Middletown is set in the north of Newport and the south of Portsmouth in Rhode Island. Hence, it has been christened as Middletown. The town offers a port to several visitors and has innumerable places to sleep, as well as, eat. A small but bustling community, Middletown has an extremely interesting history that includes the purchase of “Grey Craig” by Nicholas Cage. From art galleries to a bird sanctuary and from museums to parks and beaches, the town has all it takes to allure the visitors. Check out the best things to do in Middletown, Rhode Island, so that you can plan your travel itinerary accordingly.
1. Go for a wine-tasting tour at Newport Vineyards
When you are in Middletown, you just should not miss a trip to the Newport Vineyards. Welcome to this unique culinary and beverage destination in the town that is well-known for offering award-winning wine, an excellent farm to table dining experience, and fresh craft beer on a massive preserved farmland. Newport Vineyards also offers event spaces for various events ranging from rehearsal and wedding dinners to baby showers and post-wedding brunches and other social gatherings and corporate events.
Newport Vineyards
Address: 909 E Main Rd, Middletown, RI 02842, USA
Website: Newport Vineyards
Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 11am - 6pm; Tue - Thu: 10am - 8pm; Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 4.30pm
2. Know about the city's past at Middletown Historical Society
Welcome to the Middletown Historical Society, a museum that is doing an excellent job to preserve the past of this town! The museum is dedicated to document, research, and safeguarding the history of the town of Middletown in Rhode Island. A non-profit organization, its main aim is to preserve the town’s historical landmarks. as well as, protect the quickly disappearing heritage of the locality. If you are a history buff, a visit to this museum should definitely be on your bucket list.
Middletown Historical Society
Address: Paradise & Prospect Avenues, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Middletown Historical Society
3. Buy fresh cheese at Simmons Farm Organics
Simmons Farm is a farmer’s market situated in Middletown. This huge family farm is famous for growing heirloom and traditional produce for farmer’s markets, farm stand, and wholesalers. The farm offers the highest quality of eggs, pastured pork, beef, as well as, seasonal offerings. Simmons Farm produces their cheese on the farm dairy. They use their cow and goat milk to make 100 percent fresh cheese daily. You can not only visit this farm but can also make your purchases from here while vacationing in Middletown.
Simmons Farm Organics
Address: 1942 W Main Rd, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Simmons Farm Organics
Opening hours: Mon & Fri: 3pm - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Tue, Thu & Sat)
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4. Go for fishing and wildlife viewing at Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
The Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge occupies a peninsula between Rhode Island Sound and the Sakonnet River. It is a popular tourist attraction in the locality and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The spot is a major wintering and stopover area for migratory birds. It is one of Rhode Island’s five major national wildlife refuges. The spot offers different kinds of activities for the visitors throughout the year including wildlife viewing and fishing.
Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
Address: Middletown, RI 02842, USA
Website: Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
5. Get fresh veggies at Sweet Berry Farm
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Sweet Berry Farm on Monday, December 14, 2020
A cafe, as well as, a farm market in Middletown, Sweet Berry Farm is set on huge conserved farmland. Located in proximity to downtown Newport, the farm is also at a short distance from Aquidneck Island’s beaches. It sells freshly produced seasonal vegetables, fruits, cut flowers, and a wide variety of specialty and gourmet foods. The farm is one of the prominent tourist attractions in the locality and uses sustainable growing practices.
Sweet Berry Farm
Address: 915 Mitchell’s Ln, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Sweet Berry Farm
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
6. Marvel at the artwork at DeBlois Gallery
If you are an art lover and are vacationing in Middletown, spend some time at the DeBlois Gallery. This cooperative gallery exhibits not only the work of the member artists but also showcases the artistic talents of the emerging artists and guest artists of the locality. Intimate and small, this contemporary art gallery displays the art of the guest artists invited every month apart from the artwork of the member artists.
DeBlois Gallery
Address: 134 Aquidneck Ave, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: DeBlois Gallery
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
7. Enjoy wildlife viewing at Norman Bird Sanctuary
The mission of Norman Bird Sanctuary is to provide environmental education, offer field trips, summer camps, public programs and more. Its programs enable thousands of grown-ups, as well as kids to establish a meaningful rapport with nature. Set on a massive property, the tourist attraction is an environmental education center, a museum, and a beautiful wildlife sanctuary that houses a wide variety of habitats and also offers 11.26 km (7 mi) of hiking trails for the outdoor enthusiasts.
