9 Most Neighborly Towns In Rhode Island

As the smallest state in the country, Rhode Island’s town populations may be modest, but the abundance of kindness and neighborliness is inescapable. Smaller communities, like Jamestown and Warren, truly embrace the idea of being “tight-knit.” In these small Rhode Island towns, shopkeepers greet customers by name and seasonal festivals double as neighborhood reunions. Genuine communities can sometimes be hard to find in larger cities, like the state capital of Providence; however, in these nine towns, it is easy to feel like you belong.

Jamestown

Perched on Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, Jamestown delights with coastal panoramas and a genuine sense of community. With just over 5,500 residents, it blends a quaint village center with scenic outdoor spots. Residents and visitors flock to Fort Wetherill State Park for year-round access to saltwater fishing, hiking trails, picnicking, and scuba diving. Jamestown’s coast offers front row seats to several tall ship sailing races.

In town, the Narragansett Cafe is a local eatery that brings the community together with good food, live music, and trivia nights. Another local spot that supports community building is the Jamestown Arts Center, a non-profit that offers classes for all ages, as well as learning opportunities that bring people together.

Little Compton

Little Compton’s rolling farmland, salt-air beaches, and historic homes define a landscape that inspires neighbors to enjoy the scenery and get to know one another. However you choose to spend your time here, you will be guaranteed to cross paths with like-minded people. Visit South Shore Beach for a swim before walking over to the adjacent Goosewing Beach Preserve for some quiet birding.

You can also sample local wines at Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard. If you enjoy live music with your wine, go on a Saturday when they often have performances scheduled. For a taste of Rhode Island history, the Little Compton Historical Society runs local museums, galleries, and gardens that celebrate the residents of Little Compton, both past and present.

Tiverton

Just north of Little Compton across the Sakonnet River, the town of Tiverton offers rugged coastal beauty and a spirited small-town community. Fort Barton, a historic site left over from the American Revolution, still inspires pride in residents, and the wooded area surrounding it is a wonderful place to soak in the fort’s significance. Additionally, calm beaches situated along Mt. Hope Bay invite neighbors to gather, kayak or paddle, and enjoy the quiet scenery. For local produce, residents head to the Tiverton Farmer’s Market, which is open year-round.

Fortunately, during the cold winter months, it moves to an indoor location to keep vendors and shoppers warm as neighbors bond over the fresh meats and seafood, delicious baked goods, and vegan and vegetarian options. The farmer’s market also hosts lively specialty events throughout the year, such as the Annual Strawberry Shortcake Social and the Annual Garlic Roast.

Charlestown

With beaches, woodlands, small-town celebrations, and a population of roughly 8,000 residents, Charlestown easily earns its neighborly reputation. This peaceful seaside town mixes outdoor play with heritage. Fort Ninigret and early colonial structures dot the landscape, miles of shoreline offer swimming and sunbathing opportunities, and the Ninigret Conservation Area is perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

In August, the Seafood Festival brings neighbors together with award-winning crab, lobster, shrimp, chowder, and more delicious treats. Other entertainment includes fireworks, a carnival, a car show, and crafts. The whole family can find something to love at Charlestown Seafood Festival. In the fall, families also love gathering in Ninigret Park for games, cornhole tournaments, and raffles at the Applumpkin Festival.

Warren

Warren may be the smallest town in the smallest county in the smallest state, but the community warmth and coastal culture create big opportunities for getting to know your neighbors. Along Warren’s historic Main Street, residents and visitors can find friendly faces in the boutiques and eateries. Restaurants like The Guild Brewing Co.’s Warren Beer Hall and Brewery encourage neighborly gatherings with their shareable plates and Tuesday night trivia.

When the weather is nice, people also love gathering at Warren Town Beach, where they can not only swim and play in the sand, but they can also enjoy the playground or get a snack from the concession stand. Additionally, the East Bay Bike Path runs directly through Warren, so grab your bike and a couple of friends for a fun, outdoorsy adventure.

Exeter

A town rich in rivers, trails, and wildlife, Exeter invites nature lovers to explore some of the landlocked parts of the state. Exeter’s rural charm speaks to a neighborly way of life rooted in the landscape by offering memorable outdoor escapes like the Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge with its miles of hiking trails. Although Exeter is mainly rural, small businesses and restaurants also give the community a sense of place.

If you are looking to do something with friends and family (or somewhere to go to make new friends), Celestial Cafe hosts events such as “Cocktail and Canvas” nights, where you can grab a Rosemary Gimlet and create a fun painting to take home. Additionally, Tilted Barn Brewery often holds live music performances that pair well with their unique variety of craft beers.

Foster

Foster is the perfect town for people who want neighborly warmth and rural vistas. This small town on the Connecticut border is known for the Foster Town House, one of the nation’s oldest continuously used meeting houses, dating back to the late 1700s. The building has been lovingly restored multiple times throughout its history, proving its importance to residents.

Across the street from the Town House, the Foster Fairgrounds hosts events, such as food truck nights, where neighbors can gather for great food and excellent company. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike Jerimoth Hill, Rhode Island’s highest point, or explore forests and farms that are woven throughout Foster.

Glocester

The town of Glocester incorporates villages such as Chepachet and Harmony that embody classic Rhode Island neighborliness. The annual Ancient and Horribles Parade, held on the 4th of July, has been bringing people together every summer since 1926. If you have not spent much time in New England, then this alternative Independence Day celebration might be a bit of a surprise. The Ancient and Horribles Parade features satirical and grotesque representations of political figures, as well as absurd floats and a marching band, making it a must-attend event.

Aside from the parade, Glocester is a generally peaceful and serene place with abundant natural beauty. Enjoy the tree-lined walking trails of Sprague Farm Town Forest for a quiet stroll through nature. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the well-maintained boat launch ramps at the Smith and Sayles Reservoir and Keech Pond.

North Kingstown

With a population of roughly 27,000, North Kingstown is officially larger than some towns in the state, perfect for those seeking history and neighborly energy near Narragansett Bay. North Kingston contains the historic Wickford Village, a neighborhood beloved for its harbor views and art festivals. In July, art lovers appreciate free admission to the Wickford Art Festival, an open-air gallery featuring sculptures, drawings, glasswork, furniture, fine jewelry, and a variety of other art mediums.

The beaches in North Kingston are also hotspots for gatherings year-round. It might be cold to us, but seals like to winter here on Rome Point, Seal Beach. Bundle up and take a long walk to spot some seals here as a fun outdoor winter activity. Of course, if you prefer traditional beach activities like swimming and sunbathing, North Kingstown Beach is the place to go in summer.

Whether you are drawn to coastal serenity, pastoral charm, historic pride, or creative energy, it is easy to see that Rhode Island’s true character is not measured in square miles. The connection of people, natural beauty, businesses, and the arts all serve as neighborhood anchors. Travelers may arrive for the shoreline or the history, but they often leave remembering the Rhode Islanders who made them feel welcome.