7 Most Charming River Towns in Rhode Island to Visit in 2024
Rhode Island is called the Ocean State for a perfect reason: It boasts over 400 miles of shoreline. As the smallest of the 50 states in the United States, visitors can see more of its beauty in one visit. This New England stunner is also one of the oldest settled areas in the US and has lots of Indigenous and war history to share. The small towns within the state are a sight to behold with their river views and unbeatable charm. They are perfect for a vacation, from the historic tales hidden in Foster to the array of rivers in West Greenwich. Moreover, plenty of events and festivals are set to happen this year, so 2024 is full of fun in Rhode Island.
Hopkinton
Hopkinton packs a lot of attractions into its 44 square miles. Named after the then Governor of Rhode Island, Stephen Hopkins, Hopkinton offers 1.1 square miles of stunning water in the form of the Pawcatuck River and Ashaway River. Visitors can go stand-up paddling in the Pawcatuck River or take a canoe out on the calm water. Other than enjoying water activities, one can hike along the Narragansett Trail, which snakes along Long Pond and Ashville Pond. Here, fishing is also popular, especially during the summer. At Blue Pond, reachable by a couple of dirt trails, you will find the ruins of historic cabins and mills. Continue the historic trip with a visit to the nearby Ashaway Free Library, built in the 1870s, or visit local farms and markets to find some of the freshest produce and local products.
Foster
Foster is a town seeping with history, evidenced by its fair share of historic libraries and the state's only covered bridge on a public road. The Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge is a replica of the earliest 19th-century covered bridges constructed from local lumber. It is one of Foster’s most famous landmarks and makes for an excellent selfie background.
There are also several rivers in Foster, such as the Poneganset River, which flows through the town and into the Barden Reservoir. Parallel to this, the town is flush with lakes, reservoirs, and streams, from the quaint Spear Pond to the large Westconnaug Reservoir. Those interested in the views can drive along Hemlock Road, which leads to the gorgeous Ponaganset Falls. Back in town, you will find flavorful wines at the Nickle Creek Vineyard and an unforgettable breakfast at the Shady Acres Restaurant and Dairy. There is even a shopping center, Foster Plaza, which boasts all the essentials one can need while visiting Foster.
If you plan your Foster trip in March 2024, you can catch the 3rd annual Hello Spring Sip & Shop event. The event features handmade crafts, food, and a friendly Easter Bunny for the kids. If you want to visit in April, there is the Spring Market Place event to look forward to, hosted by Daley Middle School. This fundraising event features even more crafters and vendors and promises a fun Foster day out.
Scituate
Scituate is a mere 15-minute drive from Foster, so you can visit both towns in one day if pressed for time. While Scituate does not have a river flowing directly through it, it does have a massive reservoir formed by the North Branch of the Pawtuxet River. The reservoir (and river) provides over 60% of Rhode Island with potable water. It is also the largest inland body of water in Rhode Island, with a capacity of 39 billion gallons.
With water making up most of the town, waterside activities are abundant, and fishing is one of the most popular. Fishermen in town can stop by Dexter Pond to cast a line and enjoy the tranquility. Similarly, the Lawton Farm conservation area is a haven for grassland birds and boasts endless wildflowers. Those not interested in the outdoors can learn more about Scituate’s history at the Scituate Preservation Society or buy some handmade souvenirs from Robert Fisherman Pottery.
Lincoln
Drive northwards from Scituate for half an hour, and you will find the town of Lincoln. Here, the Blackstone River offers miles of hiking trails, perfect with waterside views. Hand in hand with the river lies the Olney Pond, a quaint body of water hidden away in Lincoln Woods State Park. This park is a treat for travelers, with glacial boulders, a freshwater beach, and several picnic spots. There is also lots of space for mountain biking and snowmobiling in winter.
Culture is also abundant in town, and tourists can visit the Hearthside House Museum, built in 1810, and the Eleazer Arnold House, built in 1693. If you feel lucky in Lincoln, you can try your hand at one of Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Hotel’s slot machines or table games. Meanwhile, kids love to spend time at the TimeMission gaming experience, with over a dozen unique gaming portals.
Even more exciting, however, is the 2024 I Love The 90s Tour, which is the perfect event for those nostalgic for 90s music. The tour happens throughout the year on multiple dates and includes performers such as Vanilla Ice, All 4 One, and Young MC. If 90s jams are not your thing, you might enjoy the Marshall Tucker Band with Special Guest Jefferson Starship show in May.
Richmond
The Beaver River flows through the town of Richmond, starting at James Pond and finally flowing into the Pawcatuck River, which forms a border to the south. Along the river lies the Beaver River Preserve, which is a treat for outdoor enthusiasts. It has two hiking trails that do not connect across the river but offer expansive water views. The Crawly Preserve is another area that offers far more trails that run through hardwood and pine forests.
Apart from the riverside activities, visitors in this river town can grab a bite at Kingston Pizza of Richmond or go apple picking at one of the many Richmond orchards. The Richmond Historical Society holds collections of historic artifacts that tell the story of the town’s history. For example, the 1826 Bell School was once an important landmark, now restored to its former glory allowing visitors to learn about local tales.
Westerly
The Pawcatuck River flows along the western border of the picturesque town of Westerly and is a popular site for fishing and kayaking. Situated 15 miles from Richmond, Westerly is home to East Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. If you are visiting Westerly with your family in tow, you will all have a blast on the Quonnie Queen, which rides the Quonochontaug Pond. A 30-minute tour provides water views and ample time for bird spotting.
The Flying Horse Carousel, the oldest of its kind still operating in the U.S., is also great fun for kids, and the Watch Hill Village offers everything from home goods to baked goods. At the end of a lovely day, you can catch the pink and purple sunset over Narragansett Bay as the last rays sparkle off the boats and glint off the waves. Remember to visit the historic Watch Hill Lighthouse while in Westerly. This landmark has been part of Westerly since the 1700’s. And, if your tweens think that’s lame, point out that Taylor Swift’s mansion, High Watch, is at the top of the bluff.
While Taylor Swift is not slated to perform in Westerly in 2024, you can catch the Salute The Troops Military Ball towards the end of March. If you miss that, there is always the Dave Matthews Tribute Band concert happening in July.
West Greenwich
West Greenwich does not have a Taylor Swift attraction, but it does have several rivers flowing through or passing by. Big River flows north through West Greenwich, joining the Flat River and forming the South Branch Pawtuxet River. The Congdon River flows south into town, joining the Nooseneck River to form the Big River. With these and plenty of smaller ponds and streams, few towns match the description of a river town like West Greenwich.
For visitors, there is more to experience than just stunning rivers. The Stepping Stone Ranch offers an in-depth tour of a historic farmhouse, blacksmith shop, and schoolhouse. You can go horse riding, attend music events in this living history museum, or simply take in the unique equine atmosphere. Alternatively, the Leyden Farm Vineyard & Winery offers locally-produced wines and cheese platters, a great way to relax during your West Greenwich trip.
Conclusion
With so much to see and do, everyone should take the time to visit Rhode Island in 2024. Several events are happening this year, from the Newport sailing races to the jazz festivals in Providence, making it a fantastic time to visit. Moreover, these charming towns offer everything you could want in a vacation destination, including sea and river views, historic outings, and breathtaking state park hikes. Throw in a mix of shopping and dining spots, and you have the ideal combination for the vacation of a lifetime.
