Living in Rhode Island

Living in Rhode Island

Bryant University is in the heart of New England and near the best it has to offer.

Welcome to the Ocean State.

Smithfield, Rhode Island, located just outside the city of Providence, is home to about 20,000 residents. Our local bus service can get you from campus to Providence in a matter of minutes. It’ll also take you to a variety of places in and around town, such as shopping, movies, and restaurants.

You’ll find living in Rhode Island offers you a chance to head to other nearby cities along the East Coast for afternoon shopping excursions, evening shows or sporting events, or weekend getaways.

When you’re on campus, you’re just a short drive, bus, or train ride from several prime destinations:

  • 15 minutes from Providence, our vibrant state capital
  • 45 minutes from Newport, a beautiful coastal city home to grand mansions
  • 45 minutes from Boston, Massachusetts, a city rich in U.S. history
  • 90 minutes from the beaches of Cape Cod, a popular seaside tourist destination
  • 3 hours from New York City, the cultural epicenter of the U.S.

Whether you want to explore the stunning architecture of these New England cities, enjoy the tranquility of beaches and dunes, or savor some of the best seafood in the U.S., you’ll have plenty of chances to do so during your time at Bryant.

Weather & Climate

Rhode Island experiences all four seasons, so you’ll want to bring along clothes for all temperatures. While here, you’re likely to experience sunny, warm summers and snowfall in the winter. And New England has some of the most remarkable fall scenery in the country.

Around the Region

If you’d like to learn more about the region, you may find these resources helpful: