Nestled along the Blackstone River, Central Falls in Rhode Island is known for a few things. It’s widely regarded as the smallest city in the United States, measuring 1.29 square miles and boasting a population of just under 23,000 residents. The charming city has earned props as one of America’s most walkable cities, and it’s Viola Davis’s hometown. Now that you know there’s so much to see and explore in this city, read on to learn about things to do in Central Falls, Rhode Island.

A long list of prominent individuals has called, or still calls, Rhode Island home, but Central Falls is perhaps best known as where Academy Award-winning actress Viola Davis grew up.
Wikipedia/Kenneth C. Zinkel
Although she was born on a former South Carolina plantation, Davis’ family moved to Central Falls when she was very young. Life, however, was far from easy for Davis, who shared her struggles in “Finding Me: A Memoir” about what her life was like.
Wikimedia Commons/Red Carpet Report on Mingle Media TV
Are you a fan of this beloved actress from Central Falls, Rhode Island?
Despite myriad of struggles – from witnessing her father abusing her mother to living in extreme poverty – Davis persisted. She graduated from Central Falls High School before building an impressive career that spans TV, film, and theater.
Wikipedia/John Phelan
Her long list of credits includes “How to Get Away With Murder,” “Suicide Squad,” and “The First Lady.” Davis earned a Best Supporting Actress Academy Award for her performance in “Fences.”
Wikimedia/Gage Skidmore
Did you know Viola Davis is from Rhode Island?

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There's plenty to do in Central Falls, Rhode Island too. Next time you’ve got a day free, head over to the charming small city of Central Falls that’s particularly popular with outdoor lovers. It’s home, after all, to several parks, including Jenks Park and Pierce Park.
Google/Demi Pita
When you're curious about wanting to discover where did Viola Davis grow up, make time for a stop at Chocolate Mill Overlook, once the site of a water-powered chocolate mill. It features gorgeous views and educational placards, so you can learn more about the area too.
Because it’s snuggled along the river, Central Falls offers a ton of opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Consider checking into the River Island Campground for an overnight or two.
Google/AD’s Adventure
The quaint small city where Viola Davis grew up is also home to a collection of restaurants and shops, perfect for a relaxing day out.
Google/Amy Gravel
Now that you know that there are so many things to do in Central Falls, Rhode Island, start planning your outing to this charming city today.
Google/bigboibosstwocapers

Have you been to Viola Davis’s hometown in Rhode Island? If so, what did you think? Feel free to share your experience in the following comments section.

After discovering all the things to do in Central Falls, Rhode Island, how about visiting more charming towns in the state? For ideas of where to go, take a look at these best small towns in Rhode Island. Turn your visit to Central Falls into a weekend getaway by booking a Vrbo.

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Life In Rhode Island

Marla S. | March 29, 2023

What are some of the best charming small towns in Rhode Island? 

Aside from visiting and taking advantage of the things to do in Central Falls, check out these best small towns in Rhode Island too.

  • Exeter: You'll have access to hiking trails, a wildlife refuge, and some haunted sites when you visit this small town in Rhode Island.
  • Westerly: Enjoy beaches, water sports, and plenty of dining options when you visit this charming town that's only 40 miles away from Newport.
  • Bristol: Take in views of Narragansett Bay and visit sites like the Blithewold Mansion and Bristol Art Museum when you spend the day in this small historic town.
  • Charlestown: Along with its stunning beaches, go vintage shopping and explore Burlingame State Park when you visit this small town.

 

Who are some celebrities with ties to Rhode Island? 

Aside from learning about Viola Davis's hometown, check out the following list of celebrities from Rhode Island.

  • Meredith Vieira: The seasoned talk show host was born in Providence.
  • James Woods: The award-winning actor grew up in Warwick and attended the local high school.
  • Debra Messing: The popular actress moved to East Greenwich with her family when she was three.
  • Will Blackmon: The accomplished athlete was born in Providence and played football for teams such as The Green Bay Packers, The New York Giants, and The Seattle Seahawks.

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Central Falls, RI 02863, USA