Attractions In Jamestown, RI
Experience Jamestown
If the only time you’ve been to Jamestown is to cross the bridges between North Kingstown and Newport you should take a closer look. In addition to Jamestown’s natural wonders, we have museums dedicated to preserving the historic past for all to enjoy in the future. 10 minutes by car from Newport, or a short ferry ride on beautiful Narragansett Bay. Unwind and enjoy a leisurely stroll through a quaint village featuring unique shops and inviting restaurants. Spend a day at the beach, visit a lighthouse, explore historic forts.
Beavertail Lighthouse Museum:
Located in the lighthouse keeper’s quarters, this museum features information and artifacts about the history of the third original lighthouse on the Atlantic seacoast.
Beavertail State Park:
With panoramic views of the ocean, this is the perfect spot for picnics, fishing, or exploring the coast with its crashing surf and crystal waters. Featuring the third oldest lighthouse in the US, the museum is open seasonally.
Conanicut Battery:
This site was the location of an earthen gun battery during the Revolutionary War. Self-guided walking tour provides beautiful views of the West Passage of Narragansett Bay.
Conanicut Island Sanctuary:
Located on the west side of the toll plaza featuring a trail that winds through reeds to the back of the Great Creek estuary. Other great bird viewing areas include Sheffield Cove, Beavertail State Park, and Potters Cove.
East Ferry:
This area hosts the Jamestown to Newport Ferry, a boat launch, and a variety of shops and restaurants continuing up Narragansett Avenue.
Fort Getty:
Once an active fort, the area is now a public camping facility including a boat ramp, fishing dock, dumping station, showers, and electric hookups.
Fort Wetherill State Park:
Open for picnics, exploring, fishing, and open water diving. This fort contains an extensive bunker system used as armed fortifications during World War I and II. Fire Department Memorial Museum: Exhibits include an 1894 steam engine, antique firefighting equipment and photographs.
Jamestown Museum:
Housed in a 19th century schoolhouse, this museum features ferry system memorabilia, Jamestown history, and special annual exhibits.
Jamestown Windmill:
Built in 1787 to grind cornmeal by utilizing wind power. Restored and open seasonally on special tour days.
Mackerel Cove Town Beach:
A beautiful sand beach open to the public. Sydney L. Wright Museum: A fascinating collection of ancient Indian and Colonial artifacts found on Jamestown and generously donated by the Wright family.
Watson Farm:
Experience history and explore the land at this 265-acre working farm owned by Historic New England. Take a self-guided walking tour starting at the barnyard, through the pastures with heritage breed cattle and sheep, to the bay.