My favorite day-trip destination is a small island in New England — and the round-trip ferry ride is just $20

Every year, I look forward to taking the ferry to Block Island.

Morgan Rizzo

• As someone who's lived in New England my whole life, I've gone on countless day trips in the area.
• My favorite budget-friendly trip is Block Island, a quaint getaway off the Rhode Island mainland.
• A round-trip ferry ticket costs around $20, and the seafood, beaches, and vibes are unmatched.

"Just leave your troubles behind" are the last words of a catchy, famous jingle for the Block Island Ferry.

I've lived in Rhode Island my whole life and heard this jingle more times than I can count. I have to admit there's something to it: After years of going on day trips, weekend getaways, and longer vacations to tons of New England hot spots, nowhere quite eases my troubles like Block Island.

Every summer, I plan a day trip there, knowing I'll be met with tons of positivity, excellent seafood, and relaxation on island time.

Though the island is under 20 miles off the mainland and just a short ferry ride away, I always feel transported into a secluded coastal escape.

It's easy to get to Block Island from Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York.

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Morgan Rizzo

The ferry ride to Block Island is usually one of the highlights of my trip.

I take the traditional year-round ferry from Point Judith, Rhode Island, which costs $20.60 for an adult round-trip ticket. The ride is about an hour long.

In the summer, daily ferries depart from four other ports in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York.

As soon as I board, I head upstairs to the top deck to soak in the sun and watch the island come into view. There's always a full-service bar with snacks, where I'll often grab a cocktail in a souvenir cup and sometimes a bagel with cream cheese for the ride.

Arriving at the dock always feels a little magical.

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Morgan Rizzo

The ride is usually smooth and provides perfect photo opportunities. Narragansett beachgoers wave goodbye as the ferry departs the dock, and before I know it, I'm approaching the bluff side of the island.

Once the boat is docked at the port, I can quickly exit onto the main road, Water Street.

You can shop, eat, and even see animals here.

I love checking out the animals who live on the island.

Morgan Rizzo

What I call "the main strip" has all a visitor could need on just a few roads.

I love exploring the stores — I'll usually pick up a sweatshirt at one of the cute souvenir shops and peanut-butter fudge for the ferry ride back.

Just a quick walk away is 1661 Farm and Gardens, which is home to ducks, geese, kangaroos, llamas, and emus.

There's no shortage of excellent food, from fresh fish to breakfast sandwiches.

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Morgan Rizzo

For a quick breakfast or lunch, I recommend heading to Persephone's Kitchen. It's my go-to spot for an iced latte and "Splendid Egg Sandwich" made with egg, cheddar, avocado, arugula, tomato, and bacon.

Later, local seafood is a must. I always make a point to enjoy some sushi at The Oar, which also has (in my opinion) the best Mudslide on the island. Pro tip: Order one with a banana for an even better drink.

Other great local spots include The Surf at Block Island Beach House, which has incredible views of the water, or the Atlantic Inn for a more upscale dining experience.

I also love the flavorful Mexican food at Yellow Kittens and snacking on sweet treats at Aldo's Bakery.

It's easy to get around and explore Block Island's beaches.

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Morgan Rizzo

There are no Ubers on the island, but the good news is that almost everything is within walking distance.

Two of the island's biggest sights, the Mohegan Bluffs and the Southeast Lighthouse, are both a 2-mile walk from the ferry. Bikes and mopeds are also available for rent, though, if you'd like to get around faster.

The Mohegan Bluffs offer gorgeous views.

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Morgan Rizzo

Not only do their large clay cliffs offer jaw-dropping views, but visitors can walk 141 steps down from the top of the bluffs to a secluded beach perfect for swimming. There's no better way to spend a hot day.

Wherever my travels take me on the island, I know I can always easily fill a day with relaxation or adventure (and, more often than not, a fun mix of both).

After exploring delicious eateries, scenic beaches, and cute shops, a summer day in Block Island flies by — and before I know it, I'm back on the ferry humming that jingle.

This story was originally published on August 25, 2025, and most recently updated on June 17, 2026.

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