Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., about twice the size of Phoenix, Arizona, but people may be wrong to think it has nothing fascinating to offer. It may lack size, but it’s full of adventures, a stunning coastline, interesting historical attractions, and charming towns. Also home to the most underrated U.S. destinations, like Block Island and Providence City, which should be on every tourist’s radar.
Besides being scenic fall destinations, Rhode Island’s small towns are gems with stunning historic areas, beautiful centuries-old buildings, beaches, and wineries. While each small town has something exceptional to offer, these 10 deserve every traveler's attention.
The best way to tour Rhode Island’s small towns is through a road trip. Of course, public transport is adequate, but it's easy to uncover the hidden gems and the stunning coastline along Scenic Route A1 by car.
10 Middletown
Middletown is one of the loveliest towns in Rhode Island, known for its historic colonial-era sites, farms, and beautiful natural areas. History buffs can swing by the 18th-century Whitehall Museum House to learn about its owner’s history and heritage from July to September. But guided tours are available throughout the summer.
The Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge once served as a farming and rifle range site for the US Navy during World War II. Today, the reserve has 242 preserved acres, seasonally hosting about 200 bird species, such as harlequin ducks in winter.
9 Foster
It's worth mentioning another of Rhode Island's small towns, Foster, with about 4845 residents. It has plenty to offer travelers despite its size. One of the landmarks in this tiny town is the Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge, built by volunteers with cut lumber to recreate the 1800s-covered bridges.
Food lovers indulge in the local cuisine at the Shady Acres Restaurant and Dairy, which has been operating since 1975. It is known for its delicious and filling breakfast options, such as omelets, scrambled eggs, and wheat toast. And their chips and fish dishes at lunch are a treat for the taste buds.
8 East Greenwich
East Greenwich is the wealthiest town in Rhode Island, sprinkled with colonial homes and a gorgeous waterfront. Main Street is a slice of paradise for fashionistas. Shoppers stroll along the street as they browse designer shops such as ZuZu’s Petals for magnificent gowns or update their wardrobes with clothing from Therapy Boutique.
Nature lovers find their heaven at the 490-acre Goddard Memorial State Park, with breathtaking sceneries of expansive lawns and forested areas. After hiking around the park, they relax at picnic areas with over 300 tables or have a get-together with family or friends.
East Greenwich offers more than adventures. It's one of the best parts of Rhode Island to sample the tastiest apple cider donuts.
7 Bristol
Vacationers escaping the bustling city life find a peaceful retreat in Bristol. It has enchanting scenery and a wealth of history that entices travelers to visit this patriotic town. The Blithewold Mansion, Garden & Arboretum sits on 33 acres and has 45 rooms with an impressive collection of ornaments dating back to the late 1800s. The best time to visit is during spring when blooming flowers and sunset are a magnificent blend of colors.
Adventurers grab their bikes for a scenic ride along the 14.5-mile East Bay Bike path, starting from Independence and ending at Providence.
6 Tiverton
Tiverton is a popular summer destination thanks to the black-stone Fogland Beach and the family-friendly Grinnell’s Beach. Fogland Beach has strong breezes that attract windsurfers and kitesurfers, while Grinnell's Beach draws families with a children's playground and anglers with a fishing pier.
Wildlife lovers find harbor seals, foxes, and deer at the Emilie Ruecker Wildlife Refuge. And birdwatchers bring binoculars to spot yellow warblers, glossy Ibis, osprey, egrets, or American redstarts. The refuge also has trails meandering through the woods and skirting along the Sakonnet River.
5 Lincoln
Lincoln is home to the 627-acre Lincoln Woods State Park, known for its enormous boulders and rugged terrain, making it an ideal bouldering spot. The park lures snowmobilers and skiers in winter, while mountain bikers and horseback riders make the park their playground during summer.
Lincoln also has several historic houses worth exploring, such as the late 17th-century Eleazer Arnold House and the early 19th-century Hearthside House with ten Pinterest-worthy fireplaces. The two-story Arnold House has fieldstone walls, wooden side walls, and a 20th-century gable worth checking out during weekends.
4 Narragansett
Narragansett, Rhode Island's perfect beach town, is a tourist-trap seaside village with a wild past of gambling and partying. Today, Narragansett is a summer destination promising a relaxing or adventurous getaway, depending on a vacationer’s interests. Beachgoers spread their towels or walk along the Narragansett Town Beach as they soak in the stunning ocean views.
Hikers explore the 2.1-mile-long Whale Rock Trail winding through woods to surprise them with stunning ocean views. But for thrill seekers, the Black Point Trail has various rock and bluff climbing points perfect for an unforgettable blood-thumping experience.
3 Watch Hill
Watch Hill is a laid-back shoreline gem and one of the most beautiful towns in Rhode Island. It's home to the Carousel and East Beaches, offering idyllic and luxurious holidays. Tourists find beauty in every corner as they browse through a selection of downtown shops to discover art, clothing, and souvenirs to carry home.
A sunset sailing trip date is a must-do activity for lovebirds visiting this picturesque village. Some tours offer sparkling wine and catering to make it even more romantic and entertaining, with the sunset lighting the sky with captivating colors.
2 Westerly
When not unwinding along the Misquamicut State Beach, travelers engage in watersport adventures or view wildlife at the Napatree Point Conservation Area in Westerly. Alternatively, art enthusiasts please their eyes at Wilcox Park, which has two art galleries showcasing creations by local artists.
But one of the exciting free things to do in Westerly is touring the Westerly Armory to admire a collection of the local community memorabilia and military relics. This red-brick Armory opens its doors on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 am to 4 pm.
1 Little Compton
Little Compton is a coastal town worth visiting for its rural character and the famed Carolyn's Sakonnet Vineyard. This vineyard delights wine lovers with award-winning blends of sparkling white, light rose, and bold red wines.
Although the town borders the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Sakonnet River on the other, some beaches are private. But one of the most remarkable public beaches is the Goosewing Beach Preserve, accessed via the white sand South Shore Beach. Birdwatchers come here to spot the threatened least terns and piping plovers.