· US

Westerly

Westerly, Rhode Island, United States

Westerly, located in the beautiful state of Rhode Island in the United States, is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and seaside charm. Situated along the shores of the Atlant…

#Coastal#Quaint#Beach town#Historic#New England

1/2

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Westerly.

Top Hotels in Westerly

Top Flights to Westerly

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Westerly.

Tours

Westerly Beaches Exploration

Enjoy a day at the pristine beaches of Westerly, featuring beautiful sands and clear waters.

Shopping

Downtown Westerly Shopping Spree

Discover unique shops and boutiques in the heart of Westerly.

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 Westerly.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

23,000

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Westerly

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°7°

Nov

11°2°

Dec

6°-2°

Local guide

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

What people love

Westerly, Rhode Island, located in the United States, has several pros for travelers to enjoy. Here are some detailed reasons why traveling to Westerly can be a fantastic experience:

Beaches: Westerly is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Misquamicut State Beach and Watch Hill Beach. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and other water activities while taking in the stunning coastal views.
Watch Hill: This upscale village in Westerly is famous for its historic lighthouse, luxurious oceanfront mansions, boutique shops, and upscale restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the charming streets and take in the picturesque scenery.
Quaint New England Charm: Westerly exudes a classic New England charm with its historic architecture, quaint downtown area, and friendly locals. Travelers can explore the town's shops, art galleries, and cafes while soaking in the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Outdoor Activities: Westerly offers a variety of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can explore nearby parks and nature reserves, go hiking or biking along scenic trails, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Cultural Attractions: Westerly is home to several cultural attractions, including the Wilcox Park, the Granite Theatre, and the Flying Horse Carousel. Art and history enthusiasts can explore museums and galleries showcasing local art and heritage.
Proximity to Other Destinations: Westerly's location in Rhode Island makes it a convenient base for exploring other nearby attractions. Visitors can easily take day trips to popular destinations like Newport, Mystic, and Block Island.

Overall, traveling to Westerly, Rhode Island, offers a mix of beach relaxation, cultural exploration, outdoor adventures, and New England charm, making it a delightful destination for all types of travelers.

Enjoy your trip to Westerly!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Westerly, Rhode Island, include:

Weather: Westerly experiences typical New England weather, which can include cold winters with snow and ice, as well as hot and humid summers. Depending on your preferences, you may find the weather less than ideal during certain times of the year.
Tourist Crowds: Westerly is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the summer months. This can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, which may not be ideal if you prefer quieter, more secluded travel experiences.
High Cost of Living: Rhode Island, in general, has a higher cost of living compared to other parts of the United States. This can be reflected in the prices of accommodations, dining, and activities in Westerly, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious travelers.
Limited Public Transportation: Westerly is a relatively small town, and public transportation options may be limited. Renting a car or relying on rideshare services may be necessary to explore the area and access nearby attractions.
Seasonal Variability: Some businesses and attractions in Westerly may have limited operating hours or be closed during the off-season, which could impact your travel plans if you visit during a quieter time of year.

These are some general considerations to keep in mind when planning a trip to Westerly, Rhode Island.

Westerly, Rhode Island, is a town with a rich history that dates back to its founding in the 17th century. Here is a detailed history of Westerly:

Early History:

Settlement: Westerly was first settled by English colonists in 1661 and was officially incorporated in 1669. It was named after the English village of Westerleigh in Gloucestershire.
Colonial Era: The town was part of the original lands of the Narragansett Indians. During the colonial period, Westerly's economy was largely agricultural, but it also benefited from its coastal location, which facilitated trade and fishing.

18th and 19th Centuries:

Revolutionary War: Westerly contributed to the American Revolutionary War effort, though no major battles took place within the town itself.
Industrial Growth: The 19th century saw significant industrial growth in Westerly, with the establishment of textile mills and quarries. Westerly granite became famous and was used in numerous notable buildings, including the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.
Railroad: The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century further spurred economic growth and development.

20th Century:

World War II: Westerly, like many other American towns, contributed to the war effort during World War II. The town's industries supported the production of war materials.
Tourism: In the 20th century, Westerly also became known as a tourist destination, particularly for its beautiful beaches and coastal resorts.

Significant Figures:

Wilcox Family: A prominent family in Westerly's history, they were involved in various business ventures and civic activities.
Stephen Wilcox: Co-inventor of the water-tube boiler, which was important in steam engine development.

Important Landmarks:

Watch Hill: A historic coastal area known for its beautiful beaches and the Watch Hill Lighthouse, which was built in 1808.
Babcock-Smith House: Built in 1734, this historic house now serves as a museum and reflects the colonial history of Westerly.
Flying Horse Carousel: Located in Watch Hill, it is one of the oldest operating carousels in the United States, dating back to around 1876.

Modern Day:

Today, Westerly remains a vibrant community, balancing its historical heritage with modern development. The town is known for its cultural events, scenic coastlines, and as a desirable place for both residents and visitors.

Westerly's blend of history, industry, and natural beauty continues to define its character and appeal.