Tourism is the 2nd-largest and fastest-growing industry in Rhode Island. In 2000, the state hosted 15.7 million visitors, generating total revenues of about $3.26 billion (a figure that represents an increase of 16.4% from 1999. The industry supports over 38,000 jobs.
Historic sites—especially the mansions of Newport and Providence—and water sports (particularly the America's Cup yacht races) are the main tourist attractions. Block Island is a popular resort. The Providence Place Mall, a 13-acre mega shopping complex with 150 specialty shops, restaurants, and cinemas opened in 1999. An architectural marvel, the shopping complex spans a highway, a river, and a train track bed. Rhode Island's state parks and recreational areas total 8,063 acres (3,263 hectares).