Finding things to do in Jamestown

Jamestown, Rhode Island, nestled on Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, offers a serene and scenic getaway with a mix of natural beauty and historic charm. Visitors can explore the picturesque Beavertail State Park, known for its stunning ocean views, lighthouse, and excellent opportunities for hiking and tide pooling. The park's lighthouse, one of the oldest in North America, includes a museum that provides insights into its maritime history. Jamestown also features Fort Wetherill State Park, located on a former coastal defense battery, where visitors can enjoy diving, fishing, and picnicking against the backdrop of dramatic cliffs and clear waters. The town itself is quaint, with art galleries, boutiques, and local eateries that offer a taste of New England charm. Additionally, Jamestown's quiet, less commercial atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for those seeking peaceful relaxation by the sea or a leisurely day exploring small town life.

 

Jamestown

Shopping & Things To Do in Jamestown

There are places to shop locally in Jamestown, but you won’t find any large retail stores on the island. This is by design, of course — Jamestown residents like to keep things simple and quaint (classy, you might say). If you live here and want to hit a couple retailers, you’ll only have to travel across either bridge to North Kingstown or Newport. Both areas have plenty of options. That said, you can find grocery and general items at McQuade’s Grocery or shop around at some of the great gift shops in town center.  Check out The Purple Door, Curiosity and Co, TWC home, All Ashore Cottage Outfitters. Outdoor enthusiast shouldn't miss Wax Buddy.

A 9-hole golf course originally built in 1898 (one of the oldest public courses in the country!) and open to the public. For the occasional or even seasoned player, this is one of the better 9-hole courses in New England. There is a practice green available and a full-service restaurant and bar (The Caddy Shack).

A Beautiful little gem of a beach on your way to Beavertail. Residents love to snorkel here because the natural landscape and position of the beach protects from high waves and rip tides. You can usually walk out 50 yards before the water reaches your waist. Very unique spot worth exploring

Recreation & Activities In Jamestown

The Beavertail outlook marks the exact point where Narragansett Bay ends and the Atlantic Ocean begins. Here you’ll have some of the best views and vistas of the New England coastline. It’s a great spot for sightseeing and is open for saltwater fishing throughout the year. Be sure to check out the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum to learn about Jamestown’s maritime history and see preserved artifacts. There are also a few walking trails along the rocky shore to each outlook space.

A 22-acre open space park just off Beavertail Road and home to the Connecticut Battery Fort (built in 1776). Every year the Jamestown Historical Society hosts their Battery Day Festival here. It’s open daily from sunrise to sunset and is a nice place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Sitting high atop the granite cliffs on the southern tip of Conanicut Island, this park was once an artillery fortress during the Revolutionary War and both World Wars. Since 1972, it’s been a multi-use recreational space open to the public. The area is also a major attraction for scuba diving, group picnicking, boating, fishing, hiking and exploring on the park’s 61.5 acres of property.