Rhode Island: The Tiny State That’s Big On Adventure

At only 37 miles wide, and 48 miles long, the enchanting New England state of Rhode Island is not only the smallest state in the U.S but may just be the most charming one at that. Storybook towns and everyone knows everyone community atmosphere, shows big things really do come in small packages. Rhode Island’s population was a mere 1.055 in 2014 with just over 14% of residents being 65+. This little gem has a vibe that harkens back to the good old days that boomers and retirees will find refreshing, and inviting.

Bordered by Massachusetts, Connecticut, and the Atlantic, Rhode Island came into statehood on May 29, 1790, and is home to some of the top medical facilities in the country, taking education very seriously. The capital of Providence is home to Brown University, Providence College, and active adults with a passion for learning can take part in the lifelong education programs offered by Providence Public Library. Rhode Island may be tiny, but also boasts some big firsts like being where the first open golf event took place in 1895, the first polo game in 1876, and also happens to be where the Tennis Hall of Fame serves up sports history.

Retirees and boomers with a love of waterfront living will find plenty of options with fourteen active lifestyle communities, including low maintenance apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. Avalon at Center Place in Providence is a beautiful apartment community featuring a variety of floor plans complete with high-end finishes throughout. Ideally located near entertainment, shopping, and dining, stepping out for a night on the town couldn’t be more convenient.

Rhode Island’s climate is purely New England with brief, warm summers, and cold, snowy winters. With the humid continental weather comes lush, green scenery that against the rugged coastline makes for a postcard-worthy landscape. 55+ outdoor enthusiasts will see why Rhode Island was dubbed the Ocean State. A seaside lifestyle draws tourists, and retirees alike to its nearly 400 miles of coastline complete with rocky cliffs, towering lighthouses, and colorful sailboats bobbing gently in the harbor.

The state’s small scale means it’s easier to explore all it has to offer including historic landmarks like the opulent Breakers Mansion in Newport built in 1895 by Cornelius Vanderbilt, or New England’s Arnold House in Lincoln. Newport is known as the city by the sea where active adults can take a bike ride, savor delectable cuisine, and marvel at its architecture. When retirees aren’t taking in the diverse art culture or enjoying a romantic stroll, getting fit is a big part of Rhode Island living. There is no shortage of outdoor recreation whether it’s hiking, a round of golf, or riding the waves on a surfboard. Rhode Islanders will say you haven’t lived until you’ve tried a clam cake, or cozied up to the WaterFire display in Providence, but whatever is on the agenda for an active retirement, making this treasure of a state home should be first on the list.