Pawtuxet Village Is One Of The Most Underrated Summer Destinations In Rhode Island

Where do you like to spend your Rhode Island summers? Given the fact that we're called the Ocean State, the answer is probably the beach. And while our beaches are certainly second to none, we've also got plenty of hidden gems worth exploring that aren't on the shoreline. Pawtuxet Village is one of them.

Pawtuxet Village is a small section of the cities of Warwick and Cranston.

The little village sits nestled at the point where the Pawtuxet River flows into the Providence River and Narragansett Bay.

While the area was originally occupied by the Sononoce Pawtuxet tribe, Rhode Island founder Roger Williams purchased the property in 1638.

Settlers in the early 18th century constructed mills and created one of America's premier shipping ports.

These days, Pawtuxet Village is considered to be one of New England's best kept travel secrets.

While it isn't as developed as some of the area's more popular historic coastal towns, it has its own unique character you can't help but love.

Here you'll find dozens of preserved Colonial structures, both homes and shops.

The quaint downtown district is full of cafes, specialty shops, and restaurants.

When you arrive, feel free to park your car -- this is a wonderful walking village.

And you'll love strolling through the historic streets while taking in the charming scenery.

While most of the public events and gatherings have been canceled or postponed this year, it's worth mentioning that this is normally a fantastic place to find street markets, art shows, food drives, and more.

If you've ever been on Halloween, you know just how seriously they take trick-or-treating here.

While some modifications have been made, most Pawtuxet Village restaurants and shops are open for business.

Stop by this summer and prepare to fall in love with Pawtuxet all over again.

Pawtuxet Village is one of the oldest settlements in America. Luckily, its character is timeless.