Rhode Island
9 Timeless Towns In Rhode Island
There are many amazing states to explore in the US, particularly within the New England region. Rhode Island is one of those states with the most historical influences and legacies one may discover as a newcomer to its small towns. It was one of the original 13 colonies and the first to declare independence. Known for its seaside beauty, family-friendly locales, and nourishing historical factors, the Ocean State is nothing short of alluring and breathtaking. These timeless towns in Rhode Island are the perfect destinations to consider for your next vacation.
Jamestown
Located on Conanicut Island, Jamestown is a 16th-century historic town with lots of interesting splendors. The Historic New England’s Watson Farm is a 265-acre grassland haven with Indigenous history and Red Devon cattle heritage. Beavertail Lighthouse has a maritime Colonial influence with its vessel archives and coastal lighthouse vibes. Windmill Hill Historic District offers a 17th-century windmill sight for all who want simplistic beauty.
Fort Getty Park is a wildlife observation landmark full of rocky beach areas, public boating zones, and photographic pink skies. At Jamestown Arts Center, tourists can find educational and historic exhibit tours related to southern Rhode Island. Dutch Island holds old ruins from the 1860s, Fort Greble, that may appeal to American Civil War enthusiasts. For a fun-filled boating excursion, one can try the New England Sailing Center for sailing comfort and a mixture of natural and social outings. For pure intimate dining and custom seafood creations, visitors can try Beech’s iconic dining spot.
Narragansett
Commonly known as “Gansett” to the locals, Narragansett is a popular destination with a quiet farming history. The Towers is perhaps the most prominent aspect of tourism with its 1880s historical casino foundation and enchanting welcoming functions. South County Museum has native tribal knowledge and elegance of traditional craftsmanship. At Point Judith Lighthouse, seaside rocky lighthouse exploration and dog-friendly treks make for a timeless natural detour. There is also the Point Judith Fisherman’s Memorial, where one may discover various hilltop tributes to those who lost their lives at sea once upon a time; it is also an amazing place for sunset watching.
The Salty Brine State Beach is another coastal option for beachside amusement and gorgeous ferry sights. For a hidden gem in town, one can check out the Port of Galilee, a famed afternoon stop with busy fishing ports and East Coast scenery.
East Greenwich
Also known as the “Birthplace of the Navy,” East Greenwich is a central part of Rhode Island history with its community vibrance and scallop recognition. The Varnum Memorial Armory is a tourist-friendly, 19th-century militia estate with revered military weapon collections and World War II operational foundations. The New England Wireless & Steam Museum houses various radio displays and steam-powered trinkets that were crucial to the late 1800s and mid-1900s.
Vacationers at The Greenwich Odeum will find plenty of entertainment options and nightlife galore within a 1920s vaudeville locale. For nature lovers, the Audubon Davis Memorial Wildlife Refuge is an ideal place to be with its relaxing hiking trails, Hunt River stopping points, and canoeing or kayaking pleasures. Those in the mood for golf and outdoor recreation may also enjoy East Greenwich Country Club’s vast green plains and grassy fairways. For an inviting and down-to-earth excursion, newcomers can dine at Siena Cucina, an authentic Tuscan diner with rich Italian cuisine and timeless farmhouse ambiance.
New Shoreham
Originally a 15th-16th century destination, New Shoreham keeps strangers on their toes with amazing sights and historic maritime appreciation. The Block Island North Light is an 1860s standpoint with an internal museum and lots of oceanic upbringing related to the first settlers. Tourists at the 1661 Far & Garden may find appealing camels, llamas, goats, kangaroos, and other species; it is also a conservation site for wildlife enthusiasts. The Great Salt Pond is a casual landmark with shallow waters and marina scenery worth checking out.
