9 Offbeat Towns to Visit in Rhode Island

If you are looking for your next memorable East Coast getaway with serene beaches, fresh salty air, historic charm, and small-town friendliness, look no further than the Ocean State of Rhode Island - and these nine offbeat towns that find their home there. These towns stand out in a way other places do not, with remarkable beauty, quirky assets, and uniquely fun activities to enjoy. Beat the typical tourist jams and enjoy all the splendors these small Rhode Island towns have to offer!

Narragansett

Perhaps one of the main appeals of Narragansett is the unique castle-like towers that stand out against this charming seaside town. The iconic structure initially operated as a casino in the 19th century and is still incredibly popular today. Besides the towers, Narragansett has a large array of historically unique sites and beautiful architecture, such as the Point Judith Lighthouse. Visitors can also enjoy gorgeous beaches, unbeatable seafood at local restaurants, and even free concerts held every Friday night at the Casino Park gazebo! A lively and attractive town rich with activities to enjoy through all seasons, Narragansett is not one to miss. 

New Shoreham

There are many reasons as to why the town of New Shoreham stands out - it is in fact the smallest town to be found in America’s smallest state. New Shoreham is also the only town to be found on the quaint and slight stretch of land known as Block Island off the coast of Rhode Island. This beautiful seaside location has strikingly immersive views of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as quiet, pristine beaches. Visitors can also enjoy the option of exploring either the North Lighthouse or the Southeast Lighthouse - both exciting historical museums and landmarks to be found on each end of New Shoreham. 

Foster

Hailed by many as exceptionally calm and peaceful, look no further than Foster for your next ultimate relaxing getaway. Enjoy the slow life and comfort in a town that appeals to every sense. Visitors can savor local wines, enjoy beautiful nature walks, and feel invigorated by the fresh, lush forests. Foster is also home to the forty-foot Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge - the state’s only covered bridge on a public road. Additionally, don’t miss the Foster Town House, the oldest government meeting house of its kind in the country that is still actively used today. If you are looking for a quaint and authentic small-town experience, Foster is not one to be missed. 

Lincoln

The charming town of Lincoln would be best known for the Lincoln Woods State Park - a natural gem that boasts over 625 acres of woodland splendor. Any outdoor activity that you can think of and would like to do, this park has it! The town is also home to historical sites such as the Arnold House and the Hearthside House Museum - the latter being a lovely, cozy, educational, and entertaining place to visit no matter your age. If you or your travel companions also claim to enjoy an adrenaline rush, R1 Indoor Karting is not an attraction to miss. All in all, Lincoln is a fun, beautiful, and versatile place to visit and enjoy a multitude of exciting activities. 

Little Compton

What sets this serene setting apart is that the town has refused to give into mainstream commercialism - visitors to Little Compton will not be able to find any large-scale or big-box chain stores to disrupt the town's natural appeal and charm. The town is also home to two gorgeous main beaches, namely South Shore Beach and Goosewing Beach Preserve. Visitors can choose to soak up the seaside sun or might want to take a lovely and quick drive over to Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyards - a stunning location to enjoy renowned and tasteful wine.  

Bristol

While you cannot go wrong visiting Bristol at any point of the year, a perfect time to go is over the Fourth of July weekend. Enjoy Independence Day done right in this charming and versatile Rhode Island town, with parades, fireworks, and plenty of enthusiastic patriotic energy from the locals. The town is proud to have the oldest Fourth of July Parade in the country, and celebrating the holiday here is guaranteed to become a memorable and cherished experience! Bristol is also home to the acclaimed 14.5-mile East Bay Bike Path, as well as the Colt State Park - a true gem that also has one of the most striking coastal shorelines to be found. 

Watch Hill

Not only is Watch Hill home to incredible ocean views and stunning beaches but it is also known for its quaint charm and particularly appealing waterfront boutiques. What makes this getaway location stand out, however, is the fact that Taylor Swift even has a house there. Who knows, you will see her there on your next visit! Visitors to Watch Hill can also enjoy the unique 17th-century Flying Horse Carousel or the classic Watch Hill Lighthouse - both treasured national historical landmarks. 

Middletown

With two miles of waterfront to call its own, the coastline of Middletown is not to be overlooked. Centuries of natural oceanic weathering has turned the rocky coast into a gorgeously unique display of nature’s structural evolution. These visual splendors can be enjoyed while lounging or strolling along one of Middletown’s spectacular beaches, namely Sachuest Beach or Third Beach. There are also numerous historic destinations to visit and explore, including the magnificent forty acres of Prescott Farm and its accompanying museum. Come to Middletown to experience an educational and enjoyable place for all ages! 

Jamestown

Perhaps known best as the starting location of the Conanicut Sailing Around the World Competition, Jamestown is a charming and peaceful Rhode Island treasure. Head to the classic Beavertail State Park to enjoy a spectacular coastline hike, or the Beavertail Lighthouse to see breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay. The town has a general atmosphere of refreshment and serenity, with gorgeous waterfront sights nearly everywhere you look. There are several lovely locations to take a stroll, countless mouthwatering restaurants, and numerous inclusive and enjoyable activities you and your loved ones can take part in. Visiting Jamestown is guaranteed to be a fun, unique, and memorable trip.

Embark on a Unique Rhode Island Adventure

Whether taking in the natural joys of Rhode Island’s forests or beaches or making memories at local small-town events, visiting the Ocean State and these nine irreplaceable towns is guaranteed to create an unforgettable trip. Enhance your vacation by learning something new, exploring the unexpected, or sharing unique experiences with your travel companions. These offbeat towns are not to be underestimated - they might offer you the holiday of a lifetime.