Rhode Island boasts an eclectic collection of roadside attractions, from the Big Blue Bug in Providence to the Mr. Potato Heads scattered across the state. But these enchanting oddities aren’t just found in Rhode Island’s cities – the small town of Exeter has its own roadside attractions to explore.
Exeter, Rhode Island is a bucolic little town in Washington County, Rhode Island, extending east from the Connecticut border toward North Kingstown. It’s home to the state’s only ski area, Yawgoo Valley, along with one of the oldest indigenous peoples museums in the country, the Tomaquag Indigenous Museum. This rural town also happens to have two unique roadside attractions tucked away among the forest and farms.
If you love roadside oddities, then you can’t miss the scrap metal scorpion at Exeter Scrap Metal on Route 3. This giant, green and yellow scorpion statue is made out of engine parts, propane tanks, and other scrap metal, including a jet engine.
It guards the driveway of Exeter Scrap Metal, towering over the entrance to the scrap yard with its yellow claws and red eyes, as though to thwart would-be metal thieves. Weighing between 2-3 tons, this strange beast is worth stopping for.
Illness had swept through the Brown family in a short period of time, and Mercy was 19 years old when she died of what was probably tuberculosis. When her brother also became ill, the people of Exeter began to suspect that one of the deceased Browns was a vampire, leaving their grave each night to prey on the remaining family members. They exhumed Mercy’s body – and were shocked by what they found. Mercy’s body was strangely well-preserved, as though she had never truly died. Convinced she was a vampire, the citizens of Exeter cut out Mercy’s heart and burned it, then had Mercy’s brother drink the ashes. Unfortunately, he still passed away not long after that.
Mercy’s story may have helped to inspire Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and it certainly helped to inspire Rhode Island’s reputation as “the Vampire Capital of America.” You’ll find the grave, and the crypt where Mercy Brown’s body may have been stored, in Chestnut Hill Cemetery, a nondescript graveyard behind a small Baptist church on Ten Rod Road. Visitors often leave flowers and other offerings at the gravesite where Mercy now rests.
Nearly the entirety of my childhood into early adulthood was spent in Rhode Island. Living in the northern part of the state, Newport was the ultimate town for a day trip. From the mansions to the Cliff Walk to the sailing culture, it's a dream destination for locals and out-of-state tourists alike. Not only is it postcard-perfect but it offers so much in the way of sights, restaurants, shopping, history, and landmarks. Whether you're visiting for the first or the 100th time, here are some of the best things to do in Newport, Rhode Island:
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From the coast of Oregon to the mountains of Pennsylvania and everywhere in between, there are countless charming and captivating small towns across America worthy of a weekend getaway. Curated by our team of local travel experts, you’ll love our 2024 Small Town Getaways.
Newport was founded in 1639, making it nearly 400 years old. During the early 18th century, it became one of the most important port cities for commerce for the British colonies. Not only were rum, furniture, and whale oil candles (a popular commodity at the time) imported, but enslaved people as well. Once the Revolutionary War began, its economy declined.
But what is Newport known for? Due to its coastal location and mild summers, Newport became a resort destination catching the eyes of some of the most prominent 19th-century families in the Northeast. Families like the Vanderbilts, the Morgans, and the Astors built their stunning summer "cottages" (mansions, really) right here in Newport. These Gilded Age mansions overlooking the ocean were used for just a few months during the year, and then the families would go back to their lives in New York. What a life they lived!
The Gilded Age all but ended once World War I and the Great Depression started. Unable to afford the upkeep, some of the largest and most ornate mansions fell into a state of disrepair, were abandoned, or had eventually succumbed to demolition. Good news came about, however, with the establishment of The Preservation Society of Newport County. The organization's first project was the Hunter House, a centuries-old waterfront colonial. Eventually, their work led to tours of the world-famous Breakers Mansion and acquiring Guilded Age mansions like The Elms, Marble House, and several others. Today, you can tour 10 different mansions through the Preservation Society, and people from all over the world come to do just that.
Is Newport Worth Visiting?
As someone who grew up in Rhode Island, I can assure you that Newport is always worth visiting.