At Rodman’s Hollow, a 230-acre outwash basin and Block Island cultural landscapes make it easy for travelers to enjoy maritime shrublands and New Shoreham tranquility. Settlers Rock is both a historical and natural option for anyone who prefers rocky coastal allure and stone walking areas. The South East Lighthouse is known for its early 18th-century shipwreck history and impressive family legacies. An underrated stop in town, the Sacred Labyrinth has magical meditation community charm, crabapple tree resting spots, and fun statue glimpses. The Beachead Restaurant is a beachfront escape for seafood dining comfort and island satisfaction.
Newport
Dating back to the 1630s, Newport is also the “City by the Sea” and “Sailing Capital of the World.” At The Breakers, visitors can experience 1890s Gilded Age history and fancy eminence within a summer cottage estate. The Marble House is another historic estate that brings to life transformative wooden colony housing and opulence in a fine manor that attracts people from all over. The Rough Point Museum generates modern attention with its urban storytelling exhibits and various significant houses, such as the Vernon House and its 17th-century pasttime relics.
The International Tennis Hall of Fame may inspire lots of newfound members with its honorary tributes to tennis athletes and championship players. Bowen’s Wharf is a casual stop with fireplace ambiance, breathtaking waterfront views, and wharf nightlife to suit all types of itineraries. For a 17th-century literary escape, one can try the Redwood Library, a research center and museum that is devoted to the rarest books and Neoclassical finds. At Hotel Viking, guests can check out comforting amenities while exploring downtown rooftop bars and luxury spas. Chanterelle Restaurant is great for attractive strawberry dishes and homemade French pastries within a classy resort.
North Kingstown
North Kingstown, a laidback 16th-century destination with lots of undiscovered wonders, sends travelers back in time with cool locales and landmarks. The Seabee Museum & Memorial Park creates a wartime stop with Naval Battalion history and guided tours of Pacific conflicts. Wickford Village offers historical and commercial tourism with its tempting beach shops, festival events, and harbor vantage points for curious minds. At Smith’s Castle, 1670s interpretive tours and costumed roleplayers help make vacationers feel right at home while learning about colonial state history.
Compass Rose Beach makes for a fun Quonset Point beach excursion with its dog-friendly atmosphere and calming waves. Gooseneck Vineyards allows travelers to enjoy romantic evenings with smoked salmon appetizers, white wine festivities, and pomegranate social cocktail hours. Wickford Harbor provides a quaint and serene experience for anyone who loves coastal waters and chill boating vibes. John H. Chafee Rome Point Preserve creates a meaningful itinerary with its harbor seal spottings, offshore trails, and beachfront relaxation. After exploring the town, head to Wickford on the Water, where you can find clam chowder and spicy aioli to make any afternoon near beautiful waters more splendid.
Bristol
Bristol is a 1740s historic town full of fascinating highlights. It is also “America’s Most Patriotic Town.” The Herreshoff Marine Museum encompasses lovely tours of yachting displays, Rhode Island coastline history, and over 60 unique boat exhibits. At Coggeshall Farm Museum, visitors may find 48 acres of tenant marsh farms and heirloom gardens; it is also a fun stop for animal lovers. Bristol Art Museum usually has foot traffic thanks to its main gallery artworks, architectural magnificence, and celebrity curator events.
Linden Place has the most endearing porch hangout spot and special arts programs to keep outsiders and residents happy. At Blithewolf Manor, Gardens & Arboretum, vacationers can enjoy Narragansett Bay views and romantically inspiring gardens that will leave a smile on everyone’s faces. For stunning natural views and uncommon detours, the 127-acre Mount Hope Farm provides shoreline amusement around Mount Hope Bay and has pretty farmlands that have been around for a long time. Bristol Town Beach is perfect for sandy adventures and public volleyball activities. The Beehive Cafe is one of the coolest spots in town for homey atmospheres, thoughtful coffee crafts, and wholesome chit-chat.
Little Compton
Formally incorporated in the 1680s as Sakonnet, Little Compton is a special destination that nobody easily forgets about. Little Compton Historical Society provides 1930s educational knowledge about old settlements and Wampanoag upbringing. Within the Little Compton Historic District, also known as Little Compton Commons, there are also some splendors to take in, such as Sakonnet Lighthouse, a stopping point for timeless sights.
