Rhode Island's 7 Most Underrated Towns to Visit in 2024
Home to some of the most vibrant attractions in New England, the Atlantic Ocean State is one of the less visited in the region. However, it is also one of the most pristine, often overlooked by Maine and Massachusetts, the region's tourist stars. And that's not even speaking of its tiniest towns—the coastal gems studding the rugged Rhode Island coastline.
But, abounding in crowdless scenery from beaches to preserves, gastronomic pleasures, and seaside shopping opportunities, there are many small towns that beckon travelers with unseen opportunities. Whether this is embracing Wickford’s Cove, with its collection of federal and colonial homes or attending the Seafood Festival in Charlestown, Rhode Island’s underrated towns are perfect for a 2024 vacation.
Charlestown
Charlestown, one of Rhode Island's most underrated towns, epitomizes Ocean State's outstanding beach scene with its East Beach, Blue Shutters Beach, and Charlestown Beach. On the streets, the quiet town comes alive during regular festivals, like the Charlestown Seafood Festival, Rhythm & Roots Festival, and Charlestown Holiday Ramble. Home to the Fantastic Umbrella Factory, Charlestown has been a destination for this quirky market since 1968, offering everything from independent shops to unique boutiques and local cafes in a cool 19th-century farmyard.
An ideal destination for beachside relaxation without crowds, it basks between the gorgeous scenery to one side and golf courses and trailheads to the other. The Nnigret National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to bond with local fauna, while the Black Farm trailhead, just 15 minutes north, winds along lake views, wildflowers, and other flora. After exploring, visitors can book a room at the General Stanton Inn, which is a great stay in one of the country’s oldest inns for every group.
Jamestown
Jamestown, a small town of under 6,000, is commonly overlooked in Newport County. In the remote atmosphere permeating Narragansett Bay’s second-largest island, Conanicut Island, the small-town charms are maximized, and each attraction shines without the hoards of tourists. From untarnished heritage buildings to ferry rides and lighthouses, nature speaks loudly through the large parks, quiet beaches, and beating waves. The umpteen Poplar Point Lighthouse, Castle Hill Lighthouse, and Beavertail Lighthouse wink under the sunshine, vying for your attention. Each hosts a new tale of old and a viewpoint to witness cascading waters.
Authentically New England, the East Ferry Market & Deli is a great place to start with a delicious breakfast with water views. Whether you're in for Narragansett Avenue's innumerable retailers and eateries or the WWII sites along the winding trails through Fort Wetherill State Park, don't miss the local flora and fauna at Beavertail State Park. Speaking of flora and fauna, the Conanicut Island Sanctuary and Marsh Meadows Wildlife Preserve are both great spots, with acres of untouched wilderness to explore.
New Shoreham
Sadly underrated, New Shoreham is a real seaside beauty, with some of the most pristine beaches and whitest sands in the state. The town, home to historic lighthouses and well-traversed 30 miles of trails for hiking and biking, as well as historic buildings, was incorporated in the mid-17th century. Standing the test of time in more ways than just these elements, it keeps an old-fashioned state of mind that feels like a blast from the past. Inspiring a seven-minutes of heaven feel that can last over a whole weekend escape from the city, pair it with the elegance of the Spring House Hotel—the perfect stay seven minutes away on Block Island, overlooking the Mohegan Bluffs.
Back in New Shoreham, visitors adore North Mansion Beach, the Sacred Labyrinth, and the Clay Head Nature Trail as they feel like the edge of the world. One can also expect great weather and dramatic scenery around this remarkable four-season town with unparalleled ocean views from the towering cliffs, over 17 miles of sandy beaches, and 300 nearby freshwater ponds.
Newport
The legendary town of Newport, once a pirates' heaven, offers to share its charming downtown and love for sailing. Remaining under the radar, this delectable slice of Rhode Island's coast boasts fascinating heritage all along its streets and architecture. Touro Park is a wonderful place to start your morning with a fresh stroll or enjoy a scenic afternoon picnic, while the Redwood Library and Athenaeum hold a world of browsable literature. The amazing "Waves" beckons to uncover the next scenic overlook in the sea breeze on the bumpy trail between the oceanfront mansions and the thundering waves against the rocks.
