Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in Narragansett, RI

  • Published 2022/09/01

Many know the town of Narragansett, RI, for its many gorgeous beaches.

But apart from these, this place has also experienced a long history.

Once known as the go-to summer destination many decades ago, the town has managed to preserve the charm that attracted its visitors from around the world.

From spacious sandy beaches to exciting fishing locations, a holiday here will provide you with a laid-back, relaxing time exploring the coast.

Here are some of the best things to do in Narragansett, RI:

Head Over to the Point Judith Lighthouse

Scenic view of Point Judith Lighthouse

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Constructed in 1857, the Point Judith Lighthouse towers over a dangerous area where many ships have seen their end.

So, when coming here, apart from appreciating the gorgeous view, you can also understand its significance in enforcing the safety of Rhode Island sailors and fishermen throughout history.

Far view of Point Judith Lighthouse

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Here, you can head over to the Point Judith Coast Guard Station if you want to check out the lighthouse’s beacon.

You can also honor local fishers who tragically died at sea by visiting the Point Judith Fishermen’s Memorial.

Most of all, stop by Point Judith Lighthouse to take in the fantastic view of the sea.

Exterior of the Point Judith Lighthouse

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Pay Homage to an Artist at the Gilbert Stuart Birthplace Museum

Exterior of Gilbert Stuart Birthplace Museum

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A home built all the way back in 1750, head over to the Gilbert Stuart Birthplace Museum.

Here, you can get a glimpse of how one of the U.S.’s most popular portraitists lived more than two and a half centuries ago.

The 18th century home has been expertly restored, featuring period antiques from the era.

Daytime view of Gilbert Stuart Birthplace Museum

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It showcases a number of reproductions of Stuart’s masterpieces.

You can also find an interesting snuff mill at the home, a tool used to grind tobacco back in the day.

Located in Saunderstown, RI, you can reach this interesting and unique museum just 13 minutes away from Narragansett.

Go Kayaking at Narrow River

Apart from the beach, you can also take part in water-based activities in the nearby Narrow River.

At Narrow River, you can rent a kayak and paddle around to explore this part of the Pettaquamscutt Watershed.

If you ask other tourists or locals, they will tell you the best time to do this activity would be near sundown.

By then, you can witness active shorebirds at the John H. Chaffee National Wildlife Refuge.

You can also learn more about the natural ecosystem at Narraganset by hiring a kayak guide.

They can tell you more about the local geography and the long history of Narragansett while you kayak through this impressive estuary.

At Narrow River, you can find calm waters, so beginners and families can take part in this activity too.

Pay a Visit to The Towers

Scenic view of The Towers

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When you visit Narragansett, you will immediately notice this iconic landmark.

The Towers used to serve as the gates to the Narragansett Pier Casino.

They serve as remnants of bygone days when many well-off tourists flock to this place to enjoy a summer-long holiday.

View of The Towers

Swampyank at en.wikipedia, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Constructed in the 1880s, the casino tragically burned down at the turn of the century in 1990.

By 1905, it was rebuilt; however, it suffered the fate of many wooden structures built in that era.

Nevertheless, the stone towers still stand today, serving as a reminder of the town’s history.

Cars passing under The Towers

John Phelan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Today, The Towers have become a prime location for many social gatherings and public events.

You can also find many restaurants in this location.

But if you’re curious to know more about its past, you can take part in guided tours exploring this place.

Don’t hesitate to stop by Narragansett’s most recognizable landmark.

Aerial view of The Towers

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Discover Narragansett’s Past at South County Museum

Exterior of the South County Museum

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You can learn many things about Narragansett when you visit the South County Museum.

This place has served as the only collector of artifacts significant to the town’s history.

Its collection features more than 20,000 unique memorabilia that you can learn more about through guided tours.

You can find this amazing museum on the 174-acre Canochet Farm.

Apart from learning more about the town’s history, you can also head here to participate in events hosted here.

It also offers exciting workshops such as blacksmithing and printing.

You can find many exciting things to do here, apart from just looking at memorabilia, so add this to your Narragansett itinerary.

Hang Out at Narragansett Town Beach

People at the Narragansett Town Beach

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As you will discover, many beaches line Narragansett, thanks to its location.

If you want to go to a popular one, know that many tourists flock to Narragansett Town beach.

The beach area spans 19 acres, featuring soft sand and a lot of parking space.

A sunny day at Narragansett Town Beach

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Located near the town’s central area, you can find many places to stroll through here or restaurants to eat at.

It also features designated areas where you can try out surfing.

Want to have some fun under the sun while not straying too far from the town center?

Head over to Narragansett Town Beach.

