This Charming Community Might Just Be The Most Peaceful Place To Live In Rhode Island
By Beth Price-Williams|Published November 23, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Life can get downright noisy. With so many of us dealing with jam-packed schedules, sometimes all we want, even for just a day, is peace and quiet. Fortunately, there are plenty of pockets of quiet – sandy beaches, wooded hiking trails, and sprawling gardens – where we can enjoy a bit of solitude. The charming community of Hopkinton, Rhode Island, also provides an idyllic backdrop for a tranquil daytrip or getaway – or if you’re looking somewhere to relocate. It might, in fact, be the most peaceful place to live in Rhode Island.
A historic town with less than 8,500 residents, Hopkinton promises plenty to do, especially if enjoy spending time outdoors. The small town boasts more than 1,000 acres of outdoor space.
Home to the villages of Ashaway, Bradford, Hope Valley, and Rockford, Hopkinton dates back to 1757.
Bring your hiking gear with you because a visit to Hopkinton naturally means exploring one of its nature preserves, including Canonchet Preserves, Grills Wildlife Sanctuary, and Audubon Long Pond Woods Wildlife Refuge.
Home to what’s billed as one of Rhode Island’s most beautiful and challenging hikes, Ell Pond Preserve promises an abundance of natural beauty, from chiseled cliffs to vistas with sweeping views.
If you’re up for the challenge, follow the .08-mile Long and Ell Pond Trail. While you’ll deal with rocky terrain, you’ll also be treated to sensational forest and water views.
Part of the 14,000-acre Arcadia Management Area is also in Hopkinton. Spend the day in this predominately forested area that’s popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. You can also go kayaking and canoeing.
Nestled in the Hopkinton village of Hope Valley, Festival Farm features a petting zoo and petting zoo. While you’re in town, stop by to stock up on fresh, seasonal produce and other goodies, like apple cider in the fall.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the small town’s restaurants, too. You’ll find a little bit of everything – American, Italian, and Chinese – and just the right restaurant to cure your hunger.
Have you been to the charming community of Hopkinton, Rhode Island? What did you think? Is it one of the most peaceful places to live in Rhode Island? Let us know in the comments! While you’re in town, follow the tranquil Canonchet Trail in Hopkinton, Rhode Island. If you want to see more of the state on foot, check out the best hiking trails in Rhode Island. You can find them all on AllTrails.
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