6 of the Most Walkable Towns in Rhode Island
Known affectionately by those who live there as the “Ocean State,” Rhode Island has much to offer those who enjoy a good walkabout. While it’s the smallest state in the USA, Rhode Island packs a wealth of beauty, history, and charm into its compact size. Those in the know will explore Rhode Island’s most attractive small communities in order to get a real feel for the place. Venturing beyond the well-trodden paths of its capital, Providence, will lead the curious traveler to some of the most walkable destinations in the country, each offering a unique flavor of Rhode Island's rich heritage and stunning natural beauty. Whether for a day trip, a weekend retreat, or a week-long vacation, visitors will want to slow down and enjoy these six most walkable towns in Rhode Island.
Newport
Newport is every inch the quintessential New England coastal town. Among its most walkable attractions are the Newport Mansions, grand old residences that once served as summer homes for some of America's wealthiest families during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Breakers, the most visited of these mansions, was the Vanderbilt family's summer home and epitomized the extravagant lifestyle of the era with its lavish décor and impressive architecture. Marble House, another Vanderbilt mansion, is equally magnificent and is known for its opulent gold ballroom and striking classical façade.
Be sure to include the Cliff Walk in your Newport travel itinerary. This scenic 3.5-mile walkway follows the shoreline with excellent views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the grandeur of Newport's Gilded Age mansions on the other. The town's harbor area is also fun to explore on foot and is home to various nautical activities, with the annual Newport Sailing Regatta being a highlight. Downtown Newport is another must, especially along Thames Street, the main thoroughfare, with its eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
Bristol
Located along the shores of Narragansett Bay, Bristol's claim to fame is its annual Fourth of July Celebration. The oldest continuous celebration of its kind in the United States, this fun event draws crowds from across the East Coast for its grand parade, concerts, and firework displays and offers a great excuse to put on the ol’ walking shoes and follow the fun. Be sure to also include Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum on a list of the best things to do in Bristol. This 33-acre estate boasts a 45-room mansion set amidst magnificent gardens; it’s an immensely fun-to-walk property with plenty of great selfie spots.
The Herreshoff Marine Museum, dedicated to the history of the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company, is only a 15-minute walk from Blithewold and is also worthy of a visit. Highlights include a collection of over 60 vintage boats, some of them America Cup winners. Colt State Park is also fun to explore on foot. Known as the 'Gem of the State Parks,' its 464 acres include well-manicured lawns, old stone walls, and curving waterfront drives, which are great for picnicking, fishing, biking, or simply enjoying panoramic views of Narragansett Bay.
Jamestown
Jamestown is situated on picturesque Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay and is a popular summer retreat for its stunning scenery, historic sites, and coastal charm. Located just a short drive from the town center, the Beavertail Lighthouse is a great place to wander and walk. Set in Beavertail State Park at the southern tip of the island, it was built in 1856 and is one the oldest in America. In addition to the views of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, the adjacent park is a popular spot for picnicking, fishing, and exploring the rocky coastline with its tide pools teeming with marine life.
Fort Wetherill State Park is another excellent Jamestown attraction to explore on foot. Set on a high granite cliff overlooking the bay, this former coastal defense battery is now a prime spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking. Along with the activities, it offers great views over Newport Harbor and the East Passage. Downtown Jamestown, though small, is also immensely walkable, with a few landmarks worth seeing along the way.
Little Compton
Located in the southeastern part of the state, the small town of Little Compton is making a name for itself as a winemaking center. Topping lists of must-visits for wine enthusiasts is Carolyn's Sakonnet Vineyards, a delightful experience for visitors with fun tours of its expansive grounds and tastings of its award-winning wines. Another big draw is the town's coastline. Visitors will find Sakonnet Point here, with its panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sakonnet Lighthouse. As well as being excellent for leisurely walks, it’s also a great spot for fishing or enjoying the tranquil beaches of Goosewing Beach Preserve and South Shore Beach. Little Compton's historic center, The Commons, is also fun for a wander. Highlights include the Wilbor House Museum, set in a 17th-century home with preserved original buildings and gardens.
Wickford
While Wickford has managed to maintain a village feel, this picturesque and walkable town home to over 20,000 residents is a far cry from the handful of residents who lived here when it was settled in the 1600s. Visitors and locals alike appreciate its well-preserved colonial architecture and inviting streets, as well as its compact size and welcoming atmosphere that encourages pedestrian exploration. Historic Wickford Village is very much the town center and star attraction and boasts many buildings dating back to the 1700s, giving it the feeling of a living museum.
Visitors can stroll along the waterfront with its picturesque harbor and wander through the village's quaint shops and art galleries. A great time to visit is during the Wickford Art Festival, one of the oldest and best-known art festivals in New England. Each summer, the festival transforms the village into a bustling hub of creativity, attracting artists and art lovers from across the region. Want a longer walk? Hit the trails of nearby Ryan Park and Wilson Park.
New Shoreham
As the smallest town in the country’s smallest state, New Shoreham is a great travel destination. Better still, this charming and distinctly walkable community is located on an island: Block Island, to be exact. Situated 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast and accessible by ferry, Block Island invites visitors to explore the Mohegan Bluffs. These majestic cliffs offer spectacular ocean views and drop nearly 200 feet to the sea below. Feeling fit? Take the set of wooden stairs leading down to a secluded beach to dip your toes in the Atlantic.
The island’s Southeast Lighthouse, perched atop the Mohegan Bluffs, was built in 1875 and features tours of the lighthouse and its museum. Apart from these sights, the rest of New Shoreham is straightforward to walk around, and plenty of quaint B&Bs and small inns are available for those who can make a weekend of their adventure on Block Island.
The Final Word
Despite being the country’s smallest state, Rhode Island boasts plenty of picturesque small towns that cater to every type of traveler. From the coastal elegance of Newport to the coziness of Little Compton, these destinations epitomize the charm of New England. Whether you're seeking a quiet getaway, a historical adventure, or a luxurious retreat by the sea, these six walkable towns in Rhode Island provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway.
