9 Most Welcoming Towns In Rhode Island's Countryside
The tiny state of Rhode Island is one of America's true hidden gems. Featuring amazing history, beautiful scenery, and friendly people, there is plenty to see, do, and explore in the Ocean State. With welcoming towns like Jamestown, Westerly, and Foster, Rhode Island offers both out-of-state visitors and longtime locals plenty of options beyond its urban centers. All it will take is one visit to the countryside to see why sometimes, the best things come in small packages.
Foster
There may be few places in the world as charming as the town of Foster, Rhode Island. With a population of under five thousand people, you won't find a packed street in this historic town. What you will find, however, are plenty of landmarks and a unique charm. For example, The Town House is the oldest government building still in use in the United States. Built in 1796, it is a must-visit for history lovers.
If you are interested in taking in some of Foster's more recent history, make sure to pay a visit to Rhode Island's only covered bridge, the Swamp Meadow Bridge, built in 1994 and designed in the style of the traditional covered bridges of the 1800s. If you love the outdoors and are a bit adventurous, go for a paddle on Killingly Pond or hike to the top of Jerimoth Hill, the highest point in the state of Rhode Island. Being just a half-hour drive from Providence, Foster is perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Little Compton
The idyllic seaside town of Little Compton is the sort of place where all your troubles seem to melt away from the moment you arrive. Water lovers will be in paradise thanks to the town sitting on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean to the south and the Sakonnet River to the west. The Historic Sakonnet Lighthouse, built in 1884, is an iconic landmark. While you can't tour the grounds themselves or climb to the top, the best spot to catch a photo is from the beach at Sakonnet Point.
The Wilbor House Museum Farmstead is an amazing opportunity to see how some of the earliest settlers of the area lived. Built in 1692, the Wilbor House is currently occupied by the Little Compton Historical Society, which invites visitors to tour the barns, studio, carriage house, and other historic sturctures and artifacts. Once you've worked up an appetite, you can pay a visit to the Art Cafe for a fresh and tasty bite to eat.
Jamestown
From the moment you arrive in Jamestown, you will feel as if you have stepped back in time. Founded as a town in 1678, this friendly community is home to just under 6,000 people. Imagine what it was like in Jamestown's earliest days as you stroll through beautiful Beavertail State Park towards the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum. Here, you can learn about the history of the third-oldest lighthouse in the United States while also getting a spectacular view of the island.
If you're craving a taste of local cuisine with an incredible view, then do yourself a favor and stop by 1 Ferry Wharf. While there, you can enjoy one of the eatery’s sought-after lobster rolls. With only about twenty miles separating Jamestown from Providence, this town is perfect for a quick day trip or a memorable weekend getaway.
Wickford Village
Just a short hop (or drive) from Newport sits charming Wickford Village. History lovers will be in heaven exploring the largest collection of 18th-century buildings in the northeast, including perhaps the most unique one in town, Smith’s Castle. Built in 1678, the house now serves as a museum, displaying incredible artifacts from the era. As for the name? Though it doesn’t resemble a traditional castle, it gets its name from the
From there, you’re welcome to pay a visit to one of the oldest Episcopal churches in the northeast, the Old Narragansett Church. If you fancy bringing a unique keepsake home with you from Wickford Village, the town’s main streets and North Kingston, just across the bridge, have plenty of shops to choose from, like Green Ink Boutique, for clothes and accessories, and Eclectic Bungalow, for unique gifts and home decor.
New Shoreham (Block Island)
For a local adventure that is off the beaten path, take a boat ride to the town of New Shoreham, located on Block Island, about 12 miles off the coast of mainland Rhode Island. The small community’s 1,000 or so residents are just waiting for you to pay a visit, much like the famous pirate Captain William Kidd did in 1699, when he is said to have buried part of his treasure on the island.
