Trip Idea

A Half Day on the Blackstone

Multiple Parks

Yellow mill on banks of Blackstone River with dam and waterfall in the foreground
Duration Half Day
Topic(s) Dams, Engineering, Geology, Immigration, Industry, Factories, Mills, Laborer and Worker, Labor Movement, Migrant Workers, Native American Heritage, Natural Sounds, Scenic Views, Science, Technology and Innovation, Trails, Transportation, Bridges, Canals, Roads, Routes and Highways, Trains and Railroads, Waterfalls, Watersheds, African American Heritage, Architecture and Building, Birthplace, Colonization and Settlement, Enslavement, River and Riparian, Arts, Commerce, Urban America more »
Activities Museum Exhibits, Guided Tours
Type Kid Friendly, Active, Urban, Educational, Inspirational, Indoors, Outdoors more »
Parks Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park
  • Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

    Visit Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark
    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Museum Exhibits
    • Age: 0–99 years old
    • Pets: No
    • Location: 67 Roosevelt Avenue, Pawtucket, RI 02860
    • Duration: 15–60 Minutes
    • Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day
    River in foreground with yellow mill and other buildings in distance

    The birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, Old Slater Mill is open as a museum. Visitors can learn about the history of the site through exhibits, films, and tours. The grounds are open from dawn to dusk. Visitors can read interpretative panels spread across the grounds which help tell the story of the site. Check out the Park's calendar for operating hours and seasons.

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  • Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

    Ranger Guided Tours - Slater Mill
    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Guided Tours
    • Age: 0–99 years old
    • Pets: No
    • Location: 67 Roosevelt Avenue, Pawtucket, RI 02860
    • Duration: 30–45 Minutes
    • Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day
    Group of visitors sitting and standing while listening to Park Ranger inside of wood framed building

    Slater Mill is called the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, but what does that really mean? What occurred within the four walls of Old Slater Mill forever changed the fabric of the United States of America. These 30-45 minute tours examine the beginnings of American industry and its lasting effects. Tours are offered seasonally from late-April through early December on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Tours begin at 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 2:30 PM

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  • Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

    Kelly House Museum of Transportation
    • Activity Fee: No (Entrance fees may apply)
    • Reservations: No
    • Activity: Museum Exhibits
    • Age: 0–99 years old
    • Pets: No
    • Location: 1075 Lower River Road, Lincoln, RI 02865
    • Duration: 10–60 Minutes
    • Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
    • Time of Day: Day
    White building with visitors entering the front door

    Learn the story of the Transportation Revolution by exploring the museum and site. Walk along the river and the Blackstone Canal. Check out the reconstructed historic barn for more exhibits. Ride a bike or walk down the Blackstone Bikeway. There are many ways to explore the site and learn more about the history. Check the Park's calendar for updates on operating hours and events.

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Last updated: March 26, 2022