7 Adorable Small Towns in Rhode Island to Visit in 2024

If beauty is controlled for size — and all the states put on a scale — Rhode Island would stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the most beautiful states in the nation. For starters, a significant portion of the state is made up of pretty beaches, complete with tasty waterfront views and an awe-inspiring coastline. Want to explore Rhode Island? Slide into your flip-flops and set base in some adorable small town. For specific suggestions, discover below these seven charming small towns in Rhode Island.

Charlestown

If words have any meaning, Charlestown should be the perfect description of “adorable.” People travel from across the nation to walk on its golden sands, wander through the tree-dappled ridges that fill the Charlestown Moraine Preserve, wind down and decompress at the Tucker Woods Preserve, and enjoy top-notch retail therapy at the Fantastic Umbrella Factory, an old farm and temperance hall that today features features eye-catching sculptures, a petting zoo, and a hippy-bazaar. That said, Charlestown is mostly known for its beaches, including stand-outs such as Blue Shutters Beach, Charlestown Town Beach, and East Beach, a 3-mile-long barrier beach known for its windsurfing attributes.

Jamestown

Incorporated more than three centuries ago, when this slice of Rhode Island was still part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, Jamestown has today transformed itself from a marshy and humid backwater into a peaceful coastal gem with awe-inspiring parks, historic farms, and casual restaurants. An adorable main street adds a layer of charm to an otherwise beautiful spot — and is one of the town’s noticeable features. Jamestown Archaeological District is home to New England’s largest documented Indian cemetery and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. A meal at the Zeek's Creek Bait & Tackle Inc. often sees patrons licking their fingers — before exploring outdoor attractions such as Beavertail Lighthouse Museum, the panoramic Fort Wetherill, and the shell-laden Sunset Beach.

Little Compton

Although “little” is part of its name, this adorable Rhode Island stunner is easy on the eyes and filled with delightful spots and attractions. One will want to amble through the only town commons in the state of Rhode Island and marvel at the variety of Greek Revival and Victorian buildings, including the iconic United Congregational Church, that rises over downtown with its hulking steeple. Aside from the landmark church, a first-time visitor will relish the old-world feel here and relish its charming ambiance. Little Compton was once called the stonewall capital of the world. Even today, stonewalls line the roads and encircle the open fields. Pop inside Gray's General Store, arguably the oldest operating general store in America. It opens between June to October and from Wednesday to Sunday. Alternatively, launch out to the nearby Goosewing Beach, a rocky but scenic expanse that plays host to thousands of migrating birds. Do not miss the Sakonnet Garden either — if just to stroll along its wooden walkways and marvel at its amazing collection of plants and trees.

Newport

Fondly called The City by the Sea, Newport has been a vacationer’s favorite for many years. A first-time visitor will enjoy shopping along Thames Street and the Brick Market Place, an all-year destination with over 25 unique shops and eateries. This 4-acre shopping paradise was designed by one of America's finest architects and features shops such as the House of Windsor, which hosts one of the largest selections of Antique and Estate jewelry in one place. Of course, Newport is world-famous for its Gilded Age Mansions, including The Beakers, associated with the Vanderbilts, once the wealthiest family in the United States. Step out along the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk and appreciate natural beauty at its most pristine. Wine connoisseurs should work their way to Newport Vineyards, arguably the largest grower of grapes in New England.

Westerly

Although there is no ugly part of Rhode Island, some areas are more beautiful than others. One such area is where the town of Westerly occupies. As the name suggests, Westerly is Rhode Island’s westernmost town and is nestled along the Pawcatuck River, which forms part of the boundary between Connecticut and Rhode Island. Once known for shipbuilding, Westerly is today mostly famous for its vacation attributes. Drive through Watch Hill, which features a quaint coastal village with three sandy beaches. Pop inside The Malted Barley, known for its melt-in-the-mouth pretzels and rotating craft brews. Alternatively, grab some wood-fired pizza at Grey Sail — and wash it down with locally made beer of exceptional quality. Just a hair out of town, Wahaneeta Preserve features scenic trails and rolling woods. One will feel like she is thousands of miles away from America.

Woonsocket

Rhode Island's northernmost city was once an industrial hub. Today, however, Woonsocket is adorable and eccentric in almost equal measure. For example, if a first-time visitor asks for dynamite here — or mentions it in a conversation — locals know she is talking about a delicious sandwich, not an explosive. Talking of sandwiches, J's Deli serves some of the freshest deli sandwiches in the area. Other options include D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches as well as New York Lunch, world-famous for its hot wieners. A plaque at the entrance to the city hall honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. Make your way to the train station and catch a glimpse of the bronze statue of the dog Hachiko. Digging up Hachiko’s story, one understands why dogs are man’s best friend. Museum of Work & Culture tells the story of the Industrial Revolution via fascinating displays and exhibits — and will leave any lover of history impressed.

Bristol

Bristol is an adorable seaside community that boasts sweeping views of Narragansett Bay, a storied history that goes back more than 270 years, and the oldest, continuous Independence Day celebration in America. Audubon Society of Rhode Island Nature, one of Bristol’s sought-after attractions, features a lovely boardwalk perfect for an afternoon stroll, an aquarium, nearly 30 miles of scenic trails, lovely views of the bay, and interactive wildlife models. The nearby Colt State Park spans more than 460 acres, features a gasp-inducing shoreline, and is home to miles of scenic trails. If your heart is susceptible to the grip of history, the go-to spots here include Coggshall Farm Museum, Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, and the Bristol Art Museum. What’s more? If one times her visit well, she can participate in the oldest, continuous Independence Day celebration in America.

The Takeaway

The smallest state in America is easy to explore. A trip from the beach to a chic boutique to an inland forest is typically a matter of minutes, not days. But what should one expect? Plenty. White-sand beaches, a rugged coastline, hulking bluffs and cliffs, and nautical charm. As to charming small towns, lace up for gems such as Charlestown, Jamestown, Little Compton, and Newport. The latter is particularly world-famous for its Gilded Age mansions.