Aerial view of Woonsocket, Rhode Island.

8 Most Beautiful College Towns In Rhode Island

Rhode Island might be the tiniest state in the U.S., but it packs an abundance of charm, history, scenery, and prestige into its small stature. Their prestige lies in the culture, heritage, and education. Rhode Island is one of the few states that has an Ivy League University. Founded in 1764 in Providence, Brown University is one of the most renowned secondary education institutions in the country. Besides Brown, Rhode Island hosts 12 other universities. Each town is set in a picturesque town with its own unique value and allure. For an exceptional visit to this small town, be sure to check out one of these eight most beautiful towns in Rhode Island.

Smithfield

Bryant University's campus.
Bryant University's campus. By SayCheeeeeese - Own work, Public Domain, Wikipedia.

The town of Smithfield is full of hiking trails, restaurants, shops, and plenty of opportunities for entertainment. And right in the heart of Smithfield is Bryant University. The university offers a place to learn and live while also allowing students to explore and grow by engaging with their surroundings. One appealing attraction to connect with nature is the Wolf Hill Forest Preserve. Enjoy the hiking trails or kayaking through fresh and saltwater. Twenty-six different water trails are available throughout the state, with some starting at Wolf Hill. After a bout with nature, learn the town’s history at the Smith-Appleby House Museum. Dating back to 1702, the home features early New England period furniture, cabinetry, stenciling, and faux finished floors. Through photographs, documents, articles, and memorabilia, the house exhibits the town’s rich history. For a last stop in Smithfield and a unique meat shopping experience, visitors will want to check out Blackbird Farm. Over 200 acres of farm are the temporary home for cattle and pigs until they make their way to your kitchen table. Visit the Farm Stand and select from fine cuts of meat, and don’t forget a stop at the ice cream trailer!

Newport

Aerial view of Newport, Rhode Island.
Aerial view of Newport, Rhode Island. Editorial credit: Cavan-Images / Shutterstock.com.

In the distinguished town of Newport is the U.S. Naval War College, a private university that was established in 1884. The university is a professional study institution for naval officers, and also educates and develops leaders during crucial stages of their careers in all services of U.S. government agencies and departments, as well as international navies. The education offered at the college is also offered, albeit on a smaller scale, to the general public. The Naval War College Museum is an educational opportunity for the community regarding the U.S. Navy in the region. The museum displays permanent and short-term exhibits in relation to the value of the genesis of the Navy. After learning the history of the Navy, take on some water excursions at Cliff Walk. Although not directly on the water, the view from above the ocean provides stunning panoramic sites of crashing waters as well as the Gilded Age Mansions. On the 3.5-mile walk, one can enjoy nature and architecture. For another stop, history buffs will enjoy a walk around Fort Adams. Choose from one of multiple guided tours, or stroll through the grounds on your own to educate yourself on the historic memorial that was built to protect the entry to Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay.

East Greenwich

Downtown East Greenwich, Rhode Island.
Downtown East Greenwich, Rhode Island. Editorial credit: digidreamgrafix / Shutterstock.com.

Students of New England Institute of Technology can not only receive an education through the university they attend, but also by partaking in the sites around East Greenwich, where their college is located. The Varnum Memorial Armory Museum has the largest and most cared-for collection of military memorabilia from the state of Rhode Island. The collection includes items collected during the 17th period from the American Revolution and Civil War and expands into the present day. The displays feature art, uniforms, weaponry, flags, documents, and more. Another feature in the Varnum collection is the Varnum House Museum. The 250-year-old house was once the home of General James Mitchell Varnum, a general serving under George Washington. Tour the premises and get an appreciation of the ideas on which our country was founded. Once the history tour is over, enjoy some nature and fresh air at Goddard Memorial State Park. Considered Rhode Island’s most popular metropolitan park, it has more than 80 different types of trees, a golf course, hiking and equestrian trails, a beach, and more.

 Waterfront scene in East Greenwich, Rhode Island.
Waterfront scene in East Greenwich, Rhode Island.

Bristol

Welcome to Bristol, Rhode Island sign.
Welcome to Bristol, Rhode Island sign. Image credit Kenneth C. Zirkel via Wikimedia Commons

Roger Williams University can be found in the town of Bristol, and its attendees can find an abundance of activities to participate in within the picturesque town. Visitors can enjoy a day in the sun at Bristol Town Beach, located across from Colt State Park. The beach offers a pebbly landscape surrounded by a beach volleyball court, picnic tables, and a playground. Another idyllic spot to enjoy the outdoors is Blithewold Manor. The garden and arboretum feature grand views of Narragansett Bay and hold great national significance. The 33-acre estate is one of the most fully developed examples of the Country Place Era in the U.S. The property includes a 45-room mansion framed by gardens and family heirlooms. One final enticing stop in Bristol is Linden Place. The historic museum, arts center, and cultural focus keep history alive through art.

