A Day on Historic US Route 6: Providence to Foster, Rhode Island
Duration of the Trip: Half-day to full-day drive (approximately 35 miles)
Travel Focus: Scenic backroads, local cuisine, and small-town charm
Rhode Island may be the smallest state on the map, but the stretch of US Route 6 that runs from Providence to Foster delivers a perfect mix of urban energy, colonial history, and rural tranquility. This itinerary invites travelers to slow down, explore, and savor the unique character that defines southern New England.
Stop 1: Providence — Where History Meets Innovation
Start your journey in the creative heart of Rhode Island. Providence blends old-world architecture with a thriving arts and culinary scene.
Top Attractions
- Waterplace Park and Riverwalk: Ideal for a morning stroll before hitting the highway.
- Rhode Island State House: A gleaming marble landmark that sets the stage for the state’s history.
- Federal Hill: Known as “Little Italy,” it’s perfect for an espresso or early lunch.
Dining Recommendations
- PVDonuts – a must-visit for gourmet doughnuts and local coffee.
- Al Forno – famed for wood-grilled pizzas and river views.
Travel Tip: Before leaving the city, fuel up and check your route; once you reach the countryside, stations become fewer.
Stop 2: Scituate — The Heart of Rural Rhode Island
Leaving the city, Route 6 winds into Scituate, a quintessential New England town surrounded by woodlands, lakes, and colonial-era homes. This area showcases the peaceful rhythm that defines rural life.
Top Attractions
- Scituate Reservoir: Rhode Island’s largest freshwater body—beautiful for photos and quiet reflection.
- Scituate Art Festival (October): A Route 6 tradition featuring local artisans, food vendors, and live music.
- Old Congregational Church and Village Green: Capture the charm of classic white-steeple architecture.
Dining Recommendations
- The Village Tavern: A cozy stop for burgers and pub fare.
- DePetrillo’s Pizza & Bakery: Local favorite for grinders, pizza, and pastries.
Optional Side Stops
- Hope, RI: A tiny mill village near the reservoir with scenic photo opportunities and historic bridges.
- Ponaganset Dam Overlook: A peaceful roadside stop with panoramic water views.
Stop 3: Foster — Rolling Hills and Rustic Charm
Your journey ends in Foster, a town steeped in history and natural beauty. Located near the Connecticut line, Foster offers a slower pace and endless green landscapes.
Top Attractions
- Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge: Rhode Island’s only covered bridge, a perfect finale for your drive.
- Jerimoth Hill: The state’s highest point, with an easy hiking trail to the summit.
- Foster Country Club: Ideal for golfers or a scenic meal overlooking the fairways.
- Additional Notes for Travelers
- Driving Time: 1 to 1.5 hours (without stops).
- Best Season: Fall for foliage, spring for wildflowers.
- Photography Hotspots: Scituate Reservoir, Swamp Meadow Bridge, and the Providence skyline.
- Traveler Type: Perfect for day-trippers, photographers, and history lovers exploring New England’s backroads.
Conclusion: A Slice of Small-Town New EnglandThis short but rewarding Route 6 journey captures everything that makes Rhode Island special—city vibrancy, rural calm, and a thread of history that connects each community. Whether you’re chasing autumn colors or simply craving a slower pace, the Providence-to-Foster drive is a reminder that adventure doesn’t always require distance—just curiosity and time to wander.