Sakonnet Vineyard is commonplace for tourists who have a penchant for gorgeous wine-tasting pastures and beautiful New England coastlines that have been recognized since the 1970s. South Shore Beach is a mesmerizing surfing landmark featuring less crowded tourism and cozy bridge walks for casual travelers. The Young Family Farm has welcoming apple-picking activities and family-friendly farm history for all to appreciate. Donovan Studio is a hidden gem for local artistic talents and unique Sakonnet watercolor paintings. Anyone who dines at The Common’s Lunch will have no complaints when it comes to laidback American cuisine and clam cakes.
Westerly
Westerly is not one to be discounted on any travel list as it boasts many exciting locales and landmarks. Babacock-Smith House Museum is quite historic with its 1730s Georgian granite architecture and local research workshops to help visitors learn more about the Colonial and Victorian eras. At the Living Sharks Museum, outsiders can check out prehistoric and modern shark exhibits with scientific demonstrations and Jaws memorabilia. The Watch Hill Lighthouse is a southeastern hotspot for peninsular history, charming coastline photography, and pivotal Rhode Island memories.
Napatree Point Conservation Area is a nature preserve with Little Narragansett Bay programs and beach cabanas for relaxing moments. The Granite Theatre has restored Greek Revivalism and downtown Broadway-esque entertainment for all ages to fall in love with. Grey Sail Brewing of Rhode Island caters to social outings and talkative tourists with its group-oriented brew tours and New England hospitality. Manfredi Farms is one of the most colorful locales in Westerly, and it has delightful seasonal produce and friendly animal petting sessions. For a hearty meal, the Cooked Goose has culinary appeal with its housemade deli salads and top-notch customer service.
These small towns in Rhode Island demonstrate true timelessness and unparalleled beauty. With awesome commercial locales and natural or historical landmarks that make for an unforgettable trip, tourists will never want to leave. No matter how familiar or unfamiliar one is with travel, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Ocean State. The New England region awaits anyone who wants to get out and see what history lies in newfound places.
Rhode Island
401Gives Starts Tuesday!
Rhode Island
Medical school at URI won’t ensure primary care docs for RI | Opinion
Governor’s executive order targets Rhode Island health care costs
Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee takes action to lower health care costs and improve affordability through new executive order.
The doctor is not in, and there’s not one on the way either. Many Rhode Islanders are well aware that the state is facing a harrowing shortage of primary care physicians. As native Rhode Islanders and physicians invested in quality accessible primary care for our community, we are dedicated to working towards policies to support our state.
A medical school at the University of Rhode Island is not the solution to solve the primary care crisis. A medical school at URI would not provide a timely solution, would likely not achieve the target outcome of increasing the number of primary care physicians in the state, and would likely not address the underlying issue of getting doctors to stay. Instead, resources should be allocated now to supporting primary care in ways that would make sustainable change.
Lack of access to primary care is hurting patients now. A medical school at URI would not be a short- or long-term solution. In addition to the time needed to engineer an accredited medical school, it takes seven years to produce an inexperienced primary care physician. Once trained, there still must be an incentive to stay in Rhode Island. Patients do not have access to necessary care for acute and chronic conditions. The burden on our health care system, impacting ER wait times and hospital capacity, impacts everyone. We cannot afford to wait another decade for a solution.
More physicians does not equal more physicians in primary care or in Rhode Island. If the aim is to produce more physicians from URI’s medical school, this will certainly occur, but we should not delude ourselves into believing it will fix primary care. It’s not due to lack of opportunities. In 2019, the National Resident Matching Program offered a record number of primary care positions, yet the percentage filled by students graduating from MD-granting medical schools in the United States was a new low. Of 8,116 internal medical positions that were offered, just 41.5% were filled by U.S. students; most residency spots went to foreign-trained and U.S.-trained osteopathic physicians.
