There’s always a reason why North Kingstown in Rhode Island must be included in your travel list. It is a lovely and thriving town that is full of history, which is reflected in their old charm houses, churches, museums, and more — all of which is over a hundred years of age. Visiting North Kingstown gives you access to the past and future. There are the 17th- to 18th-century houses in Wickford Village, Smith’s Castle, Stephen Northup House, and more old beauties. Meanwhile, this working village has a world-class economic development in the old base. Big and small businesses keep springing up like mushrooms, which means the 21st-century growth potential is happening. It offers you two worlds as well. The water is very accessible, while green gems are just around the corner (parks and hiking trails). Entertainment is also a priority here. Wickford is home to one of New England’s biggest and famous art festivals, which is held annually and is the awesome ‘Festival of Lights’ during December. If you want to be part of some the best that is happening in this city check out the best things to do in North Kingstown, Rhode Island!
1. Explore the old charm of Wickford Village
Wickford Village is many things glommed together. Oldest Anglican meeting home, legendary America’s wooden lighthouse, ancient runestone with mysterious inscriptions way over 500 years ago — in other words, Wickford Village is the town of superlatives. Your adventure starts at exploring the best of Wickford Village, from walking on the gorgeous tree-lined streets to admiring the 17th- and 18th-century houses and discovering quirky things at unique shops and stores. Afterward, experience their culinary scene as the village is also surrounded by nice and delicious eateries and restaurants.
Wickford Village
Address: 1 Main St, North Kingstown, RI 02852, United States
2. Step back in time at Smith's Castle
This is a house museum that was built in 1678. It is indeed one of the oldest houses in Rhode Island. The land on which the home nestled was known as Cocumscussoc. In 1993, the museum was marked as a National Historic Landmark. A large number of artifacts and information were installed here. The moment you step inside, you will feel the historic significance at every corner. In every room, there is something to learn about, like the picture of women hanging in the staircase.
Smith's Castle
Address: 55 Richard Smith Dr, North Kingstown, RI, United States
Website: Smith’s Castle
3. Enjoy eating fresh fruits at Casey Farm
The corn crib & looking down the lane
Posted by Casey Farm on Wednesday, 23 October 2019
Situated in Saunderstown, Casey Farm became the source of food for both local and foreign markets in the 18th-century. This historic property has now become a historic museum that is open to the public. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the beautiful Narragansett Bay, this museum is indeed a place for relaxation and meditation. Experience life in the farmyard and tour at the cemetery, where remains of six generations of Caseys lie. Moreover, you can also enjoy the sight of happy farm animals and you can pick some fresh fruit.
Casey Farm
Address: 2325 Boston Neck Rd, Saunderstown, RI, United States
Website: Casey Farm
Opening hours: Sat: 8:30am - 12:30pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
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4. Pop in at Biomes Marine Biology Center
An algae-eating blenny in our new symbiosis exhibit, featuring clownfish and sea anemones.
Posted by Biomes Marine Biology Center on Tuesday, 9 April 2019
Explore the amazing world of marine life at Biomes Marine Biology Center, the biggest aquarium in the state, which features interactive exhibits, displays, feeding demonstrations, and even family-friendly classes. Every corner has something to learn about and each tank has information about a particular species. The Biomes Center is consistently long known for teaching people about the aquatic life of the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay. Overall, this place is a combination of learning in a fun and exciting environment for everyone.
Biomes Marine Biology Center
Address: 6640 Post Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852, United States
Website: Biomes Marine Biology Center
Opening hours: 12pm - 5pm (daily)
Price: 11 USD
5. Watch the seals in action at John H. Chafee Rome Point Preserve
Rome Point in the John H. Chafee Nature Preserve is one of the best places to watch the seals lounge and play. Have you ever seen them in action? : sjp314159
Posted by Visit Rhode Island on Monday, 9 April 2018
John H. Chafee Rome Point Preserve gives you two worlds, this place is a combination of forest and bay, which means tons of things to see and to do, from the land to the sea are possible. This wonderful nature preserve has plenty of pathways throughout the forest heading to the magnificent Narragansett Bay. You can also tag along with your best buddy for a hike. During winter, you can see the seals having a great time on a rock cliff. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars! What’s more? Wickford Village is just around the corner, where you can explore great restaurants to replenish after an exhausting adventure.
