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Rhode Island may be small, but it calls travelers to explore its coastal retreats, artistic hubs, and charming villages. If you love the ocean, Narragansett and Little Compton provide breathtaking coastal views, sandy beaches, and fresh seafood. History enthusiasts can step back in time in Bristol, home to the country鈥檚 oldest Fourth of July celebration, or East Greenwich, where colonial-era buildings line the streets. Seasonal events like the Newport Jazz Festival and Rhode Island Calamari Festival make these destinations even more appealing in 2025. These top 12 Rhode Island towns to visit in 2025 showcase the best of the state.

Newport

The seaside town of Newport is prominent for its Gilded Age mansions. Visitors can step into the past at The Breakers, the grandest of Newport鈥檚 mansions, once home to the Vanderbilt family. Nearby, the 1890s Marble House showcases opulent interiors inspired by European palaces. You may also walk along Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail that hugs the coastline, for a mix of rugged shoreline and elegant mansion backdrops. Sailing enthusiasts can explore Newport鈥檚 maritime scene at Bowen鈥檚 Wharf, lined with waterfront restaurants, shops, and boat tours. In 2025, the Newport Jazz Festival returns, bringing top-tier musicians to Fort Adams. This event, held every summer, continues a tradition that started in 1954. Music lovers can enjoy live performances with the Narragansett Bay in the background.

Westerly

Westerly straddles Rhode Island鈥檚 southwestern coastline, giving easy access to both shoreline and cultural attractions. Misquamicut Beach is the go-to spot for sunbathing and swimming, with clean waters and a relaxed atmosphere. Furthermore, Watch Hill has a charming village center, boutique shops, and the historic Flying Horse Carousel, the oldest continuously operating carousel in the country (since 1876). Meanwhile, Napatree Point Conservation Area is a hidden treasure. This stretch of undeveloped coastline is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and quiet beach walks. The town鈥檚 arts and music scene is also a big draw, with performances at The United Theatre, a restored venue that hosts live music, films, and art exhibits. In June 2025, Westerly Summer Pops, an annual open-air concert, will lead orchestral music to Wilcox Park, complete with fireworks and a lively crowd for the 44th edition.

Narragansett

About 30 miles south of Providence, Narragansett is a classic Rhode Island beach town with a strong surf culture that draws visitors year-round. Narragansett Town Beach is a favorite for surfers and swimmers, with rolling waves and ocean views. Just south, Scarborough State Beach provides a quieter alternative with tide pools and a long stretch of sand. There is also Fishermen鈥檚 Memorial State Park. The 91-acre expanse has picnic areas, hiking trails, and easy access to the Block Island Ferry. The Towers, the last remaining structure of the famous Narragansett Pier Casino from the 1880s, is another point of interest. It now hosts concerts, dances, and community events. Lastly, the Rhode Island Calamari Festival will feature fresh seafood, live music, and local vendors in the town in 2025.

Bristol

Bristol has been in the headlines for hosting the oldest continuous Fourth of July Parade in the country; it's called the Military, Civic and Firemen's Parade. One of the hotspots is Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, a splendid 45-room estate with 33 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking Narragansett Bay. Alternatively, Linden Place Mansion, now a museum, captivates with its Federal-style architecture and guided tours. Meanwhile, Colt State Park occupies about 460 acres with miles of coastal walking trails, picnic areas, a museum, and panoramic water views. Waterfront dining and boutique shopping await at Thames Street Landing, a spot perfect for strolling. Quite similar to Narragansett, the Bristol Oyster Festival take place in the town in 2025, highlighting fresh shellfish, live entertainment, and craft vendors on the town鈥檚 waterfront.

Jamestown

Jamestown is a quieter, more scenic alternative to its neighboring coastal towns on Conanicut Island. Beavertail State Park takes the lead here for boasting a rugged coastline, tide pools, and the historic Beavertail Lighthouse, the third oldest in the United States. On the contrary is Fort Wetherill State Park. It is a former military fort turned into a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and exploring abandoned tunnels covered in colorful graffiti. Hidden away from the main attractions, Potter鈥檚 Cove is a great place for kayaking, with calm waters and a quiet shoreline. Or you can catch a break at Jamestown Windmill. From 1787, it continued working for a little over a century and still stands 30 feet tall.

Warren

Warren features a strong artistic identity and a historic waterfront. Blount Clam Shack and Market is the best bet for a taste of the town鈥檚 seafood heritage through seafood and soups. The Maxwell House is a preserved home built during the 1750s that provides insight into colonial life. The 14.5 miles of Bristol County鈥檚 East Bay Bike Path runs through Warren and offers beautiful views of the bay, salt marshes, and woodlands. Along the bike route, Jacob鈥檚 Point Preserve is a lesser-known spot perfect for birdwatching and even has a delicate tidal marsh. Warren also upholds its community through its Folks Festival every year which will continue through 2025. It comprises live music on two stages, craft vendors, and local food trucks.

