Rhode Island may be the nation’s smallest state but don’t set little expectations. The beaches, towns, and history of Rhode Island offer big charm and make it a spectacular place to visit at any time of the year. Especially in charming coastal towns like Narragansett!
There are so many things to do in Narragansett, RI, whether you’re looking for a day at the beach, fantastic restaurants where you can indulge, beautiful outdoor spaces, or historical points of interest, you’ll find a little bit of it all!
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Top Things to Do in Narragansett RI
Have a classic beach day at Scarborough State Beach
Scarborough State Beach is one of the best Narragansett beaches, hands down. Its expanse of sand means there’s room to spread out your towel and umbrella, build sandcastles, and stay put, even when the tide comes in.
In addition to the sand and shoreline, Scarborough State Beach has two pavilions, tons of picnic tables, indoor and outdoor showers, and a snack shack. If you need some movement, take a stroll on the boardwalk to the observation tower, where you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the area.
When you’re ready for shade, the covered gazebos offer a respite from the sun. Scarborough State Beach is just the place to go for those looking for a classic beach day during their visit to Narragansett.
Savor something sweet at Brickley’s Ice Cream
For the freshest frozen treats around, head to Brickley’s Ice Cream. Homemade right in town at this family-run joint since 1995, 45 classic and unique flavors are offered on the menu.
Brickley’s is open daily during the summer months and is a popular Rhode Island specialty; you can expect lines most evenings in the summertime, but it’s definitely worth the wait!
Read Next: Best Ice Cream in New England: 15 New England Ice Cream Shops You Can’t Miss
Paddle your way to fun with Narrow River Kayaks
Open from May through October, Narrow River Kayaks offers single and tandem kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. You can take a guided tour or head out on your own.
The Narrow River and other bodies of water in the Pettaquamscutt Watershed offer varied sights and challenges. If you’re up for the challenge and love to get out on the water, then this definitely needs to be on your list of Narragansett RI things to do!
Have a day of family fun at Adventureland
If you’re looking for family things to do in Narragansett, RI, consider spending the day at Adventureland, the family fun park that offers mini-golf, bumper boats, go-karts, an “Extreme Big Air Jumper,” a carousel, and more.
Adventureland is geared more towards families with young kids, but there is something to be found for all to enjoy at this mini amusement park.
Have a mellow day at Roger W. Wheeler State Beach
With powdery sand and a warm and gentle surf, Roger Wheeler State Beach is a great pick for anyone seeking a calm day in the water.
A seawall that protects the beach from the cooler, more intense waves of Block Island Sound, means this shoreline is ideal for visitors who want to take a dip without getting tossed and turned.
The park also has all the basics that make a beach day more comfortable, including showers and clean restrooms, lifeguards on duty seasonally, and a picnic area. Plus, its occasional environmental education programs will make any amateur naturalist’s day!
Take a hike on the Black Point Trail
For a hike filled with varying surroundings including beach, forest, flowers, and rocks, take the 1.5-mile one-way Black Point Trail. This route is a photographer’s dream, with its intriguing backdrops and wide-open views.
As you trek along this family-friendly trail, keep your eyes open for birds, boats, and even stone ruins, the picturesque remains of a former summer estate. Sometimes called the Scarborough Ruins, these are always a Narragansett sight to see!
Enjoy some seafood at Aunt Carrie’s
Editorial credit: Rabbitti / Shutterstock.com
If you’re in search of fresh caught seafood and more, look no further than Aunt Carrie’s. What began with Carrie Cooper as a lemonade business in the early twentieth century is now a family-run institution, patronized and loved by locals and visitors alike for both dine-in and take-out.
This seaside fresh seafood spot features locally harvested staples including steamed clams, fried scallops, lobster rolls, clam cakes, and clam chowder. Aunt Carrie’s even serves Del’s frozen lemonade, a Rhode Island specialty that brings balance to a hot day.
See the Towers from Narragansett Town Beach
Narragansett Town Beach is one of the best beaches in all of New England and with ample parking, concessions, restrooms, seasonal lifeguards on duty, soft sand, and views of the iconic Towers (former Narragansett Pier Casino), it’s not hard to see why!
If you’d like to play in the surf, rent a board from Narragansett Surf & Skate Shop because the surf at Narragansett Town Beach is fabulous.
