Most Walkable Towns In Rhode Island: Rhode Island, known as the “Ocean State,” is a great place for walking enthusiasts. Despite being the smallest state in the USA, it has plenty of beauty, history, and charm packed into its small area. For a true taste of Rhode Island, explore its most charming small towns.
Going beyond the well-known capital, Providence, you’ll find some of the country’s most walkable places, each with its own unique part of Rhode Island’s rich history and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a week-long vacation, take the time to enjoy these six most walkable towns in Rhode Island.
Newport
Newport is a perfect example of a New England coastal town. Some of its most walkable attractions are the Newport Mansions, which were grand summer homes for some of America’s richest families in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
The Breakers is the most visited mansion, once the summer home of the Vanderbilt family, and showcases the extravagant lifestyle of the time with its lavish décor and impressive architecture. Marble House, another Vanderbilt mansion, is also magnificent, famous for its opulent gold ballroom and striking classical façade.
Make sure to include the Cliff Walk in your Newport travel plans. This scenic 3.5-mile path runs along the shoreline, offering great views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Newport’s grand Gilded Age mansions on the other.
The town’s harbor area is also fun to explore on foot and offers various nautical activities, with the annual Newport Sailing Regatta being a highlight. Downtown Newport is another must-see, especially Thames Street, the main street, with its unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.
Bristol
Bristol, located along the shores of Narragansett Bay, is famous for its annual Fourth of July Celebration, the oldest continuous celebration of its kind in the U.S. This event attracts crowds from all over the East Coast with its grand parade, concerts, and fireworks, making it a perfect time to put on your walking shoes and join the fun. Be sure to visit Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, one of the top attractions in Bristol.
This 33-acre estate features a 45-room mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens, offering a fun and scenic place to walk with plenty of great spots for selfies.
The Herreshoff Marine Museum, which focuses on the history of the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company, is just a 15-minute walk from Blithewold and is well worth a visit. The museum features a collection of over 60 vintage boats, including some America’s Cup winners.
Colt State Park is also fun to explore on foot. Known as the ‘Gem of the State Parks,’ it spans 464 acres with well-manicured lawns, old stone walls, and winding waterfront drives, making it a great spot for picnicking, fishing, biking, or simply enjoying the panoramic views of Narragansett Bay.
Jamestown
Jamestown, located on the beautiful Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, is a popular summer getaway known for its stunning scenery, historic sites, and coastal charm. Just a short drive from the town center, Beavertail Lighthouse is a great place for a walk. Located in Beavertail State Park at the island’s southern tip, the lighthouse was built in 1856 and is one of the oldest in America.
The park offers views of Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean and is a favorite spot for picnicking, fishing, and exploring the rocky coastline with its tide pools full of marine life.
Fort Wetherill State Park is another great place to explore on foot in Jamestown. Located on a high granite cliff overlooking the bay, this former coastal defense battery is now a top spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and hiking. It also offers fantastic views of Newport Harbor and the East Passage. Downtown Jamestown, though small, is very walkable and has a few interesting landmarks worth seeing as you stroll around.
Little Compton
Located in the southeastern part of the state, the small town of Little Compton is becoming known for its winemaking. A top spot for wine lovers is Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyards, where visitors can enjoy tours of the expansive grounds and tastings of award-winning wines. The town’s coastline is another big attraction.
Sakonnet Point offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Sakonnet Lighthouse, making it great for leisurely walks, fishing, or enjoying the peaceful beaches of Goosewing Beach Preserve and South Shore Beach.
Little Compton’s historic center, The Commons, is also a nice place to wander. Highlights include the Wilbor House Museum, a 17th-century home with original buildings and gardens.
Wickford
Wickford has kept its village feel, even though it’s now home to over 20,000 residents, much more than the few people who lived there in the 1600s. Both visitors and locals love its well-preserved colonial architecture and charming streets. Its small size and friendly atmosphere make it perfect for walking around.
Historic Wickford Village, the town center and main attraction, has many buildings from the 1700s, making it feel like a living museum. Visitors can enjoy a walk along the waterfront with its scenic harbor and explore the village’s charming shops and art galleries.
A great time to visit is during the Wickford Art Festival, one of New England’s oldest and most famous art festivals. Each summer, the festival turns the village into a lively center of creativity, drawing artists and art lovers from all over the region. For a longer walk, check out the trails at nearby Ryan Park and Wilson Park.
New Shoreham
New Shoreham is a fantastic travel spot because it’s the smallest town in the smallest state, Rhode Island. Even better, it’s on Block Island, just 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast and reachable by ferry. Block Island is a great place to explore, especially the Mohegan Bluffs. These tall cliffs give amazing views of the ocean and drop almost 200 feet to the water below.
If you’re up for it, you can take a set of wooden stairs down to a quiet beach and feel the Atlantic Ocean on your toes.
The Southeast Lighthouse on the island, sitting at the top of the Mohegan Bluffs, was built in 1875 and offers tours of the lighthouse and its museum. Besides these attractions, the rest of New Shoreham is easy to explore on foot, and there are plenty of charming B&Bs and small inns for those planning a weekend getaway on Block Island.
Conclusion
Despite being tiny, Rhode Island has many lovely small towns for all kinds of travelers. From the fancy vibe of Newport to the cozy feel of Little Compton, these places capture the essence of New England charm. Whether you want a peaceful escape, a trip back in time, or a luxurious stay near the ocean, these six walkable towns in Rhode Island are ideal for a memorable getaway.