Tours in Providence

EcoTourz’s cache of bikes and kayaks furnish unique perspectives of the Upper Cape’s natural splendor and Sandwich’s historical charms. Guides usher small groups of kayakers down Historic Mill Creek, where herons and osprey soar above the tall grass while conspiring to overthrow the neighborhood mockingbirds. On dry land, EcoTourz staff rents out bicycles and divulges prime pedaling spots, such as the marsh-lined Sandwich Boardwalk or some of the Cape’s oldest buildings.

The line to the men's room at Nimrod Restaurant is peculiar because it usually contains both men and women. Near the restroom's doorway, gatherers careen and crane their necks to see a 200-year-old hole and the projectile that created it: a cannonball from the War of 1812. This hands-on history lesson is one of many elucidated by the guides at Phat Tire Bike Tours. They backdrop their classroom against the scenic sights of crashing waves, lush gardens, and bustling downtown shops. Seated on personal bikes or rental bikes that correctly answer the question, "What's my favorite color?", groups can set out on tours of places such as Falmouth, Plymouth, Martha's Vineyard, or Nantucket.

Segway of Newport makes the world smaller by equipping customers with wheeled transports ideal for exploring Newport’s beauteous scenery. Crowned by TripAdvisor voters as the town's best tour company, Segway of Newport offers regular guided group tours atop Segways, Ultra Motor electric bicycles, and Dahon folding bikes. After a brief training session, patrons masterfully steer Segways toward Thames Street and onto scenic 10-mile Ocean Drive. Here, they coast past Newport Country Club and Gooseberry Beach before peering over the Cliff Walk's jagged edges and pondering whether the ocean is bouncy. Ultra Motor electric bikes reach speeds up to 20 miles per hour, driven by feet or their own enchanted power, whereas 7-speed cruisers or 21-speed mountain bikes allow riders to set a pace of their choosing.