11 Best Small Towns To Visit In Rhode Island
Rhode Island might be the smallest state in the US, but it sure can pack a punch; with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming small towns, this state has much to offer. Known as the Ocean State, it boasts picturesque coastal towns nestled against long stretches of white, sandy beach, making Rhode Island the perfect place to get the full New England experience.
Luxurious mansions, the finest and freshest seafood around, and gorgeous gardens await those in search of a fancy getaway while splashing in the saltwater, riding horseback along the beach, and nights out sampling local brews await those in search of adventure. There is no box left unchecked with these small towns in Rhode Island — discover your next amazing trip in these small towns.
Westerly
The town of Westerly, Rhode Island, is small, but mighty. It is crowned by Ocean House, a triple five-star resort overlooking its own private beach atop Watch Hill. Other great accommodations include hotels like Pleasant View Inn, steps from Misquamicut Beach and complete with a heated swimming pool, or Weekapaug Inn, stationed right on the tranquil Quonochontaug Pond for a cozy, cabin-like feel with the amenities of a luxury resort.
A can’t-miss activity, especially for the kids, is riding on the antique Watch Hill Merry Go Round, in operation since 1867; it’s the last surviving flying horse carousel in America, and an absolute blast to ride on. After a day basking in the sun and playing in the waves of the beautiful Misquamicut Beach, sip on something sweet at Tapped Apple Cidery and Winery and enjoy farm-to-table food at High Hope Tavern. On your way out, grab coffee to-go at Stick and Fin, where they brew using a reverse osmosis process to enhance all their lovely flavors, and munch on an award-winning doughnut from Knead Doughnuts.
Newport
Have you ever wondered how it feels to live like Jay Gatsby? Visit the bustling town of Newport and tour grand mansions like the Breakers and Rosecliff, with blooming gardens, countless rooms, and priceless decorations found only in a Fitzgerald novel. You can even walk along the cliffs of the Breakers and peacefully gaze out at the Atlantic Ocean as waves crash against the rocks.
For a more casual vibe, check out some of Newport’s great restaurants like Corner Cafe, popular for its tasty brunch options, but if you are still feeling like a Gatsby, reserve a table at Chantrelle, an elegant French-American dining experience known for its artistic plating. As the "sailing capital of the world," Newport has some of the best harbor tours around, complete with sailing lessons for those up for a fun challenge. Book a stay in Newport during America’s Cup to watch some of the fastest ships in the sea race for first place. If you are looking for a unique place to stay during your trip, look into Rose Island, where you can stay the night in an authentic Rhode Island lighthouse.
Bristol
The town of Bristol is known to many as "the quintessential New England town," with a beautiful waterfront, stellar seafood, and amazing opportunities to learn and experience Rhode Island’s unique history. To experience the best of Bristol, come during their three-week-long Fourth of July celebration, where the whole town is decked out in red, white, and blue, and parades, concerts, and races line the streets.
Head down to Bristol Town Beach to cool off in the ocean and play games with the whole family; the complex has beach volleyball, baseball, tennis, basketball, soccer, and a fully-stocked concession stand to grab refreshments after a good game. Unique eats include Angelina’s, a cafe serving authentic Italian espresso and fluffy French pastries, and Statesman Tavern, modeled after historical American taverns with a mission to "keep tradition alive." Soak up even more of Bristol’s rich history and culture at the Bristol Art Museum, the Herreshoff Marine Museum, or the Bristol Historical and Preservation Society.
Little Compton
Nature lovers will find endless paradise in Little Compton, as this town’s green thumb has earned it some well-deserved praise from happy travelers. The town's residents encourage you to participate, offering tours of their farms and private gardens, like the gorgeous Sakonnet Garden. Pick flowers and veggies yourself at Peckham’s Greenhouse and the Young Family Farm, which offer hayrides and even hold seasonal festivals.
For food, dine at The Commons Lunch and grab Little Compton’s own Johnnycakes, then head to Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard to sip on crisp wines and eat locally-sourced, farm-to-table food. Explore Little Compton’s history at Wilbor House, a family home dating all the way back to 1690, complete with a school, carriages, and antique barns. If you are looking for adventure, head over to Gnome Surf, a non-profit that offers surfing lessons at Little Compton’s South Shore Beach. Afterward, catch the rays and relax on the beach to finish out your amazing trip.
Charlestown
Charlestown, Rhode Island, is a can’t-miss destination for tourists looking to celebrate; the Charlestown Seafood Festival, with fresh-caught seafood, fair rides, and fireworks, and the Rhythm and Roots Festival, a huge music event with popular artists, ethnic foods, and tons of craft beer are both held every summer in town. While in town, head to the iconic Fantastic Umbrella Factory, a collection of five stores including a henna parlor, an exotic garden, and an animal farm.
After all that activity, take a relaxing stroll through the 858-acre Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge and take in the stunning vistas and local wildlife, then refuel at The Breachway Grill’s Raw Bar with local Oysters, or enjoy a cozy meal in front of a crackling fire at The Cove Restaurant. To complete your star-studded vacation, visit perhaps the most special attraction in Charlestown, the Frosty Drew Observatory in Ninigret Park, where you can observe magnificent meteor showers and gaze at the constellations.
Tiverton
History buffs, meet Tiverton, Rhode Island, the home of the Tiverton Four Corners, a dedicated historic district with preserved buildings, an authentic 18th-century village, and antique shops where local artisans sell homemade goods. You can even stay the night in a 19th-century schoolhouse and munch on artsy charcuterie boards at The Cheese Wheel Village Market.
