8/10 
Mommy Approved Smiling Faces
101 Ferry Road
Bristol, Rhode Island 02809
www.blithewold.org
(401)253-2727
Why should you take the kids to Blithewold?
Blithewold Masion and gardens is truly a sight to see and explore. The kids and I enjoyed being immersed in nature with numerous beautiful plants and breathtaking views. Seeing a gigantic Sequoia Tree in Rhode Island is extraordinary because it is a native to California. We tried to form a human chain by wrapping the tree’s trunk in a hug, but we couldn’t reach each other’s hands when spread as far apart as possible, it’s massive!
What the kids liked most at Blithewold :
The beautiful rock formations on Blithewold property are fantastic. We’ve seen Moongate, (the circular rock archway) photographed numerous times, so it was fun to see it in-person and of course to pass through it ourselves. It’s the most iconic image of Blithewold and a favorite for wedding photographs because it’s so unique. The mansion itself is gorgeous. It showcases life in 1896. The flowers, various gardens and small creatures that reside on the grounds of the estate make visiting Blithewold Gardens special for us. In case you are wondering what small creatures can be found here, the kids found crabs, bees, koi fish, frogs, bugs and birds which they were very happy about.
What the adults liked most at Blithewold :
I really enjoyed wandering around the property and seeing one marvelous sight after the next. The views in every direction are just spectacular. The grounds are lush and the flowers vibrant. The birds are happily singing and whizzing through the sky. Seeing the coastline of the Narragansett Bay and walking it’s shore is relaxing and peaceful. Have I encouraged you to want to visit yet? I hope so! I promise you won’t regret it.
The Skinny:
- Weather : Visit on a day where it’s comfortable to spend time outside. There is some shelter and a few places to enter buildings but ideally, if you visit you will want to enjoy the gardens. The daffodils are spectacular during the Spring! It’s definitely our favorite time to visit.
- Parking : FREE parking
- Admissions: 5 years of age and younger : FREE, 6 -17 years of age $8, 18+ is $18. They do offer a military and student discount for $14.
- Location : Blithewold is a 33-acre estate owned by the Van Wickle Family. It consists of beautiful gardens, coastline and a mansion which showcases the Country Place Era where architecture and horticulture were priority.
- Hours : Closed Mondays and opens April 2nd-October 16th mansion hours are 11-3 and garden hours 10-4 Tuesday-Saturday and Sunday 10-3. Check their site as they close early for various functions.
- Duration : We visited from 11:30-2, we left because we were hungry but we did get through everything we wanted to see.
- Tips and Recommendations : You may pack a picnic style lunch to eat on the property. Blithewold Mansion does hold private events such as weddings and other functions. For instance, during our visit, there was a baby shower which looked lovely and smelled of delicious chocolate chip cookies. They offer tea times, garden tours and more. Check the local libraries for a day pass. I used Warwick Public Library’s day pass and received a nice discount for a family of 4!
Jewel : 👍🏼
Jamison : 👍🏼
If the kids are into gardens, be sure to check out Green Animals Topiary Gardens in Portsmouth, Rhode Island and New England Botanical Gardens at Tower Hill in Boylston, Massachusetts for more fun. Roger Williams Botanical Center is also a great place to visit for garden lovers in Providence, Rhode Island.
After viewing the blog post online, our family is excited to spend some time at Blithwold Mansion.
Because I have always been interested in history, I cannot wait to see the mansion with it exquisite architecture and the inside views of how the owners lived at that time.
The kids are excited to explore the many daffodils and tulip gardens, see the frogs and bees, and walk the trails throughout the property.
I have to say the blog is very detailed, which is a timesaver for busy parents. No wondering about what is offered, entrance fees or where to park. It’s all listed in the blog. We cannot wait to journey out to Blithwold Mansion and take in the many sights and sounds of the area.
If you your looking to discover (or re-discover) exciting and fun activities in New England, I would highly suggest using the Kid Friendly New England blog as your primary planning guide.
Thank you Emilie. I appreciate the positive feedback. We can’t wait to return and see the flowers too it’s such a beautiful place!