Romance in Rhode Island

Rhode Island has helped set the standard for North America progressives ever since 1636, when the defiant Roger Williams created it as a colony that espoused religious freedom and liberty. Now the state is the 10th in the country to pass marriage equality—completing a full set of New England states where gay and lesbians can legally wed. If the news has you considering a trip to the Ocean State for a wedding of your own, here are five ideas to help kickstart your itenerary.

Rhode Island State House, Providence
Start your exploration at the state house (pictured above), where Gov. Lincoln Chafee signed marriage equality into law Thursday. Completed in 1904, the edifice boasts one of the largest self-supporting domes in the world, topped by the statue Independent Man, the symbol of the state's forward thinking.

The Dark Lady, Providence
This crowded space is known for its drag shows—and you might find openly gay congressman David Cicilline holding court there.

Forty 1° North, Newport
Characterized by button-backed leather, glimmering glass paneling, and matte and shine mash-ups, this Newport inn is unassumingly glamorous with eco-friendliness to boot. iPads in rooms gets tech points, and who can't love the Dr. Suess books in every room. Choose light-soaked Suite 3, which feels like an airy Upper East Side apartment and has a separate dining area.

The Breakers, Newport
You can't go to Newport without checking out the magnificent mansions, or "cottages" as they used to be called. And if you've only got time for one, make sure you check out The Breakers, built by Anderson Cooper's great grandfather Cornelius Vanderbilt II and great grandmother Alice Gwynne Vanderbilt.

Cliff Walk, Newport
Sure it can get crowded on the nicest of days. But craggy coastline path is perfect for a romantic stroll, even on the cloudiest of mornings, afternoons, or evenings.

There's a lot more to see in the smallest of U.S. states. Tell us where in Rhode Island you like to go.