As medical schools across the country look to debt reduction as a means of encouraging students to enter primary care specialties, their goals have fallen far short. In 2018, The New York University School of Medicine offered full-tuition scholarships to every medical student, regardless of merit or need. In 2024, only 14% of NYU’s graduating seniors entered primary care, lower than the national average of 30%.
There must be an incentive to stay in Rhode Island (or at least not a disadvantage). Our efforts must shift to recruiting and maintaining physicians in primary care. Inequitable reimbursement from commercial insurers between Rhode Island and neighboring states (leading to significantly lower salaries than if you lived here and traveled to Attleboro to care for patients), the lack of loan repayment(average medical student debt is $250,000, forcing the choice between meaning and money), and the ongoing administrative burdens are amongst the drivers away from primary care. Rhode Island needs to get on par with surrounding states to prevent physicians from going elsewhere.
The motivations behind opening a medical school are well intended in terms of wanting to increase the number of primary care providers by enabling local talent to train close to home. Training more people in Rhode Island will not keep them here; it will invest significant resources without addressing the root of the issue. Until there are comparable salaries between Rhode Island and our neighbors, until loan repayment is improved and the administrative burdens are reduced, primary care in the state will forever be fighting an uphill battle. Both providers and patients suffer the consequences.
Dr. Kelly McGarry is the director of the General Internal Medicine Residency at Rhode Island Hospital. Dr. Maria Iannotti is a first-year resident, a Rhode Islander intent on practicing primary care in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island
Truckers ordered to pay own legal bills from failed RI toll lawsuit
Rhode Island court tosses Justin Chandler conviction
Rhode Island Supreme Court overturns Justin Chandler’s murder conviction due to prejudicial texts, orders new trial.
The trucking industry will have to pay its own legal bills for the unsuccessful eight-year-old lawsuit it brought to stop Rhode Island’s truck toll system, a federal judge ruled Friday, March 27.
The American Trucking Associations was seeking $21 million in attorneys fees and other costs from the state, but a decision from U.S. District Judge John McConnell Jr. says the truckers lost the case and will have to pick up the tab.
The state had previously filed a counterclaim for reimbursement of $9 million in legal bills, but an earlier recommendation from U.S. Magistrate Judge Patricia Sullivan had already thrown cold water on that possibility.
McConnell ordered American Trucking Associations to pay Rhode Island $199,281, a tiny fraction of the amount the state spent defending the network of tolls on tractor trailers.
Settling the lawyer tab may finally bring an end to a court fight that bounced back and forth through the federal judiciary since the toll system launched and the truckers brought suit in 2018.
As it stands, the state’s truck toll network has been mothballed since 2022 when a since-overturned judge’s ruling temporarily ruled it unconstitutional.
The Rhode Island Department of Transportation said it hopes to relaunch the tolls around March 2027.
The court costs fight hinged on which side could claim legal “prevailing party” status as the winner of the lawsuit.
The trucking industry claimed that it had won because the First Circuit Court of Appeals ruled an in-state trucker discount mechanism, known as caps, in the original truck toll system was unconstitutional.
But Rhode Island argued that it is the winner because the appeals court had ruled that the larger system and broad concept of truck tolls is constitutional and can relaunch with the discounts stripped out.
“The Court determines that ATA has vastly overstated the benefit, if any, that they have received from the ultimate resolution of their challenge to the RhodeWorks program,” McConnell wrote.
The truckers “failed to obtain any practical benefit from the First Circuit’s severance of the [in-state toll] caps,” he went on. “Specifically, the evidence from this dispute confirmed that the lack of daily caps will result in ATA paying a higher amount in daily tolls and that it does not receive any tangible financial benefit from their elimination.”
In her December analysis of the legal fees question, Sullivan had concluded that the Trucking Associations’ outside counsel had overbilled and overstaffed the case.
But she had recommended that the industry be reimbursed $2.7 million for its bills, while McConnell’s ruling gives it nothing.
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