John H. Chafee Rome Point Preserve
Address: 1344 Boston Neck Rd, North Kingstown, RI, United States
Website: John H. Chafee Rome Point Preserve
6. Satisfy your foodie soul at Frankie's Italian Pizzeria
Looking for an authentic Italian dish? Look no further! Frankie’s Italian Pizzeria is ready to serve fresh and high-quality Italian cuisine. Good music, impeccable service, cozy atmosphere, awesome food, and drink — indeed, this gorgeous restaurant is nothing short of splendid. The all-time-favorite pizza must be included in your orders, especially when you tag along with the kiddos. Craving for seafood? Perhaps, an order of seared salmon and shrimp scampi can satisfy you. Whatever you are looking for, a gastronomic experience is always guaranteed. Dine-in now!
Frankie's Italian Pizzeria
Address: 1051 Ten Rod Rd, North Kingstown, RI, United States
Website: Frankie’s Italian Pizzeria
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 4pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 4pm - 10pm; Sun: 4pm - 8pm
7. Pay your respects at Seabee Museum & Memorial Park
Perhaps, you may wonder, “What are Seabees”? The right question is, “Who are Seabees”?. Seabees are a fighting force of men and women who are called for constructing bases and sometimes they are even called at combat fields. Seabee Museum & Memorial Park is a place of tribute for thousands of Seabees who served at Davisville, Rhode Island, from 1942 to 1994. This place became one of the historical sites in Rhode Island and is also known as the “Original Home of the Seabees”.
Seabee Museum & Memorial Park
Address: 21 Iafrate Way, North Kingstown, RI 02852, United States
Website: Seabee Museum & Memorial Park
Opening hours: Fri, Wed, & Sat: 9:30am - 2pm (closed from Sun - Tue & Thu)
8. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets at North Kingstown Town Beach
Whether you are aiming for some vitamin sea, fresh air, or watching the sunset — North Kingstown Town Beach is the place to be. This simple and nice beach is very serene, which is surrounded by greenery. It also features a lawn and tables, which is good for a family picnic. The beach is suited for small kids because the waters don’t have big waves and are too shallow. A good stroll is also a nice idea.
North Kingstown Town Beach
Address: 10 Beach St., North Kingstown, RI, United States
9. Explore vintage computers at Rhode Island Computer Museum
Let’s learn Computer 101! Rhode Island Computer Museum is a one-of-a-kind technology gem, which features vintage types of computers. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore plenty of mainframe computers and personal computers that came from the UK and the US. Moreover, this computer museum also offers classes and sessions about computers, from decoding to making your video games and more. It’s now time to bring out the computer genius in you.
Rhode Island Computer Museum
Address: 1130 Ten Rod Rd, Building C, Suite C103, North Kingstown, RI 02852, United States
Website: Rhode Island Computer Museum
Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed from Sun - Fri)
10. Relax and play at Wilson Park
If you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of city life, this little and nice green gem in North Kingstown is where you should head to. Wilson Park has a cozy atmosphere with well-maintained facilities and greenery. This is a meeting place for family, plus the wide space gives an opportunity for outdoor activities like soccer, rugby ball, tennis, and more. For the little ones, the adorable playground is just around the corner.
Wilson Park
Address: Roosevelt Ave, North Kingstown, RI, United States
Website: Wilson Park
Opening hours: 8:30am - 7:30pm (daily)
11. Enjoy some fishing at the Narrow River
If fishing is your game, then you should start looking for the Narrow River. Also known as Pettaquamscutt River, this gorgeous river is not only a great paddling venue in North Kingstown, the shallow water will give you the opportunity to catch some fishes. It is part of the Mattatuxet River’s tidal extension and it passes through approximately 10.14 km (6.3 mi). What a nice thought — relax, while having yourself a free meal (fresh catch from the river)!
Narrow River
Address: North Kingstown, Rhode Island
12. Hear a mass at the Old Baptist Meetinghouse Yard
If you want to admire some of the town’s old charms, then a visit to Old Baptist Meetinghouse Yard is a must. It is also known as the Six-Principle Baptist Church and one of the oldest churches in the state whereas the meeting house together with the cemetery was used as a venue for the meeting at 1703. In 1842, the house underwent restorations in a Greek Revival style. The church is situated in a peaceful area, which means relaxation and meditation are achievable here. Everyone is welcome to hear the mass every Sunday morning.