Norman Bird Sanctuary
Address: 583 3rd Beach Rd, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Norman Bird Sanctuary
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
8. Climb up to the top of Purgatory Chasm to enjoy picturesque views
While many of you would have explored the mansions, enjoyed the scenic beaches, and have taken the picturesque cliff walk in Newport, in case you are serious of doing something offbeat, indulge in a short hike to reach Purgatory Chasm. Located on Middletown’s shores, this natural wonder is only a short distance from Newport by car, Climb onto the top of the cliff but mind your steps as the surface is rocky. You will have an amazing view of the stunning Second Beach. Catch the surfers doing what they are best at in the seawater.
Purgatory Chasm
Address: Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Opening hours: 5am - 5pm (daily)
9. Laze around for hours on Sachuest Beach (Second Beach)
The well-kept beach with its stretch of shores allure the vacationers and the locals alike. Sachuest Beach popularly referred to as Second Beach is a well-known tourist attraction and faces the South. This family-friendly sea beach is around a mile (1.60 km) long and has great sand and excellent surfing opportunity. There are ample parking spaces and other facilities including changing areas, a concession stand, picnic tables, grills, showers, and shades situated at the main building. Also, you will find surfboard lessons and rentals available and the famous truck for Del’s Lemonade.
Sachuest Beach
Address: 315 Sachuest Point Rd, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Second Beach
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
10. Accompany your little ones to Paradise Valley Park
The park is located in the city of Middletown and is an excellent spot for walking your dogs. Well-preserved and beautiful, the Paradise Valley Park offers around 0.80 km (0.5 mi) of walking trails. It also houses a windmill dating back to 1810, which was shifted here in 1995. It is interesting to note that the windmill is still functional. The park is also adjacent to another famous attraction called Paradise Schoolhouse, dating back to 1875. The structure houses the Middletown Historical Society and draws quite a large number of visitors.
Paradise Valley Park
Address: Prospect Ave, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Paradise Valley Park
11. Take a stroll in Prescott Farm
Prescott Farm in Middletown preserves some 40 acres (16.18 hectares) of open space. It is free and open from dawn to dusk daily for public enjoyment. The farm from colonial-era features lovely walking trails, gardens, a windmill dating back to 1812, and many other historic buildings. Visitors can feed the geese and the ducks at the pond here. The farm is also suitable for enjoying a cozy picnic with your dear ones. You must visit the herb gardens and the period kitchen, which are created by some of the Master Gardeners from the University of Rhode Islands.
Prescott Farm
Address: 2009 W Main Rd, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Prescott Farm
12. Hike the Sakonnet Greenway Trailhead
If you are an outdoor enthusiast and looking for a great hiking trail in Middletown, Sakonnet Greenway Trailhead is a fantastic option. The trail is considered to be the longest sequential nature trail on the island and covers 16.09 km (10 mi) contiguously. Offering a real snapshot of the Aquidneck Island, hikers will enjoy the opportunity of viewing a variety of wildlife, woodlands, meadows, agricultural landscapes, and farms on their way. The trail passes through well-known locales including Aquidneck Farms, The Glen in Portsmouth, Newport Vineyards, Newport National Golf Club, Albro Woods, and soccer fields among others. They will also come across several parking locations on their way. The trail is accessible by the public from dawn to dusk and is free. While dogs can accompany the owners, they should be leashed and entry of motorized vehicles or bicycles are not permitted.
Sakonnet Greenway Trailhead
Address: 388 Mitchell’s Ln, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Sakonnet Greenway Trailhead
13. Visit Surfer's End for a great beachside experience
Your visit to Middletown will be incomplete if you do not explore this beautiful public beach. Surfer’s End is the perfect beach to relax in the company of your loved ones and for watching other people. It is also a haven for people who are fond of surfing. The beach is pretty safe with lots of lifeguards on duty while the sand here is white. Mornings in summer can be crowded but the beach is ideal for taking a stroll in the evening. The parking facility is available here at an extra charge. The beach is a perfect place to be in to watch and marvel at the gorgeous sunrise and sunset.
Surfer's End
Address: Hanging Rock Rd, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Surfer’s End
Opening hours: 6am - 7pm (daily)
14. Watch your favorite movie at Island Cinemas 10
Vacationing in Middletown and do not know how to spend your evening? How about going to a movie with your family or friends and entertain yourself thoroughly? Island Cinemas 10 is a plush movie theater located in the city of Middletown, Rhode Island. The theater has 10 movie screens with comfortable rocker chairs, the latest digital sound, stadium seating, and a large concession menu with plenty of options. This sophisticated and state-of-the-art cinema in the city was set up in 2007. Situated in the Home Depot Plaza, the Boston Culinary Group runs the theater.
