Rhode Island

Rhode Island is the smallest state in the United States. Even though it is tiny, it is packed with history and beautiful coastline. Rhode Island was one of the original 13 colonies. It is often called the Ocean State because of its many beaches and bays.

Land and People

About 1.1 million people live in Rhode Island. The capital and largest city is Providence. The state is only about 48 miles long and 37 miles wide. Narragansett Bay cuts deep into the state and gives Rhode Island over 400 miles of coastline.

Culture and Fun Facts

Newport, Rhode Island, is famous for its huge mansions built by wealthy families in the 1800s. Rhode Island is also known for its clam chowder and coffee milk, which is the official state drink. The state was founded by Roger Williams, who wanted a place where people could worship freely.

Fun Facts

• Rhode Island is so small that you could fit about 425 of them inside Alaska.
• Newport is home to giant mansions called cottages that were summer homes for America's richest families.
• Coffee milk, made by mixing coffee syrup with milk, is the official state drink of Rhode Island.

Did You Know?

Rhode Island's official name is actually the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, making it the state with the longest official name despite being the smallest in size.