8 Coziest Small Towns in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US but boasts a rather large reputation. Golden beaches, shimmering waters, seafood, and overall coastal themes dominate tourist areas, from the big cities to the small, historic charming towns and villages. Skip the loud honks and complications of big city traffic and try a hand at these artistic, quirky, easeful, and cozy small towns that enhance the overall sentiment of what it means to be a coastal New England settlement.
Westerly
A shoreline destination awaits in the small town of Westerly, one of the most popular tourist escapes in the Southern area of New England. This is likely due to the presence of the Ocean House, a five-star luxury hotel perched high on the bluffs of Watch Hill. Visitors have an eclectic choice of activities that range from dancing and hopping entertainment at its vibrant downtown core, to various watersport activities on the sparkling beaches at Misqaumicut.
Those looking for a taste of New England history can travel to The Watch Hill Lighthouse Museum, within an old lighthouse built in 1807. Granite Theatre is a handsomely restored Greek Revival Church present in Westerly for the more artistically inclined, providing high-quality shows for only a small donation fee. Napatree Point is a conversation area where many unique birds can be spotted, and environmentally conscious individuals can observe the wildlife.
Narragansett
Those looking for beachside indulgence should look no further than Narragansett. The small town of nearly 15,000 houses one of the state’s most frequented beaches and is a popular choice for Rhode Island residents and beyond. The most sought after within the town are Narragansett Town Beach, Scarborough State Beach, and Roger Wheel State Beach. The town is easily identified through the presence of The Towers, a historic, architectural wonder, and the last remaining portion of the former great Narragansett Pier Casino. Due to its ancient, castle-like char, The Towers is a commonly selected location for weddings, ballroom dancing, and summer music series.
Those looking for an easy and flat hiking experience will adore Narragansett, with The Black Point Trail that curses along the coastline with rock scaling and bluff climbing available for those more adventurous. The Matunuck Oyster bar in nearby Wakefield is a must for seafood lovers, where diners chill while overlooking Potter Pond, inducing raw bar oysters, oysters Rockefeller, or even bourbon oysters.
Tiverton
Tiverton is a scenic small farm town along the Sakonnet River with a quaint backdrop. This town is the place for exploratory hiking and fun, an outdoorsy person’s dream. Blend that with historic 18th-century buildings, and a quaint escape awaits. Fogland Beach, a unique black stone beach, is a favorite for kayakers and windsurfers, as well as those looking for connecting hiking/walking trails, and a wildlife/nature preserve all within the same area. Explore the Audubon Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge, a 1.6-mile walking trail that runs along the lovely Sakonnet River, and stay on the lookout for stunning birds, native vegetation, and swaying wildflowers.
There are many wonders in town as well, including the casual seaside eatery of Evelyn’s Drive-In, or the more luxurious, delicious meals at the Boathouse. Do not miss the Tiverton Four Corners Historic District, a vivid and colorful display of classic architecture that dates back to the early 1800s.
New Shoreham
New Shoreham is the smallest town in the smallest state in the country, which also happens to be the only town on Block Island—a 7,000-acre swath of land only 12 miles from the Rhode Island Coastline. The tiny population of just over 1,000 gives that small town ambiance with a mixture of natural beauty. Magnificent, towering views are observed at The Mohegan Bluffs, overlooking the water and pristine shoreline. The view of the shimmering Atlantic Ocean is unlike any other in the state, and much sought after for both tourists and locals up on the magical bluffs.
The North Lighthouse is a historical awe that dates back to the mid-19th century and features a museum on the ground floor. The lighthouse itself continues to function in a modern fashion despite its over a century-old age. Mansion Beach features golden sands and rocky outlay, which tends to be less filled up during the summer months, making it an ideal selection for those seeking a peaceful lay in the sun.
Hopkinton
Hopkinton is prized for its proximity to major natural attractions and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Nature lovers will swoon during scenic day hikes at Narragansett Trail Trailhead or Eli Pond Trailhead, water activities abound at the freshwater ponds in the area, and memorable backpacking and camping experiences are to be had at the Yawgoog Scout Reservation. The Arcadia Management Area is yet another beautiful forested area with abundant hiking trails, lush green space, and flourishing wildlife.
Activities abound within the town and at the seaside, where kayaking and paddling boarding are popular at the Wood-Pawcatuck River. There is also Festival Farm and the Pelloni Farms to pick from, which feature family fun activities and an assortment of baked goods and fruits and vegetables available to purchase. Those interested in hitting the putting green can try out Fenner Hill Country Club or Wood River Golf to keep their game up while on vacation.
Warren
Warren’s working waterfront is one of the oldest in New England, having been settled and established in 1653 as part of the Massachusetts Bay Colonies. It has more than 16 miles of shoreline, multiple marine-based industries, and a downtown area busting with local art and antique shops. History is unavoidable in Warren, with the Masonic Temple on Baker Street, the Warren Town Hall, the Marble Blacksmith Shop and Hall, along the Joyce Street School all standing tall as older, delicately maintained architectural marvels. Creativity is encouraged in the historic town at Don’s Art Shop and the Imago Gallery. Visitors can talk a walk along the shoreline or observe on a picnic bench at Burr’s Hill Park, which came into fruition in 1854.
Richmond
This town houses nearly 8,000 people and was named in honor of Edward Richmond, Attorney General of the Colony of Rhode Island. It is the sibling to the town of Hopkinton, and exudes just as much charm, encompassing several small villages. A popular places to pop into within the town is Jules ANtiques and General Store. Renowned stays can be found at the Stagecoach House Inn in the village of Wyoming, situated near a sweet cascading mini-waterfall as well as restaurants. The Preserve Sporting Club and Residences is another option for those looking for a luxurious and spa-like vibe.
Middletown
Nature and oceanic wonders continue the coastal theme of cozy Rhode Island small towns with Middletown, which, just as the name suggests, sits in the ‘middle’ of Aquidneck Island in Newport Country, bookended by Portsmouth to the north and Newport to the south. One of the most visited places in Middletown, though, has everything to do with environmental sustainability—Norman Bird Sanctuary is a private non-profit wildlife refuge. It is located within the open space on Aquidneck Island and spans 325 acres with seven miles of hiking trails that move through diverse habitats and rolling ridge vistas. One of the more iconic scenes is Hanging Rock Trail, overlooking Sachets Point and Second Beach. The Sanctuary is the perfect adventure for every nature devotee.
Outside of the sanctuary, Middletown offers a variety of activities for young and old, from sipping vintage wine at Newport Vineyards to learning to ride horses at Newport Equestrian Academy. Waterfront hotels, as well as romantic and whimsical B and Bs, are available, like the Rose Island Lighthouse, an actual working lighthouse from 1870!
Go for the quiet and calm; stay for the winding hiking trails, the environmental awareness, and the fun, one-of-a-kind inns, and activities. Whether it be a romantic getaway or a vacation with the family, these small towns in little Rhode Island are sure to make some impactful and remarkable memories.
