8 Small Towns In Rhode Island To Visit For A Weekend Getaway
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but its coastal villages and historic towns offer some of New England’s most inviting weekend escapes. Travelers who enjoy quiet waterfronts, colonial streets, boutique shopping, and scenic parks will find plenty to explore without ever venturing far. These communities blend shoreline beauty with cultural attractions, charming inns, and walkable districts filled with restaurants and small shops. Each town features its own landscape and character, from peaceful countryside drives to lively marinas and rugged beaches. Whether you are planning a relaxing getaway or a trip focused on local food, sightseeing, and outdoor views, Rhode Island’s small towns provide a memorable mix of natural scenery, history, and friendly places to stay.
Jamestown
Situated between Newport and the main island, Jamestown is the perfect island getaway for a weekend of fun and relaxation. Starting your journey with the Jamestown Newport Ferry, enjoy the water views as you travel from Newport. Once you've arrived in town, head across the street for a bite at East Ferry Deli, a community favorite that allows you to grab a light lunch while taking in the scenic views. Although a small island itself, Jamestown has plenty of accommodations to make your weekend a comfortable one. Nearly, Castle Hill Inn is a beautiful waterside property home to 33 guest accommodations and an on-site lighthouse.
Get the most out of your island getaway with a paddle ride at East Ferry Town Beach. Afterward, head to Mackerel Cove, a half-mile-long secluded and quiet cove. Home to the Conanicut Island Sanctuary, Jamestown is the ideal destination for bird lovers and nature photographers seeking the perfect shot. Finish your weekend with a glass of wine at Salty Wine Bar, where you can enjoy a menu of selected wines and small plates under the coziness of the patio lights. Although Jamestown might seem like a world away, this small gem in Rhode Island offers a getaway adventure without the hassle.
Little Compton
Little Compton delivers a peaceful coastal setting perfect for a quiet weekend. The town’s standout attraction is Sakonnet Point, where visitors enjoy wide ocean views, fishing spots, and gentle coastal walks. The Wilbor House Museum gives travelers a look into early Rhode Island life through preserved structures and local artifacts. Afterward, you can head over to Historic Town Commons, which adds charm with its open green spaces and small shops like A-1 Pizza. Travelers can stay at the Stone House Inn, a waterfront property with comfortable rooms and easy access to nearby beaches, making exploring even easier.
The town is known for its slower pace, scenic farmland, and beautiful coastal drives. Walks through the village reveal classic New England homes and peaceful roads lined with stone walls. Local farm shops like Wilbur's General Store offer a unique mix of handmade items, groceries, clothing, and more, giving guests a chance to grab a variety of mementos and souvenirs before heading home. Little Compton is an ideal spot for travelers seeking relaxation, coastal views, and low-key local experiences.
Narragansett
Narragansett suits travelers who want beach views mixed with lively coastal activity. The town’s most famous landmark is the Narragansett Town Beach, a long sandy stretch loved for sunrise walks and surfing. The Towers, a historic, beloved building, adds character with its arched stone structure and panoramic waterfront setting, making it a prime location for all photo ops. Point Judith Lighthouse draws visitors for photographs and sea views. For a comfortable place to stay, guests often choose The Break Hotel, a quaint 16-room boutique hotel with bright accommodations and an outdoor pool, offering a place to relax after a day of exploring.
Narragansett’s mix of shoreline beauty and energetic commercial areas makes it ideal for weekend exploration. To really capture the essence of the town, Fishermen’s Memorial State Park offers plenty of open fields and walking paths to take in the greenery. In town, small boutiques like For Art's Sake Boutique provide an entertaining place to browse between beach visits. Scenic drives around Ocean Road reveal rugged coastline, rocky overlooks, and postcard-worthy views. Whether you prefer water activities, shopping at local businesses, or strolling coastal paths, Narragansett has options that fit any pace.
East Greenwich
East Greenwich blends waterfront scenery with historic streets and a lively dining scene. Main Street is the heart of the town, filled with plenty of locales to sit, eat, and drink. Begin your weekend with an iced coffee at Main Street Coffee and Toscana before heading to Dante's Kitchen for fried chicken and waffles. The East Greenwich Town Hall and the surrounding historic district offer classic architecture and a walkable setting you can spend hours marveling at. Scalloptown Park sits along the water and provides nature trails, views of Greenwich Cove, and quiet places to relax. For those looking to enjoy the water, the park also offers kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Nearby, the Varnum House Museum brings history to life with artifacts and exhibits that reflect early American furniture and household items. For lodging, the Greenwich Bay Inn offers comfortable accommodations close to the waterfront.
The marina area adds another layer of charm with boats, seafood restaurants, and an easygoing coastal atmosphere. Travelers often enjoy walking the harbor paths or relaxing at one of the town’s outdoor patios. The East Greenwich Farmers Market brings residents and visitors together with live entertainment and local food and goods. East Greenwich’s combination of waterfront relaxation and vibrant commercial offerings makes it perfect for a weekend centered on food, scenery, and enjoyable strolls.
