37 Fun Things to Do in Rhode Island This May

FEATURED

Jurassic Encounters: Dinosaurs at Roger Williams Park Zoo

ONGOING

Photo courtesy of Roger Williams Park Zoo

Dinosaurs are back from extinction at Roger Williams Park Zoo! Transport yourself back in time to the Jurassic era and enjoy this immersive walk-through with close to sixty life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Learn more about the ancient creatures, uncover fossils and take advantage of countless photo opportunities. Exhibit not included with zoo admission; separate ticket required. $9 for ages two and older; $7 for members; free for ages one and younger. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, 785-3510, rwpzoo.org

Gooooal!: RIFC Home Opener Game

MAY 3

Photo courtesy of Rhode Island FC.

Take in the Rhode Island Football Club’s home opener game against San Antonio at the Stadium at Tidewater Landing in Pawtucket. After a successful inaugural season, the defending USL Eastern Conference champions are looking to hold onto their title and raise more trophies in honor of the people and place they call home. 4 p.m. $21–$126. Visit the website for more details. The Stadium at Tidewater Landing, 150 Taft St., Pawtucket, rhodeislandfc.com

Spring Vibes: Misquamicut SpringFest

MAY 9–11

With live entertainment and multiple food, craft and commercial vendors, there’s plenty to keep everyone happy at the annual Misquamicut SpringFest. Get a bird’s-eye view of the entire fest from the Ferris wheel, check out Saturday’s classic car show and refuel with food truck fare and a visit to the beer and wine garden. Visit the website for times and ride pricing. $12 at the gate; $10 online before the event; children younger than seven free. Misquamicut State Beach, 257 Atlantic Ave., Westerly, 322-1026, misquamicutfestival.org 

Animal Crafters: Crafting for Critters Bazaar

MAY 10

The eleventh annual Crafting for Critters Bazaar will offer an array of fine art, handcrafted apparel, home decor, baked goods, stained glass, books and more, all to benefit the Friends of the Warwick Animal Shelter. Food trucks will also be on hand at the outdoor event, so bring your appetite! 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free. Airport Professional Park, 2348 Post Rd., Warwick, friendsri.org

Celebrate Mom: Mother’s Day Mimosa Cruises 

MAY 11

Celebrate Mom with a beautiful day on the water, filled with amazing sights, mimosas and quality time. The hour-long cruise sails around Newport Harbor and the Narragansett Bay, showcasing highlights like the Rose Island Lighthouse and Fort Adams State Park. Cruises depart at 10 a.m. and noon, with an additional 3 p.m. cruise featuring the Celtic band Fáilte, and a 6 p.m. sailing with singer and pianist Logan Vale Branch. Visit the website for pricing and tickets. 5 Bowen’s Landing, Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, 423-9900, coastalqueencruises.com

Fiber Fun: Coggeshall Farm Sheep & Wool Festival

MAY 17

Photo courtesy of Coggeshall Farm Museum

Learn about all things fiber at Coggeshall Farm’s Sheep & Wool Festival. See sheep shearing, wool processing, dyeing, weaving and spinning demonstrations, all necessary for getting the wool from the sheep to your shoulders. Visit animals, shop from local artisans and vendors, and take in a sheep dog herding demonstration or two. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Visit website for pricing and tickets. Coggeshall Farm Museum, 1 Colt Dr., Bristol, coggeshallfarm.org

Shuckin’ Season: Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival

MAY 17–18

Photo courtesy of Bowen’s Wharf Company

Sample some of Rhody’s iconic seafood delicacies at the ninth annual Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival. Head to picturesque Bowen’s Wharf and enjoy oysters and chowder from local growers and vendors, all while listening to live music and feeling the sea breeze. Sat. and Sun. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Free admission. Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, 849-2243, bowenswharf.com 

Laugh It Up: Rogue Island Comedy Festival’s Spring Fest 

MAY 22–25

Courtesy of Rogue Island Comedy Fest

Laugh the night away with Rogue Island Comedy Festival’s Spring Fest! Renowned comedians Natasha Leggero, Ian Lara, Geoffrey Asmus and others will perform at various venues in and around Newport including the JPT Film & Event Center, Ragged Island Brewing, Top of Pelham and more. Visit the website for up-to-date details. rogueislandcomedyfest.com

Culture Club: Art Night Bristol Warren

MAY 29

Photo courtesy of Art Night Bristol Warren

Art Night Bristol Warren returns for another season of showcasing the East Bay art scene. Join in the fun during the last Thursday of each month, through August, by strolling through museums, galleries and studios and taking in local art, live music, dance and theater performances. Free. 5:30–8:30 p.m. Locations in Bristol and Warren, artnightbristolwarren.org

