6 of the Most Hospitable Small Towns in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is a hospitable state in New England, welcoming 27.7 million visitors annually. Travelers flock to its glimmering beaches, which lie along the 400 miles of coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. Branded the Ocean State, Rhode Island is the place to be for those in search of endless fun in the water, but the fun does not end there. Visitors of the state may partake in plenty of outdoor adventures, including kayaking and helicopter rides.
While Rhode Island offers big attractions in the more populated cities of Providence, Cranston, and Warwick, its small towns welcome visitors with open arms, home to a delightful, more laidback experience, where travelers may enjoy the local events, culture, and natural beauty.
Jamestown
Jamestown is a peaceful coastal destination hidden on Conanicut Island next to the more popular city of Newport. A cruise on one of the local ferries is essential, if not just for the ocean scenery. The Jamestown Newport Ferry crosses between the two towns, while the Coastal Queen Cruises (in Newport) offer special details and events such as wine tastings, music shows, and holiday themes.
Jamestown is home to two state parks: Fort Wetherill State Park, 61.5 acres at the tip of Conanicut Island, and Beavertail State Park, featuring the Beavertail Lighthouse, both of which boast scenic views of the rocky shoreline. Jamestown is rich in history, housing plenty of 19th-century buildings, such as the Captain Thomas Paine House, built in 1694.
Narragansett
Narragansett's population typically sits around 14,500 people, but the warmth and excitement of the summer months double that number of friendly faces to 34,000. From May through October, Adventureland is the place to be, enticing families and romantic dates with activities such as miniature golf, go-kart racing, bumper cars, batting cages, and more. Beach-going is another well-loved summer activity, especially at spots like Roger Wheeler State Beach.
One of the top sights in Narragansett is The Towers, once the Narragansett Pier Casino in 1886, which continues to stand despite facing two fires and three hurricanes. Finally, the 2-mile hike to Black Point is a must, where visitors may keep an eye out for sea life, enjoy a picnic, or simply revel in the landscape.
Little Compton
Little Compton is a small town with a big heart and hospitable locals, brought to life by its local farms and vineyards. Boughs & Berry Farm is a welcoming space with blueberries or Christmas trees ready for picking, depending on the time of year. There is also Carolyn's Sakonnet Vineyards, open from spring through fall, perfect for a girl's getaway trip. Next on the list of pick-your-own destinations is Old Stone Orchards, featuring apples, pears, and pumpkins.
Travelers may fully delve into the community with a trip to either the Little Compton Community Theatre, a great place for kids and families to meet friendly residents, or the Little Compton Historical Society, offering a glimpse into the area's past. Little Compton houses several lovely beaches, including Goosewing Beach and South Shore Beach, perfect for afternoons sunbathing, fishing, or swimming.
North Kingstown
North Kingstown is most well known for its history, home to Wickford Village, which features plenty of Colonial and Federal-period homes. There is also a historic walking tour, which starts at Updike Park and travels through the Main Street, Hussey Bridge, and ends at Academy Cove overlooking the water. The harbor is a great spot for fishing and boating, while the calm waters are excellent for kayak and paddle board.
North Kingstown is abundant in art galleries and shops, including Harbor View Artisans and Vanessa Piche Fine Art and Apparel. For a bird's eye view of the area and its delights, a ride in a helicopter with the nearby Heliblock Helicopter Tours is a must. Though it overflows in summer fun and outdoor adventure, North Kingstown wows in the winter for a warm welcome, featuring its annual Festival of Lights celebration in December.
New Shoreham
New Shoreham may be the smallest town in Rhode Island, but that does not stop it from encompassing all the beauty and hospitality that is Block Island. The town is only accessible by boat via a half-hour ferry ride, offering a more remote and secluded getaway. Mopeds or bikes are the ideal way to explore the land, while water sports such as parasailing and water skiing are great for adventure enthusiasts. The Mohegan Bluffs, towering cliffs overlooking the pristine waters of the Atlantic, are an essential stop while in town.
Historic lighthouses such as the mid-19th century North Lighthouse and Southeast Lighthouse share a glimpse into the area's past, with impressive architecture and maritime artifacts. For a nature adventure, Clay Head Nature Trail awaits, traversing through a beach, scenic vistas, and even a maze at the end.
Tiverton
Tiverton is a charming coastal town just across the water from Aquidneck Island and is home to Fogland Beach. The area is ideal for activities such as kayaking and windsurfing, and also includes a conservation area with hiking and walking trails. Hiking and biking through Fort Barton Woods offers a chance to explore the Revolutionary War fortifications and even climb the observation tower and take in views of Narragansett Bay.
If the natural scenery is not relaxing enough, a trip to Divine Tranquility Salon & Day Spa promises a moment of inner peace. Tiverton also hosts a Farmers Market, a great spot to meet friendly locals.
Rhode Island sits on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, offering plenty in terms of outdoor adventure, water sports, and beach days. While it may be just a short ride away from some of the bigger cities in the US, its small towns are sure to delight all groups of travelers, including families, girl's trips, and romantic getaways. Whether the privacy and natural setting of New Shoreham is most enticing, or the local pick-your-own farms and vineyards of Little Compton pique your interest, there is something for everyone in Rhode Island's most hospitable small towns.
