· US

North Kingstown

North Kingstown, Rhode Island, United States

North Kingstown, located in the charming state of Rhode Island in the United States, is a picturesque town that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities for visitors to enjoy. One of the to…

#North Kingstown#Rhode Island#United States#Suburban#Coastal

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into North Kingstown.

Top Hotels in North Kingstown

Top Flights to North Kingstown

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in North Kingstown.

Tours

Historic Wickford Village Exploration

Explore the charming historic village of Wickford, filled with colonial homes and unique shops.

Gilbert Stuart Birthplace and Museum

Visit the historic home of portrait artist Gilbert Stuart, offering tours and scenic walking areas.

Outdoor

Fishing at Quonset Point

Enjoy fishing at Quonset Point, suitable for both novice and experienced anglers.

Wilson Park

A large park featuring sports fields, a playground, and scenic walking trails.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in North Kingstown.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of North Kingstown, Rhode Island, is about 27,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

North Kingstown

Jan

3°-5°

Feb

4°-4°

Mar

8°-1°

Apr

14°4°

May

19°9°

Jun

25°14°

Jul

28°18°

Aug

27°17°

Sep

23°13°

Oct

17°8°

Nov

11°3°

Dec

5°-2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on North Kingstown.

What people love

North Kingstown, located in Rhode Island, United States, offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Here are some pros of traveling to North Kingstown:

Scenic Coastal Views: North Kingstown is situated along the coast of Narragansett Bay, providing visitors with beautiful waterfront views and opportunities for activities like beachcombing, fishing, and boating.
Historic Sites: The town is home to several historic sites, including the Gilbert Stuart Birthplace and Museum, where visitors can learn about the life and work of the famous portrait artist.
Outdoor Recreation: North Kingstown offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, with parks, nature reserves, and hiking trails for visitors to explore. Boating and water sports are also popular activities in the area.
Quaint New England Charm: North Kingstown has a charming New England feel, with historic buildings, picturesque streets, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Proximity to Providence and Newport: North Kingstown is conveniently located near the cities of Providence and Newport, making it easy for visitors to explore more of Rhode Island's attractions and cultural offerings.

Overall, traveling to North Kingstown can provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience for those looking to explore Rhode Island's coastal beauty and rich history.

Enjoy your trip!

What to know

North Kingstown, located in Rhode Island, is a beautiful place to visit with many attractions and amenities. However, there are some potential drawbacks to traveling to North Kingstown that visitors should be aware of:

Limited public transportation: North Kingstown is a smaller town with limited public transportation options. Visitors may find it challenging to get around without a car, so it is recommended to have your own mode of transportation.
Weather: Rhode Island experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and hot summers. Travelers should be prepared for potentially extreme weather conditions depending on the time of year they visit.
Limited nightlife: North Kingstown is a quieter town compared to larger cities, so visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife scene may be disappointed. The town is more suited for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway.
Higher cost of living: Rhode Island, in general, has a higher cost of living compared to other parts of the United States. Visitors should be prepared for potentially higher prices for accommodations, dining, and activities in North Kingstown.
Limited shopping options: While there are some shops and boutiques in North Kingstown, visitors looking for extensive shopping options may need to travel to nearby cities like Providence or Newport.

Overall, North Kingstown is a charming destination with plenty to offer, but visitors should be aware of these potential drawbacks before planning their trip.

North Kingstown, Rhode Island, has a rich history dating back to its early settlement in the 17th century. Here is an overview of its significant events, historical figures, and landmarks:

Early History and Settlement

1637: The area was originally inhabited by the Narragansett people. European settlement began when Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island, acquired land from the Narragansett tribe.
1674: North Kingstown was originally part of the town of Kings Towne, which was established this year. It comprised the areas that are now North Kingstown, South Kingstown, Exeter, and Narragansett.

Division and Development

1722-1723: Kings Towne was split into North Kingstown and South Kingstown. North Kingstown continued to develop as a separate community.
18th Century: The town's economy was largely based on agriculture, fishing, and shipbuilding, taking advantage of its coastal location.

Revolutionary War

North Kingstown played a role during the American Revolutionary War, with local militias participating in the conflict.

19th Century

Industrial Growth: The 19th century saw increased industrial activity, particularly in textiles. The establishment of mills provided a boost to the local economy.
Quonset Point: This area became an important industrial and military site. The Davisville Naval Construction Battalion Center, established during World War II, was a major military facility.

20th Century

World War II: Quonset Point played a critical role as a naval base during the war. The "Quonset hut," a lightweight prefabricated structure, was developed here.
Post-War Development: After the war, the area continued to grow, with the naval base remaining a significant employer until its closure in 1974.

Significant Figures

Gilbert Stuart: The famous portrait artist, known for his portraits of George Washington, was born in the Saunderstown village of North Kingstown in 1755. The Gilbert Stuart Birthplace and Museum is a significant historical site.

Notable Landmarks

Gilbert Stuart Birthplace and Museum: This museum preserves the childhood home of the renowned painter and includes a working gristmill and reproductions of Stuart's works.
Wickford Village: A historic seaside village known for its well-preserved colonial and 19th-century architecture, charming streets, and waterfront.
Smith's Castle: Built in 1678 on the site of an earlier trading post, it is one of the oldest houses in Rhode Island and has a museum offering insights into the region's history.
Quonset Air Museum: Although it closed in 2016, this museum was located at the former naval base and featured historic aircraft and exhibits related to aviation history.

Recent Developments

Today, North Kingstown is a blend of suburban and rural areas, maintaining its historical charm while accommodating modern development. It continues to be a desirable location due to its historical sites, scenic coastline, and community events such as the Wickford Art Festival.

North Kingstown's history is a tapestry of Native American heritage, colonial settlement, military significance, and artistic legacy, making it a unique and historically rich community in Rhode Island.