Old Baptist Meetinghouse Yard
Address: North Kingstown, Rhode Island
13. Admire the historic Stephen Northup House
Stephen Northup came from England in 1645 when he was about 15 years old, and in 1660 he started building the house now...
Posted by Stewart Ratzker on Thursday, 12 January 2017
Another historic house that should not be missed when in town is Stephen Northup House. The home was constructed between 1660 to 1712 by Stephen Northup when he is only about 15 years old. The original house burned down together with a huge part of the south of Providence between 1675 - 1676. Northup’s bloodline is quite famous wherein one of Stephen’s descendants, Stephen Douglas became famous after his debate with Abraham Lincoln in the 1860 US presidential election and probably, you know the story already.
Stephen Northup House
Address: 99 Featherbed Lane in North Kingstown, Rhode Island
14. Play golf at Kings Crossing Golf Club
Posted by Kings Crossing Golf Club on Wednesday, 2 January 2019
If your favorite outdoor game is golf, Kings Crossing Golf Club is what you are looking for. It features a nine-hole layout that is suitable for everyone. It is consistently known for providing high-quality courses in a relaxing environment. It is advisable to play on Friday wherein there’s live music and happy hour, plus delicious fish and chips and awesome burgers served with a smile.
Kings Crossing Golf Club
Address: 655 Old Baptist Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852, United States
Website: Kings Crossing Golf Club
Opening hours: 6am - 7pm (daily)
Price: From 16 USD
15. Check out the aweosme artworks at Wickford Art Association Gallery
Indeed, the Wickford Art Association Gallery is a venue for inspiration. It is a non-profit arts organization, which aims to promote fine arts to its members and the local community by educating and inspiring. Its location, which is nestled on a seaside adds inspiration to every masterpiece. This gallery features art exhibits and art sessions/classes. Did I mention that the Wickford Art Association Gallery is the producer of the prestigious Wickford Art Festival which is held annually?
Wickford Art Association Gallery
Address: 36 Beach St, North Kingstown, RI, United States
Website: Wickford Art Association Gallery
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 3pm; Sun: 12pm - 3pm (closed on Mon)
16. Take a stroll at Ryan Park
Posted by Mindy Swanson on Monday, 14 October 2019
If you are looking for a nice walking trail in town, going to Ryan Park is a good idea. It is surrounded by lakes with panoramic views. This beautiful park is truly a green oasis where you can see some piece of everything, from nice huge straight path to a large fond, from a historic cemetery to a gigantic BMX track. Moreover, you can also do some fishing on the lake.
Ryan Park
Address: Oak Hill Rd, North Kingstown, RI, United States
Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)
17. See the Poplar Point Lighthouse
Just a trivia, there are over 1,000 lighthouses in the state, and among the favorite is Poplar Point Lighthouse, which is situated in North Kingstown. It was erected in 1831 together with the wooden tower and keeper’s dwelling. In 1882, it was replaced by Wickford Harbor Light and was sold in 1894. The lighthouse is considered historic and is included in the National Register of Historic Places. It is also the oldest surviving wooden lighthouse in Rhode Island. Make it a point to drop by or bring your whole family for a great time and fascinating sights.
Poplar Point Lighthouse
Address: North Kingstown, RI 02852, United States
18. Walk along with your dog at Blue Beach
Situated in a hidden part of Quonset Point’s industrial complex, Blue Beach is a place to-go-to if you are aiming to relax and stay away from the noise of the city as the beach offers panoramic views and is always less crowded even on holidays. The beach also welcomes dogs with free doggy bags. It is a nice and simple beach with soft sand. What’s more? Parking is as easy as there is enough space.
Blue Beach
Address: 61 Whitecap Dr, North Kingstown, RI, United States
Website: Blue Beach
19. Explore the hiking trail at Cocumscussoc State Park
Nature is an adventure — yup, Cocumscussoc State Park offers a sense of adventure through its marvelous hiking trails. This park is meant to be a hiking trail from Carr Pond to Camp Nokewa, which occupies the swath of the southern part of the land in Stony Lane (between west train tracks and Post Road). Selected trails that can be accessed by ATV.
