10 Most Memorable Small Towns in Rhode Island

Whether you are looking for unforgettable works of art, picture-perfect main streets, heart-melting seaside views, or historical spots that are so significant they are almost sacred, the smallest state in the nation has you covered. From Newport, with its world-famous Gilded Age mansions — to North Kingstown, the birthplace of one of America's most celebrated artists, these Rhode Island towns offer an array of unforgettable experiences. Find below Rhode Island’s most memorable small towns.

Newport

A Colonial town of about 24,800 residents that sits right on the ocean, Newport’s fairytale beauty has captivated first-time visitors for a long time. The coast on which Newport sits is known as the Sailing Capital of the World (you will have to check out the Sailing Museum) — and frequently hosts the prestigious America’s Cup, which happens to be the oldest active trophy in international sport. Expectedly, one feature that makes Newport among the most memorable towns in the U.S. is the town’s copious offerings of delightful boat trips (most charters end in October) from which one can inhale heart-melting views of Narragansett Bay and some of the most beautiful vistas on the East Coast. Once an opulent summer resort for some of America’s wealthiest, first-time visitors often enjoy exploring the town’s famous Gilded Age mansions, including the breathtaking Marble House and Breakers. The latter is at 44 Ochre Point Avenue and is arguably one of the most beautiful. 

Bristol

Park your car close to Independence Park, a pretty, 4-acre gem that sits right on the water and from which one can enjoy peaceful views of the harbor and the area around it. After ambling through this serene area, you will want to explore downtown Bristol’s array of antique stores and art galleries. Mosaic Arts Gallery, located on Oliver Street, is one of the only galleries of contemporary fine art mosaics in New England. On Hope Street, the Burnside Memorial Hall pays tribute to a Civil War hero known for his unusual beard. The area around this two-story building is particularly captivating. From here, Linden Place is drop-dead gorgeous; however, despite its stately facade, it boasts a history that can make anyone’s skin crawl. The building was the family home of James DeWolf, the biggest enslaver in U.S. history. Finally, a trip to Bristol is not complete without a detour to the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, a cool, exquisite wonderland that defies superlatives.

Westerly

Historically, Westerley is known for its Westerley Granite, which makes up numerous monuments that are also pinkish in color. These include the Roger Williams statue as well as several statues at the Gettysburg battlefield. Today, however, Westerly is best known for its spectacular beaches. For accommodation, Ocean House, perched on Watch Hill’s scenic bluffs, while a little pricey, is breathtaking. The property’s Secret Garden Champagne Bar provides unobstructed views of the ocean amid lush boxwood hedges. Of course, Misquamicut State Beach, Westerly’s defining attraction, is one of the largest in the state and is known to come with great waves and many convenient shower places. Finally, Napatree Point Conservation Area, a pristine wonderland designated a “Globally Important Bird Area” — is as popular for its magical sunsets — as it is for heart-melting views of Long Island Sound.

Jamestown

Boasting a population of about 5,500, Jamestown is delightfully photogenic, not unlike its neighbor Newport, just a tad quieter and slower. Conanicut Island, on which this town sits, hosts New England’s largest Indian Burial Ground. Jamestown has an adorable Main Street lined with a quaint blend of small shops and restaurants. For the outdoorsy, Conanicut Island Sanctuary is an underappreciated gem perfect for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Amid whistles of osprey — and sightings of the great blue heron — one will enjoy winding through the woods here via trails that lead to numerous scenic overlooks. But again, Fort Wetherill State Park, the perfect vantage point during the Revolutionary War, is just hard to beat. 

Lionel Champlin Guest House offers five tastefully appointed rooms and gorgeous waterfront views. Alternatively, you can take a step back in time and stay at the old-fashioned Rose Island Lighthouse, especially if you want a first-hand experience of what life was like in an earlier, slower century. For some yummy bites, check out Narragansett Cafe, a Jamestown staple since the 1940s.

Little Compton

Little Compton plays host to the only town commons in the state of Rhode Island. This alone should make it among the most memorable. Do not expect an array of fast food restaurants or chain stores here. There is no love lost between Little Compton and soulless, concrete jungles. The town's commons, a one-stop shopping place, sits in the same spot as when it was laid out about 350 years ago. The cemetery, the church, and the old-time feel are some of the features that best define this time capsule. Little Compton is famous for its stone walls and can be described as the stonewall capital of the world. Even today, they line the roads and encircle the open fields. Gray's General Store, founded the year before the inauguration of George Washington as the first U.S. president, is one of the oldest operating general stores in America.

