Jamestown Rhode IslandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Jamestown, Rhode Island.
1. Beavertail Lighthouse and Park
HISTORIC COASTAL LANDMARK
Beavertail Lighthouse and Park features a scenic coastal area with a lighthouse museum and tranquil picnic spots. Visitors can enjoy serene ocean views and observe local wildlife while exploring the well-maintained trails. The park offers educational insights from collegiate guides, making it an informative and relaxing destination for nature enthusiasts.
2. Fort Wetherill State Park
COASTAL MILITARY HISTORY
Fort Wetherill State Park is a 265-acre property boasting stunning views and military history along the rugged coastline. The former coastal defense battery now serves as a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying panoramic ocean vistas. It's also a favorite destination for scuba diving enthusiasts due to its clear waters and underwater landscapes.
3. Jamestown Windmill
HISTORIC 18TH CENTURY LANDMARK
Jamestown Windmill is an iconic landmark dating back to the 18th century, offering guided tours that showcase the area's rich history. Visitors can gain insight into the technology of the past and the island's agricultural heritage. This well-preserved structure stands as one of the oldest working windmills in the United States.
4. Jamestown Fire Memorial Museum
FIREFIGHTING HERITAGE COLLECTION
Jamestown Fire Memorial Museum preserves the town's firefighting history with an impressive collection of equipment and memorabilia. The museum showcases the evolution of firefighting techniques and the brave individuals who served the community. Visitors can view antique fire trucks, uniforms, and historical photographs documenting Jamestown's emergency services through the years.
5. Watson Farm
HISTORIC WORKING FARM
Watson Farm is a working cattle and sheep farm owned by Historic New England, offering a glimpse into traditional farming practices. The 265-acre property has a rich history dating back millennia, when Indigenous people lived on Conanicut Island and used controlled burning techniques. Visitors can tour the grounds to learn about sustainable agriculture and the region's agricultural heritage.
6. Dutch Island
NATURE AND NAVAL HISTORY
Dutch Island offers explorers a unique combination of natural beauty and military history in Narragansett Bay. The uninhabited island features the ruins of Fort Greble, a coastal artillery installation that protected the bay during several wars. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems and provide excellent bird watching opportunities.
7. Fort Getty Park
COASTAL RECREATION AREA
Fort Getty Park serves as a popular recreational area with camping facilities, fishing spots, and picturesque views of Narragansett Bay. The former military installation now welcomes visitors to enjoy outdoor activities including boating, kayaking, and hiking along coastal paths. Its pavilion area is perfect for family gatherings and community events throughout the summer season.
8. Mackerel Cove
SECLUDED BEACH RETREAT
Mackerel Cove is a calm, quiet and secluded cove stretching about a half-mile long, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach features soft sand and gentle waves, making it ideal for families with children looking for a peaceful day by the water. Its proximity to other attractions like Beavertail State Park makes it a convenient stop on a Jamestown touring itinerary.
9. Jamestown Arts Center
CREATIVE CULTURE HUB
Jamestown Arts Center is a multi-disciplinary venue dedicated to engaging, enriching, and inspiring the community through extraordinary arts experiences. The center regularly hosts art exhibitions featuring local talent and offers workshops for visitors interested in trying new artistic endeavors. Its varied programming includes performances, film screenings, and educational initiatives that celebrate creativity in all its forms.
10. Conanicut Island Sanctuary
PRISTINE NATURE PRESERVE
Conanicut Island Sanctuary provides a peaceful retreat with walking trails through protected natural habitats. The preserve showcases Rhode Island's native flora and fauna, with opportunities for bird watching and wildlife photography. Visitors can experience the tranquility of meadows, woodlands, and coastal ecosystems while learning about local conservation efforts.
11. Jamestown Historical Society Museum
ISLAND HERITAGE COLLECTION
Jamestown Historical Society Museum houses artifacts and exhibits chronicling the island's rich past from pre-colonial times to the present. The museum's collection includes maritime objects, photographs, and documents that tell the story of this coastal community's development. Visitors can gain insights into local traditions, industries, and the individuals who shaped Jamestown's unique character.
12. Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge
ICONIC BAY CROSSING
The Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge is a well-built, beautiful structure connecting Jamestown to Newport across Narragansett Bay. This engineering marvel offers spectacular views of the surrounding waters, islands, and coastal landscapes during the crossing. The bridge serves as both a practical transportation link and a photogenic landmark that symbolizes Rhode Island's maritime character.
13. Jamestown Harbor
SCENIC WATERFRONT DISTRICT
Jamestown Harbor presents a charming waterfront area where visitors can watch boats coming and going in this active maritime community. The harbor area features several restaurants serving fresh seafood with views of the water and surrounding coastal scenery. Visitors can stroll along the docks, shop at nearby boutiques, or simply relax and enjoy the authentic New England harbor atmosphere.
14. Jamestown Golf Course
SCENIC PUBLIC LINKS
Jamestown Golf Course offers a picturesque 9-hole public course with stunning views of the surrounding coastal landscape. The well-maintained greens and fairways provide an enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels in a relaxed, non-pretentious setting. Its reasonable rates and walkable layout make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a round while taking in the island's natural beauty.
15. Conanicut Battery Historic Park
REVOLUTIONARY WAR SITE
Conanicut Battery Historic Park preserves an important Revolutionary War fortification with earthworks and foundations dating back to 1776. The site offers interpretive displays explaining the strategic importance of this position during America's fight for independence. Visitors can explore the grounds while enjoying panoramic views of the West Passage of Narragansett Bay that once made this location militarily significant.