Stay at The Break Hotel
If you’re looking for where to stay in Narragansett, check out the Break Hotel, the 16-room boutique hotel that features a year-round heated saltwater pool, outdoor year-round sauna, on-site spa, and so much more!
The rooftop bar offers the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring Narragansett attractions; plus, if you’re looking for a romantic Rhode Island stay, The Break Hotel offers a great spot for that.
It’s also one of the best spa hotels in the Ocean State!
Click Here to Check Prices & Book!
Hop on the Block Island Ferry
Visit Narragansett and spend plenty of time exploring this cute little seaside town, but if you’ve seen all there is to see in Narragansett, consider hopping on the Block Island Ferry!
Beautiful Block Island has so much to do, including great restaurants to eat at, unique boutique shopping opportunities, cool lighthouses, lovely hotels, and of course, spectacular beaches.
Canochet Farm
Canochet Farm is one of those local spots that offer all kinds of cute small-town fun if you just know where to look!
The farm covers 175 acres of both fresh and saltwater wetlands, ponds, forests, and more, and you’ll find events like Stargazing, nature walks, and more throughout the year. Check in with their page to see what is happening out at Canochet Farm during your Narragansett trip!
Soak in the sun at Salty Brine State Beach
Just down the sand from Roger Wheeler State Beach sits teeny-tiny Salty Brine State Beach, sometimes referred to as Galilee Beach. This beach stretches for only 100 yards and can fill up quickly.
The gentle waves and warm water found here are enjoyable to all, and the sights of fishing boats and other ships make a picture-perfect backdrop that’s just as cute as this spot’s name. Near stores and restaurants, Salty Brine is a great choice if you want to grab a bite after your time in the sun and sand.
See Point Judith Lighthouse
A village on the southern edge of Narragansett, Point Judith is filled with the wonders of coastal history. The Fishermen’s Memorial is dedicated to those members of the community lost during commercial fishing expeditions.
The Point Judith Lighthouse can be seen from here. Careful hikers can even trek over rocks to get closer to the lighthouse from this spot. The memorial is also an ideal golden hour destination, as the dazzling sunset makes this area even more magical.
Read Next: 12 Loveliest Lighthouses in Rhode Island to See
Learn at the South County Museum
The South County Museum offers a great way to explore Narragansett’s coastal history. Some of the top exhibits include a carpentry shop, carriage barn, one-room schoolhouse, farm animals, and a working blacksmith shop where you can watch goods being made the old-fashioned way to this day!
Sometimes you can catch cool local events like Music at the Museum, where local bands play, food trucks come out, and everyone comes together to enjoy this beautiful historic green space. This is one of the top family things to do in Narragansett, RI.
Experience the outdoors at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park and Campground
If you’re looking for a great place to camp in Narragansett, book a night or two at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park and Campground. This area was originally a World War II fort, but the park now is all about recreation – and there are plenty of opportunities to relax and have fun!
Sites are available for tents as well as for RVs. Campers will enjoy the well-maintained, grassy sites, and clean bathrooms and showers. The park’s proximity to the ferry docks and to several state beaches makes it a central place to stay for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Camping is available from April through October, so be sure to book early, as this is a popular place to stay in Narragansett!
Have a Nice Dinner Out at The Coast Guard House
One of the best restaurants in the state, The Coast Guard House is a definite must visit while in Narragansett! You’ll find some of the best coastal dishes in New England, including a raw bar that is an always popular choice.
Plus, you get amazing views of historic Narragansett Bay while you dine. What a perfect accompaniment to dinner, right?
Hopefully, this list is going to help you figure out what to do in Narragansett RI, but no matter what you end up doing on your Narragansett trip, we’re sure you’ll have a blast!
Oh, and if you’re looking for things to do in Narragansett RI this weekend or things to do in Narragansett today, be sure to check out this events calendar for real-time info on the best things to do in Narragansett RI!
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Amy Hartle is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of New England With Love, a comprehensive resource for travel in the New England region. Amy has been exploring New England since 2001. She lived in Vermont for many years and is a graduate of Plymouth State University in New Hampshire. On this site, Amy aims to share her love of New England and help you to have the best possible adventures!
Amy has been writing about travel for over a decade, and is a full time blogger, publishing both Two Drifters and Let’s Adventure Baby. When not traveling the world or creating epic blog content, Amy can be found cuddling with her husband, son, and cats, & drinking a maple latte.