This quaint New England village is not known to many but those who discover its hidden small-town charms keep coming back.
Located by the coast, the village features one of the largest concentrations of 17th and 18th-century dwellings in America. The village is, in fact, listed on the National Register of Historic Places with more than 100 recognized houses, churches, industrial and marine buildings, and commercial stores.
The building block you see in the lead photo above first became a commercial district in the mid-1800s when wives of sailors opened several stores on the first floor. To this day, the entire block is owned by women small business owners.
One of the great walking towns in New England, the brick sidewalks lead to 40-plus shops selling antiques, art, books, clothing, children’s items, antiques, arts and crafts, home goods and furnishings, health and beauty merchandise, jewelry, and outdoor recreation. There are also a few excellent restaurants offering breakfast, sandwiches and salads, seafood and Italian cuisine.
The village is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with the harbor as its anchor attraction.
While the combination of shops, places to eat and recreational opportunities is an irresistible draw, the feeling of being in a place that feels like home also offers major appeal. Locals and visitors love that hometown vibe.
Have you guessed the location of this quaint New England village yet? OK, here is the answer…
It is Wickford Village, R.I.! The community is actually part of North Kingstown, one of the nicer towns in “The Ocean State.” What’s more, Wickford Village is within close proximity of Rhode Island ocean beaches and many beautiful destinations like Newport, Warren and Bristol.
Once the stay-at-home alert has ended during this public health crisis, I hope you get to visit Wickford Village. It’s definitely a hidden gem in the world of New England travel!
For more on Wickford Village, click here. Also, check out Wickford’s wonderful community-created web site right here.
Nearby restaurants (and a coffee shop) that I highly recommend:
Coast Guard House, Narragansett, R.I.
Jo’s American Bistro, Newport, R.I.
Carmella’s Pizzeria, Middletown, R.I.
Coastal Roasters, Tiverton, R.I.
Additional reading:
Visiting the Kayak Centre in Wickford Village
Visit Beavertail State Park in Jamestown, R.I.
Small towns to love in New England
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