These 6 Towns In Rhode Island Have Bustling Main Streets

Rhode Island, the smallest US state, is a unique mix of historic charm and coastal beauty that makes it an attractive destination for tourists. And for those seeking out towns with bustling main streets that reflect both local culture and history, Rhode Island’s smaller communities certainly deliver. These towns not only benefit from being set against that stunning New England scenery, but they also offer countless opportunities for fun, too.

From high-end shopping experiences to world-class dining and entertainment options centered around well-preserved main streets, these charming small towns draw day trippers and weekenders from larger cities like New York and Boston and provide an array of fun experiences. For ideas and inspiration, check out these six towns in Rhode Island that feature some of the state’s most vibrant main streets.

Westerly

Founded in 1669, Westerly, a coastal town located near the Connecticut border, makes for an excellent excursion from the state capital of Providence, just 45 minutes to the north. This pretty town’s bustling downtown area is anchored by the historic Westerly Library, an elegant old building constructed in 1894, and pretty Wilcox Park, a delightful 14-acre green space that’s fun to wander. Other notable attractions include the United Theatre, a historic movie palace built in 1926 just off High Street that was revitalized and now regularly hosts films, concerts, and art exhibitions.

Spring and summer are great times to visit as Westerly’s historic downtown core comes alive with outdoor dining and street festivals. One of the most popular events, the Virtu Art Festival, is held in Wilcox Park every May and draws art lovers and artists from across the Northeast, with much of the fun spilling over onto Westerly’s main street.

Bristol

Bristol was established in 1680 and boasts an idyllic peninsula setting just 30 minutes from Providence. A charming blend of historic New England architecture and beautiful waterfront views, the town’s main street, Hope Street, is a focal point of activity and is lined with classy shops, trendy eateries, and elegant old homes. One of the town’s oldest buildings, Benjamin Church Manor was built in 1809 just off the main strip and provides a fascinating glimpse into Bristol’s past.

Hope Street also serves as the stage for the town’s most famous event, the Bristol Fourth of July Parade, the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States. This fun event has been held here since 1785 and continues to attract visitors from far and wide (additional festivities held in the aptly named Independence Park).

Newport

One of the oldest towns in Rhode Island, Newport was established in 1639 and is best known for its opulent mansions and fascinating maritime history. Here, it’s Thames Street with its lively mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and seafood restaurants that provide most of the fun. Take a wander along this cobbled street and you’ll find historic buildings such as the Brick Marketplace, dating back to 1762 and now housing more than 25 shops and restaurants. It’s also home to the Newport Historical Society Museum with its impressive collections of artifacts and info relating to the town’s colonial past.

Newport’s waterfront location is another big draw and attracts a steady flow of tourists, especially during the Newport Jazz Festival and the Newport Folk Festival, both held annually. These internationally renowned music festivals draw thousands of visitors, turning Thames Street into a bustling pedestrian-friendly corridor of activity.

Warren

Warren is a small town located on the east side of Narragansett Bay, just 20 minutes from Providence and is well worth including on your list of places to visit in Rhode Island. The town’s pretty Main Street is a charming mix of old and new, with historic 18th-century buildings now housing everything from modern boutiques and cafés to art galleries and studios. Have your camera ready for photos of Warren Baptist Church, established in 1845 and an important local landmark on the main strip.

Warren Main Street and the downtown area also serve as a hub for a thriving arts community with galleries like the Imago Foundation for the Arts, a block away on Market Street, exhibiting works by local artists. The town also hosts the annual Warren Walkabout every fall. This fun event sees the main street closed to cars, allowing traffic-free walkabouts as you explore pop-up markets, live music, and open studios.

East Greenwich

An easy 25-minute drive south of downtown Providence and you’ll find yourself in the charming town of East Greenwich. Founded in 1677 and boasting a vibrant downtown experience, East Greenwich Main Street is where much of the action takes place. Lined with well-preserved colonial and Federal-style homes that now house a variety of businesses from upscale restaurants to specialty shops, it’s a delight to explore on foot, stopping whenever the urge to shop (or eat) strikes.

Be sure to include the Kent County Courthouse on your self-guided walking tour, an imposing structure built in 1804 that now serves as the East Greenwich Town Hall. East Greenwich is also known for its annual Summer’s End Concert, a family-friendly event that features live music, local food vendors, and craft booths.

Wickford

Last but by no means least, our travels bring us to the village of Wickford. Founded in 1709 and now a neighborhood in the town of North Kingstown, this quaint community has managed to preserve an independent vibe, boasting its own Main Street lined with colonial-era homes and buildings. Have your camera ready to take pics of landmarks like the Old Narragansett Church, built in 1707 and one of the oldest surviving Episcopal churches in the United States.

Located at the east end of Wickford Main Street, the town’s picturesque harbor is a popular attraction. Head to Wickford Town Dock for excellent views and to watch small leisure craft come and go. Better still, rent one of your own for a day spent exploring the islands of Narragansett Bay (canoes and kayak adventures are also available). The town is also known for the Wickford Art Festival, one of the oldest outdoor art festivals in New England, which is held every July and draws artists and visitors from across the region.

The Final Word

Rhode Island’s small towns provide a unique combination of historic charm, cultural attractions, and community events that certainly appeal to curious travelers. From waterfront views in Bristol and Wickford to the vibrant arts and cultural scenes in Warren and Newport, these lovely small towns serve as vital hubs for tourism, providing visitors a fun experience without the crowds found in larger destinations. If you’re looking to experience the best that New England has to offer, these six towns in Rhode Island have bustling main streets just waiting to be explored.