National Historical Park · RI, MA

Things to do in Blackstone River Valley

The National Park Service lists 20 things to do at Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park. 20 have no extra fee, 19 need no reservation, and 15 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.

Updated · NPS Data API

Great Blue Heron standing on top of a rock in front of dam
Photo: NPS/Nagaoka

Birding Along the Blackstone

Start your summer weekend off with a bird walk along the beautiful Blackstone River and Canal. Park staff will lead hour-long walking tours at the Blackstone River State Park on Fridays and Sundays.

45-75 Minutes Summer Pets allowed

Birdwatching

People on bikes riding down paved pathway
Photo: NPS

Blackstone River Greenway and Bikeway

The Blackstone River Bikeway is a beautiful way to explore the Blackstone Valley, whether by bike or on foot and offers something for everyone to enjoy.

1-6 Hours Spring, Summer, Fall Pets allowed

Biking

Fall Programs

Explore the Blackstone Valley on a ranger-led walk or program this fall! Programs listed here are free and open to the public. No registration is required to attend.

60-90 Minutes Fall Pets allowed

Guided Tours

Fall Walkabouts

Join a Park Ranger as we explore each one of our 6 park sites on Saturdays this Fall. Tours will discuss the history of each site and its importance withint the larger context of US history. Tours start at 10:00 AM and last about 90 minutes.

60-90 Minutes Fall Pets allowed

Guided Tours

Kelly House Museum of Transportation

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.

10-60 Minutes Spring, Summer, Fall

Museum Exhibits

Great blue heron standing in front of waterfall
Photo: NPS/Nagaoka

Nature Walk and Scavenger Hunt

Join us for nature walk and scavenger hunt. These walks through the Blackstone River State Park are intended for naturalists of all ages. Younger visitors will be able to complete a plant and animal scavenger hunt.

45-60 Minutes Pets allowed

Wildlife Watching

Paddling the Blackstone

Whether kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding, the Blackstone River and the remaining parts of the Blackstone Canal offer great places to get out on the water. There are numerous locations across the river valley which are great for paddling.

1-4 Hours Spring, Summer, Fall Pets allowed

Paddling

Graphic of computer screen on top of desk with "Parked at Home" on screen and green coffee mug
Photo: NPS/Pearson

Parked at Home

Explore America's national parks from the comfort of home. Every park has a story. During this virtual series, we’ll connect with people from across the country to talk about special places and complex stories at National Park Service sites.

45-60 Minutes Winter Reservation required Pets allowed

Guided Tours

Power Walks

This spring, join a park ranger for a series of "power walks" around historic sites in the Blackstone Valley. During these brisk walking tours, we'll explore the history of power along local waterways and wooded areas.

Spring Pets allowed

Hiking

Group of visitors sitting and standing while listening to Park Ranger inside of wood framed building
Photo: NPS/Horrocks

Ranger Guided Tours - Slater Mill

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.

30-45 Minutes Spring, Summer, Fall

Guided Tours

Ranger Walkabouts

During the months of June, July, and August, join a Park Ranger on 60-minute walking tour at varying locations in the Blackstone Valley.

45-75 Minutes Summer Pets allowed

Guided Tours

Drawing of revolutionary war soldier with text to right side
Photo: NPS Photo

Revolutionary War Veteran's Pension Transcription Programs

In celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence, the National Archives and National Park Service are collaborating on a special project to transcribe Revolutionary War Pension Files of more than 80,000 of America's first veterans and their…

90-120 Minutes

Hands-On

Take Me Fishing

Learn to fish with us this summer! Join park staff Sunday afternoons in June, July, and August for some FREE family fun. Catch some fish, learn about the river, and earn a Junior Angler badge. All fishing material and bait are provided.

Pets allowed

Freshwater Fishing

Towpath Talk

Join a Park Ranger for guided walk along the historic Blackstone Canal. This program is offered on Saturdays in the months of June, July, and August.

45-60 Minutes Summer Pets allowed

Guided Tours

Visit Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark

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.

15-60 Minutes Spring, Summer, Fall

Museum Exhibits

Winter Hikes

Join a Park Ranger for weekly hikes at varying locations in the Blackstone River Valley from December 19, 2026-February 13, 2027. Hikes start at 10:00 AM on Saturday mornings. See listing for details.

60-90 Minutes Winter Pets allowed

Hiking

Picture of large 4 story stone mill with bell tower. Black and white photograph
Photo: NPS/Horrocks

Winter Programs

Just because it's winter, doesn't mean there's nothing to see and do in the Blackstone River Valley. Check out these awesome programs to learn more about the Valley's geology, birds, and more

Winter Pets allowed

Guided Tours

Before you go

Check current alerts and closures, entrance fees and operating hours for Blackstone River Valley. Programs and tours can change with the season or be cancelled on short notice — confirm on the NPS page before you plan around one.

Things to do at nearby parks

Sources