When is an island not an island? When it's the state of Rhode Island! This state is the smallest in the nation but has a large history and culture. It's unique because it only has five counties and less than forty cities and towns, but has much to offer its over a million inhabitants. The rental market in The Ocean State also has much to offer, with historical homes in Newport and Providence, loft style condos and apartments in converted mills, and typical single-family neighborhoods as well.

Rhode Island is very much a coastal state, with only Jerimoth Hill to break up the flat landscape. The state has cold winters, but its humid summers make it a popular tourist destination for beach goers. With coastline along Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Rhode Island has almost 400 miles of beach to accommodate locals and visitors. The state began as a fishing community, and its origins are reflected in the culture and cuisine of the area. Clams and other shellfish are very popular in the state; ask any resident about quahogs, stuffies, and clam cakes, and they can tell you where to find their favorite. The culinary traditions are influenced not only by the abundant seafood but also by the large Italian, Irish, and Portuguese communities that call Rhode Island home.

You might think you could experience most of the state quickly because it is so small, but Rhode Island has much to offer both tourists and residents. Providence and Newport, the largest urban centers, maintain historic attractions such as the Breakers mansion and Belcourt Castle alongside its growing health care industry. Few states can match the excellent educational opportunities of Brown University, Johnson and Wales University, and the Rhode Island School of Design. Some of the other must-sees include the summertime art installation of Waterfire, concerts at Waterplace Park, and riding along the East Bay Bicycle Path. Rhode Island packs more into its small area than many other states in the country.