National Historical Park

Blackstone River Valley

Slater Mill, Wilkinson Mill and Brown House at Blackstone River Valley NHP
Slater Mill, Wilkinson Mill and Brown House at Blackstone River Valley NHP NPS Photo

Overview

The Blackstone River powered America's entry into the Age of Industry. The success of Samuel Slater's cotton spinning mill in Pawtucket, RI touched off a chain reaction that changed how people worked and where they lived. Learn how this revolution transformed the landscape of the Blackstone Valley and the United States. Old Slater Mill is open Thursdays - Sundays.

States: RI, MA401-725-8638

Hours

  • Sunday: Sunrise to Sunset
  • Monday: Sunrise to Sunset
  • Tuesday: Sunrise to Sunset
  • Wednesday: Sunrise to Sunset
  • Thursday: Sunrise to Sunset
  • Friday: Sunrise to Sunset
  • Saturday: Sunrise to Sunset

Fees & Passes

    Map

    Things To Do

    Category

    6 Results
      White, two-story house with brick center chimney and green door

      Kelly House Museum of Transportation

      Free

      Description

      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.

      More info
      Ages:0-99Time:10-60 Minutes
      Man in a green canoe paddles down the Blackstone River

      Paddling the Blackstone

      Free

      Description

      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. Different locations can accommodate beginner and intermediate paddlers. 

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      Pet FriendlyTime:1-4 Hours
      People on bikes riding down paved pathway

      Blackstone River Greenway and Bikeway

      Free

      Description

      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. With over 24 miles already constructed, the vision is for it to extend 48 miles from downtown Worcester, MA, to India Point Park in Providence, RI.

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      Pet FriendlyTime:1-6 Hours
      People walking up hill. Some wearing orange safety vests

      Winter Hikes

      Free

      Description

      Join a Park Ranger for weekly hikes at varying locations in the Blackstone River Valley from December 21, 2024 - February 22, 2025. Hikes start at 10:00 AM on Saturday mornings. See listing for details.

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:60-90 Minutes
      Group of cyclists gather wrong a Ranger and wayside panel for a guided bike ride

      Bike the Blackstone

      Free

      Description

      Join a Park Ranger for a guided bike ride.

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:45-90 Minutes
      River in foreground with yellow mill and other buildings in distance

      Visit Old Slater Mill National Historic Landmark

      Free

      Description

      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.

      More info
      Ages:0-99Time:15-60 Minutes

    More Images

    Slater Mill, Wilkinson Mill and Brown House at Blackstone River Valley NHP
    Slater Mill, Wilkinson Mill and Brown House at Blackstone River Valley NHP
    Slatersville
    Slatersville
    Blackstone canal outside of the Wilbur Kelly House
    Blackstone canal outside of the Wilbur Kelly House
    The Little Red Shop in Hopedale, MA
    The Little Red Shop in Hopedale, MA
    Interior view of the Wilkinson Mill
    Interior view of the Wilkinson Mill
    Autumn in the Blackstone Valley
    Autumn in the Blackstone Valley