Rhode Island
8 Picturesque Towns in Rhode Island for a Weekend Retreat
While it’s the smallest state in the United States in terms of square miles, Rhode Island is known as the “Ocean State” because of its stunning coastline. Many folks from neighboring states like Connecticut and metro areas like Boston dash off to Rhode Island in the warmer months, looking for escape and inspiration. Small towns in Rhode Island provide the perfect backdrop for busy parents and professionals looking for a scenic change. Here are some of our favorites.
Newport
Nestled on Aquidneck Island in Narragansett Bay, Newport is a popular stop for weekend visitors, summer folks, and cruise guests. One of the most famous activities is mansion tours, which allow visitors to see exquisite homes built for successful American families during the Gilded Age. These include The Marble House, built by William Vanderbilt for his wife Alva, and Chateau-Sur-Mer, known for its high Victorian architecture. Check out Newport Travel Trolley Tours or Gansett Cruises for unique ways to travel around the area. Rhode Island Red Food Tours and Island Adventures bike rentals provide other great ways to see the highlights.
If you want to experience a waterfront weekend, book a room at the Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina, where you can enjoy firepits, a heated indoor pool, and kayak rentals. If a Victorian-style B&B is more your style, visit the Almondy Inn, which has elegant rooms and is near downtown activities. The upscale shopping district includes delightful seafood restaurants like the Brick Alley Pub and shops like the Pink Pineapple.
Little Compton
Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Sakonnet River, Little Compton was developed in 1682 and became a part of Rhode Island in 1747. Today, it’s still a thriving fishing town and home of Wilbor House, originally built in 1690 and containing rooms representing four different centuries. Modern visitors can tour Wilbor House for free. Those looking to get a more comprehensive understanding of the area can rent two wheels at Little Compton Adventures and enjoy a guided tour of the highlights, including the Sakonnet Point Lighthouse.
If you’re in town for the weekend, enjoy an upscale experience at the Stone House Inn with its updated rooms and water views. You can also find comfortable, affordable lodging in the nearby Quality Inn & Suites Middletown/Newport. If you’re hungry, enjoy a handcrafted sandwich at The Barn Restaurant or seafood rolls at The Commons Lunch.
Westerly
Located on the Pawcatuck River, Westerly is known for its beautiful beaches and lighthouses. Stroll through downtown Westerly, and you’ll find no shortage of spots for stopping and exploring. For example, Martin House Books offers a wide selection of reads, a cafe, and a cheerful children’s space. You can also find thoughtful jewelry pieces at the Eagle’s Nest Gallery or stop for a drink at the Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery.
If you’re looking for waterfront accommodations, don’t miss out on the Weekapaug Inn, which offers Pond View Rooms, Weekapaug Beach access, and a boathouse with complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, and sailboats. Restaurants, free boat tours, and a state-of-the-art fitness center are also included in your stay. The Inn has a sister property in Watch Hill called The Ocean House, to which guests at Weekapaug Inn have unrestricted access. Regular events there, such as wine tastings, barbeques, and book signings, mean you’ll have plenty to do during your stay.
East Greenwich
East Greenwich is located in central Rhode Island along the west shore of Narragansett Bay. Its Main Street is known for being a charming place to shop, dine, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Stop by The Green Door for beautiful baskets and wreaths, or find unique curated gifts at The Current. Main Street Coffee is a darling place to enjoy a latte or a homemade quiche. You can also take in some seaside views and sushi at Water Street Kitchen & Bar.
Weekend visitors can try the comfortable, affordable accommodations at The Holiday Inn Express—West Warwick area, located in nearby Coventry. You can also travel a few extra miles and stay at The Shepherd’s Run in South Kingston, which offers suites, spa services, and winery tastings. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, be sure to visit Goddard Memorial State Park in nearby Warwick, where a beach with a lifeguard, picnic tables, and a nine-hole golf course means you’ll enjoy plenty of outdoor recreation and beautiful views.
Bristol
The village of Bristol is nestled on a peninsula between Narragansett Bay and Mount Hope Bay. It’s around twenty miles southeast of Providence, a city easily accessed by plane or train from metropolitan areas like Boston and New York. If you love the outdoors, you’ll want to visit from May through October, when you can enjoy the East Bay Bike path or one of Bristol’s fourteen parks. You can also sign up for events like the Bristol House Tour, where you can tour twelve historic houses and have access to shuttle vans that will easily transport you between them. While there, enjoy a boat tour of the area with a company like Seastreak or check out an exhibit at the Bristol Art Museum.
Staying in Bristol means effortless elegance at places like Bradford-Dimond-Norris House, where you can enjoy charming rooms and downtown attractions just outside your door. Pick up a new sweater at Beau Bleu Boutique or enjoy a fish sandwich at The Waterside Bar & Grill. For dessert, head to the Jules Ice Cream Shop, where vegan treats and ice cream sodas are served along with all your favorite flavors.
