
8 Playfully Peculiar Towns In Rhode Island
Rhode Island is the smallest state in the U.S., but that doesn’t limit the number of attractions it has to offer. Being oceanside, there are plenty of opportunities for beautiful views, water-based activities, and relaxing moments. That may be where the attractions start, but certainly not where they end. Rhode Island has hidden gems that are odd and unusual but eye-catching attractions. Visit one or more of them in these eight playfully peculiar towns.
Charlestown

Come for the quirky, stay for the alluring. One huge (literally and figuratively) draw to Charlestown is The Troll Statues of Ninigret Park. Two huge trolls made up of recycled wood are branded the guardians of the woods. One troll is in a sitting position and the other kneeling, and neither of them can be viewed from the roads, so those eager to spot them will have to hike into the woods. Step into the fantasy forest for your chance to meet the trolls humbly named Erik Rock and Greta Granite.
Another unique spot in town visitors won’t want to miss is the Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center. Step into the observatory and watch the astronomers work, as well as participate in the events hosted by the center. Stargazing and dome access are just a few of the opportunities available at Frosty Drew. Lastly, to fully take advantage of this coastal town, stop at the East Beach. One of the more underdeveloped beaches in the state also happens to be one of the most popular. The 3-mile strip of seashore separates Ninigret Pond from the ocean and is one of the most sought-after destinations on a sunny day.
Portsmouth

One of the most alluring features in the town of Portsmouth is Green Animals Topiary Garden. A slight mix of garden and zoo, the establishment features only green animals, because they are carved from bushes! Seven acres of land feature unicorns, elephants, bears, camels, and giraffes all carved out of bushes, as well as flower arrangements and ponds. Enjoy the sanctuary of the garden and the detail of the art. Another heavily sought-after spot in town is the Newport Car Museum. Over seven decades of automotive history are on display at the museum, ranging from Corvettes to Muscle Cars, Mopars, and everything in between. Auto enthusiasts will be delighted to visit this car monument, which is targeted at all audiences.
As a final stop, and a semi-auto-related one, visit the Rail Explorers. With multiple locations across the U.S., there is one that departs right out of Portsmouth. The pedal-powered ‘Rail Explorers’ take guests down the railroad tracks via self-propulsion. Experience the railways like never before and feel the wind in your hair on these exposed carts. The Rhode Island rail ventures along Narragansett Bay, offering beautiful views of Jamestown, the Mount Hope Bridge, Hog Island Lighthouse, and coastal woodlands.
Burrillville

Hit the beaches in Burrillville, one beach in particular, Spring Lake Beach. With a very old-timey boardwalk vibe, the beach has all the amenities one would need for a day, such as swimming docks, concessions, boat rentals, and slides that hit directly into the lake. But perhaps one of the even bigger attractions at this beach is its arcade. The Spring Lake Arcade is one of the last remaining actual penny arcades. This charming ancient relic has some modern games, but half of the arcade is still stuck in the past with its traditional boardwalk games.
After the beach and arcade, take a stroll through Liberty Farm. But not necessarily on foot. Specializing in magical carriage rides and down-home fun tractor rides, Liberty Farms provides an unforgettable experience. And when the season is right, enjoy a sleigh ride through the farms!
Jamestown

One of Jamestown’s most unique and colorful attractions just so happens to be a defaced former Artillery piece. Fort Wetherill overlooks Narragansett Bay, making it an ideal lookout point during the Revolutionary War. While it was, today the fort is covered in graffiti and overgrown with vegetation, but it is still open for exploration. Some areas of the fort are fenced off and closed to the public, but the tunnel and concrete walls remain, including holes in the structures where weaponry was stationed. Another site that offers panoramic views of the ocean is the Beavertail Lighthouse. The lighthouse is the third oldest in North America and the most visited landmark in Jamestown. Walk the grounds of the state park surrounding the lighthouse, or climb the tower and take in all the beauty of Narragansett Bay.
For another interactive tour around Jamestown, visit the Watson Farm. Walk the grounds, participate in workshops, dip your toes in the seashore, and enjoy the additional seasonal activities this farm has to offer. The house on the grounds dates back to 1796 and may be viewed from the outside only. With good reason, it is still used as the farmer’s living quarters.
Newport

