7 Rhode Island Small Towns With Unmatched Friendliness

There are a number of small towns in Rhode Island that exude kindness and acceptance; however, several towns stand out as having unmatched friendliness. While Rhode Island is one of the smallest States in the United States, it has approximately 31 towns, and there is no shortage of places to explore. From fun-filled festivals to concerts and competitions, these towns in Rhode Island are sure to leave a lasting impression on all those who visit. Some of the places discussed are well-known for their hospitality and others have been overlooked, but all are great little towns that do not disappoint.

Little Compton

A beautiful coastal town, Little Compton offers a quiet, laidback experience. Located in Newport County, Rhode Island, this town is surrounded by beaches, including South Shore Beach and Goosewing Beach Preserve, making it the perfect spot to fish, sail, swim, or even scuba dive. Pick fresh peaches, herbs, and lettuce at the Young Family Farm, which donates a significant amount of food every year to the local food bank, and with a motto of ‘from our family to yours,’ you cannot help but want to show your support. The Little Compton Summer Fair shows the welcoming nature of the community, where people from all over Rhode Island come together to celebrate with food, music, art, and family-friendly events like a road race, lobster luncheon, and dog show.

Jamestown

Located almost exclusively on Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, Jamestown is a coastal town that offers a peaceful escape. Named one of the best small towns in Rhode Island to visit, these locals welcome visitors with open arms. Several state parks, which include Fort Adams, Beavertail, Brenton Point, and Fort Wetherill, offer guided tours and naturalist programs. Tall Tailz Charters is another option for getting out and about with the locals. Join Captain Connor and his four-legged first mate, Tugger, for a day of cruising and off-shore fishing from their home base at Clark Boat Yard. Their first priority is safety, but a close second is "laughing, smiling, and creating memories."

If you perfer to be the captain of your own boat, you can attend the annual Fools’ Rules Regatta, sponsored by the Jamestown Yacht Club. This free event is open to any and all fun-loving fools. Participants are instructed to build and race a vessel across the water at Mackerel Cove. Previous regattas even gained recognition in World Magazine by National Geographic, celebrating the fun-filled nature of Jamestown and its residents.

Bristol

Bristol is a charming small town full of beautiful scenery, historical landmarks, and several museums, which include Bristol Art Museum, Herreshoff Marine Museum, and Coggeshall Farm Museum. Each one offers its own unique set of community programming, from interactive workshops and summer camps to residencies and concert series.

Blithewold Manor, Gardens, and Arboretum provides tours of its 33 acres, including a mansion, expansive gardens, and rare plants, and even offers ways to honor special people and life events with their Memorial and Commemmorative Planting Program. Throughout the year, Bristol hosts events that celebrate friends, family, and community. June through August the Blithewold Music at Sunset Concert Series takes place each Wednesday, where community members and visitors alike are invited to share in the experience of live music.

New Shoreham

New Shoreham, Rhode Island, may be the smallest town in the smallest state in America, but there are many things to see and do. This top tourist destination and the only town on Rock Island is known for its fishing, sailing, beaches, and hiking. You can spend your time taking in the beautiful views at Mohegan Bluffs or challenge friends and family to a rock-skipping competition at Great Salt Pond, then visit the Spring Street Gallery, a non-profit art gallery and cultural centre that offers workshops, student art shows, and classes. Eager to share their knowledge and passion, the artists staff the gallery themselves.

Particularly entertaining and unique is The 1661 Resort Farm and Gardens, where guests can interact with ostriches, camels, and even lemurs while staying in one of the thoughtfully-appointed farmhouse suites, apartments, or cottage. Complete the experience with fresh produce, a homemade breakfast, and a garden tour.

Harrisville

Harrisville is a small village that is actually historic district located in the town of Burrillville. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, many of the buildings date back hundreds of years. Most notably, it is home to the house that inspired the horror film, The Conjuring. But don't let that deter you; the real-ilfe town is built on good vibes and kind gestures. The Black Hut State Wildlife Management Area Trail, near Harrisville, provides habitat for various plants and species of animals, highlighting a dedication to nature that is echoed and enforced by its residents.

If you are looking for a something a bit different, treat yourself to a carriage ride by Liberty Farm and Carriage. Theyoffer private tours and sleigh rides. A notable event in Harrisville is the Burrillville Fall Harvest Festival, which invites people to celebrate the season with live music, food, local vendors, and activities for all ages. With themed photo stations, you can capture the memories of a wonderful trip surrounded by new friends.

Foster

Foster is a New England small town known for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. There are many things to do, such as kayaking or fishing at Killingly Pond, or soaking up the sun while sampling local wines at Nickle Creek Vineyard. Show support for the George B. Parker Woodland Wildlife Refuge, protected by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, which provides a variety of services including summer outreach and community group programs for children and adults, as well as conservation efforts.

For high-energy fun, head to the Foster Fairgrounds, where many community fairs and events take place. Particularly memorable events include Memorial Day, Food Truck Nights, and Foster Old Home Days, where food, music, and games bring people together throughout the year.

Portsmouth

The small town of Portsmouth is found along the Sakonnet River on the northern end of Rhode (Aquidneck) Island. Filled with beautiful beaches, such as Gull Cove and Sandy Point, peaceful surroundings, and hospitable residents, Portsmouth is an iconic location for a worry-free vacation. Green Animals Topiary Garden hosts year-round exhibitions, family-friendly events, and tours of the numerous mansions located on the property.

And since nothing unites people quite like live music, be sure to attend the neighboring Newport Folk Festival. The lineup is always stellar and tickets sell out before the show kicks off in the middle of July, which is a testament to the way this community shows up to support local initiatives and have a good time.

Each of the locations listed are just a fraction of what awaits visitors to Rhode Island. There are many differences among the towns presented above, but they all have one thing in common: the warm and hospitable nature of their residents. Despite its size, Rhode Island has a culture and history that is unique, and this provides visitors with positive experiences that shape their understanding of small towns. The official state song of Road Island says it all: “Rhode Island, surrounded by the sea. Some people roam the earth for home: Rhode Island’s it for me!”