Sunset over Independence Park, Bristol, Rhode Island.
Sunset over Independence Park, Bristol, Rhode Island.

Kingston

Kings County Courthouse in Kingston, Rhode Island.
Kings County Courthouse in Kingston, Rhode Island. Image credit: Kyuss-Apollo via Wikimedia Commons.

Around the University of Rhode Island, students and visitors can partake in the sights and surroundings of Kingston. For a relaxing day, East Matunuck State Beach provides miles of sandy shores and ideal swells for surfers. Located near the port, beachgoers can watch the ferry coming and going from Block Island, as well as fishing charters arriving and departing. After the beach, enjoy some time in the gardens. Kinney Azalea Gardens was created over four generations by horticulturists, educators, and nature enthusiasts. Over 1,000 types of wildflowers, shrubs, exotic trees, azaleas, and more can be viewed across the 16 acres. Enjoy the garden across the paths and over the wooden bridge. Take a break from nature and partake in some historical education at the South County Historical Center. The task of the center is to lead the preservation and discovery of the South County of Rhode Island. Exhibits have included HERstory: Women of South County, Crime and Punishment in South County, and Portraits of Violet Sands Hazard and Oliver Hazard Perry Gardiner.

Lincoln

The Blackstone River between the towns of Cumberland and Lincoln, Rhode Island.
The Blackstone River between the towns of Cumberland and Lincoln, Rhode Island.

The Community College of Rhode Island has multiple campuses across the state, with one of them being in Lincoln. Visitors will enjoy a stop at Lincoln Woods State Park while in Lincoln. Not only is it Rhode Island’s first state park, but it also provides parkgoers with opportunities for swimming, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and more. Stop by to enjoy the vast number of amenities available at this park. Another beautiful local park is the Blackstone River State Park. One of the most distinctive features of the park is the historic walking paths located along the canal, which date back to 1828. In addition to walking and hiking paths, the park also has a canoe portage and fishing areas. To truly immerse yourself in New England history, the Arnold House is sure to thrill historical enthusiasts. Constructed in 1693, the stone-ender building is a classic example of the origin and skill of settlers who emigrated from England.

Westerly

 The beautiful town of Westerly, Rhode Island.
The beautiful town of Westerly, Rhode Island.

Another campus location for the Community College of Rhode Island is the Westerly Education Center, which is part of the Satellite Campus. This charming town includes multiple scenic landscapes, including the Napatree Point Conservation Area. The ecological preserve and wildlife refuge offer recreational activities including hiking, walking, birdwatching, and enjoying some time in the sun. Another nautical landmark for visitors is the Watch Hill Lighthouse. Take a walk up to the lighthouse from a private road and enjoy the grounds. Although access inside the lighthouse is restricted, lighthouse fans can get close enough to enjoy the beauty and history of the structure. After an eventful tour of Bristol, end the day at Grey Sail Brewing. The brews are as unique as the building itself. Built in the 1920s, the one-time Westerly Macaroni Factory and Post Office is now the home of a family-owned brewery.

Woonsocket

The Stadium Theatre in Woonsocket, Rhode Island.
The Stadium Theatre in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. Editorial credit: Ramon Malave Photography / Shutterstock.com.

Another town that hosts a Satellite Campus of the Community College of Rhode Island is Woonsocket, home of the Woonsocket Education Center. Another educational center found in Woonsocket that is not university-related is the Museum of Work and Culture. The museum exhibits the story of immigrants who settled in mill towns along the Blackstone River in search of a better life. Begin the tour in a farmhouse and make your way to the workday world of this small town at the turn of the century. For a more present-day park visit, enjoy the amenities at World War II Veterans Park Memorial. Basketball courts, walking paths, a performance stage, and a Veterans Monument are all features in the park. For a final park visit with different facilities offered, Cold Spring Park has walking paths throughout the park. Once you’re done on the trails, hit the water yourself at the public boat launch or take advantage of the fact that the park also offers Blackstone River Boat Tours.

This tiny state packs a mighty punch. From distinguished mansions to scenic landscapes and ample outdoor adventure, there is no shortage of entertainment in Rhode Island. Being one of the original 13 colonies means this place is fully loaded with history, and almost every town has its own tale to tell. If you happen to find yourself in Rhode Island, don’t skip out on any of these eight beautiful college towns.

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