9 Most Hospitable Towns In Rhode Island
Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., but it is big on history, culture, and hospitality. The state's history goes back thousands of years to when Native American tribes were present in New England. Today, Rhode Island continues to make history with its many festivals, parks, and historical sites. These nine inviting towns encompass the heart of the Rhode Island culture and provide numerous opportunities for visitors to enjoy the state.
Bristol
Bristol is a town with a rich history dating back to 1685. Known in the past as a sailing and shipbuilding hot spot, the city boasts the oldest continuous Fourth of July Celebration in the U.S. With a walkable downtown and plenty of access to nature, this wholesome town offers guests plenty of hospitality and things to do.
Colt State Park, surrounded by the Narragansett and Mount Hope Bays, offers majestic shorelines. The park was the former summer estate of Samuel P. Colt and contains over 464 lawn acres. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Bristol State House, constructed in 1816 as a meeting place for the Rhode Island Senate and House of Representatives. Today, the courthouse offers exhibits, lectures, and re-enactments. Finally, a trip to Mount Hope Farm is a welcoming place for travelers. The farm has approximately 127 acres of gardens, trails, and walking paths. Admission is free to this historical gem that provides breathtaking views of the bay.
Tiverton
Tiverton is a welcoming community with a suburban feel and abundant parks. Incorporated in 1747, Tiverton was once known for farming. The town was a pivotal location in the American Revolutionary War. Fort Barton prevented invasions of the mainland. Today, visitors can visit the fort and walk along the many rustic trails in Fort Barton Woods.
Tiverton is also known for its many locally owned boutiques and 18th-century buildings. The Fogland Beach is an exceptional outdoor recreation location for fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and kite-surfing. Nature lovers can visit the welcoming Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge and see a mix of woods and salt marshes along the Sakonnet River. Wildlife viewing is also plentiful at the refuge, where there are opportunities to see crabs, deer, foxes, great egrets, yellow warblers, and Cooper’s Hawks. Those looking for a friendly environment with plenty to do should consider visiting Tiverton.
Narragansett
Narragansett is known as a friendly seaside resort town that is ideal for sightseeing and enjoying a slower pace of life. The beginnings of this city were mostly rural and fishing. Today, it is a popular travel destination. Narragansett offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation and historical exploration. The Narragansett Town Beach is a clean saltwater coastal beach that welcomes up to 5,000 visitors daily. This 19-acre beach also has plenty of parking.
A visit to the South County Museum is a history buff’s dream. Founded in 1933, the museum provides the rural history of southern Rhode Island. Several buildings call this 8-acre campus home, and visitors can explore an exhibit hall, carpentry barn, blacksmith's forge, fiber shed, print shop, and carriage barn. Narragansett is a jewel on the Rhode Island coastline. A visit here will not disappoint.
East Greenwich
With almost 15,000 residents, East Greenwich is friendly, welcoming, and full of history. Incorporated in 1677, the town is the 8th oldest in Rhode Island. East Greenwich is an architectural paradise with plenty of historic buildings to visit. These include the Colonial Abraham Greene House, built in 1770, and the Greenwich Hotel, built in 1896. The Neo-Gothic style of Saint Luke’s Church, built in 1875, is another architectural masterpiece in the city.
Visitors and history lovers will also enjoy a trip to the James Mitchell Varnum House Museum. Named after General James Mitchell Varnum, an American legislator, lawyer, and general in the Continental Army, the 250-year-old house was essential to American history. It hosted General George Washington and many others. Not only is East Greenwich a spectacular place to learn about history and view architecture, but it is also warm and hospitable to visitors.
North Kingstown
Located in southern Rhode Island, North Kingstown is known for its majestic natural harbor, outdoor recreation, and plenty of shopping. This neighborly and hospitable town has almost 28,000 year-round residents and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. A trip to Wickford Village is sure to delight any inquisitive mind. Situated around Colonial and Federal-period homes, Wickford Village has galleries, antique shops, boutiques, and waterfront cafes.
