Rhode Island might get overlooked for its small size, but once you visit you realize how much the tiny state has to offer. From great beaches, wonderful restaurants, and exciting small cities, there are many things to see and do. Even the small rural towns found within Little Rhody offer so many fun-filled things to do. Here are 10 of the most delightful places to enjoy rural Rhode Island.

1. Cumberland

Cumberland, RI 02864, USA
danlogan/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
As the northeasternmost town in the state, Cumberland is filled with the rural beauty of the Rhode Island countryside. Major attractions include the monastery, Valley Falls Heritage Park, and the annual Cumberlandfest.

2. North Kingstown

North Kingstown, RI, USA
Flickr/Andy Ihnatko
While most of this South County town is rural, historic Wickford Village, located in the heart of North Kingstown, is the essence of charm and beauty. An array of lovely shops, restaurants, and museums overlooking the harbor create a quintessential New England experience.

3. Little Compton

Little Compton, RI, USA
Peter Rintels/Flickr
An independently owned vineyard, farms, and consignment shops are all charming spots to visit in this charming coastal town. Sakonnet River is yet another lovely site to take in on the edges of the town of Little Compton. This is one of the most rural areas in Rhode Island.

4. Foster

Foster, RI, USA
Matt Carr/Stone via Getty Images
Wlecome to the Rhode Island countryside! Found in Providence County, the small town of Foster holds a population of less than 5,000 and offers wonderful hiking trails, beautiful farms, and more.

5. Exeter

Exeter, RI, USA
Peter Rintels/Flickr
Found along the Connecticut border the town of Exeter offers some of the most well-known natural attractions in the state. Some include Fisherville Brook Wildlife Refuge, Beach Pond, and part of Arcadia Management Area.

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6. Burrillville

Burrillville, RI, USA
User:Magicpiano/Wikipedia
Located on the northern tip of the state bordering Massachusetts, Burrillville is a wonderful town with attractions ranging from the town center to charming small restaurants and great nature sites.

7. Hopkinton

Hopkinton, RI, USA
This.Usually.Works/Flickr
This historic town of Hopkinton dates back to the mid-1700s and holds a population of just over 8,000 people.

8. Glocester

Glocester, RI, USA
This.Usually.Works/Flickr
In between Foster and Burrillville, the town of Glocester includes several gorgeous sites and is one of the best towns in rural Rhode Island.

9. West Greenwich

West Greenwich, RI 02817, USA
Flickr/Norman Shippee
The large rural town of West Greenwich spans 51 square miles in Kent County and offers many opportunities to enjoy nature. If you're looking for quiet towns in Rhode Island, this one is for you.

10. Westerly

Westerly, RI, USA
Connienjay/Wikimedia Commons
The beachfront community of Westerly offers delicious restaurants and various outdoor attractions. Located in the South Shore of the state, Westerly is still able to maintain its small-town Rhode Island charm.

Check out more information on the wonderful towns in rural Rhode Island. We think you’ll enjoy them all! While visiting these more remote parts of the Ocean State, how about a getaway? Take a look at the variety of vacation rentals on Vrbo.

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More to Explore

Rural Rhode Island

Danielle Schwartz | September 16, 2022

What are the best small towns in Rhode Island?

If you're looking for the best small towns in Rhode Island, we have some great suggestions for you:

  • Jamestown is a gorgeous spot for outdoor fun, including Beavertail State Park and, of course, the amazing ocean views.
  • If you're a history buff, you'll also really enjoy Tiverton, where you can go to Fort Barton to learn about the area and check out the beautiful buildings and natural environment.

What is the oldest town in Rhode Island?

The oldest town in Rhode Island is Pawtuxet Village, which is actually the oldest town in all of New England! Roger Williams purchased the town in 1636 from the Native people in Narragansett. Then the English settlement was built, and it eventually became a fascinating part of the American Revolution, when a British ship was set on fire and the whole conflict began. There are plenty of fun activities to do here, so if you're here, check out the waterfall that Pawtuxet is named after, and learn all about the local history.

Are there any hidden gems in Rhode Island?

There are definitely lots of great hidden gems in Rhode Island for you to explore. If you are visiting the Ocean State on a vacation, there's plenty to see and do that you might not hear about in the major tourist resources. Sometimes it's really fun to get to see a new place the way the locals do.

  • One great place is Warwick Park, also known as City Park. It's a great choice for outdoor fun.
  • If you're more into shops and restaurants, head to Bristol and enjoy all the sweet Main Street spots.

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