Classical Music: 2025 Annual Gala Concert with Yo-Yo Ma 

MAY 31

Photo courtesy of the Vets/photograph by Austin Mann

Enjoy world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma during a gala concert hosted by the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra at The Vets. Featuring Christopher Theofanidis’ “Rainbow Body,” Copland’s “Appalachian Spring: Suite” and Dvořák’s Cello Concerto. A post-concert celebration will continue afterward at the WaterFire Arts Center. $60–$750 premier tickets. 5 p.m. The Vets, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Providence, riphil.org 

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Wicked Tulips

THROUGH MAY 15: Make your way through the tulip fields, experience wonderful sights and smells, and even bring home your own hand-picked bouquet! Don’t miss this “U Pick” event’s tenth anniversary, guaranteed to brighten up your day. Purple hues of the Celebration Mix and fifty beds of lively flowers for amazing photo opportunities are on the horizon but stay tuned because Mother Nature chooses when! Tickets are required and must be purchased online. Wicked Tulips, 90 Brown Ave., Johnston, wickedtulips.com

Green Animals Topiary Garden

STARTING MAY 10: After its winter hiatus, Green Animals Topiary Gardens is back and better than ever on May 10. See more than eighty topiary animals, geometric shapes, designs and other figures, enhanced by colorful flowers and seasonal blooms. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Green Animals Topiary Garden, 380 Cory’s Ln., Portsmouth, 847-1000, newportmansions.org

Whisky for Wildlife

MAY 15: Cheers to conservation! Join the Roger Williams Park Zoo for this 21-plus event expected to sell out. Delight in a curated journey of whiskies and rare spirits guided by whisky expert Irene Tan and her certified sommelier team. Featuring five curated tastings, a Wee Glencairn tasting glass, appetizers, soft drinks, animal encounters and access to an exclusive silent auction featuring rare spirits and unique experiences, Whisky for Wildlife supports the Zoo’s conservation efforts and field work. 5:30–7:30 p.m. $100. Purchase tickets online now. Roger Williams Park Zoo, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, rwpzoo.org

Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park

ONGOING: Fuel yourself and finish your week off strong with a wide variety of eats from more than fifteen food trucks at Food Truck Friday! Other attractions like the historic carousel, the Carousel Express train, Hasbro’s Boundless Playground, and local live music make any Friday night a blast for the whole family. Be sure to bring a blanket to sit on as you enjoy your dinner, as picnic tables fill up fast! 5–8 p.m. Free. Parking available at Roger Williams Park Zoo. Roger Williams Park Carousel Village, 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, rwpzoo.org

FOR THE KIDDOS

Wee-One Wednesdays

ONGOING: Bring the little ones to explore the botanical center’s greenhouses, sit for a story time, participate in a craft activity and more! This weekly toddler program is open to ages 2–4. Every Wednesday, 9–10 a.m. Free. Visit website to register. 1 Floral Ave., Providence, providenceri.gov/wee-one-wednesdays/

Sky Views Planetarium Show at Museum of Natural History

ONGOING: Viewers of all ages are invited to tour the skies and discover constellations, planets, and nebulae with advanced video imagery. Get up close and personal with a black hole and see views guaranteed to make every star traveler’s sense of wonder soar. Every Sunday, 2–2:30 p.m. Non-members $5; Members free. Visit website for tickets and more show details. 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, providenceri.gov/planetarium-show/

ARTS

Newport Art Museum Exhibit

THROUGH MAY 6: Without You (I’m Just an Empty Shell), a functional art exhibit by artist Andrea Spiridonakos honors Newport and features an art piece based on the shell shape of a Newport oyster species. This shell-inspired chair represents the functionality of oysters as natural water filters, cleaning coastlines all around Rhode Island. See website for museum hours. Adults $15; Seniors $10; Students $8. 76 Bellevue Ave., Newport, newportartmuseum.org 

Bristol Art Museum: Flights of Imagination

THROUGH MAY 11: Recognizing the sense of grace and freedom of the birds of Narragansett Bay, the Flights of Imagination exhibit invited artists to explore the symbolism of birds, flight and the sky through two-dimensional artwork. This collection of unique perspectives reflects the movement of birds and hopes to inspire an appreciation for the natural beauty of Southern New England and the artistic vision it inspires. This exhibit is open during regular hours and is included with admission. Marjorie Van Wickle Lyon Gallery in the Visitors Center, Blithewold, 101 Ferry Rd., Bristol, 253-2707, bristolartmuseum.org

