Rhode Island
Why This Rhode Island Town Deserves More Attention
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.
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.
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
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.
The Rhode Island Department of Health issued an overdose spike alert for Johnston and North Providence.
Health officials said over the past week, five Johnston and North Providence residents received medical care for a drug overdose.
According to RIDOH, these municipalities have historically lower overdose rates than the statewide average.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT
Residents can visit Prevent Overdose RI connect with community harm reduction organizations and find treatment.
The Rhode Island Lottery offers multiple draw games for those aiming to win big.
Here’s a look at May 12, 2026, results for each game:
Winning Mega Millions numbers from May 12 drawing
17-32-35-40-47, Mega Ball: 17
Check Mega Millions payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Numbers numbers from May 12 drawing
Midday: 1-5-2-0
Evening: 1-6-0-3
Check Numbers payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Wild Money numbers from May 12 drawing
23-27-29-31-35, Extra: 12
Check Wild Money payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Millionaire for Life numbers from May 12 drawing
19-21-35-38-53, Bonus: 01
Check Millionaire for Life payouts and previous drawings here.
Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results
Are you a winner? Here’s how to claim your prize
- Prizes less than $600 can be claimed at any Rhode Island Lottery Retailer. Prizes of $600 and above must be claimed at Lottery Headquarters, 1425 Pontiac Ave., Cranston, Rhode Island 02920.
- Mega Millions and Powerball jackpot winners can decide on cash or annuity payment within 60 days after becoming entitled to the prize. The annuitized prize shall be paid in 30 graduated annual installments.
- Winners of the Millionaire for Life top prize of $1,000,000 a year for life and second prize of $100,000 a year for life can decide to collect the prize for a minimum of 20 years or take a lump sum cash payment.
When are the Rhode Island Lottery drawings held?
- Powerball: 10:59 p.m. ET on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
- Mega Millions: 11:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday and Friday.
- Lucky for Life: 10:30 p.m. ET daily.
- Millionaire for Life: 11:15 p.m. ET daily.
- Numbers (Midday): 1:30 p.m. ET daily.
- Numbers (Evening): 7:29 p.m. ET daily.
- Wild Money: 7:29 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Rhode Island editor. You can send feedback using this form.
RI House speaker answers why RI won’t ‘pause’ millionaires tax push
House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi fielded a question on whether lawmakers might pause efforts to pass a millionaires tax.
The fight over Rhode Island’s proposed “millionaires tax” is intensifying as lawmakers prepare their version of the state budget for the year with an unexpected $233 million tax collection windfall.
The business-backed Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council, one of the groups leading opposition to higher taxes on the wealthy, on May 12 released a new report arguing that states with higher income tax rates see more people leaving for states with lower rates.
“Given the experience of Massachusetts and the positive net migration of Bay State residents to Rhode Island over the last several years, it would be particularly risky to adopt a top income tax rate that could undermine this trend,” said RIPEC CEO Michael DiBiase. “Taking on this risk is even more unwise given the recent news that state revenues will be $233 million greater than expected. There is no need to raise taxes – instead the state should focus on fiscal discipline and growing the economy.”
Massachusetts began collecting a 4% surcharge on income over $1 million in 2023 and Rhode Island leaders hoped rich Bay State residents put off by the hike would move to Rhode Island.
On the other side of the issue, the left-leaning Economic Progress Institute argued that the better-than-expected state revenue collections, while welcome, do not cover all of the money Rhode Island could be potentially losing due to cut in last year’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
The Economic Progress Institute is pushing for a more aggressive tax increase − a 3% surtax on income over $640,000 − than McKee’s proposal where the higher tax rate would kick in at income over $1 million.
“It remains imperative the General Assembly pass the proposed surtax on the top one percent this year,” the EPI said in a news release. ” The surtax would generate $203 million per year in revenue, which would bring us closer to: bridging the gulf of lost federal funds, preserving critical programs, and closing the many long-standing equity gaps and crises in healthcare, education, housing, childcare, public transit, and so much more.”
Their release comes days after the Service Employees International Union Rhode Island State Council rallied at the State House in support of the “Rhode Island’s Revenue Bill,” the tax on income over $640,000. The May 7 rally could be heard during former House speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi’s farewell address.
What is in new RIPEC report?
RIPEC’s latest report finds that:
- Between 2020 and 2025, states with a higher top income tax rate saw higher net out-migration than states with a lower tax rate
- During the post-pandemic period of strong revenue collections, more states have lowered income taxes than raised them
- More residents moved to Rhode Island from Massachusetts (4,796) than any other state from 2020 to 2023 by a large margin. (New York was second at 1,924.)
- Taxpayers leaving Massachusetts in 2023 were on the wealthier side in 2023, making more than $200,000 per year, compared to 2022.
What does it not show?
The IRS data RIPEC analyzed only covers tax filers who make $200,000 or more in Adjusted Gross Income, so it does not show how Massachusetts residents making more than $1 million, the group whose taxes went up, reacted to the change.
And it does not include migration patterns and tax changes for 2024 or 2025.
In its release urging an income tax increase, the EPI said it estimates the state will lose more than $400 million in federal revenue starting in the fiscal year that starts July1, 202,7 from provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
“Lawmakers need to be proactive for the many needs, gaps, and crises we have now as well as what’s to come – including likely more federal cuts and an upcoming fiscal cliff,” the EPI release said. “Our wealthiest Rhode Islanders can afford to do more, especially with an average annual tax break of nearly $59,000 from Washington.”
The millionaires tax in McKee’s budget is estimated to generate $135.3 million in new state revenue in a full year.
The surcharge on the 1% of earners − starting at income of $640,000 per year − is estimated to generate $203 million per year.
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