Looking to see local wildlife? Head to the Audobon Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge to view beautiful flowers and birds, or stroll along Rhode Island’s coastline at Fogland Beach, Tiverton’s stunning black stone beach. Perfect for more than an amazing photo op, this beach is also great for kayaking and windsurfing. After a day at the beach, taste the flavors of the ocean at the Boathouse for dinner by sampling fresh mussels and crispy shrimp. On your way out of town, stop for coffee and pastries at Coastal Roasters, a town favorite cafe with creative, one-of-a-kind drinks like their Pink Panther coffee and Peanut Butter Cup Latte.
Narragansett
Perfect for a summer getaway, Narragansett, Rhode Island, has long been a favorite destination for vacationers. Book an exclusive stay at the Break, and make use of their heated saltwater pool and high-end restaurant, Chair 5, serving luxury local seafood and unique cocktails. For those looking for more adventure, head to The Black Point Trail, where you can either walk, scale the rocks, or climb the bluffs.
To get a view of the ocean, hike along the Whale Rock Trail or plan a day at one of Narragansett’s many beautiful beaches; Narragansett Town Beach, Scarborough State Beach, and Roger Wheeler State Beach are a few of the most popular, and Salty Brine State Beach just finished construction on a brand new boardwalk with its own concession stand. For a truly special experience, book a tour of the Matunuck Oyster Farm to learn up-close how one of Rhode Island’s tastiest specialties is farmed, then have a seat at their Oyster Bar and enjoy the best part — dinner.
South Kingstown
With its adorable main street featuring unique shops and restaurants, South Kingstown is a hidden gem just waiting to uncover. South County Bread Company is just one great local business located downtown. Known for its fruitful farms, South Kingstown cannot be visited without a taste of what they have to offer. Head to Highland Farm, a garden center with colorful flowers, fresh produce, and baked goods, or stop at Whaley Farm’s quaint produce stand to get some of the best blueberries around.
Feeling extra daring? Visit Rock Spot Climbing, where they boast a whopping 11,500 square feet of climbing structures, or attend a RIMRA rocket launch at Peckham Farm while eating food fresh off the grill. For a sit-down restaurant, go to Bravo by the Sea for an outdoor dinner theatre experience with great seasonal options and a picturesque trellis walk, perfect for photos.
North Kingstown
Experience the true meaning of the Ocean State in North Kingstown, Rhode Island, without ever going outside! Peek at the live octopi and pufferfish at Biomes Marine Biology Center, and attend one of their ocean-inspired paint nights with professional artist Robert Ratigan. Then, soak up North Kingstown’s rich history at Smith’s Castle, a grand house museum dating back to 1678 with amazing artifacts, or tour Wickford Village, a quaint area with antique homes, 18th-century buildings, and a load of modern shops and food.
Shop at Green Ink for eclectic clothing, Serendipity for handmade gifts and decor, and The World Store for souvenirs and real-life fossils. You do not have to go far for a post-shopping spree dinner, as Wickford Village has many tasty restaurants, such as Wickford on the Water, a waterfront restaurant with an outdoor bar and live music, and Tate’s Italian Kitchen, a cozy restaurant with homemade Italian food and a great selection of wines.
East Greenwich
As Rhode Island’s former state capital, East Greenwich has plenty for its residents and visitors to see and do. Outdoors, trot along the trails on horseback at Goddard Park, a spacious greenery filled with trees, gardens, and peaceful picnic spots, or rent a kayak and paddle through the Hunt River with the turtles and otters at Davis Memorial Wildlife Refuge. Indoors, take a load off and get a luxury massage at Shummer Salon and Day Spa, then stroll around YJ Contemporary Fine Art, a huge gallery featuring artists from all over the country.
East Greenwich’s lively main street is a can’t-miss experience; take in all the colors while sipping on an iced latte from MainStreet Coffee with one of their homemade syrups, and pop into cute boutiques like Bags by Iris and The Green Door. For food, try out Kon Asian Bistro & Hibachi Grill, rated the "Best Asian Restaurant in Rhode Island" for seven years running, eat a tasty coconut curry salmon at Blu on the Water’s flame-lit waterfront deck, or step back in time to the 1950s and enjoy classic diner food at Jigger’s Diner.
New Shoreham
New Shoreham, Rhode Island, has gained much notoriety as statistically the smallest town in the smallest state in America. It is the only town on Block Island, a beautiful outdoor paradise only accessible by boat. The island offers many exclusive experiences, such as parasailing with Block Island Parasail and Water Sports, group surf lessons with Diamond Blue Surf Shop, and splashing in the sea while taking in the one-of-a-kind views at the Mohegan Bluffs.
Despite its size, New Shoreham has many great shops and restaurants just waiting to explore. For souvenirs and gifts, head to Solstice or BI Tees, and for unique clothing and decor, check out Glass Onion or Wild Flowers Boutique. Good eats on the Island include Eli’s Restaurant, a cozy restaurant, and bar with many vegetarian options, or Ballard’s, a beachfront restaurant complete with a tiki bar and live entertainment.
While these small towns in the smallest state may be little in size, they offer endless options for adventure, relaxation, and exploration. With stunning beaches at almost every corner, Rhode Island’s small towns certainly live up to the state’s motto as the Ocean State, and the adorable towns that line the coast showcase the quintessential New England coastal lifestyle that the region is so well known for. Whether you are dining on fresh-caught oysters in Narragansett or getting an up-close shot of the big dipper in Charlestown, these small towns in Rhode Island all have something amazing to offer.