The Laramie Project at Granite Theatre

MAY 2–11: Westerly welcomes The Laramie Project, a collage of experiences and confessionals that explores the depths to which humanity can sink and the heights of compassion that are possible. This show portrays the true story of Matthew Shepard’s brutal murder and the aftermath that followed in the small town of Laramie, Wyoming. Sparking a breadth of reactions, Shepard’s death and the trials that followed demonstrated the community’s response to the hate crime and broader issue of homophobia. $25–$30. The Granite Theatre, 1 Granite St., Westerly, 596-2341, granitetheatre.org

“Swan Lake” at The Vets

MAY 3–4: Witness the tragic love story of Prince Siegfried and Odette in the world-renowned ballet “Swan Lake,” presented by Ballet RI. Resident choreographer Yury Yanowsky and Ballet RI director Kathleen Breen Combes present their version of the treasured classic on the stage at The Vets. Make sure to experience this captivating story told with graceful artistry and spectacular technique. Saturday, 1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday, 1:30 p.m. View website for ticket pricing. The Vets, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Providence, balletri.org

Chicago at PPAC

MAY 2–4: This iconic musical is heading to PPAC. It’s the Ocean State’s turn to shake (or shimmy) things up. Discover the whirlwind of Chicago’s Jazz Age and the tale of dueling performers and notorious murderesses Velma Kelly and Roxy Heart. Don’t miss out on this Emmy, Olivier and Grammy-Award winning show. Friday, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Sunday, 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. $40–$100. Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset St., Providence, 421-2787, ppacri.org

Dueling Pianos

ONGOING: Two grand pianos, two performers and one venue, Top of Pelham invites you for a live Dueling Pianos show. Performing audience requests from any genre, this show guarantees an unforgettable evening with audience participation, toasts and dedication songs. No matter the occasion, Dueling Pianos promises a unique and high-energy experience, as no two shows are the same. Fridays and Saturdays. 21+. Visit website for times and table reservations. Top of Pelham, 3 Pelham St., Newport, 847-1107, thepelham.com

FOOD AND DRINK

Cinco de Mayo Celebrations at Lake Taco

MAY 3–5: Live music, margaritas and house-smoked meats are all on the menu at Lake Taco’s second annual Cinco de Mayo celebration. Start your weekend off right with a taco and Take it to the Bridge, an award-winning local band, on the restaurant’s picturesque lakefront patio. Enjoy a “Sunday funday” with World Premier Band’s performance, guaranteed to bring the energy and a fun time for people of all ages. Lastly, spend your Cinco de Mayo playing high-stakes trivia. Hosted by Ace Entertainment, the gift card prizes range from $100–$300. With food and drink specials all weekend and a menu filled with creative, Mexican dishes with a barbeque inspiration, it’s guaranteed to be an exciting time. Lake Taco, 446 RI –3, Coventry, laketacori.com

FESTIVALS AND TOURS

Gaspee Days Arts and Crafts Festival

MAY 24: Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with shopping, food, music, family and friends all in one place. This free arts and crafts festival features more than 100 Rhode Island artisans in quaint Pawtuxet Village. Don’t miss the children’s activities and performances by local bands. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free. Narragansett Parkway, Warwick, gaspee.com

Crime and Cuisine Tour

ONGOING: Mob bosses and meatballs? Follow your (under)belly through the many culinary delights of Providence’s Federal Hill, the city’s hub of all things Italian. Sample savory delicacies and learn about the city’s colorful characters who sometimes strayed to the other side of the law. Corruption, raids and ravioli all intersect at this felonious food tour. Meet at Garibaldi Park at the base of the La Pigna gateway arch. Visit the website for more information. 99 Atwells Ave., Providence, pvdtourco.com

Newport Mansions Self-Guided Tours

ONGOING: Listen to personal diaries, letters, records and history at this self-guided tour with narration from first-person perspectives of wealthy owners, servants and their children. Admire Gilded Age mansions and learn about the eagerness to be part of high society, as well as the buildings’ famed architectural designs. Bring your phone and earbuds then download the Newport Mansions app to participate. Cost included with admission. Visit the website for dates and times. Rosecliff, the Breakers, the Elms, Marble House and Chateau-sur-Mer, Newport, newportmansions.org

Rail Explorers Tours

ONGOING: Take a bite out of brunch or check out the night sky with Rail Explorers in pedal-powered tours around Portsmouth and the Narragansett Bay area. This activity is great for date night or even family fun with character rides featuring your child’s favorite animated characters. Visit the website for tour times and ticket prices. 1 Alexander Rd., Portsmouth, 877-833-8588, railexplorers.net

