Welcome to Block Island

May 3, 2022 at 8:00 AM

The Victorian-era buildings in Old Harbor, Block Island, recall a more laid-back time when people would sit on covered porches and take in the view of the Atlantic.

Named one of the last great places on earth, Block Island is a must-see destination for anyone who visits Rhode Island. Stay for a day (or for a week!) and take in the sights of this beautiful island, which you can only get to by ferry. Quaint shops, delicious restaurants, fun bars and nightclubs, and water-related activities abound in a place with no chain restaurants and no traffic lights.

photo courtesy of Block Island Tourism Council

Glass Float Project

550 Glass Floats are hidden annually on Block Island starting in June and ending when all floats have been found. All floats are dated, numbered and stamped with the shape of the island. All floats are made by famed glass designer, Eben Horton. They are hidden on the beaches and the Greenway Trails and never on dunes or bluffs. If you find one you get to keep it, but finders should register that they found that particular float. It is rumored that even one float is made entirely of gold leaf.

photo courtesy of Interstate Navigation

Block Island Ferry

“Sail Away on the Block Island Ferry . . .” When you hear this famous jingle, you’ll know it’s summertime in Rhode Island, and nothing feels more like summer then hopping a ride on the Block Island Ferry to Rhody’s island paradise, Block Island. You can take a high-speed ferry or a traditional ferry from Point Judith (the mainland) to Old Harbor, Block Island. The ferry takes dogs, cars, people and bikes and offers a full snack bar as well as iconic Block Island Ferry cocktails, wine and beer. Your vacation begins as soon as you board the ferry to sit back and relax and enjoy the view!

photo courtesy of Interstate Navigation