Those interested in outdoor recreation will enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing in the beautiful waters of the Atlantic Ocean. North Kingstown is also home to Smith's Castle. Encompassing 300 years of history, Smith’s Castle was a plantation house that dates back to the 17th century. Known for being the first English house in the area, it educates the public on Rhode Island history today. A trip to North Kingstown is a must for any traveler seeking an inviting city with lots to do.
Cumberland
Cumberland, located in northeastern Rhode Island, was first settled in 1635 and incorporated in 1746. This town is known for its beautiful landscapes, welcoming community, and courteous neighbors. The Arnolds Mills Community House exhibits the kind-hearted nature of the surrounding community. Deeded by Margaret Stearns in 1942, the house was provided as a location for charitable, religious, and educational organizations to meet. Today, it hosts craft classes, meetings for nonprofits, and other special events.
A journey to Diamond Hill Town Park will delight any nature lover. With almost 4 miles of marked trails, the park at its peak provides views of Boston, Massachusetts, on a clear day. The name of Diamond Hill Town Park comes from the mica-laden rocks along the hills that sparkle in the sunlight. The park also hosts the annual summer CumberlandFest celebration, car shows, and athletic tournaments. Cumberland is a town that emanates hospitality and provides opportunities to enjoy nature and recreation.
New Shoreham
New Shoreham is a cozy little town on Block Island, 12 miles south of the Rhode Island mainland. It is known for being a small town in one of the smallest U.S. states. Despite its size, visitors will find a warm and friendly environment. History buffs will relish the Block Island Historical Society museum, which features exhibits and information about the island. Exhibits include Manissean stone tools, colonial memorabilia, and enlarged vintage photos of life during the Victorian age.
A trip to the Ocean View Pavilion will not disappoint. Open from sunrise to sunset, the pavilion offers immaculate views overlooking the Old Harbor. New Shoreham is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Westerly
Westerly is a town with inviting beaches and a dash of history. Located on the southwestern coast of Rhode Island, the city was first settled by English colonists in 1661. It was later incorporated in 1669. Westerly offers many beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Coast, including Westerly Town Beach and Misquamicut State Beach. Westerly Town Beach boasts sandy shores and picturesque views. The Misquamicut State Beach, adored by residents, has many modern amenities, including concessions and outside showers.
A journey to the Westerly Armory provides a glimpse into the welcoming history of the town. Now a museum, the Armory was built in 1901 and is one of 18 historic armories in Rhode Island. Today, it hosts several events throughout the year. If you like the Atlantic Coast and beautiful beaches, Westerly may be your town.
Charlestown
Named after King Charles II, Charlestown was incorporated in 1738. The inviting town offers many opportunities for nature enthusiasts, history lovers, and festival goers. The Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge features 858 acres of various habitats, including grasslands, wooded swamps, and freshwater ponds. Bird watchers will enjoy the different migratory bird species in the refuge. The Charlestown Historical Society Archive/Museum and the 1838 Schoolhouse are a history lover's paradise. The 1838 schoolhouse is the only surviving schoolhouse in its original state in Charlestown.
Those interested in festivals can enjoy the friendly and neighborly Seafood Festival featuring food from lobsters to clam cakes. Music lovers will enjoy the Rhythm and Roots Festival, which features roots rock, blues, and some improvisational jamming. Charlestown also hosts a Memorial Day parade and a Holiday Ramble with several vendors and merchants. A trip to this neighborly town is well worth it.
Exploring the Smallest State
A visit to Rhode Island will delight any traveler. From the beautiful coastlines along the Atlantic Ocean to the rich history of its towns, Rhode Island has a little something for everyone. Travelers looking for a welcoming destination with a neighborly vibe will enjoy a trip to Bristol, Tiverton, Narragansett, East Greenwich, North Kingstown, Cumberland, New Shoreham, Westerly, and Charlestown.