Bristol
Bristol is known for its patriotic history, beautiful harbor, and classic New England architecture. Named after Bristol, England, the town is full of stately and timeless gems to explore. Colt State Park is one of its most beloved natural spaces, featuring open lawns, bike paths, and sweeping views of Narragansett Bay. The Herreshoff Marine Museum highlights the town’s strong maritime heritage with historic yachts and detailed exhibits that any ocean lover will enjoy. Linden Place, a stately mansion, adds cultural interest with its architecture and art collection. Visitors also enjoy exploring the charming Hope Street corridor, filled with shops and dining options like Hope Diner, where you can start your day of travel with a hearty breakfast. For accommodations, Bristol Harbor Inn offers updated waterfront rooms right on the bay and a prime location near the sites.
The town’s coastal scenery and walkability make it ideal for leisurely weekend exploration. Travelers often enjoy strolling the harbor, relaxing in waterside cafés, or biking along local paths. Antique shops, galleries, and boutiques add variety to the experience, with shops like Grasmere, which specializes in handmade designs ranging from floral arrangements to vintage finds. The town’s restaurants feature seafood and New England comfort dishes that suit the coastal setting. Bristol’s mix of history, culture, and water views creates a balanced and inviting getaway for all kinds of visitors.
Wickford
Wickford is a charming seaside village with colonial homes, quiet streets, and a postcard-worthy harbor that'll turn your weekend into a storybook getaway. Wickford Village is the highlight, featuring antique shops, boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants like Wickford on the Water. After grabbing a bite to eat, head down to Wilson Park, which provides green space, boat ramps, and walking trails. Kayakers enjoy exploring Wickford Harbor for its calm waters and scenic views. The Hamilton Village Inn, located just a mile away from the village, gives visitors an affordable, comfortable place to stay close to the action.
The village encourages slow-paced exploration through narrow streets lined with well-preserved architecture and flowering gardens. Travelers often enjoy browsing local shops or stopping for seafood with harbor views at Tavern by the Sea. Scenic drives around the area reveal salt marshes, boats, and quiet inlets. The community’s seasonal festivals, like the Wickford Art Festival, make weekend visits even more enjoyable with food, local art, and live entertainment. Wickford’s combination of natural scenery and small-town warmth makes it a relaxing escape.
Warren
Warren mixes historic charm with an evolving arts and food scene that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Water Street is the main attraction, filled with every type of shop you could imagine. Here, you can't miss getting a sweet treat at Cafe Water Street, which serves savory crepes, baked goods, and more. Burr’s Hill Park sits along the water and offers space for picnics and relaxing bay views, while also housing basketball, pickleball, and tennis courts. As well, the East Bay Bike Path runs through town and offers scenic cycling along the waterfront that you can't miss. Although there are no hotels or inns in Warren, the nearby Bristol Harbor Inn is only five miles from the town's center and provides comfortable lodging for your weekend.
Warren’s coastal beauty pairs well with its creative energy. Imago Gallery, a fine arts space run by local artists, is the perfect place to marvel at local works with special exhibits and talks throughout the year. Waterviews are abundant across downtown, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. With art, history, food, and shoreline scenery, Warren provides a memorable weekend destination.
New Shoreham
One of Rhode Island's most quirky towns, New Shoreham is the home of Block Island and delivers some of the most impressive scenery in Rhode Island. Mohegan Bluffs is one of its signature landmarks with tall cliffs, winding stairs, and powerful ocean views. Head down to the Southeast Lighthouse, which sits nearby and offers tours along with striking coastal vistas. For more water fun, Crescent Beach gives visitors calm water and soft sand for swimming and sunbathing. For accommodations, the iconic Victorian landmark, Hotel Manisses, offers stylish rooms, seasonal dining, and unparalleled hospitality that'll complete your weekend.
The town center features charming shops and easy access to bike rentals, making it easy to get around. During your stroll in town, visit The Block Island Trading Company, where you can get your hands on island-inspired trinkets to remember your trip. Whether you prefer hiking, beach days, or relaxing with bay views, New Shoreham provides a refreshing escape with natural beauty and island character.
Rhode Island’s small towns create an ideal setting for a weekend trip, offering a mix of coastal scenery, historic charm, and inviting attractions. Each city on this list provides its own combination of landmarks, local dining, waterfront views, and boutique accommodations that enhance the experience. Travelers can explore parks, wander village centers, or relax at beaches and marinas while enjoying easy drives between destinations. The state’s compact size makes it simple to see several areas in one visit, yet each community still feels distinct and satisfying. With scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and comfortable inns, Rhode Island delivers a collection of towns that appeal to visitors looking for a peaceful and rewarding escape.