Block Island
Block Island is only twelve miles from the Rhode Island coast and is accessed by ferry. Its free public beaches make it extremely popular in the summer months. Among its most popular is Fred Benson Town Beach, which offers restrooms, food, rentable chairs, beach umbrellas, and boogie boards. Visitors also love Surf Beach, which is a three-minute walk from the ferry and close to shops and bathrooms. This is also where you’ll find the Block Island Beach House, a hotel that offers ocean-view lodging and a restaurant that’s the perfect place to watch the sunset while enjoying a cocktail.
Hiking and biking are also popular in Block Island, with over 28 miles of trails to explore. Fishing, sailing, and kayaking are also popular. Shoppers can enjoy beachy gifts at Diamond Surf Shop or treats for their best friends at The Mutt Hut. Then top off your day with a Fisherman’s Platter at The Beachhead Restaurant.
Jamestown
Most of Jamestown is located on Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay. It’s home to historic sites like Watson Farm, which was established in 1796 and sits on land once owned by three governors. It is still an operating, sustainable farm. If you visit during open hours, you can enjoy workshops, walking tours, and farm activities.
Visiting for the weekend means you’ll be only a few miles from Newport, an excellent location for a day trip. Consider staying at Club Wyndham Bay Voyage Inn, which offers comfortable rooms overlooking Narragansett Bay and an outdoor pool and fitness center. Enjoy gorgeous waterfront dining with breathtaking views at JBs on the Water or a frozen hot chocolate at Slice of Heaven.
Warren
Warren was first settled in 1653 as part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. With centuries of maritime history to its credit, the waterfront remains a popular visitor spot. The Warren Town Beach has a lifeguard-protected swimming area, playground, outdoor shower, and picnic tables. You can also visit places like The Charles Whipple Greene Museum, where you’ll find artifacts, documents, and stained glass windows attesting to the town’s history and beauty.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, check out William’s Grant Inn B & B in nearby Bristol, where you’ll find cozy rooms and a friendly staff. When you’re hungry, enjoy a lobster roll and lovely views from the rooftop bar at The Wharf. Or stop by Cafe Water Street to sample the sweetest crepes, chai lattes, and banana bread in town.
If you’re looking for a unique way to spend a weekend, enjoy the peace, history, and beauty of one of Rhode Island’s small towns. With so many elegant homes, restaurants, and resorts to explore, you’ll wonder why you didn’t visit sooner. Active folks will love the area’s activities, foodies will be delighted, and those looking for a relaxing weekend won’t be disappointed. Pack your bags and get ready for a beautiful getaway!
Here are five ways how you can save some money when food shopping.
Here are five ways how you can save some money when food shopping.
Your household can earn more than $160,000 a year and still be considered part of the “middle class” in Rhode Island, according to a recent study by SmartAsset.
Rhode Island is the state with the 17th-highest income range for households to be considered middle class, based on SmartAsset’s analysis using 2024 income data from the U.S. Census Bureau. The Pew Research Center defines the middle class as households earning roughly two-thirds to twice the national median household income.
According to a 2022 Gallup survey, about half of U.S. adults consider themselves middle class, with 38% identifying as “middle class” and 14% as “upper-middle class.” Higher-income Americans and college graduates were most likely to identify with the “middle class” or “upper-middle class,” while lower-income Americans and those without a college education generally identified as “working class” or “lower class.”
Here’s how much money your household would need to bring in annually to be considered middle class in Rhode Island.
How much money would you need to make to be considered middle class in RI?
In Rhode Island, households would need to earn between $55,669 and $167,008 annually to be considered middle class, according to SmartAsset. The Ocean State has the 17th-highest income range in the country for middle-class households.
The state’s median household income is $83,504.
How do other New England states compare?
Rhode Island has the fourth-highest income range for middle-class households in New England. Here’s what households would have to earn in neighboring states:
- Massachusetts (#1 nationally) – $69,885 to $209,656 annually; median household income of $104,828
- New Hampshire (#6 nationally) – $66,521 to $199,564 annually; median household income of $99,782
- Connecticut (#10 nationally) – $64,033 to $192,098 annually; median household income of $96,049
- Rhode Island (#17 nationally) – $55,669 to $167,008 annually; median household income of $83,504
- Vermont (#19 nationally) – $55,153 to $165,460 annually; median household income of $82,730
- Maine (#30 nationally) – $50,961 to $152,884 annually; median household income of $76,442
Which state has the highest middle-class income range?
Massachusetts ranks as the state with the highest income range to be considered middle class, according to SmartAsset. Households there would need to earn between $69,900 and $209,656 annually. The state’s median household income is $104,828.
Which state has the lowest middle-class income range?
Mississippi ranks last for the income range needed to be considered middle class, according to SmartAsset. Households there would need to earn between $39,418 and $118,254 annually. The state’s median household income is $59,127.