People enjoying the waters of Narragansett Town Beach

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Pitch a Tent at Fisherman’s Memorial State Park & Campgrounds

You can also go camping while in Narragansett, as another form of a fun outdoor activity.

Head over to Fisherman’s Memorial State Park for amazing places where you can pitch your tent or park your RV.

It features a village-type ambiance located right next to well-kept roads.

You can find many exciting activities here that both adults and children can enjoy.

The camp features tennis and basketball courts where you can play ball.

Kids can head over to the playground for hours of fun.

It also features several docks and well-maintained hangout spots among the trees for some fishing fun.

Go experience the great outdoors in Narragansett by staying at this park.

Check Out Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

A house at Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

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When it comes to beaches, you will find yourself spoilt for choice in Narragansett.

Another gorgeous beach area that you can visit is Roger W. Wheeler State Beach.

The state named this beach after Roger W. Wheeler, who created Rhode Island’s lifeguard system, effectively keeping the state’s waters and beaches safe.

Here, many tourists like to go do exciting activities both on the sand and in the water.

View of the sandy Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

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If you and your family would like to have a picnic, you can choose one of the more-than-60 tables to do so.

Apart from swimming and making sandcastles, your kids can also head over to the nearby playground, where they can have fun and be active.

For your convenience, this beach features an ample parking space that can accommodate most types of vehicles.

Summer day at Roger W. Wheeler State Beach

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Explore Black Point Trail

While Narragansett and its surrounding area don’t have a lot of elevation, you can still find several easy hikes that can help you take in the beauty of the site.

If you want to check some of them out, include Black point Trail in your itinerary.

Like many of the trails in Narragansett, this one lets you appreciate and witness the charm of the state’s rocky coastline.

Black Point Trail spans 2.1 miles, and while you may find this easy, you can also come across opportunities to scale and climb rocks and bluffs.

If you love exploring areas, and if you want to take a break from beach days, try completing this trail.

It’s another great but unique way to take in the beauty of the beach.

And because the trail is easy, you can tag your kids along with you.

Spend a Day at Scarborough State Beach

Sign in Scarborough State Beach

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For an awesome beach day, head over to Scarborough State Beach.

The large, expansive sand area provides you with more than enough room to sunbathe, make sandcastles, and just hang out.

The waters here feature medium-sized waves, which many swimmers may find exciting.

Daytime view of Scarborough State Beach

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Apart from the sun, sand, and sea, this area features several gazebos, a couple of pavilions, a large number of picnic tables to choose from, and a snack shop.

You can also find time here to take a stroll at the boardwalk or head over to the observation tower, where you can witness amazing scenic views of the surrounding locations.

It’s one of the best places to head to if you’re looking for a spectacular beach day.

Discover Salty Brine State Beach

The waters of Salty Brine State Beach

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Compared to the other three beaches in this list, Salty Brine State Beach only spans a good 100 yards.

Because of this and of its popularity, you may find it filling up quickly on a good beach day.

If you’re lucky, you can get a fantastic spot to hang out in and have some fun while swimming here.

But if not, do not fret.

Many visitors head here for the impressing pavilion that features 2,800 sq. ft.

There, you can get all the visitor information you need, as well as supplies for a nice beach day.

It has restrooms and showers for your convenience.

You can also get food here from the concession stand.

Additionally, you can head over to a platform for a breathtaking view of the beach.

If you own an electric vehicle, you’ll be glad to know that Salty Brine Beach also has a parking facility and an electric charging station for your convenience.

It’s a beautiful place to check out while in Narragansett.

Try Out Clam Cakes at Aunt Carrie’s

Exterior of Aunt Carrie’s

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Have you ever tried some delicious clam cakes?

While many restaurants serve it, why not try it out at the restaurant where this dish was created?

Aunt Carrie’s has become a staple attraction in Narragansett.

Founded by Carrie Cooper, a building built in the 20s houses this amazing restaurant that offers many delicious seafood dishes.

Apart from their clam cakes, you can also try out their chowder, lobster, seafood platters, and swordfish steaks, all prepared from fresh seafood.

Currently, Carrie’s descendants continue to run the business.

They continue to provide Narragansett and its visitors with excellent seafood fare.

Visit Galilee Village

A boat at Galilee Village

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Galilee serves as a tourist hotspot for people who like the beach and fishing.

Despite being small, you can find the most extensive fishing boat fleets in Rhode Island within this village.

Here, tourists flock to the nearby beaches, fish near the docks, or party at the numerous beach clubs.

You can also find charters here.

Houses at Galilee Village

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Not only can they take you fishing, but they also let you look for whales that may pass by.

Apart from these, you can also find numerous outstanding restaurants offering fresh seafood to satiate your hunger.

