9 Secluded Towns in Rhode Island
Also known as the Ocean State, Rhode Island is a stunning cultural and natural destination that forms an important component of the United States’ New England region. Home to just over 1 million inhabitants, Rhode Island is also the smallest state in the country by total land area. But do not let these small dimensions trick one into skipping a visit to this most delightful northeastern gem. With ocean access never far away, friendly small-town vibes, fascinating colonial history, and loads of famed New England charm, Rhode Island and its communities are truly awesome places to experience firsthand. These nine secluded towns in Rhode Island are true snapshots of the sometimes-elusive Americana vibe. If you're ready to create great memories that will please the young and old in any travelling party, visit these secluded Rhode Island towns, where fun and beauty are never in short supply.
Hopkinton
The town of Hopkinton can trace its modern historical roots to the 1750s, and it was named for Stephen Hopkins, who signed the Declaration of Independence and governed the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. Home to a current population of just over 8,000 residents, this Washington County locale remains a historical time machine. Indeed, much of the town has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Explore a number of lovingly preserved 18th- and 19th-century landmarks in the Bradford Village Historic District, which the town shares with Westerly, and get a sense of daily life during the foundational years of the young nation. Among the attractions of note include the Upper Rockville Mill and the Black Farm (aka the Isaac Collins Farm), first developed in 1710. In addition, the nature enthusiast can also appreciate Hopkinton, where warm summers and cool winters are the norm. Visit the nearby Arcadia Management Area, where scenic opportunities for biking, camping, and hiking never go out of style. Meanwhile at the nearby Narragansett Trail Trailhead, a chance to simply relax in the quiet tranquility of the outdoors may indeed be a most enticing prospect.
Warren
Warren is located along the scenic banks of its namesake river, and it continues to be a most inviting and pleasant destination. Home to just over 11,000 inhabitants, Warren’s modern foundational history dates all the way back to the 1680s, well over a century before the state’s admission to the Union. Indeed when visiting this community, a real sense of history through the centuries can be felt. Visit the Warren Waterfront Historic District and browse through an assortment of 18th- and 19th-century landmarks, including the Warren United Methodist Church and Parsonage (founded in 1789), the George Hail Public Library, and the Maxwell House, among others listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Meanwhile, even just spending a quiet day down by the Warren and Kickemuit rivers is a great way to simply enjoy the surroundings. Look for wildlife like birds, deer, and even foxes. Add in tasty eateries like The Wharf and locally run shops like Whimsies gift shop, and Warren will definitely leave any guest with a most positive set of vacation memories.
Narragansett
A wonderful destination to enjoy some of Rhode Island’s best natural offerings, the town of Narragansett is scenically located along the Pettaquamscutt River. Formally established in the early 20th century, today a population of just under 15,000 call the town home. A popular resort spot in the summertime, visitors and residents alike can enjoy Narragansett’s pretty golden beaches and picturesque Atlantic Ocean panoramas. Go sailing, swimming, or simply sunbathe in a most welcoming and alluring ambience. Meanwhile make sure to stop by Beavertail State Park and the Fishermen's Memorial State Park. Finally, history lovers can also find something to appreciate in Narragansett, and a real slice of historic New England can be explored by visiting the Towers (1883), Point Judith Light (1857), the Gardencourt house (1888), and other sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And with a cute assortment of fine seafood dining options, like The Coast Guard House restaurant and the Mariner Grille, visiting Narragansett is sure to be a vacation experience one will want to repeat.
Harrisville
A small village in Providence County, Harrisville is a most delightful locale of historic interest. Indeed, much of the community's historic district has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located within the larger town of Burrillville, visitors can explore a number of historic landmarks that span the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. Among the sites of note are the Bridgeton School (1897) and the Moses Taft House (1786). Meanwhile those who love the outdoors can also appreciate the town and surrounding area by spending time at the nearby John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor, enjoying splendid opportunities for cycling and hiking in the picturesque Blackstone Valley. Finally back in town, visitors can sit down and enjoy a hot meal at proud local joints, like Wright’s Farm and Uncle Ronnie’s Red Tavern.