Rhode Island Red Food Tours

ONGOING: Taste the Ocean State! Explore Rhode Island culture, architecture and of course, food with a tour featuring delicious samplings plus alcohol (or nonalcoholic) pairings at five to six independent restaurants and eateries. Tours take place in Providence and Newport. Reservations are required. Visit the website for dates, times and ticket prices. 684-1110, rhodeislandredfoodtours.com

MUSIC

Barry Manilow at the AMP

MAY 27: Barry Manilow returns to the Amica Mutual Pavillion for his final performance in Providence, “Barry Manilow: The Last Providence Show.” The iconic singer is back with high energy and a hit-packed concert for one final time. So don’t miss Grammy, Emmy and Tony-award winning artist Barry Manilow on the victory lap of his touring career. 7 p.m. Visit website for ticket pricing. Amica Mutual Pavillion, 1 La Salle Sq., Providence, 331-6700, amicamutualpavillion.com 

Newport Classical

MAY 18: Bring the whole family for a free outdoor concert on the lawn of Newport Craft, “Rasa Quartet and Percussion: Redefining Home.” Music and storytelling will combine for a delightful afternoon with multidisciplinary percussionist Brian Shankar Adler and the Rasa String Quartet. This concert celebrates each artist’s musical roots, while exploring the rhythmic connection across a wide array of genres. 2:30 p.m. Free. Newport Craft Brewing, 293 JT Connell Hwy., Newport, newportclassical.org

Music on the Hill

MAY 28–JUNE 10: Music on the Hill kicks off summer with its seven-part concert series featuring chamber music. Concerts will be held around Warwick and East Greenwich and feature Rhode Island musicians and guest artists. All shows are $30; students are free with school ID. For more information about showtimes and groups, visit musiconthehillri.org.

Open Music Jam

ONGOING: Grab your friends or go solo for a live musical performance at Jake & Johnny’s Lounge. Savor delicious food, sip on craft cocktails and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re belting your favorite tune or sipping on a craft cocktail, Jake and Johnny’s lounge is a great place to make new memories. Wed. 8 p.m. Free. Jake & Johnny’s Lounge, 298 Atwells Ave., Providence, 481-0829, jakeandjohnnyslounge.com

WELLNESS

Free Wednesday Nature Walks

ONGOING: A diverse array of habitats and ecosystems are waiting for you! Every Wednesday afternoon, join Norman Bird Sanctuary naturalists for a nature stroll. Connect with the outdoors and breathe in the fresh air when you walk among the wildlife at this nature preserve in Middletown. Wed. 3:30–4:15 p.m. Free. Norman Bird Sanctuary, 583 Third Beach Rd., Middletown, 846–2577, normanbirdsanctuary.org

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

Newport Art Museum

ONGOING: View exquisite and thought-provoking works within exhibits such as “Donna Bassin: Portraits of the Precarious Earth,” on view until May 5, and “Art Through the Ages: A House of Timeless Treasures,” on view until Jan. 2026. Wed.–Sat. 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sun. noon–4 p.m. Adults $15; seniors $10; college students $8; military, museum members and children seventeen and younger free. Newport Art Museum, 76 Bellevue Ave., Newport, 848-8200, newportartmuseum.org

RISD Museum

ONGOING: Check out exhibitions including “Process Work: Intersections of Photography and Print ca. 1825 to Today” and “From Pineapple to Pañuelo: Philippine Textiles”. Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat., Sun. 10 a.m.­–5 p.m.; Thurs. noon–8 p.m. Adults $22; seniors $16; youth eighteen and younger free. Free admission, Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and Thurs. 5– 8 p.m. RISD Museum, 20 North Main St., Providence, 454-6500, risdmuseum.org

Kentucky Derby

Weekapaug Inn

MAY 3: Race on down to The MeetingHouse at Weekapaug Inn for a Kentucky Derby viewing party. Sport your Southern best, route for your favorite horse and grab a Derby-themed cocktail to couple with food and views of Quonnie Pond in Westerly. Prizes will be awarded to the evening’s best fascinator, best dressed gentleman, and best dressed couple. 6–8 p.m. $125. Weekapaug Inn, 25 Spray Rock Rd., Westerly, weekapauginn.com

 Linden Place

MAY 3: Dig out your derby attire for Linden Place’s annual bash. The party begins at 5:30 p.m. with a spirited cocktail hour, followed by a livestream viewing on the big screen of the 150th Kentucky Derby. Enjoy a sit-down dinner and then the party goes on until 10 p.m. with an open bar and dancing in the historic ballroom. There will also be live and silent auctions where attendees may bid on a wide array of products and services, with all proceeds going towards supporting important initiatives at Linden Place. 5:30­–10 p.m. $175. Linden Place, 500 Hope St., Bristol, 253-0390, lindenplace.org