Narragansett, Rhode Island, a captivating coastal gem, beckons travelers with its blend of historical charm, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant recreational opportunities. Situated a convenient 40-minute drive south of Downtown Providence, or a refreshing 30-minute high-speed ferry ride from Block Island, Narragansett presents an idyllic escape on the Rhode Island shoreline. This picture-perfect town serves as a year-round road trip destination, particularly alluring during the warm embrace of summer.
Narragansett’s identity is intrinsically linked to "The Towers," an enduring architectural landmark. These iconic structures, remnants of the once-grand Narragansett Pier Casino, stand as a testament to the town’s rich past and resilience. More than just a visual spectacle, Narragansett acts as an excellent base from which to explore not only its own diverse attractions but also the entirety of the Ocean State’s offerings.
Let’s delve into a curated list of the top things to do in Narragansett, promising an unforgettable experience:
1. Capture the Essence of The Towers
No visit to Narragansett is complete without paying homage to The Towers. These imposing granite structures, located at 35 Ocean Road, are the surviving architectural expression of the Narragansett Pier Casino, a social hub that flourished in the late 19th century. Constructed in 1886, the casino represented the town’s prominence as a Gilded Age resort destination.
Despite enduring devastating fires in 1900 and 1965, as well as the wrath of powerful hurricanes in 1938, 1954, and 1991, The Towers have remarkably withstood the test of time. While other surrounding structures crumbled, these iconic remnants stood tall, earning their reputation as a symbol of good fortune for the region.
Today, The Towers offer a glimpse into a bygone era. Their majestic arches and intricate stonework provide a stunning backdrop for photographs, capturing the essence of Narragansett’s history. The venue also hosts various events, including performances by the South Kingstown String Orchestra and other local musical talents, providing an opportunity to experience the magic within its walls. Contact +1 401-782-2597 for details on upcoming events.
2. Unleash Your Inner Child at Adventureland
For those seeking a dose of lighthearted fun, Adventureland, located at 112 Point Judith Road, is a must-visit destination. Open seasonally from May to October, this amusement park offers a nostalgic trip back to childhood with a range of classic attractions.
Challenge your friends and family to a round of miniature golf, rev your engines on the go-kart track, or test your batting skills in the batting cages. Bumper boats and bumper cars offer opportunities for playful collisions, while retro-style arcade games like air hockey and skee ball provide hours of entertainment.
Take a spin on the old-school Carousel, a timeless amusement park staple, or try your hand at Bankshot, an innovative basketball-meets-mini-golf experience. Adventureland provides a delightful escape for visitors of all ages. Contact +1 401-789-0030 for hours of operation and special events.
3. Bask in the Sun at Narragansett’s Beaches
Narragansett boasts a stunning coastline dotted with pristine beaches, each offering its own unique charm and appeal. Narragansett Town Beach, located at 39 Boston Neck Road, stands as a premier destination, renowned for its soft sand, panoramic views of The Towers, and invigorating waves.
The beach’s consistent surf makes it a haven for surfers, body surfers, and boogie boarders. Conveniently situated near a variety of restaurants, Narragansett Town Beach offers a complete beach experience. A modest daily non-resident fee grants access to this stretch of sand that embodies the beauty and history of the Rhode Island shore.
Beyond Narragansett Town Beach, other nearby options include Scarborough State Beach, one of Rhode Island’s most popular beach destinations. For a more tranquil experience, Roger Wheeler State Beach and Salty Brine State Beach offer calmer surf, making them ideal for families with young children. Each beach promises a memorable day by the ocean.
4. Witness the Sunset at Point Judith Lighthouse
Perched at the entrance to Narragansett Bay, Point Judith Lighthouse stands as a beacon of maritime history and a picturesque landmark. Located at 1470 Ocean Road, this historic lighthouse, while closed to interior tours, offers stunning views from its grounds, which are open to the public during the day.
Arrive about an hour before sunset to witness the lighthouse bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. The changing colors of the sky create a magical ambiance, accentuating the beauty of the beacon. The cairns below the lighthouse add to the allure, providing a fun activity for families to build their own stone towers.
Point Judith Lighthouse remains an active Coast Guard station, so be prepared to depart as darkness descends. The experience of witnessing the sunset against the backdrop of this historic lighthouse is a truly unforgettable moment. Contact +1 401-789-0444 for more information.
5. Ride the Waves with Surfing and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding Lessons
Embrace the spirit of adventure and immerse yourself in the ocean’s embrace with surfing or stand-up paddle boarding lessons. Peter Pan Surfing and SUP Academy, located at 74 Narragansett Ave, offers expert instruction for all skill levels at Narragansett Town Beach.
Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced surfer or stand-up paddle boarder, the academy provides personalized one-on-one and group lessons. All necessary gear, including state-of-the-art surfboards and wetsuits (full or short), is provided to ensure a comfortable and successful experience.
Following a brief introduction on the beach, your instructor will guide you into the water, where you’ll learn the fundamentals of riding the waves. Catching your first wave is an exhilarating experience that will leave you with a lasting sense of accomplishment. Contact +1 401-575-0003 to book your lesson.
6. Embark on a Clamming Adventure at Point Judith Pond
For a unique and hands-on experience, venture into the waters of Point Judith Pond in Galilee for a clamming adventure. Chasing your own clams offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary, allowing you to connect with nature and reap the rewards of your efforts.
For a nominal fee of $11 per person, you can obtain a RI Tourist Shellfishing License, valid for 14 days, granting you the legal right to harvest clams. An annual pass is also available for $200 for those who plan to indulge in this activity more frequently.
The clams you harvest yourself at Point Judith Pond are renowned for their exceptional freshness and sweetness, surpassing those found elsewhere. This unique experience promises a delicious reward for your efforts.
7. Discover Gourmet Delights at the Coastal Growers Farmer Market
Immerse yourself in the local culinary scene at the Coastal Growers Farmer Market, held weekly from mid-May through late-October at historic Casey Farm in Saunderstown, a short 12-minute drive north of Narragansett Town Beach.
The market showcases a diverse array of gourmet food items crafted in Rhode Island, including the tantalizing Bananas Foster artisanal granola from Providence-based company Beautiful Day. In addition to gourmet treats, you’ll find fresh, locally sourced produce, perfect for creating a healthy and delicious lunch.
The Coastal Growers Farmer Market offers a delightful opportunity to sample the flavors of Rhode Island and support local artisans and farmers. Contact +1 401-295-1030 for market schedules and vendor information.
8. Sip Waterfront Cocktails at the Coast Guard House
Indulge in a quintessential Narragansett experience at the Coast Guard House, where you can savor waterfront cocktails while enjoying breathtaking views. The deck at the Coast Guard House offers the closest dining experience to being on the water without actually chartering a boat.
Bring a jacket, as the ocean breeze can be quite refreshing, and prepare to unwind with expertly crafted cocktails made with locally sourced spirits. The deck menu features a selection of raw bar delicacies, as well as burgers, paninis, simply prepared seafood, and kid-friendly options.
The fish tacos are a must-try, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, flavorful cuisine. The Coast Guard House offers a perfect blend of stunning scenery, delectable food, and refreshing beverages. Contact +1 401-789-0700 for reservations.
9. Savor the Culinary Delights Narragansett is Known For
Narragansett’s culinary landscape is rich and diverse, offering a range of dining experiences to suit every palate. Aunt Carrie’s Restaurant, Ice Cream and Gift Shop, a beloved institution since 1920, has been owned and operated by the same family for generations.
Carrie and Ulysses Cooper established the restaurant to meet the growing demand for Carrie’s signature chowder and clam cakes. Today, a fourth generation continues to use Carrie’s original corn fritter recipe as the foundation for these famous clam cakes, which can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors.
Nearby, Crazy Burger has gained national recognition thanks to celebrity Chef Guy Fieri. This compact eatery boasts an eclectic menu that caters to a variety of dietary preferences, including vegan options and breakfast selections available until 4 p.m. The Whassupy Burger and basil lime lemonade are highly recommended.
Crazy Burger also offers dinner service, making it a tempting destination for three meals a day. The restaurant operates on a BYOBBAM (Bring Your Own Booze, By All Means!) policy, with a corkage fee of $5 per dining party or $3 for solo diners.
10. Hike to Black Point and Discover Coastal Treasures
Before departing Narragansett, embark on a scenic hike to Black Point, a rocky promontory that offers breathtaking coastal views. Located about three miles south of Narragansett Town Beach, the trailhead is accessible via a small parking area on Ocean Road.
The easy hike, less than a mile in length, leads to a captivating landscape where kids can delight in searching for crabs and other sea life in tidal pools. The panoramic views from Black Point create a sense of escape, making you feel as though you’ve left Rhode Island behind.
Black Point offers opportunities for fishing and picnicking, providing a perfect setting to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Narragansett coastline.
Narragansett offers a tapestry of experiences, from its historical landmarks and vibrant beaches to its culinary delights and opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, recreation, or cultural immersion, Narragansett, Rhode Island, promises an unforgettable escape.
