Rhode Island (RI)
Small, mighty, and more coast than most, Rhode Island is known as the Ocean State. No suprrise that the wealthiest built gilded age mansions along Ocean Drive. Historically, it was known as Rogue Island for smuggling contraband and rum — one way some got to be the wealthiest in the first place.
Today, birdwatchers enjoy shore birds at nearby Sachuest Point. Nature lovers ferry over to Block Island for hiking trails and beaches especially the Mohegan Bluffs and Southeast Lighthouse.
Rhode Island also punches above its weight in arts and culture; funky Providence is home to RISD (Rhode Island School of Design), Brown, and the Johnson & Wales Culinary Institute.