12 Refreshing Facts about Rhode Island

First published 6th April 2020 Robin James

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Rhode Island is known for being small yet stunning – and brimming with fantastic culture! There is plenty to learn about this great state, including its industries, nicknames, and famous home-grown people. Here’s a stack of fun facts about Rhode Island worth remembering.

1. Small but mighty!

Small in size but big in reputation, Rhode Island is actually the smallest of all the states in the US! It measures only 3,144 square kilometers!

2. It’s a waterfront state.

Rhode Island is known as a waterfront state as it borders the North Atlantic Ocean. The state is made up of four big islands, five counties, and one estuary known as Narragansett Bay.

3. Islands all around.

Narragansett Bay has over 30 islands. Some of the best-known of these include Prudence Island, Patience Island, Hog Island, Conanicut Island, Despair Island, and Dutch Island.

Flag of Rhode Island

4. What’s the population of Rhode Island?

As small as Rhode Island may be in terms of size, it’s actually the second most densely populated state in the US. As of 2020, there are over one million people living in Rhode Island state, following New Jersey alone in the density stakes.

5. What’s the capital of Rhode Island?

The capital of Rhode Island is Providence. It also happens to be the most populated city in the state, with over 179,400 people living there as of 2020.

6. The toy capital of the US!

If you know anything about Rhode Island, you may know that it is often referred to as the toy capital of the country. That is due to the fact that the Hasbro Toys headquarters is based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. If you’re looking for it, just search for a giant Mr Potato Head; he’ll be on the outside of the building!

7. The Ocean State.

Rhode Island is also commonly known as the Ocean State. Although it is definitely not the only state to border an ocean, Rhode Island is particularly known for its fishing towns and water sports. If you’re into surfing and sailing, then Rhode Island is definitely worth a visit!

8. Lots of people hail from RI!

Rhode Island is known for a lot of things, including bringing some of our best-loved celebrities into the limelight! Actors such as Viola Davis, Debra Messing, Seth MacFarlane, and Charlie Day all come from Rhode Island! Author H.P. Lovecraft also came from the Ocean State.

9. The Family Guy connection.

Speaking of Seth MacFarlane, his world-famous animated TV show Family Guy is actually based in his home state of Rhode Island. The town in the show is a community called Quahog, pronounced ‘co-hog’ – which is also the name of an edible clam you’ll find drifting up on RI’s shores in real life.

Providence, Rhode Island

10. The US Open has roots here.

All tennis fans are connected to Rhode Island and its history, as the US Open first started in Newport, Rhode Island! The area it started in is now home to the International Tennis Hall of Fame.

11. What’s the state bird?

If you’ve been seeing red chickens everywhere, there’s a reason! The Rhode Island Red Chicken is the state bird.

12. The majority of Rhode Island is actually… forest!

Despite the fact that Rhode Island is known as being the Ocean State, it is actually covered in forests! In fact, about 59% of Rhode Island is still forest!

The Rhode Island State House in Providence

FAQs about Rhode Island

What is Rhode Island known for?

Rhode Island is commonly known for its water sports, fishing, and forests. It is also known for making jewelry and silverware - and, for many TV viewers, it’s the home of Family Guy.

Is Rhode Island a part of New York?

No, the state of Rhode Island is not a part of New York. They are two separate states. However, things can get a little confusing because there is indeed a city in the state of New York also called Rhode Island!

How long does it take to drive across Rhode Island?

As the smallest state in the US, it should come as no surprise that driving across Rhode Island won’t take long! In fact, without stopping, driving through the state will only take you 45 minutes!

Do you know any interesting facts about Rhode Island? Share them in the comments below!