East Greenwich

For perspective, we are talking about the eighth-oldest town in Rhode Island. We are also talking about the town with the highest median household income in the state. Incorporated in 1677, East Greenwich would soon be associated with a tiny African American community along the coast called Scalloptown, so named because of the sea creatures that would often be found on the residents' dinner tables. Today, Scalloptown Park is an awesome place to put in one’s canoe or kayak — and enjoy the lively company of swans, ospreys, and egrets. Buildings that offer a glimpse into the past include Gen. James Mitchell Varnum House, located at 57 Peirce Street, which has been a feature of the town since 1773. New England Wireless & Steam Museum, on the other hand, preserves the beginnings of radio and steam power. For some sizzling brunch, one can hardly go wrong with Dante's Kitchen, a culinary hot cake located smack in the middle of town.

Scituate

Scituate is not only memorable for its small-town feel but also for a heartening coterie of gems, including the Barden Family Orchard, one of Rhode Island’s finest vineyards. Apples, peaches, berries, flowers, and then some: this lovely orchard has it all. Then again, boasting a backdrop that features rolling hills and charming countryside, this town was settled in the 1620s by those drawn by the area’s abundance of timber forests, prominent cliffs, and a protected harbor. The Scituate Art Festival, a feature of the town since 1967, is among the oldest and largest art festivals in the United States. For some spot-on scallops, the kind that is perfectly seared, Corner Bistro is a culinary delight worth checking out. 

Warren

There is a reason Warren is one of Rhode Island's small towns that is causing a noticeable buzz in vacation circles. It is not just because of the East Bay bike path, though that itself is a massive draw. Warren boasts some great restaurants (you may want to explore the tantalizing array of dishes at the Wharf), a few cool bars, and a cute main street. In the last couple of years, the downtown area has undergone significant revitalization efforts, leading up to a look that is deliciously crisp and elegant. Other features that make the town among the most memorable in Rhode Island include an awesome brewery on Water Street (The Guild Warren), a pretty decent art scene, and, of course, the town beach, located at the southern edge of Water Street.

New Shoreham

It may not be a romanticized Caribbean island, but it is still a pristine island boasting views that are drop-dead gorgeous. That is Block Island’s New Shoreham, a town of just more than 1,000 popular with summer tourists. Dripping in natural beauty, spots such as the Mohegan Bluffs offer views that are nothing less than surreal. From here, strolling down the 141 steps to the sandy beach is a heart-gripping experience and often among the most treasured of experiences. Yet the beach itself boasts even more dramatic views. There are many scenic trails here that can match the skill and physical fitness of every hiker and offer a sizzling experience of the island. Finally, the 120-acre Lewis-Dickens Farm Wildlife Refuge, besides being a secluded oasis, provides visitors the chance to lock eyes with deer, among other wildlife species.

North Kingstown

If you have scanned the one-dollar bill, you have looked at the “unfinished” portrait of George Washington. Referred to as “The Athenaeum,” this masterpiece is also displayed in the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. This portrait — and many others — are the handiwork of celebrated artist Gilbert Stuart, whose birthplace is among North Kingstown’s most memorable attractions. Another North Kingstown attraction that will remain etched in the mind is the Narragansett Rune Stone, a piece of evidence, as is often claimed, of the Norse visiting Narragansett. Additionally, the award-winning historic village of Wickford, often ranked as among the best main streets in the United States, is a stretch worth ambling through. Finally, for delectable waterfront views, you may not want to miss out on experiencing the town's numerous harbor tours.

Not only does Rhode Island boast many quintessential New England small towns, beach views, and more, but the smallest state is known for its delightful array of small towns that are just as memorable in other respects. While it can be difficult to rank the Ocean State's most memorable small towns, there is no price for guessing why Newport, with its grand mansions, may top any objective list. Aside from the town historically associated with America's wealthiest, the other most memorable small towns in Rhode Island include Bristol, Westerly, and Jamestown.