And if you're wondering what to do in Newport, well, there are plenty of things! Not only are there incredible restaurants and bars, historic sites, and shopping but the views here still blow me away. There's nothing quite like a scenic drive along Ocean Drive, a stop at Brenton Point State Park, lunch out on the lawn of Castle Hill Inn, taking a walk along the famous Cliff Walk, or touring one of the town's Gilded Age mansions. Spending the day here and discovering the activities in Newport is absolute perfection!
How To Get To Newport
Located on Aquidneck Island on the eastern side of Rhode Island, Newport is a mere 1.5 hours from Boston and 42 minutes from Providence. There are several ways to get here.
The best, and by far the easiest, is by car. If you're traveling from out of town, I suggest you rent one. There's parking all over Newport, if that's something you're worried about. Within the town, there are both public and private parking lots and metered parking. Get to town early, and you can find a spot close to downtown. Otherwise, you may have to walk a short or long distance to get to where you want to go.
You may also want to take a bus from Providence or Newport, which will eliminate the headache of finding a parking spot. Boating to town is another great option or you can take the Newport & Providence Ferry.
Getting Around Newport
While there are public transit options like buses and rideshares around town, I find a private car to be essential to get around Newport. Otherwise, you can get around on foot if you stick to the city's downtown area.
So, why do you need a car? Well, you wouldn't want to miss out on the scenery along Ocean Drive now would you? I didn't think so. If you don't have a car, you can rent one or hire someone to drive you along this famous route that hugs the coast and takes you past modern-day mansions, Brenton Point State Park, and other notable points of interest.
If you plan on sticking to Thames Street and surrounding areas, you can get around by walking without any need for a vehicle. It's up to you!
Best Time To Visit Newport
Newport is a wonderful town to visit any time of year.
Off-season, you will find that the town is pretty quiet compared to the summer months and the influx of tourists. In the winter, several of the mansions are decked out in lights and Victorian-era decor if that's something of interest to you. Dinner reservations are much easier to obtain as well in the off-season.
However, there's nothing quite like summer in Newport! Although it's crowded, there's such a fun and exciting air around town. Besides, you'll be able to dine outside many places, like the lawn at Castle Hill Inn (one of my favorite places), visit the beach without freezing, go fly a kite at Brenton Point, and watch all of the sailboats and yachts float by in Newport Harbor. While I highly recommend visiting during the summer, it's up to you if you want to fight the crowds in the restaurants and on the street, or spend a little too much time trying to find a parking space downtown.
If you want to indulge in luxurious accommodations during your stay in Newport, there's certainly no shortage of them. One hotel, in particular, offers a selection of rooms and suites with 14-foot-high ceilings and views of Newport Harbor. Welcome to Gardiner House, a hotel with style, comfort, and luxury in mind. If you feel like relaxing in your room, there's an option to book an in-room massage. Doesn't that sound amazing? There's even an on-site bar featuring an eclectic cocktail menu and small bites if you don't feel like venturing into town.
Airbnb Pick: Newport Condo with Harbor View and Rooftop Deck
Want to be in the heart of all the action that comes with staying in downtown Newport? Well, booking a few nights at this incredibly stylish Newport Condo with Harbor View and Rooftop Deck is a must! This condo offers two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and up to four guests can stay here. The interior is bright and airy with vaulted ceilings and plenty of natural light. On top of that, there is a rooftop deck you may want to spend all your time once you're done galavanting around town. You can book your stay at this highly-rated vacation rental on Airbnb.
If you were to pick the center point of Newport, it would be Bowen's Wharf. Here you will find an array of shops, restaurants, bars, nightlife options, galleries, and tour companies. Walking around this wharf is a must, especially for those of you visiting for the very first time.
The Breakers (pictured here) is among the most famous, as well as the largest, of the Newport mansions. If there's only one you can see while you're in town, make it this one that was built by the Vanderbilts. If you plan on visiting several, you can't go wrong with Marble House or The Elms.
Visiting any of the mansions gives great insight into how the wealthy lived around the turn of the century. The grandeur of it all is extraordinary! You can view a full list of mansions on the Newport Mansions website.
Take a drive all the way to the end of Ocean Ave. and you will find Castle Hill Light. This landmark overlooking Narragansett Bay between Conanicut and Aquidneck Islands was built in 1898 and is worth a stop. You can also walk the grounds of Castle Hill Inn adjacent to it.
