Explore Rhode Island's Blackstone Valley Renaissance

Still untouched by major development, the pastoral Blackstone Valley, located in the northern section of Rhode Island, is in the midst of a major renaissance. At the heart of that renaissance, just as it was at the heart of the American Industrial Revolution, is the Blackstone River. Once an integral part of the textile mill industry until its fall as a neglected wasteland of pollution, the Blackstone River has risen once again to take its regal stand as a centerpiece in the rebirth of the Blackstone Valley.

The Blackstone Valley consists of 21 communities in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The Rhode Island side includes the towns of Burrillville, Central Falls, Cumberland, Glocester, Lincoln, North Smithfield, Pawtucket, Smithfield, and Woonsocket, while the Massachusetts communities include Blackstone, Douglas, Grafton, Hopedale, Mendon, Millbury, Millville, Northbridge, Sutton, Upton, Uxbridge and Worcester.

Tying the communities together is the Blackstone River, which serves as the center of activity for the Valley. From canoeists and kayakers enjoying the river to visitors touring the area and its natural beauty, the Blackstone River is one of the more popular spots to enjoy the four seasons of Rhode Island. Whether you prefer touring by land, sea, or rail, the history and scenic vistas of Blackstone Valley shouldn't be missed.

First stop: A River Tour. Since 1993, the 49-passenger Blackstone Valley Explorer has been providing passengers with river tours along the Blackstone River. During the 45-minute narrated American Heritage River Tour, you'll discover the cultural heritage of the French and Franco-Canadians who came to settle in Woonsocket in the 19th and early 20th centuries to work the mills and factories. The tour guides offer interesting facts about the area's past, present and future, and are attentive in pointing out local landmarks. The river tours depart rain or shine from the Visitors Center, Central Falls Landing, Broad Street. Tour times from June 3 to August 20 are every Sunday at 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for children and senior citizens.