Once upon a time Sunday afternoons meant long, leisurely drives. Sometimes we had a specific destination in mind; other times we’d just drive where the road took us. Celebrate that old-fashioned tradition with a drive – any day of the week, any time of the year – along Scenic Route 102 in Rhode Island.

Drink in some of the most beautiful scenery in Rhode Island as you meander along Scenic Route 102.

Flickr/Doug Kerr

Beginning in North Smithfield, the scenic road travels 44 miles, just the right mileage for a morning or an afternoon out. You might want to stop at one of the charming towns along the way, too.

Google/neilfein

One of the first towns you’ll pass after setting off from North Smithfield, Burrillville’s brimming with natural beauty. The town is dotted with historic sites, a seasonal farmers market, and the oldest penny arcade in the United States.

Flickr/Doug McGrady For a unique view of Burrillville, bring your bike along and explore the small town’s bike path.

Keep driving along the winding road that also passes Glocester. The darling town appeals to both history buffs and nature lovers. Plan a stop at Brown & Hopkins Store, the oldest general store in the United States.

Flickr/This.Usually.Works

You may also want to pull over in the quaint town of Scituate, home to a collection of eclectic shops and restaurants.

Flickr/J. Stephen Cohn

Scenic Route 102 also winds through Foster, although you’ll have to take a bit of a detour if you want to see the only covered bridge in Rhode Island. Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge sits along Central Pike.

Flickr/Peter Rintels Foster is also home to Jerimoth Hill, the highest point in Rhode Island.

If you’re up for more exploring, visit one of the next towns along Scenic Route 102 - Coventry, West Greenwich, and Exeter.

Flickr/Peter Rintels

The route ends in the adorable village of Wickford, a must-visit any time of the year. Go on a historic walking tour, or visit one of the charming shops. It’s also an oasis for food lovers.

Flickr/Peter Rintels

Have you driven along Scenic Route 102 in Rhode Island? What was your favorite part of the trip? Let us know in the comments! For a drive of a different kind, follow the most haunted road in Rhode Island.

Flickr/Doug Kerr

Google/neilfein

Flickr/Doug McGrady

For a unique view of Burrillville, bring your bike along and explore the small town’s bike path.

Flickr/This.Usually.Works

Flickr/J. Stephen Cohn

Flickr/Peter Rintels

Foster is also home to Jerimoth Hill, the highest point in Rhode Island.

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Address: Rhode Island, USA