudly retains its nickname "The Whaling City." It features an authentic seaport village, one of the largest fishing fleets in the country, and a bustling working waterfront, maintaining its historical connection to the sea while adapting to modern maritime activities. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, artist studios, and cultural festivals that celebrate its unique maritime heritage. Additionally, the New Bedford Whaling Museum offers a look into its storied past, featuring exhibits on the history of whaling, maritime science, and the ecology of the region.

Nantucket Island, a jewel off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, enchants visitors with its pristine beaches and a historic charm that feels timeless. Spanning a modest 105 square miles, the island’s flat terrain is adorned with expansive heathlands and golden sandy stretches that invite leisurely strolls. Once the heart of a bustling 19th-century whaling industry, Nantucket’s downtown area is a living museum, with beautifully preserved buildings whispering tales of yesteryear. Wander through the captivating Whaling Museum, marvel at the iconic Brant Point Light standing as a sentinel since 1746, and embark on a guided tour of the island, choosing from either half-day or full-day adventures. Every summer, Nantucket transforms as the population soars to nearly 50,000, drawing visitors eager to explore its serene shores and enchanting, cobblestoned streets, where every corner holds a piece of history and beauty.

Martha's Vineyard, situated just south of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, bursts with energy and charm, drawing visitors with its dynamic blend of natural beauty and cultural depth. Covering about 96 square miles, the island is divided into six distinct towns, each with its own personality, from the bustling harbor of Vineyard Haven to the quaint gingerbread cottages of Oak Bluffs. The Vineyard is celebrated for its rolling hills, picturesque farms, and charming lighthouses that punctuate the coastline. As you navigate the island on your own, you can stop at Edgartown, a historic whaling port with beautifully preserved 18th-century homes and the iconic Edgartown Lighthouse. You might recognize some spots here as the backdrop for Steven Spielberg’s critically acclaimed film Jaws.

This little town is the ideal starting point for a stroll around Martha’s Vineyard ». The gentle lifestyle of this incomparable setting has been attracting American presidents for several decades. Oak Bluffs will surprise you first and foremost by its Gingerbread Houses. The story goes that the Methodist community settled here more than a century ago, and built these colourful houses, straight out of the Hansel and Gretel fairytale fairytale. You’ll certainly enjoy a visit to the Flying Horses, the oldest wooden carrousel in the United States.

Block Island, nestled in the Atlantic Ocean about 13 miles off the Rhode Island coast, exudes a lively yet tranquil allure. The island spans a mere 10 square miles but is packed with stunning natural landscapes, from dramatic bluffs and rolling dunes to secluded beaches and freshwater ponds. Renowned for its iconic Southeast Lighthouse, perched precariously on Mohegan Bluffs, the island offers breathtaking views and a rich maritime history. Outdoor enthusiasts revel in over 28 miles of walking trails and abundant opportunities for biking, sailing, and bird watching, with the island being a key stopover for migratory species. As the seasons change, so does the population; from around 1,000 permanent residents to nearly 20,000 visitors in the summer, all eager to enjoy the serene environment and community-driven charm of this small island.

Newport, Rhode Island, sparkles as a coastal gem, famous for its stunning oceanfront scenery and grandiose Gilded Age mansions lining Bellevue Avenue. This historic city, established in the 17th century, serves as a sailing capital, hosting prestigious regattas like the Newport Bermuda Race, which draws yachts and spectators from around the globe. The cobblestone streets of the bustling downtown area are lined with vibrant shops, gourmet restaurants, and lively taverns, reflecting its reputation as a premier tourist destination. Newport’s Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile public walkway, offers panoramic views of the endless coastline and opulent residences. During the summer festival season, the city’s population swells as visitors flock to enjoy its famous jazz and folk music festivals, creating a bustling, energetic atmosphere in this historic city.

Established in 1639 by a small band of religious dissenters led by William Coddington and Nicholas Easton, the city by the sea became a haven for those who believed in religious freedom. Newport’s deepwater harbor at the mouth of Narragansett Bay ensured its success as a leading Colonial port, and a building boom produced hundreds of houses and many landmarks that still survive today. These include the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House and the White Horse Tavern, both built during the 17th century, plus Trinity Church, Touro Synagogue, the Colony House, and the Redwood Library, all built in the 18th century.British troops occupied Newport from 1776–1779, causing half the city’s population to flee and ending a golden age of prosperity. The economic downturn that followed may not have been so great for its citizens but it certainly was for preserving Newport’s architectural heritage, as few had the capital to raze buildings and replace them with bigger and better ones. By the mid-19th century the city had gained a reputation as the summer playground for the very wealthy, who built enormous mansions overlooking the Atlantic. These so-called "summer cottages," occupied for only six to eight weeks a year by the Vanderbilts, Berwinds, Astors, and Belmonts, helped establish the best young American architects. The presence of these wealthy families also brought the New York Yacht Club, which made Newport the venue for the America’s Cup races beginning in 1930 until the 1983 loss to the Australians.The Gilded Age mansions of Bellevue Avenue are what many people associate most with Newport. These late-19th-century homes are almost obscenely grand, laden with ornate rococo detail and designed with a determined one-upmanship.Pedestrian-friendly Newport has so much else to offer in a relatively small geographical area— beaches, seafood restaurants, galleries, shopping, and cultural life. Summer can be crowded, but fall and spring are increasingly popular times of the year to visit.

Bristol, Rhode Island, perched on a small peninsula, radiates colonial charm and a vibrant community spirit. Known for hosting the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the United States, the town bursts into life each summer with parades, concerts, and patriotic displays that attract visitors from far and wide. Bristol's charming downtown area features unique boutiques, historic pubs, and waterfront eateries, all set against a backdrop of well-preserved 18th-century architecture. The town also boasts scenic beauty, highlighted by Colt State Park and the East Bay Bike Path, which provide stunning views of Narragansett Bay. Throughout the year, Bristol sustains a lively local culture with attractions like the Herreshoff Marine Museum and various community events that celebrate its maritime heritage and close-knit atmosphere.

From Wall Street's skyscrapers to the neon of Times Square to Central Park's leafy paths, New York City pulses with an irrepressible energy. History meets hipness in this global center of entertainment, fashion, media, and finance. World-class museums like MoMA and unforgettable icons like the Statue of Liberty beckon, but discovering the subtler strains of New York's vast ambition is equally rewarding: ethnic enclaves and shops, historic streets of dignified brownstones, and trendy bars and eateries all add to the urban buzz.