7 Best Rhode Island Towns For First-Time Visitors

Nestled on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, in the heart of New England, lies the smallest state in the U.S. Although small in size, it is not short on entertainment, history, culture, or views. Dip your feet in the ocean, traverse to the top of lighthouses, and tour world-famous estates to make the most of your trip. If you’re visiting Rhode Island for the first time, you won’t want to miss these timeless, prevalent attractions. Hit up this tiny coastal state and don’t miss a chance to visit the seven best Rhode Island towns for first-time visitors.

New Shoreham, Block Island

Any first-time visitor to Rhode Island will not want to pass up an opportunity to go to one of their truly magical towns. Just make sure all your logistics are in order, because this town is 12 miles off the coast of the mainland. Come by boat or commercial airliner to this 11-square-mile island and bask in the serenity and friendliness of the island. Fifteen different beaches make up the town of New Shoreham, which is coterminous with Block Island, the island where it is located. The most popular amongst tourists is Ballard’s Beach on Water Street. Providing oceanfront dining offering cocktails and food, and VIP cabanas available for rent, beachcombers can enjoy a fun-filled sunny day. Cars are allowed on the island, and can be transported by ferry; however, if you miss the boat (literally) for the chance to bring your vehicle, get the full island experience by renting a Moped from one of the five rental shops available.

Scoot on over to Painted Rock to leave your own keepsake that you were there. However, that image or message might be gone before you leave the island. People have been painting the rock since 1962 with their own unique images and it sometimes gets painted multiple times a day! Be sure to snap a picture as soon as you’re done because the next time you see the rock, your message could be gone. Spend your time on Block Island at the Block Island Beach House. It is the only hotel on the island to offer beachfront hotel rooms. Built in 1873, the hotel features a three-story unit with a dome, completed in 1884, that forms the central part of the current hotel. A four-story building was added on the left-hand side in 1888.

Newport

Known for its prestige and timeless elegance, Newport is one of the most prominent towns in Rhode Island. A vacation destination for the wealthy, one of the most sought-after attractions in town is The Breakers. At one point, the respected Vanderbilt family called this grand cottage their summer home; now it stands as a significant representation of the Gilded Age. Submerge yourself in the architecture, culture, and history of this mansion during a self-guided tour, or join in on a guided tour. Another monumental attraction in Newport relates to its historical achievements in technology.

Wanting to light up the space outside his home, David Melville engineered a gas-powered street lamp in 1803, or was it in 1805? No one knows the exact year he manufactured that light, and since he was not able to obtain a permit, a different model of gas street lamp, located in Baltimore, overshadowed Melville’s accolades. Today a plaque is displayed over Melville’s lamp reminding people of this breakthrough innovation in technology at the Location of the First Gas Street Lamp. For even more well-lit attractions in Newport, visit the Rose Island Lighthouse. The deactivated lighthouse has been restored to its original Victorian Style and can be found on Rose Island. Named for the shape it takes during low tide, the island also allows visitors to spend the night in the lighthouse as an honorary light keeper for an extra unique experience.

Narragansett

Erected in 1816, an octagonal brick building was constructed for use by the Coast Guard during the Revolution. The original lighthouse was built in 1806, but was tragically destroyed during the Great Gale of September 1815. Today, the Point Judith Lighthouse is closed off to visitors; however, they are encouraged to tour the lighthouse grounds and learn more about this crucial structure in the U.S.’s history.

Narragansett is home to four state beaches, the most popular of which is Scarborough State Beach. Not only is it the most popular in town, but also in the state of Rhode Island. Established in 1937, along Ocean Road, 26 acres and approximately 2,325 feet of beach frontage make up this desirable destination for a beach day. Swim, grab food from a concession stand, or relax in a gazebo at Scarborough State Beach. Immerse yourself in local history at the South County Museum. Since 1933, the establishment has celebrated the state’s coastal legacy and rich heritage of local rural and coastal life. The once 19th-century estate of Rhode Island’s Civil War-era governor and postwar senator, William Sprague IV, is now an eight-acre campus preserving the history of the farm, village, and sea. Throughout the grounds, explore the Metz Exhibition Hall, carriage barn, and carpentry shop. Watch crafters work in the blacksmith shop, print shop, or carpentry barn, and visit the farm for animal interactions.