While exploring the town, stop for a meal at local favorite Kimberley's, known for excellent seafood dishes. When you've had your fill, why not walk it off or simply relax on one of the island's beautiful beaches? Or, for a really unique experience, you can enjoy a horseback tour of Block Island with Rustic Rides Farm. Trotting along the beach, you'll forget you're in the United States. To get a somewhat bird’s-eye view of Block Island, pay a visit to the Southeast Lighthouse and book a guided tour to the top.
Hopkinton
Incorporated in 1757, the charming town of Hopkinton is named after Stephen Hopkins, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. This community of about 8,200 has retained most of its history and old-world charm, which is on full display as you walk around the Historic District. Here, you can view the Thurston-Wells House, the former home of several lieutenant governors. Though tours aren’t available, this amazing piece of history still makes for a wonderful photo opportunity.
While you’re in town, you can also take in the natural wonders the area has to offer as you go for a hike in Long Pond Woods, managed by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, or explore the state's largest recreational area. The Arcadia Management Area covers a massive 14,000 acres and is the perfect place for mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, or even a picnic. Fans of the 2012 movie Moonrise Kingdom may even recognize some spots that served as filming locations. While you’re in town, you can unleash your creativity at the Village Place Studio & Gallery, located in nearby Hope Valley. You can take an art class, or you and some friends can take part in a "Sip and Paint" party to unleash your inner Picasso. If you’re a golfer, make sure to pay a visit to the Wood River Golf Course, offering 18 holes with no tee time necessary and a clubhouse with a full-service dining room.
Charlestown
The town of Charlestown has long been a destination for those looking to spend time in a vibrant and welcoming community. For a unique shopping experience, make sure to pay a visit to The Fantastic Umbrella Factory, which consists of several smaller stores in separate buildings where you can shop for clothing, general goods, jewelry, and more. While here, you can enjoy the scenery while walking along the Fantastic Umbrella Factory’s clam shell path and smell the flowers in its garden.
If you’re an art lover, the Charlestown Gallery is where you can view and purchase fine contemporary American art. For some spectacular stargazing, pay a visit to the Frosty Drew Observatory, where you can get an incredible view of the night sky above. Who knows? While looking through the lens, you might make the next astronomical discovery!
Westerly
The charming town of Westerly really is a bit of paradise in Rhode Island. If you're looking to spend some time relaxing by the ocean, you will love Fenway Beach. The soft sand and coastal views will melt away any stresses you may have. If you want to get a bit more up close and personal with some animal friends, head to Manfredi Farms. Here you can visit with farm animals and pick up some savory jams made from local produce.
For a truly unique experience, take a walk through coastal Watch Hill Village and peruse items from local shops, like the Black Duck Gallery. Otherwise, you can idly stroll along the shoreline and maybe even end your day in Westerly by watching the sunset. Westerly is only a 45-mile drive from Providence. Still, the memories you make while you visit this scenic town are sure to last a lifetime!
Glocester
Incorporated in 1731, Glocester had a slight identity crisis for several years since it was initially named Gloucester, until a vote was held in 1806 by citizens to change the name to its current spelling to avoid confusion with Gloucester, MA. Currently, the town of Glocester is home to just under 10,000. A visit to the Old Stone Mill Antiques & Treasures offers a glimpse of the town’s past. Formerly a textile mill, you can browse two floors of collectibles and one-of-a-kind finds.
While you’re in town, make sure to stop by local favorite, Aegeon Pizza, for a slice or two. And if you love the great outdoors, Pulaski State Park Recreational Area is for you. The park features over 100 acres of land perfect for a picnic or a hike. The best part is, your fun in this park isn’t limited to the summer. If you pay a visit to Glocester in the winter, you can go cross-country skiing on the trails. So pack your trunks or your skis, because the town of Glocester has it all!
Final Thoughts
Without a doubt, one of the best things about the United States is its abundance of hidden gems. People flock to the cities for numerous reasons, but there is something magical about small towns like Foster, New Shoreham, and Westerly. These sweet spots offer unique experiences that you just can't find in every big city. If you're looking for a day trip off the beaten path or a unique weekend escape, pay one of these towns a visit. You'll be glad you did!
