Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States, is divided into five counties and contains 39 cities and towns. Providence is the state capital and largest city, followed by other notable cities like Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtucket. Despite its small size, with a land area of only 1,214 square miles, Rhode Island has a population of approximately 1.1 million people, making it one of the most densely populated states in the country. The state is characterized by its coastal geography, with Narragansett Bay cutting into its eastern section, offering miles of shoreline and numerous islands. Rhode Island’s main airport is T.F. Green International Airport (PVD), located in Warwick, which provides both domestic and limited international flights. The state also has smaller regional airports, such as Block Island State Airport. Rhode Island is home to several prestigious higher education institutions, including Brown University, a member of the Ivy League, the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), the University of Rhode Island (URI), and Providence College. These institutions contribute significantly to the state’s cultural and intellectual landscape. Rhode Island’s healthcare system includes major hospitals like Rhode Island Hospital, a teaching hospital for Brown University’s medical school, Miriam Hospital, and Women & Infants Hospital in Providence. The state’s economy is diverse, with key industries including healthcare, education, manufacturing, and tourism. Its coastal cities, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene attract tourists, especially during the summer months when beach towns like Newport and Narragansett are popular destinations. Additionally, Rhode Island has a strong maritime tradition, with a long history of shipbuilding and marine industries. Manufacturing, particularly in textiles and jewelry, also plays a significant role in the state’s economy. Its proximity to major metropolitan areas like Boston and New York City, combined with its strategic location on the Atlantic coast, makes Rhode Island an important hub for both commerce and tourism in the New England region.