This Coastal Rhode Island Town Offers New England Colonial Charm And The Freshest Seafood Around

There are plenty of Rhode Island towns that promise that irresistible New England charm we can't get enough of; just look at Coventry, a rural gem near the coast with lots of outdoor fun and historic attractions. With that said, there's only one place where you can combine the region's early American allure with the freshest seafood, and that's South Kingstown. Between its darling villages (like Wakefield and Peace Dale), historic barns, quiet harbors, and centuries-old homes, the town paints a one-of-a-kind backdrop for history buffs and foodies alike.

Hidden for years just 32 miles south of Providence, South Kingstown is finally emerging as the scenic, fascinating, and surprisingly well-connected gem it is. To come here, all you have to do is drive 35 minutes from T.F. Green Airport via I-95. Not to mention the nearest Amtrak stop is also at Kingston Station, and it connects you to both Boston and NYC — it doesn't get more convenient than that.

And while driving is easily the best way to explore not only South Kingstown but also its incredible surrounding towns and beaches, those who prefer public transport will be happy to learn that RIPTA buses are in full operation here; just keep in mind that the routes can be a bit limited so you might want to check the schedules online beforehand.

Seafood lovers will be spoiled for choice in South Kingstown, though if there's one place you won't want to miss out, it's Two Ten Oyster Bar & Grill. Famous for its freshly shucked oysters and lobster rolls, this breezy, nautically themed restaurant is the ultimate choice for a laid-back lunch or dinner. It's open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. (9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays). Beyond the food, diners have raved about the friendly servers, scenic patio, and talented bartender, so go ahead and order that cocktail knowing you'll be getting a great drink.

If you don't mind the slightly higher prices, Chophouse Grille is another fantastic option. Not only is this place beloved by locals and visitors alike for its mouth-watering seafood, cozy atmosphere, and warm, freshly-made bread served with butter, but it's also one of the most accommodating restaurants around. Diners report that almost anything on the menu can be made gluten-free,  and the staff goes above and beyond to provide a memorable experience. Chophouse Grille also stays open until 10 p.m. every day except Sunday, so it might be the best choice for late eaters.

Before you leave, make sure to add a trip to Ocean Catch Seafood to your itinerary. It's one of the region's most famous markets that caters specifically to seafood lovers. Don't forget to try the fish and chips, stuffed lobster, crab cakes, or calamari salad — they come highly recommended. And those who want to continue their Rhode Island culinary adventure beyond South Kingstown can always make the about 20-mile drive to Newport, a coastal town with fresh seafood, scenic cliffs, and undeniable French vibes.

South Kingstown's historic flavors also run deep. Early villages like Kingston and Peace Dale are, to this day, home to buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries and are registered on the National Register of Historic Places. Think graceful Colonial Revival farmhouses like the Perry-Carpenter Grist Mill (one of the oldest still-operational corn mills in the U.S.) and charming Queen Anne-style homes that line the village streets.

And for those more into the town scene, Main Street in Wakefield buzzes with all the mom-and-pop shops, cafés, and historic storefronts that adorn the Saugatucket River. Bikers will love the William C. O'Neill Path, though its shaded trails make it perfect for casual strollers looking to take in the South Kingstown views, too. While here, why not also stop by the Peace Dale Historic District? Take in its Romanesque church and vintage mill buildings, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a seasonal festival or concert.

Avid history lovers won't want to leave town without a visit to the South County Museum in Kingston Village, which interprets early Narragansett and colonial life with artifacts and outdoor farm exhibits. And while visitors are always raving about the easy-to-follow displays and knowledgeable guides, the opening hours can be a bit inconsistent, especially from one season to the next, so always check the current schedule on their official website before visiting. If you've loved South Kingstown's historical architecture and seaside scenery, you'll probably love Warren, too. It's a walkable harbor town packed with oyster shacks, artist studios, and colonial charm, and best of all, it's only about an hour's drive away!