Charlestown RI Real Estate
Charlestown is a lovely historic town in South County, Rhode Island. It has a wonderful mix of rural farms to the north and a quaint beach cottage setting to the south. The neighborhoods are quiet and secluded, with easy access to one of the best ocean fronts in New England. People tend to stay here and settle down, not only because it’s safe and beautiful, but Charlestown also has one of the lowest tax rates in the state of Rhode Island. Plus, it’s a short ride to Westerly or Narragansett for things to do, restaurants and shopping.
Community Overview
Homes for sale in Charlestown, RI
What's it like to live in Charlestown?
Shopping
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory is a well-known “shoppers paradise” in Charlestown. You’ll find cafes, artist cooperatives, animal farms, and a bamboo forest all wrapped into one fun experience. There are also several consignment shops and specialty stores in the town center, perfect for collectibles and seeing the fantastic work of local artisans.
Notable Places:
Dining & Nightlife
Charlestown is home to several waterfront seafood spots, classic taverns, and local dessert & bakery shops. The Rathskeller is highly regarded and fun place to bring the family. While you wait for a table, you can play all different types of outdoor games like cornhole, horseshoes and more. If you’re looking for classic Rhode Island seafood fare, try The Nordic, The Cove or Breachway Grill.
- Rathskeller
- The Nordic
- Dave’s Coffee
- Holy Cow – A Heavenly
Experience - Phil’s Hungry Haven
- The Cove Restaurant
- The Bakery
- Wilcox Tavern
- The Fantastic Umbrella Factory
- The Breachway Grill
Recreation & Activities
Ninigret Park — recreational sports games including a small beachfront, a bike track, sporting fields, and tennis courts. Ninigret Park also includes the Frosty Drew Nature Center & Observatory, where visitors can view the night sky and learn about the observable star systems. You can also go kayaking or swimming in the inlet of Ninigret Pond.
Burlingame State Park and Campground — 755 campsites, fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking trails. There is also a small beachfront along Watchaug Pond and the Kimball Wildlife refuge.
The Ocean House Marina — public docks and launch ramp, new and used boat sales and rentals, bait & tackle shop.
Charlestown is home to some of the best public beaches in Rhode Island. Each provides great views of the Block Island Sound and has lifeguards on duty. Very family-oriented and friendly for all!
- Charlestown Town Beach
- East State Beach
- Blue Shutters Town Beach
Schools & Education
The Chariho Regional School district serves the towns of Charlestown, Richmond, and Hopkinton — “Chariho” is an abbreviated term for all three town names. The district consists of six public schools serving K-12 students, plus alternative and vocational programming for high school students through CHARIHOtech.
For more information on school programs, calendars and contact info, visit the official website at https://www.chariho.k12.ri.us
Chariho regional schools:
- Ashaway Elementary
- Charlestown Elementary
- Richmond Elementary
- Hope Valley Elementary
- Chariho Middle School
- Chariho High School
Transportation & Getting Around
Charlestown connects to neighboring South County towns by way of Route 1 (Post Road). Heading North, Route 2 (South County Trail) brings you through Richmond, West Kingston, and Exeter. Route 2 is also the fastest way to Wickford Junction Train Station and leads to I-95 via Route 138 (for travel to Providence).
Distance to Providence: 40.8 miles (via Route 1 to I-95 North)
Distance to Newport: 26.7 miles (via Route 1)
Distance to Mystic, Connecticut: 20.4 miles (via Route 1)
Government/city and town links
For more information on Charlestown government, community information or directions, please visit their website at https://www.charlestownri.org