Nestled in the southeastern corner of Rhode Island, Little Compton is a picturesque small town that often escapes the spotlight. While Newport and Providence draw millions of visitors each year, Little Compton offers an equally captivating experience with its tranquil charm and understated beauty. This idyllic New England destination is a treasure trove of natural landscapes, rich history, and a close-knit community that makes visitors feel right at home. With a commitment to preserving its historic character and natural environment, this coastal haven is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore a different side of Rhode Island.
Historical Significance
Little Compton, Rhode Island historic home.
Incorporated in 1682, Little Compton was originally part of the Plymouth Colony and later became a part of Rhode Island in the mid-18th century. The historic Wilbor House, built in 1692, serves as the headquarters for the Little Compton Historical Society. Visitors can tour the house and the surrounding grounds, learning about the area’s Native inhabitants, its early settlers, and its evolution over the centuries.
Another historical highlight is the Commons, the town’s historic district. This central area features a collection of Colonial and Federal-style buildings, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The United Congregational Church, with its white steeple and classic New England architecture, is a striking focal point.
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Little Compton is also the final resting place of Elizabeth Pabodie, believed to be the first child of the Mayflower settlers born in the New World. Her grave, located in the Old Commons Burial Ground, draws history enthusiasts eager to connect with this fascinating piece of American heritage.
Natural Beauty
An aerial view of the beachfront campground in Little Compton, Rhode Island.
For nature lovers, Little Compton offers a wealth of stunning landscapes. South Shore Beach is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Its expansive shoreline and gentle waves make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Adjacent to the beach is Goosewing Beach Preserve, a protected area managed by The Nature Conservancy. This preserve is home to rare shorebirds and features a small nature center where visitors can learn about the local ecosystem.
Sakonnet Harbor in Little Compton, Rhode Island.
Sakonnet Point is another natural highlight. This scenic spot offers sweeping ocean views and is a popular location for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings. The nearby Sakonnet Greenway provides several walking trails that wind through the countryside, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and take in the area’s pastoral beauty.
Additionally, Little Compton is dotted with vineyards, orchards, and family-owned farms, many of which welcome visitors. Picking fresh fruit at a local orchard or enjoying a glass of wine at a vineyard with views of rolling hills is an experience unique to this corner of Rhode Island.
Local Food and Wine
Sakonnet Vineyards in Little Compton, Rhode Island.
Little Compton’s culinary offerings reflect its agricultural roots and coastal location. The town boasts a variety of farm-to-table restaurants and seafood shacks that serve up fresh, locally sourced fare. The Commons Lunch, a beloved local institution, offers hearty comfort food and classic New England dishes like clam chowder and lobster rolls.
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For a more upscale dining experience, The Tap Room Restaurant at the Stone House Inn provides an elegant setting with menus that highlight seasonal ingredients from nearby farms and fishermen. The town’s proximity to the ocean ensures that seafood is always fresh, whether you are savoring oysters from local waters or indulging in a plate of scallops.
Wine enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Sakonnet Vineyard, one of the oldest wineries in New England. Here, guests can sample award-winning wines while relaxing on the vineyard’s picturesque grounds. During the summer months, the vineyard often hosts live music and other events, adding to its appeal.
Arts, Culture, and Community
Group of people looking at abstract art in modern art gallery.
Despite its small size, Little Compton has a thriving arts and culture scene. The Little Compton Community Center frequently hosts events ranging from art exhibits to musical performances, providing a platform for local talent and fostering a sense of community. The town’s natural beauty has long inspired artists, and visitors will find galleries, such as Kathrine Lovell Gallery and Donovan Studio, showcasing works by local painters, sculptors, and photographers.
Little Compton is also home to the annual Summer Art Show, which attracts artists and art enthusiasts from across the region. This event is a celebration of creativity and offers a chance to purchase unique, locally made artwork. Local arts and crafts are also a big part of the annual Summer Fair, which includes a road race, family-friendly games, and the famous Lobster Luncheon.
Conclusion
Sakonnet Lighthouse and Harbor, Little Compton, Rhode Island.
Little Compton’s charm lies in its ability to transport visitors to a simpler time. While it may not have the high-profile attractions of larger cities, Little Compton’s understated allure is precisely what makes it special. It is a place where visitors can slow down, connect with nature, and immerse themselves in the timeless charm of New England. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination that combines history, natural beauty, and a welcoming community, Little Compton deserves a spot on your travel itinerary.
Allyn Meyers, chairman, Rhode Island Republican Party
President Trump promised, and President Trump delivered. In last night’s historic State of the Union Address, Rhode Islanders heard about a national “turnaround for the ages,” which has brought critical relief to working families across the country.
Core inflation is at its lowest point in five years, gas prices are down, the stock market has hit record after record, and no tax on tips and overtime is helping workers keep more of what they earn. TrumpRX is making prescription drugs more affordable, and Trump Accounts are paving the way for the next generation of first-time homebuyers and college students.