Consider checking this place out while visiting Narragansett.

Old bait company at Galilee Village

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Admire the Elegance of the Shore House

The Shore House in Rhode Island has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors since it opened its doors in 1897.

Amid towering elms and the former residences of 19th-century whaling chiefs, The Shore House is situated on Ocean Road in Narragansett, Rhode Island.

The lovely Shore House, with its 31 rooms, is close to Newport and everything the town and its environs offer.

It radiates the ideal blend of nautical and classic Victorian elegance.

Guests may enjoy beach views and gentle ocean breezes from a large veranda with rocking seats.

A freshly remodeled King Room with breathtaking water views is available, and the oceanfront terrace is ideal for unwinding and listening to the waves.

Engage in Various Water Activities at Adventureland Family Fun Park

Since its founding in 1985, Adventureland Family Fun Park has been a truly family-friendly enterprise.

The wet or dry amusement park concept was first developed in Narragansett.

Originally, Adventureland had a driving range.

Hurricane Bob destroyed the range, so the Go-Kart course was created from its ruins.

In 2011, Burdick’s Ice Cream and Poppy’s Victorian Carousel served as the park’s main draws for families.

With the addition of the most current Spin Zone Bumper Cars and Bankshot Hoops play, more exciting and skill-based attractions were introduced.

The South County neighborhood and seasonal visitors continue to be the “core” of the park, keeping Adventureland Family Fun Park at the top of the list for family entertainment in Southern Rhode Island.

Come celebrate your party with fun at Adventureland, where you can enjoy attractions like the carousel, mini golf course, bumper boats, and more.

Explore the Seas with Captain Sheriff’s Fishing Charters

It provides visitors with a variety of fishing possibilities.

Possibilities range from thrilling offshore game angling to in-shore fishing in the sheltered bay and shorelines of lovely Narragansett Bay.

The variety and number of game fish in the waters around Rhode Island keep anglers entertained all year long.

While certain species have restricted fishing seasons, most saltwater game fish are accessible year-round.

Under the direction of Captain Sheriff’s Fishing Charters, anglers are certain to experience world-class sport fishing pleasure and thrill whether in the tranquil, guarded waters of Narragansett Bay, the seas of Block Island Sound, or out in the vast Atlantic Ocean.

Prepare to be Amazed by the Views at George’s of Galilee

Since 1948, generations of families have enjoyed the award-winning specialties of George’s of Galilee Waterfront Seafood Restaurant, located in the charming fishing port of Galilee and overlooks the Block Island Sound.

They provide the largest variety of locally sourced fresh seafood from boat to plate, field-to-table veggies, an unique sushi selection, lobster specialties, and fresh hand-cut meats.

With breathtaking water views, choose among six distinct dining rooms spread across two floors, outdoor eating, and the takeaway window.

They have their beach, and they provide beach blanket services throughout the summer.

Also, George’s of Galilee offers live music and special programs.

Stay for the Weekend at the Break Hotel

In the well-known beach resort of Narragansett, Rhode Island, a characteristic length of sand and surf in southern Rhode Island, The Break Hotel is a 16-room boutique establishment.

They appreciate the local beach culture and the retro-chic surf feel despite being only half an hour south of Providence and Newport.

Their guests like the beach house vibe and the team’s attention to even the smallest things at this coastal jewel.

You may choose between a year-round luxury saltwater pool, a Peloton cycle, complimentary bag beach chairs, warmed bathroom floors, and a fireplace in each room, among other facilities.

Start each day with a filling and diverse mini plate breakfast in the restaurant’s main dining room or by the pool, and wind down the day by watching the sunset from the rooftop lounge with an oceanfront.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Witness Breathtaking Views at Beavertail State Park

Breathtaking Views at Beavertail State Park

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Situated in Jamestown, RI, head over to Beavertail State Part to witness some of the most breathtaking scenes that you can find along the New England Coastline.

Just 25 minutes from Narraganset, you can find many magnificent landscapes from the rocky coastlines situated inside this state park.

Breathtaking Views at Beavertail State Park

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If you want to do some recreational activities, fishing seems to be the most popular one within the park.

A person fishing at Beavertail State Park

Michael Carni / Shutterstock.com

For curious minds, it serves as a hotspot for people to learn more about the outdoors.

Additionally, you can also head to the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum to learn more about the park, the history of Narragansett Bay, and Rhode Island’s shipping industry throughout the years.

Aerial view of Beavertail State Park

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Final Thoughts

Given its location at Rhode Island’s coast, you can find many beachside activities right here at Narragansett.

With its small-town charm, it attracts many tourists from all over to experience a relaxing beach town vacation.

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