Island Cinemas 10
Address: 866 W Main Rd, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Island Cinemas 10
15. Savor the finest gastronomical delights at Anthony's Seafood
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
They’re back!!! Low in calories ; High in protein, iron, b12, vitamin C, and omega 3’s. Perfect option for a healthy meal!!
Posted by Anthony's Seafood on Thursday, January 7, 2021
When you are dying to have some superbly fresh seafood without breaking your bank in Middletown, dining at Anthony’s Seafood is an excellent choice. This longtime restaurant is open daily and serves both lunches, as well as, dinners. The restaurant boasts high-quality seafood dishes, which will make you want to come here again. Try out their Seaworthy starters and take your pick from their baked, fried classics to boiled and grilled favorites. You can either eat here or opt for the take-out menu. The ambiance is casual with impeccable service by the staff.
Anthony's Seafood
Address: 963 Aquidneck Ave, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Anthony’s Seafood
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 8pm; Sun: 12pm - 8pm
16. Chug down your favorite drink at Rusty's
Rustic and casual, Rusty’s is one of the popular local dive bars in the city. If you are looking for pocket-friendly drinks including breakfast in Middletown, this can be a great choice. Evenings here are fun and the bar is an excellent spot to let your hair down and unwind yourself thoroughly. You can enjoy karaoke and some good music while savoring your favorite drink. They serve large portions, which are reasonably priced and have excellent daily specials on their menu.
Rusty's
Address: 44 Wave Ave, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Rusty’s
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 1am; Sat - Sun: 8.30am - 1am
17. Shop at RK Plaza Middletown
Shopaholics have every reason to rejoice when they reach RK Plaza in Middletown, Rhode Island. A bustling shopping mall in the city, you have every reason to shop till you drop. Make sure you have adequate time in your hands when you visit this shopping mall. It is a high traffic site with thousands of vehicles every day. If you are looking for the latest designer trends in clothes and accessories for both males and females, the Marshalls will not disappoint you. Visit Bed Bath & Beyond for all your domestic requirements.
RK Plaza Middletown
Address: Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: RK Plaza Middletown
18. Offer your prayers at St. Columba's Chapel
A beautiful parish church, St. Columba’s Chapel is made of stone and features stained glass windows. Classic and old, it gives a feel of as if you are transported to the English countryside. There is a traditional churchyard, which is a peaceful place to take a stroll and spend some time doing self-reflection no matter whenever you come here. The cemetery here is the final resting site for quite a few dignitaries of Aquidneck Island such as that of Senator Claiborne Pell and Nuala, his wife.
St. Columba's Chapel
Address: 55 Vaucluse Ave, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: St. Columba’s Chapel
19. Explore Boyd’s Mill at leisure
Set up in 1810, Boyd’s Mill is now situated in Middletown’s Paradise Park. Also called Boyd’s Eight-vane Wind Grist Mill, it is one of the last few survivors out of over 20 major windmills that once operated to supply Aquidneck Island’s daily needs. As the park is open for the public throughout the year, visitors can access the mill whenever they visit the city of Middletown. However, one can only get inside the Mill subject to the seasonal schedule. Yet, the exterior of the Mill has multiple informational signs with millstones to capture the attention of the tourists.
Boyd’s Mill
Address: Paradise Avenue, Middletown, RI
Website: Boyd’s Mill
20. Spend some time at Whitehall Museum House
Located in Middletown, Rhode Island, the Whitehall Museum House was originally the abode for George Berkeley, a famous early modern philosopher. The philosopher wished to open a college on Bermuda and was working on that in the early 18th century. The historic museum house can be accessed by the visitors from July to September every year. At all other times, entry to the museum is only possible by appointments.
Whitehall Museum House
Address: 311 Berkeley Ave, Middletown, RI 02842, United States
Website: Whitehall Museum House
Opening hours: Summers: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
Enjoy a magical vacation in Middletown, Rhode Island
The city of Middletown offers a plethora of attractions for visitors of all kinds starting from adrenalin junkies to people who are looking for a quiet getaway to relax and unwind. Beach lovers can laze around the beaches for hours while adventure lovers can go for activities like surfing or hiking. Visitors who wish to go easy can visit the parks, restaurants, and museums. So, check out the best things to do in Middletown, Rhode Island, and enjoy an unforgettable vacation with your loved ones.
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