Cocumscussoc State Park
Address: North Kingstown, RI 02852, United States
20. Check out the oldest musical organs at Old Narragansett Church
Situated in Wickford, Old Narragansett Church (also known as Old St. Paul’s Church and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church) is another historic church in town that must be included on your list. It was founded in 1706 and the pioneer of the congregation was only 17 landholder families. In 1787, Rev. William Smith re-formed the church. This church has many stories to tell. Did you know that Gilbert Stuart (America’s foremost portraitists) was baptized in this church? It has a rustic charm balcony, box pews; and it takes pride in having the oldest musical organs that are still used during the United State’s services. In 1973, the church was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Old Narragansett Church
Address: Church Ln, North Kingstown, RI 02852, United States
21. Buy fresh produce at Coastal Growers Farmers Market
Posted by Coastal Growers Farmers Market on Tuesday, 30 May 2017
Coastal Growers Farmer Market brings locally fresh and high-quality produce and food all year round. The market is a venue for a weekly event, where people visit the place to support the small proprietors and local farmers. Sure, you’ll get tired of shopping, that’s why music is played at a background while everyone gets on with their business. Great selection of fresh fruit, friendly vendors, relaxing atmosphere with good music — in other words, this market is nothing short of splendid. The real drawcard of this market is its location. It is located just right off the historic and beautiful Casey Farm overlooking the bay. After an exhausting shopping, you can visit and explore the lovely farm, which is famous in town as well.
Coastal Growers Farmers Market
Address: 2325 Boston Neck Rd, Saunderstown, RI 02874, United States
Website: Coastal Growers Farmers Market
Opening hours: Sat: 8:30am - 12:30pm (closed from Sun - Fri)
22. Swing by The Shoppes at Quonset Point
The Shops at Quonset Point (this entire plaza is all block, there is also some stone work, it is a really big plaza impossible to get it all in one shot)
Posted by Fresilli & Sons Masonry, Inc. on Friday, 23 July 2010
If you fancy a little bit of shopping, perhaps visiting The Shoppes at Quonset Point will complete your day. It is a big plaza, which features almost everything. Feeling hungry? No worry! This place is famous for a quick lunch too. You can easily settle for a feet-long sub. Need pampering? There’s a nice nail salon here and don’t forget to stop by Sally’s Beauty Supply. If you’re looking for basic needs and essentials, Dave’s Market got you covered!
The Shoppes at Quonset Point
Address: 84 Gate Rd, North Kingstown, RI 02852, United States
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
23. Get your collectible sports card at Baseball Cards of RI
Sports fanatics will drool over this collectible store. Baseball Cards of RI is a nice and organized card shop, which offers a variety of sports cards, from football to basketball, from baseball to hockey and collecting supplies (soft sleeves, deck protectors, top loaders, and more) — all at reasonable prices. But soon, you’ll discover that the real drawcard of this shop is their impeccable service and hospitality.
Baseball Cards of RI
Address: 6861 Post Rd North Kingstown, Rhode Island
Website: Baseball Cards of RI
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 10am - 6:30pm; Wed - Fri: 10am - 7pm; Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm
24. Grab delicious coffee and pastries at Something's Brewing
Yeah, something is always brewing at Something’s Brewing. The moment you step inside the premises, the sweet aroma of coffee will greet you. Situated on Post Road, this gorgeous cafe offers great coffee which is “organic and locally roasted”. They also offer plenty of hot or cold brewed-in flavors. Moreover, they serve delicious breakfast and little bites like homemade fresh cookies, muffins, sandwiches, salad, and pastries. The whole place is serene and the atmosphere is cozy with a nice little reading nook on the side.
Something's Brewing
Address: 7446 Post Road North Kingstown, Rhode Island
Website: Something’s Brewing
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6am - 3pm; Sat: 7am - 3pm; Sun: 7am - 1pm
North Kingstown: the town of superlatives
The charm of North Kingstown is timeless. This town is blessed with everything, from nature to history. The rustic charm of the 17th- to 18th-century houses and museums are worth your time. Beach holidays and nature tripping are possible. Finding unique and quirky souvenirs is achievable. It also has a rich culinary scene, which means a gastronomic experience is sure a promise. Seriously, what’s not to love in this town? With that being said, North Kingstown is truly the town of superlatives.
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