Newport, arguably one of Rhode Island’s most prestigious towns, is also one of its most historic. The landmarks on display in this coastal town are sure to leave a lasting impression due to their beauty and history. One of the more controversial historical focal points is the Location of the First Gas Street Lamp. Wanting to light up the space outside his home, David Melville engineered a gas-powered street lamp. The confusion lies in whether it was in 1803 or 1805. Still, even more so, he was not able to obtain a permit for it until after a different model of gas street lamp, located in Baltimore, overshadowed Melville’s accolades. Today, a plaque is displayed near the lamp, reminding people of this breakthrough innovation in technology.
Another light-oriented attraction in Newport is the Rose Island Lighthouse. This lighthouse has a feature that makes it unique and stands apart from others; visitors can spend the night in the lighthouse as an honorary lightkeeper. Once deactivated and then restored to its original Victorian style, the lighthouse sits on Rose Island, named for the shape it takes during low tide. Spend the night in this anything but ordinary adobe and take in the breathtaking views of the sea. For a final alluring destination, visit The Breakers. Once the Vanderbilt family’s summer home, this grand “cottage” is now a prominent representation of the Gilded Age. Immerse yourself in the architecture and history of this mansion during a self-guided tour or participate in a guided tour. Different tour options are available depending on visitors’ interests.
New Shoreham

Just off the coast of Rhode Island, the town of New Shoreham sits upon Block Island. It is the only town on the island and has a population of roughly 1,000 residents, but it can see up to 20,000 visitors a day during the high season. Charming, quaint, and historic are just a few ways to describe this cutesy island, and the sights there are unparalleled. Painted Rock is one of the most famous landmarks on the island, and its design changes frequently—sometimes twice in one day. Since 1961, locals and visitors have spray-painted the rock with their own meaningful messages. Several inches of layers of paint have increased the size of the rock since its first design. Take part in this tradition and leave your own legacy on Block Island.
While in New Shoreham, make sure to visit a truly unique lighthouse. While the lighthouse itself might not look any different from others, it has a story that sets it apart. The Southeast Lighthouse had to be lifted and moved to avoid falling into the sea. Built 300 feet from the edge of the cliff, years of erosion left it just 75 feet from its looming demise, hence the relocation. The Victorian Gothic lighthouse is the only one of its kind still standing in the U.S. and has been in operation since 1875. It sits upon another picturesque landmark on the island, Mohegan Bluffs. Standing 53 feet tall, 141 steps lead down to one of the most pristine beaches on the island. A plaque at the overlook of the bluffs commemorates their history and marks the start of the journey down the stairs. The steps may be daunting, but the views at the bottom are well worth the effort.
Westerly

Known for its vibrant coastal charm and rich maritime heritage, Westerly offers a perfect mix of ocean views, wildlife, and one-of-a-kind attractions. Sharks are a prominent part of the ocean; some come close to shore, some stay far away, and some are preserved forever at The Living Sharks Museum. The educational center is designed not only to track sharks but also to teach the public about the species that inhabit local waters. The museum is the first in the U.S. to feature artifacts from around the world that showcase and preserve the story of the shark. Pay a visit to learn more about these amazing creatures that swim among us. For another nautical-related visit, head over to the Watch Hill Lighthouse. Featuring grounds and a museum that may be accessed by the public, the lighthouse itself can only be viewed from the outside. Although access to the lighthouse is prohibited, visitors are encouraged to learn more about this beacon of heritage.
After visiting the lighthouse and learning about sharks, roam the beaches at Napatree Point Conservation Area. The recreation area features 86 acres of the state’s rarest habitats. Many endangered species, including piping plovers, least terns, osprey, and American oystercatchers, can be spotted on the land that extends into Little Narragansett Bay. Enjoy the seclusion and solitude of this park while relishing in rare bird sightings.
Little Compton

Being the 13th state in the union, Rhode Island has had plenty of time to create history. And one of their most historic places is Gray's General Store. Opened and operating since 1788, this establishment is the oldest functioning general store in the U.S. Upon its opening, the store sold penny candy, cigars, groceries, and had a classic soda fountain. Additionally, they sold their own corn meal that they ground at their grist mill across 100 yards down the road in Massachusetts. The general store closed temporarily upon the death of the owner at the time, but has since reopened. Although they lost the “continually” operating from their title, they are still considered the oldest general store.
Pick up everything you might need at Gray’s for a day at the beach and head over to South Shore Beach. This secluded beach features vendors serving hot dogs, ice cream, and shaved ice. Settled on the edge of Buzzards Bay, the beach features a salt pond ecosystem and is home to a significant bird habitat. Enjoy the waves crashing in and relax in the sunshine at South Shore Beach. To end your stay in Little Compton, visit the Little Compton Historical Society. Take a guided tour of the Wilbor House or stroll through the Awashonk’s Garden and enjoy learning about this town's history through the exhibits displayed.
Finishing Thoughts
Beaches, bluffs, and lighthouses are pretty standard items found in any oceanside town. But it's learning about their history and finding out their story that makes each one truly unique. Partake in the usual tourist activities and then venture out into the truly original ones. Paint a rock with years of memories, track live sharks, and spend pennies at an arcade. Find your own adventure in any of these eight playfully peculiar towns in Rhode Island.