New Shoreham
Situated on Block Island (a part of New England’s Outer Lands), the town of New Shoreham can trace its modern history to the 1670s. Today this outdoor haven is home to just over 1,400 residents, and it remains an ever-popular tourist destination for those looking to be immersed in Rhode Island’s stunning natural setting. Known for its comfortable summer temperatures and cool winters, the town and island are great spots to go swimming, sailing, fishing, biking, hiking, and even sunbathing. Add in awesome Atlantic Ocean breezes and chances to see wildlife, and there is a feeling of coastal paradise. Indeed around 40% of the island has been deemed worthy of natural conservancy, and several species of migrating birds are regulars here. Furthermore, New Shoreham has several intriguing cultural attractions to entice guests. These include the Southeast Light (1875), the North Light (1867), and the museum at the Block Island Historical Society, which is located in a home built in 1871. Additional attractions include the Mohegan Bluffs and fun annual events, such as the Fourth of July Parade.
Jamestown
One of Rhode Island’s oldest colonial settlements, Jamestown (current population: about 5,500) was established in the 17th century. Located almost entirely on Conanicut Island in the Narragansett Bay, Jamestown offers stunning panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean. Including two small nearby islands named Gould and Dutch, there is indeed never a shortage of photogenic memories to be made here. And as a historic colonial place, visitors can also expect to find several landmarks and districts here that transport one to America’s early years. Among the properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places include the Beavertail Lighthouse (1856), Fort Getty (1901), the Jamestown Windmill (1787), and Artillery Park Cemetery (1656).
Richmond
Richmond is a community in Washington County. With a colonial history dating to the 17th century, today some 8,000 residents call this historic town home. Featuring a series of historic villages that create a real sense of past centuries, including Kenyon, Tug Hollow, Arcadia, Shannock, and Alton, visitors feel as if they are watching history come alive. A number of landmarks are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the John Hoxsie House, also known as the Old Kenyon Farm (1784), and several districts within each village. The rustic beauty of Richmond and its surrounding area is hard to beat, and outdoor lovers will surely appreciate the ambience. Take in the forested views, while changing colors of foliage are a delight throughout the fall. And with inviting local businesses like the Richmond Country Club and Alaina’s Ale House, an authentic slice of small-town USA with a unique New England flavor is never hard to find.
Foster
The town of Foster was founded in the late 17th century, and today it continues to be one of the state’s prettiest and most secluded Rhode Island destinations. Home to a modest population of just under 4,500 inhabitants, Foster is a great place to learn about America’s past and take in some of Rhode Island’s splendid natural beauty. Visit the Clayville Historic District and explore several landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places including the Capt. George Dorrance House (c. 1720) and the Mount Vernon Tavern (c. 1760) among others. From there, take in the sights of nature and spend time relaxing at the nearby Killingly Pond State Park, which straddles the Rhode Island-Connecticut border, or venture down to the Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge.
Bristol
Bristol, formally established in the 1680s, maintains its historic roots, vintage charm, and welcoming ambience. Home to just under 23,000 residents, guests will indeed find a perfect combination of natural allure in Bristol. Enjoy splendid panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean while inviting park spaces like the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum is a true marvel. Add in a hot summer and cool winter climate and there is never really a poor time to visit town for watersports, swimming, sailing, and more. Finally, the history of Bristol continues to be reflected across the many landmarks that populate its landscape. Featuring several sites on the National Register of Historic Places, lovers of American history can learn more about the nation’s important foundational years through explorations of several fascinating locales. Among the spots of note include the Mount Hope Farm (1745), the Ferry Lighthouse (1855), Bristol Waterfront Historic District (1680), and the Bristol County Jail (1828).
Conclusion
When visiting the New England region of the northeastern United States, be sure to include the wonderful Ocean State of Rhode Island in any travel plans. A destination rich in historic intrigue, cultural splendor, and loads of natural wonder, Rhode Island is indeed a wonderful place to enjoy a holiday in. And with these nine secluded Rhode Island towns, you'll find captivating attractions, from the island settings of Jamestown and New Shoreham to the historic centers of Warren and Harrisville. Each of these lesser known and secluded Rhode Island towns are veritable gems of New England.