When I was growing up, my sister, my uncle, and I would visit Fort Adams State Park to explore both the grounds and the historic fort itself. Fort Adams is the largest coastal fort in the country and, therefore, of historical significance. You can book one of several tours that are offered or attend an event here. In fact, both the Newport Jazz Festival and the Newport Folk Festival are held here annually during the summer.
When you visit Newport, a stroll along the Cliff Walk is mandatory, at least it is to me! This walk is famous for a reason and is the best way to see the town's scenic beauty. Not only that, but the pathway also meanders behind several Gilded Age mansions giving you a walking tour of both the rugged coastline and historical sites that make this town such a desirable place to visit.
If you feel like venturing a couple of towns North to Bristol, Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum is worth spending a few hours exploring. As the first garden estate in the region, it certainly has historical significance along with gorgeous gardens and grounds that are perfect for a stroll.
Newport is home to the Tennis Hall of Fame Museum. Not only is there a museum but since 1976, an international tennis tournament has been held here. This is also the original location of the U.S. National Championships. This is also home to a gorgeous grass tennis court. Cool, right? I think so!
On and around Thames Street is where you'll find most shops, boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries in Newport. Among the stores I enjoy visiting are a country store named Frazzleberries, Matriarch for gifts, and Newport Original for Rhode Island-made goods.
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And just off Thames at 42 Franklin Street is the amazing Atlantic Attic where you can find vintage nautical goods, marine salvage, and other unique items you can't find anywhere else!
Set in the neighboring town of Middletown, Newport Vineyards & Restaurant is set on a gorgeous, stunning 60-acre property. Here you can enjoy a tasting, grab some baked-from-scratch goods at the bakeshop, or dine on farm-to-table cuisine from the restaurant.
Among the best-known restaurants in Newport is The Black Pearl. Located on Bannister's Wharf, this coastal-themed eatery is famous for its chowder among other delectable seafood dishes. This place is always busy during the summer but if you don't mind waiting for a table, it's well worth it!
One place I've always loved visiting is Beavertail State Park situated at the southern tip of Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay. On its 153 acres, you'll find the historic 1856 Beavertail Lighthouse, hiking trails, and picnic areas. My family and I would usually take a picnic and spend a few hours here each time we visited. It's a beautifully serene place!
Also known as Sachuest Beach, Second Beach is actually located in the neighboring town of Middletown but close enough that many people think it's in Newport. This beach is wide, sandy, and clean and a great spot to lay out then go for a swim. It's also quite popular among surfers.
We hope you use this as your Newport travel guide! Tell us, what are some of your things to do in Newport? Let us know your favorite sights, restaurants, shops, and more! Honestly, there's nothing like a day trip or a getaway to Newport, my favorite place to be in Rhode Island!
Rhode Island is absolutely packed with history. Everywhere you look is a historic plaque or statue or a house from the 17th century. Saunderstown is one of the most historic small towns in Rhode Island that everyone should visit at least once. This little hamlet is a historic district located in Washington County, in the towns of Narragansett and North Kingstown. It is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and is a U.S. Historic District. Check out some of the great reasons to make a day of it in Saunderstown.
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The historic district is loaded with quaint homes and shops.
This country store on Boston Neck Road in the historic district was built in 1914.
Saunderstown is best known for being the birthplace of Gilbert Stuart, the artist who painted the portrait of George Washington that is on our dollar bills. The house is now open to the public as a museum. It features the restored and furnished 1750 home, a working grist mill, gardens, and woodland walking trails.
Casey Farm is an 18th-century plantation that is operated by Historic New England. The farm grows organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers in a Community Agriculture Program.
Look at this historic picture of Saunderstown and the old trolley. The Sea View Line electric trolley at Sea View Station in Saunderstown near Narragansett Pier was built in 1898 and extended to East Greenwich in 1900 and to Wakefield and Peace Dale in 1902.
With all of the historic sites, there are certainly plenty of things to do in Saunderstown. As one of the most historic towns in Rhode Island, it packs an incredible amount of history into one small area. It's a great place to bring the kids and spend a day soaking up Rhode Island's colonial past, and some notable Rhode Islanders with major contributions to American history.
While a day trip to Saunderstown is always a wonderful option, how about a getaway instead? Check out this family-friendly cottage located just a short drive to the beach.