“Nationally there are 59 million Americans who are providing care for a loved one and that is 49.5 billion hours of care annually. It’s valued at a trillion dollars,” said Catherine Taylor, the director of AARP Rhode Island; AARP, the nation’s largest non- profit, dedicated to empowering people 50 and older.
In Rhode Island, the report shows 155,000 people serve as caregivers, providing 111 million hours of care.
Barbara Morse reports on unpaid caregivers. (WJAR)
“The total impact is $2.8 billion a year,” said Taylor.
It’s not just babysitting a loved one.
Catherine Taylor, the director of AARP Rhode Island, spoke with NBC 10’s Barbara Morse about the value of caregiving. (WJAR)
“People are doing a lot more nursing tasks, you know–wound care, injections and things like that and they’re doing a lot more intensive daily care, like bathing, and dressing and feeding than we used to,” she said.
Its latest report–“Valuing the Invaluable.”
“The whole point of this report is to draw attention to how many family care givers there are and what the magnitude of what the need is for their support,” said Taylor.
That includes financial support and respite care.
AARP wants you to know this:
An older man using equipment in a gym. (FILE)
In Rhode Island, temporary caregiver insurance or TCI is available to folks who qualify, for up to eight weeks.
There are federal tax credits you may qualify for. There is help.
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“All you have to do is call 211 and say you’re a family caregiver and they will connect you to all of AARP’S trusted information, including a Rhode Island specific guide on resources for caregivers,” she said.
Rhode Island
A new safety role at Rhode Island College comes into sharper focus after Brown shooting – The Boston Globe
Lawrence was recently named RIC’s first emergency management director, a role college leaders had been planning before the December mass shooting across town at Brown University, but which took on new urgency after the tragedy.
Few resumes are better suited to the job.
A 20-year career in the New York Police Department. Commanding officer of the NYPD’s Employee Assistance Unit. A master’s degree from Harvard.
Lawrence got to Rhode Island the way a lot of people do: through someone who grew up here and never really left, at least not in spirit. Her husband, Brooke Lawrence, grew up in West Greenwich, and is director of the town’s emergency management agency.
“I couldn’t imagine retiring in my 40s,” Lawrence told me. “And I couldn’t imagine not giving back to my community.”
Public service has been part of Lawrence’s life for as long as she can remember. A New Jersey native, she dreamed of following in the footsteps of her mentor, a longtime FBI agent. She graduated from Monmouth University and earned a master’s degree in forensic psychology from John Jay College in 2001, shortly before the Sept. 11 attacks.
There was high demand for police in New York at the time, so Lawrence raised her hand to serve. She worked her way up the ranks from patrol to lieutenant, eventually taking charge of the department’s Employee Assistance Unit, a peer support program that helps rank-and-file officers navigate the most traumatic parts of the job. She later earned a second master’s degree from Harvard’s Kennedy School.
“It’s making sure our officers are getting through their career in the same mental capacity as they came on the job,” Lawrence said.
There’s a version of Lawrence’s new job that feels routine, especially at a quiet commuter campus like Rhode Island College. And when Lawrence was initially hired part-time last fall, it probably was.
Then the shooting at Brown University changed the stakes almost overnight.
On Dec. 13, Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, a Portuguese national and one-time student at Brown, opened fire inside the Barus and Holley building, killing two students and injuring nine others. Neves Valente also killed an MIT professor before he was found dead in a New Hampshire storage unit of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
In eerie videos recorded in the storage unit, Neves Valente admitted that he stalked the Brown campus for weeks prior to his attack. He largely went unnoticed by campus security, which led the university’s police chief to be placed on leave and essentially replaced by former Providence Police Chief Colonel Hugh Clements.
Lawrence assisted with the response at Brown. She leads the trauma response team for the Rhode Island Behavioral Health Medical Reserve Corps, which staffed the family reunification center in the hours after the shooting.
RIC’s campus is more enclosed than Brown’s — there are only two major entryways to the college — but there are unique challenges.
For one, it’s technically located in both Providence and North Providence, which requires coordination between multiple public safety departments in both communities.
More specifically, Lawrence noted that every building on campus has the same address, which can present a challenge in an emergency. Lawrence has worked with RIC leadership and local public safety to assign an address to each building.
Lawrence stressed that she doesn’t want RIC to overreact to the tragedy at Brown, and she said campus leaders are committed to keeping the tight-knit community intact.
But she admits that the shooting remains top of mind.
“Every campus community sees what happened at Brown and says ‘please don’t let that happen to us,’” Lawrence said.
Lawrence said everyone at RIC feels a deep sense of responsibility to keep students safe during their time on campus.
And she already feels right at home.
“I want to come home from work every day and feel like I made a difference,” she said.
Dan McGowan can be reached at dan.mcgowan@globe.com. Follow him @danmcgowan.
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