21 Things to Do in Rhode Island for Father’s Day
June 12, 2025
Father’s Day is the perfect time to create unforgettable memories with Dad. And luckily, there are so many exciting things to do in Rhode Island. From outdoor adventures to cultural events, here’s your guide to celebrating the day with style, fun, and local flair.
1. Enjoy a Food Tour in Newport or Providence
Take Dad on a Downcity Providence or Newport Neighborhood Food Tour! These guided experiences are flavorful, fun, and full of fascinating stories. And because food tours blend delicious bites with art, architecture, and history, they’re one of the most satisfying things to do in Rhode Island. You’ll sample everything from spicy margaritas and short ribs to local beer and fresh pretzels. It’s a great way to bond while exploring the best flavors in town.
2. Catch a Rhode Island FC Game
Head to the new Stadium at Tidewater Landing to cheer on Rhode Island FC. Soccer games here are thrilling, energetic, and perfect for families. And with five home matches in June, it’s easy to catch one that fits your schedule. So bring a scarf, join the chants, and start a Father’s Day tradition that scores major points.
3. Cruise Newport Harbor with Live Music
Set sail on the Coastal Queen for a live music cruise with Irish band Turas. It’s 90 minutes of stunning views, great tunes, and cold drinks. And because it cruises through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay, it’s one of the most relaxing things to do in Rhode Island. Grab a spot on the upper deck for fresh air and incredible photos.
4. See American Idiot with Wilbury Theatre Group
If Dad’s a Green Day fan, this musical is a must. It’s loud, raw, and filled with songs that shaped a generation. And because it runs only through June 15, it’s a limited-time experience worth catching. Expect gritty storytelling, killer guitar riffs, and powerful performances that break the mold.
5. Book a Private Spirits Tasting
Treat Dad to a private tasting at Rhode Island Spirits in Pawtucket. You’ll sample five craft-distilled spirits made with local, foraged ingredients. And because it’s BYO snacks, you can bring cheeses, chocolates, or charcuterie to enhance the experience. Tastings run Wednesday through Saturday and are one of the most grown-up things to do in Rhode Island.
6. Visit Cars & Coffee
Take Dad to one of the coolest free events of summer—Audrain’s Cars & Coffee. With more than 350 classic and modern cars on display, it’s a feast for any auto enthusiast. And because events are hosted in scenic locations like Fort Adams and Gooseneck Vineyards, it’s one of the most photogenic things to do in Rhode Island. Bring your coffee and enjoy the conversation.
7. Take a Goat Hike
For a quirky and memorable experience, go hiking with goats at Simmons Farm in Middletown. Each person gets their own leashed goat to walk, making it hilarious and heartwarming. And because it’s set on preserved farmland with ocean views, it’s one of the most unexpected things to do in Rhode Island. Don’t forget to treat your goat along the way!
8. Walk the Newport Black History Tour
Explore Newport’s Colonial past on a walking tour focused on stories of resistance and freedom. You’ll follow the footsteps of African American and Indigenous people who shaped the city. And because this tour is led by trained historians, it’s one of the most meaningful things to do in Rhode Island. Wear comfy shoes and bring your curiosity.
9. Blow Glass Together
Sign up for a glass-blowing class and make something special together. Choose from ornaments, bowls, pint glasses, or mushrooms—it’s totally hands-on. And because you work with molten glass and real tools, it’s one of the most creative things to do in Rhode Island. It’s fun, a little challenging, and incredibly rewarding.
10. Celebrate at the Gaspee Days Parade
Don’t miss this historic and high-spirited parade in Pawtuxet Village. Colonial reenactors, fire trucks, fife and drum corps, and flags bring Rhode Island history to life. And because it’s been running for over 50 years, it’s one of the longest-standing things to do in Rhode Island every June. Arrive early to grab a good spot!
11. Hike at Lincoln Woods
Escape into nature with a hike at Lincoln Woods State Park, just outside of Providence. You’ll find easy loops, dog-friendly trails, and gorgeous views around Olney Pond. And because there are trails for all skill levels, hiking here is one of the most flexible things to do in Rhode Island. Pack a picnic and stay awhile.
12. Try a Bike-and-Brew Day
Pedal the East Bay Bike Path with dad, starting in Providence and ending in Bristol. Along the way, stop at local favorites like Narragansett Brewery and The Guild. And because breweries line the path, this is one of the most refreshing things to do in Rhode Island for beer lovers. Ride safe and sip responsibly!
13. Kayak in Downtown Providence
See the city from the water with a kayak rental or guided tour downtown. Paddle under bridges and past iconic buildings and public art. And because it’s both active and scenic, kayaking is one of the most peaceful things to do in Rhode Island. Look out for swans and city murals!
14. Attend a Newport Polo Match
Watch world-class polo with a side of picnic fun at the Newport International Polo Grounds. Tailgate before the match or grab seats for the action. And because polo is a Rhode Island summer staple, it’s one of the most stylish things to do in Rhode Island for Father’s Day. This year’s match is USA vs. Dominican Republic!
15. Go Cider Tasting at Warren Cider Works
Try a tasting flight at this charming cider house in Warren. Their seasonal blends are crisp, fresh, and perfect for summer sipping. And because you can bring your own snacks, this is one of the coziest things to do in Rhode Island. Relax outside and enjoy the orchard air.
16. Sail on a 12-Meter Yacht
Board an authentic America’s Cup yacht for a thrilling sail around Newport. Help hoist the sails or simply sit back and take in the views. And because these boats have raced in history’s most elite regatta, it’s one of the most unique things to do in Rhode Island. Sea breeze guaranteed.
17. Visit The Guild in Pawtucket
Sip craft brews at this lively beer hall and outdoor garden in Pawtucket. The space is big, breezy, and always buzzing with events and good vibes. And because it’s been pouring since 2017, visiting The Guild is one of the most laid-back things to do in Rhode Island with Dad. Cheers to that.
18. Skydive Together in Newport
Ready for a thrill? Book a tandem jump with Skydive Newport and soar over the coast. You’ll get jaw-dropping views and a serious adrenaline rush. And because it’s a true bucket-list adventure, skydiving is one of the most extreme things to do in Rhode Island. Bragging rights included.
19. Sip Wine at The Chanler
Relax in the Ca’ del Bosco Wine Garden at The Chanler on Cliff Walk. Enjoy Franciacorta, Spritzers, and wood-fired pizza under shady umbrellas. And because the view is spectacular, this is one of the most elegant things to do in Rhode Island for wine-loving dads. It’s pure Italian-style bliss by the sea.
20. Tour Fort Adams
Take Dad underground and back in time with a guided tour of Fort Adams in Newport. Explore tunnels, walls, and officer quarters while learning about 200 years of military history. And because it’s a National Historic Landmark, this is one of the most fascinating things to do in Rhode Island. Wear comfy shoes and bring your camera!
21. Take a Day Trip to Block Island
Hop on the ferry and spend the day exploring beautiful Block Island. Visit the Southeast Lighthouse, hike the Mohegan Bluffs, or rent mopeds and roam. And because the island feels like a world away, this is one of the best escape-worthy things to do in Rhode Island. Don’t miss the famous mudslides at The Oar.
Bonus: Give the Gift of a Food Tour
Too busy on Father’s Day? Grab a Rhode Island Red Food Tours gift certificate instead! It’s flexible and delicious, and can be used anytime. So whether it’s a future outing or a last-minute gift, it’s one of the tastiest things to do in Rhode Island together—when the time is right.