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A weekday briefing from veteran Rhode Island reporters, focused on the things that matter most in the Ocean State.
Jessica de la Cruz,Senate minority leader, District 23 (North Smithfield, Burrillville, Glocester)
Tonight, the president reaffirmed a commitment to secure borders, energy independence, and economic growth. The Democrat super majority in Rhode Island should take note. High taxes, costly mandates, and overregulation are not a formula for prosperity.
Ken Naylor,president, Rhode Island Young Republicans
During a strong State of the Union address, the president highlighted delivering on his campaign promises. Here in Rhode Island, voters are looking for that same focus and follow-through from our state leaders when it comes to lowering energy costs, improving competitiveness, and addressing the cost of living.
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Ashley Kalus,2022 candidate for governor
If Seth Magazinerever manages to ban insider trading for all those crooks, we should name a holiday after him. I hope someday the State of Our Union does feel strong again. Until then, Rhode Island has too many serious problems at home to get swept up in DC’s drama, so let’s take all the federal money we can get and fix our own house. That other house is too crazy.
Brian Newberry,state representative, District 48 (Burrillville, North Smithfield)
I haven’t watched a SOTU speech, regardless of president, since 2002, and I’m not planning to start now.
This story first appeared in Rhode Map, our free newsletter about Rhode Island that also contains information about local events, links to interesting stories, and more. If you’d like to receive it via email Monday through Friday, you can sign up here.
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Dan McGowan can be reached at dan.mcgowan@globe.com. Follow him @danmcgowan.
A college football player from Bohemia died Monday of carbon monoxide poisoning while charging his phone in a snow-covered car in Newport, Rhode Island, police there said.
Joseph Boutros, 21, a student at Salve Regina University in Newport, was unconscious when police and firefighters found him in a car in a parking lot at 7:20 p.m., the Newport Police Department said in a news release.
“This tragic incident was accidental and a reminder to be vigilant to keep exhaust pipes clear of snow and debris when vehicles are idling,” the statement said.
Boutros was listed as an offensive lineman on the 2025 Salve Regina football team roster. He was a criminal justice and criminology major and graduated in 2022 from Connetquot High School.
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Newport police said the vehicle’s exhaust pipe was embedded in snow when first responders arrived at the parking lot. The vehicle was not running. Boutros was transported to the Newport Hospital emergency room, where he was pronounced dead.
Alan Rodrigues, also of Bohemia and a 2022 Connetquot High graduate, told Newsday late Tuesday he found Boutros, his best friend, unconscious in his car Monday night. He was shaken by the death of his college roommate.
“I’m doing the best I can, given the circumstances,” Rodrigues said.
Rodrigues also played football at Connetquot and reconnected with Boutros in 2024 at Salve Regina. He’s
now a senior football player at Salve Regina.
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Said Connetquot football coach Mike Konsevitch of Boutros: “Joe had an infectious smile … Every day on the football field was a great day for him. He worked extremely hard at a sport he loved.”
Konsevitch said Boutros “improved every year and got playing time on the offensive line as a senior. He went on to play at Nassau Community College and now at Salve Regina.”
The coach recalled Boutros’ grandmother’s expression on the high school football team’s Senior Day.
“I can still see her smile because she was so proud of him and how he stuck it out with football and earned his opportunities for playing time,” Konsevitch said.
Connetquot High School Principal Michael Moran said Boutros was very likable and worked hard in school.
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“He was a great kid all around,” Moran said. “He always came back and stood on the sidelines supporting our program. He was very friendly and loved the football program.”
Monday’s Blizzard of ’26 dumped more than 3 feet of snow in many portions of Rhode Island, and well over 30 inches in parts of Massachusetts. The National Weather Service has updated the latest snowfall totals since Monday night.
Here are the top snowfall totals for each state and their previous record, where data was available from the National Weather Service:
T.F. Green Airport/Warwick: 37.9 inches; Blizzard of ‘78: 28.6 inches
Providence: 36 inches
North Kingstown: 36 inches
Warren: 35.5 inches
Newport: 34 inches; Blizzard of ‘78: 28 inches
Glocester: 33.7 inches
Coventry: 33.5 inches; Jan. 30, 2022: 18 inches
Narragansett: 33 inches
Exeter: 33 inches
Pawtucket: 32 inches
Both states recorded a new daily snowfall record: T.F. Green Airport soared to 37.9 inches, and Dartmouth trailed with a whopping 37 inches.
Most of this region, including on Cape Cod and the islands, saw an entire winter season play out during one huge big storm. The nearly 38 inches at T.F. Green Airport is an astounding number considering that on average, the Providence area only sees 34.7 inches during an entire winter season.
The previous Rhode Island record for 24-hour snow totals was in Woonsocket, seeing 30 inches in a single day courtesy of the Blizzard of ‘78. And for Mass., the new records beat out the April Fool’s Day storm of 1997, which dropped 29 inches in Natick, Mass., in 1997.
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Ken Mahan can be reached at ken.mahan@globe.com. Follow him on Instagram @kenmahantheweatherman.