Westerly

If you visit Rhode Island, expect a shark encounter. Maybe not a direct, in-the-ocean, a shark brushes up against your leg encounter, but one nonetheless. Sharks are a significant piece of the ocean ecosystem; some stay far from shore, others venture closer to it, and some are forever preserved at The Living Sharks Museum. Designated to track sharks in the water, this educational center teaches the public about the apex predators found in the local waters. This museum is the first of its kind in the U.S. to feature artifacts from other countries that showcase and preserve the legacy of the shark.

For another nautical attraction, roam the grounds and visit the museum of the Watch Hill Lighthouse. Tours of the inside of the lighthouse are prohibited, but guests are still invited to visit the surrounding area to learn more about this beacon of heritage. Located on a peninsula in the southeastern region of the state, the lighthouse and museum offer history, as well as stunning views of the coastal village. For more coastal enjoyment, dine at The Andrea Seaside Restaurant and Beach Bar. What started in 1912 as a bed and breakfast evolved after the Hurricane of 1938, and it was one of four buildings left standing in Misquamicut Beach. The Great Nor'easter of 1944 hit, prompting the original owners to sell, and since 1946, the same family has owned and operated the establishment. Now in its fourth generation, the damage caused by multiple hurricanes and nor'easters over the years was enough to destroy the hotel, but the restaurant was salvaged. Enjoy seaside staples, invigorating cocktails, and oceanside views at this fine dining establishment.

Jamestown

For beautiful scenic views overlooking the ocean, visit Beavertail State Park. With some of the most exquisite views along the New England Coastline, you can take in all the sites from one of four overlooks, or by a walk along the rocky coastline. The park is a main attraction for learning about geology, ecology, and marine life. While in the park, don’t miss a chance to visit the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum. The museum provides historical information about the property, Narragansett Bay, and the shipping industry that helped shape Rhode Island. The museum is also the home of a collection of artifacts from the third-oldest lighthouse in North America, and the most visited landmark in Jamestown.

For a last additional historical attraction, visit the Jamestown Windmill. It may not be the first windmill constructed in Jamestown, but it is the longest-standing one. Erected in 1787, it was operational until 1896 and still stands today. The historic structure is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The three-story octagonal structure is capped with a domed bonnet and sails attached to the bonnet, which can rotate to capture the wind from any direction. Visitors are allowed to climb to the bonnet to see the gears working with the force of the wind to turn the millstones.

Bristol

Sitting on 48 acres of coastal farmland, Coggeshall Farm is an interactive museum salt marsh farm from the late 18th century that recreates the daily experience of resident farmers. Collaborative events, educational programs, historical structures, plants, gardens, and heritage-breed animals are all features on the farm. Another idyllic spot to enjoy the outdoors and picturesque views is at Blithewold Manor. The garden and arboretum feature majestic views of Narragansett Bay and also hold great national significance. The 33-acre estate is one of the most fully developed examples of the Country Place Era in the U.S. Included on the property is a 45-room mansion framed by exquisite gardens and family heirlooms.

For an additional historical venture, be sure to visit Linden Place. The notable museum is also an arts center, and focuses on a cultural aspect to keep history alive through art. The establishment features the Linden Place Writers' Residency, which is a free, daytime residency that supports creative writers in beginning new works and understanding the museum’s intricate history through a modern lens.

North Kingstown

To make the most of your experience in North Kingstown, visit the historic district of Wickford Village. Nestled along Colonial and Federal period homes, this hidden gem of Rhode Island features charming streets, one-of-a-kind shops, and desirable restaurants. Visitors can take a carriage ride down Main Street or kayak along the village. Galleries, antique shops, and boutique stores line the street. For nature-based outdoor exploring, visit John H. Chafee Nature Preserve. The undeveloped conservation area is home to an assortment of wildlife, shoreline, and hiking trails, and is an exceptional place to view harbor seals resting on offshore rocks. Enjoy a unique beach experience at Quonset Point, at Compass Rose Beach. The former seaplane beach is still a popular place for small crafts. If you do not have a seaplane to fly yourself, enjoy watching them take off and perform water landings. Strong wind exposure creates ideal conditions for surfers, but for everyday beachgoers, be wary of the crashing waves.

For those who have never visited Rhode Island before, be sure to make your bucket list prior to arriving. Beaches, culture, charm, and history are some of the biggest attractions in this quaint New England state. Most towns and cities are located along the coast and provide ample opportunities for water activities, coastal enjoyment and historic lighthouse visits. No matter your reason for visiting, you can capitalize on your trip in any of these seven best Rhode Island towns for first-time visitors.