This coastal gem was once a favorite escape for the legendary Kennedy family, ode to its iconic scenery. From the Cliff Walk to the iconic Breakers mansion, many spots offer a heavenly retreat. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts shouldn’t miss beautiful buildings and churches, like Old Colony House and Trinity Church, before dinner at Bowen's Wharf to end a fun day in Rhode Island.
Prudence Island
A whole 360 from Newport, Prudence Island promises a lot of space to roam, row, and enjoy sunsets on a stroll or picnic. Home to under 300 people, a few churches, and a nature preserve, Prudence Island, one of the best destinations in New England, is accessible via ferry on a day trip with a picnic or longer if you pack provisions and camp out on the barren sands. From the island's untouched nature trails through local fauna and flora, don't miss the Prudence Island Lighthouse at sunset—not so lonely with a few boats and cruising ships nearby. Make more memories over serene rowing, or explore the nooks and crannies of Coggeshall Cove in a kayak for thrills. There are also regular farmers markets and sailing regattas—vibrant local events. Drenched in peace, Prudence may be off the beaten path, but the Prudence Ferry operates daily, and the gorgeous beaches beckon with 360-degree water views.
Tiverton
Part of Newport County, right next to the Massachusetts border, Tiverton is often overlooked in Eastern Rhode Island, where the Sakonnet River meets Mount Hope Bay. Basking in natural splendor, this small town is an authentic slice of New England, along the stone walls and quaint storefronts, as if frozen in time. Home to the impressive Four Corners Historic District, visitors can browse locally-owned boutiques, retail stores, art galleries, and a dozen lip-smacking restaurants between the 18th and early 19th century landmarks. For example, the First Baptist Church is a top spot, nicknamed the “Old Stone Church” for its rustic charm. Moreover, visitors should surely visit Thomas Bennett Homestead in the Osborn-Bennett Historic District for a glimpse into the past.
Settled by the British and incorporated in the late 1600s, the picture-perfect town in the East Bay between Acquidneck Island and the Fall River is surrounded by rich agricultural lands, nature preserves, and wildlife habitats like marshes and beaches. The idyllic Fogland Beach stays ready for windsurfing and kayaking in the pristine waters. Indoors, the Longplex Family and Sports Center is a popular rainy day venue, so the fun never ends. After an outdoor trip, one can hit up Barn Restaurant for some waffles before getting a good night's sleep in this peaceful abode.
Wickford
Wickford is a lovely town in Rhode Island’s North Kingstown. This historic town on the western side of Narragansett Bay inspires a time warp. Home to a vast collection of preserved colonial and federal period structures at Wickford Village, visitors can browse boutiques, home décor, antiques, and galleries in the air, drenched with the history of restored 19th-century buildings like Narragansett Church. A trek to the Poplar Point Lighthouse will get you in the mood for seafood served fresh out of the waters from one of the most well-protected natural harbors on the Eastern Seaboard, so don't miss Gardner's Wharf Seafood for dinner.
The waterfront streets, with the ocean sparkling in between some exquisite homes, inspire a nautical fairytale. Visitors can take a historical walking tour, a carriage ride, or stroll along remarkable storefronts, restaurants, old colonial homes, and churches. The harbor, lined with boats, is rather picturesque to enjoy in your favorite way, like an insightful seal tour with Fish n Tales Adventures. The adventurous can self-navigate a kayak along the cove, enjoy paddle boarding, or just relax at North Kingstown Town Beach. The relaxed feel permeates the air in Wickford, where the hustle and bustle back of the city sounds like foreign lore, and hundreds of distinguished artists gather at the annual Wickford Art Festival in July.
From New Shoreham to Tiverton, Rhode Island is a must-visit state in 2024. Whether Prudence Island’s daily ferry access, miles of barren beaches, and friendly locals or the historic homes and art festival in Wickford, there is something for everyone in these towns. Moreover, these underrated destinations boast geographic diversity, seafood, and historic streets wrapped up in New England charm and coastal Rhode Island nature for an enchanting getaway in serene bliss.