Little Compton

The unspoiled landscapes of Little Compton make it one of Rhode Island鈥檚 most peaceful destinations. Goosewing Beach Preserve is a highlight, featuring dunes, walking trails, and one of the loveliest shorelines in the state. The Sakonnet Point Lighthouse, standing at the southern tip, provides breathtaking ocean views and a connection to the town鈥檚 maritime past from 1884. Meanwhile, Sakonnet Vineyards promises wine tastings in a picturesque 169-acre setting, with rows of grapevines stretching toward the coastline. It鈥檚 one of Rhode Island鈥檚 best spots for locally made wines. For the past two decades, the town has been the spot for the Little Compton Summer Art Show. The 2025 edition will continue to showcase regional artists' paintings, sculptures, and handmade crafts in the town鈥檚 historic commons.

Tiverton

Tiverton is where small galleries, waterfront views, and fresh seafood create a welcoming atmosphere. The Four Corners Historic District has a creative streak, featuring local artisans, pottery studios, and unique boutiques on its 50 acres. Here is Gray鈥檚 Ice Cream, which has been a local favorite for decades, serving homemade flavors in a classic farm setting. The black-stone Fogland Beach is perfect for kayaking, windsurfing, or a quiet beach walk. It鈥檚 less crowded than other Rhode Island beaches, making it an excellent relaxing destination. The five miles of Weetamoo Woods & Pardon Gray Preserve hiking trails take visitors through 650 acres of dense forests and past stone walls.

South Kingstown

South Kingstown stretches along Rhode Island鈥檚 southern shore. East Matunuck State Beach is a top spot, known for its soft sand and gentle waves, making it great for swimming. The 787 acres of Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge are a haven, with walking trails leading to ponds, woodlands, and ocean views. Birdwatchers often spot ospreys, egrets, and other coastal birds. Theatre By The Sea is a loved historic venue presenting live performances in a charming barn-style theater. The shows range from Broadway musicals to local productions. The International Museum of 海角社区 War II is another highlight. With nearly 6,000 artifacts to detail the event, it is a comprehensive location to explore.

East Greenwich

Main Street is the heart of East Greenwich, lined with colonial-era buildings, independent shops, and some of the best restaurants in the state. Seafood lovers should stop by Greenwich Bay Oyster Bar to sample delicacies like Lobster Risotto, Seared Scallops, and Clam Chowder. History is everywhere in East Greenwich. The Varnum Memorial Armory Museum houses Revolutionary War artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and historic documents, in a 1913 armory. Goddard Memorial State Park is among the most famous metropolitan parks in the area. It has walking trails, golf courses, and a long stretch of beach along Greenwich Bay. In the fall, the park鈥檚 tree-lined paths turn into a colorful landscape. Briggs Boesch Farm is a unique gem where visitors can pick seasonal fruits, explore the 1.5-mile walking path, and learn about local farming traditions.

Woonsocket

Once a mill town, Woonsocket now showcases Rhode Island鈥檚 French-Canadian heritage through its architecture, museums, and local traditions. St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center is significant for its stunning fresco paintings, often called the 鈥淪istine Chapel of America.鈥� Whereas Chan鈥檚 Fine Oriental Dining combines jazz and Asian cuisine. It鈥檚 been hosting live jazz and blues performances for decades, making it a favorite for music lovers. River Island Park allows you to walk along the Blackstone River or even go paddling in it. Meanwhile, every Columbus Day weekend in Woonsocket features Autumnfest, its biggest annual event likely to take place in 2025 as well. The festival has a grand parade, food vendors, live performances, and carnival rides.

Charlestown

Situated along the southern coast, Charlestown is home to some of the state鈥檚 most pristine beaches and nature preserves. Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge is a top attraction, with coastal trails, birdwatching spots for about 250 species, and a salt pond ideal for kayaking. East Beach is another highlight, with three miles of unspoiled shoreline with fewer crowds than other coastal destinations. Interestingly, Fantastic Umbrella Factory is a quirky shopping and dining spot with artisan shops, gardens, and free-roaming chickens. It has been a fun place to explore since 1968, especially for families. Finally, the initial three days of August 2025 are for the Charlestown Seafood Festival, a three-day event celebrating fresh local seafood at Ninigret Park. Lobster rolls, clam cakes, and chowder take center stage, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but its towns present an incredible variety of experiences, making this the perfect year to explore them. With 2025 bringing exciting events like the Charlestown Seafood Festival and Autumnfest, these towns promise more than just sights; they offer stories, traditions, and a sense of place. Whether it鈥檚 a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, these 12 top Rhode Island towns to visit in 2025 are a hoot. So, pack your bags and experience the Ocean State like a local.