Wickford is a small village in the township of North Kingstown, Rhode
Island named after Wickford in Essex, England. It was colonized in the
early 1700’s and its historic homes, churches, gardens and picturesque
harbor offer us a glimpse of our nation's early history. In addition to
being the home base of Safe/Sea, Wickford offers plenty of other
novelties. For starters, Wickford was previous home to painter Gilbert
Stuart in 1755, and now houses the Gilbert Stuart Museum.
Wickford has also been home to Paule Stetson Loring, the artist for
Yachting Magazine and other publications such as the Providence
Journal. The town, largely reminiscent of the small communities on
Cape Cod, is a beautiful example of a slower, prettier, and more quaint
time. Today the majority of the village's historic homes and buildings
(mostly privately owned) remain largely intact and upon their original
foundations. Outside of the fine homes, Wickford presents its guests
with adorable hidden shops boiling over with interesting gifts, books,
and jewelry for those who peruse its streets.
Things to do:
Despite the relatively small size of the town of Wickford, it doesn’t
lack in activities and entertainment. It also offers weary cruisers
enjoyable meals, any time of the day.
Food:
The Place:
Quite possibly the most for your dollar in downtown Wickford. The
Place consistently serves up hot, filling, and delicous food at
extremely reasonable prices. Call 401-294-0800
Beach Rose Café: If you’re stopping in for breakfast or lunch and a
nice cup of coffee or a bottle of wine wets your tastes; this Café will
do the job. Call 401-295-2800
Tavern By the Sea: For
International Cuisine that’s slightly more filling and expensive than a
sandwich or a cup of coffee, this Tavern offers exceptional entrées and
a beautiful view. Call 401-294-5771
Harborside Grill: If you’re an early traveler, The Harborside is open
6am to 3pm for breakfast and lunch, right as you enter Wickford. Call
401-295-0444.
Wickford Diner: One of the original fast food destinations, diners are
alive and well here in Southern New England and the Wickford Diner is
no exception. Like other restaurants in Rhode Island, its usually the
ones you have to look for that really stand out.
Entertainment/Shopping:
Whether you’re into the beachier side of things or want to dive
straight into maritime life, checking out stores such as Mystic
Scrimshanders or Nautical Impressions will get you there. Outside of
these more sea-fairing stores, consider checking out the rest of the
town.
Note: Looking for more fast-paced entertainment? The City of Providence is not far.
Blue Hydrangea: Opened recently in 2005 by a Wickford local, Blue Hydrangea offers classy gifts, natural stationary, and whimsical jewelry.
The Grateful Heart: A
beautiful cozy bookstore set in the walls of a 17th Century house
provides you with a great place to browse or a comfortable and homey
way to spend an afternoon reading anything from Philosophy to Cooking.
Canvasworks: A store brimming with Life Is Good paraphernalia, stationary, home furnishings, sturdy (and cute) canvas bags, and much much more!
Different Drummer: Best known for its pottery and glassware, Different Drummer is an eclectic collection of precious and unique goodies.
Seasonal Festivals and Fairs:
RI Air National Guard Air Show: Late June
Wickford Art Festival: Mid July
Wickford Harbor Festival: Late September
Spirits of Wickford: Late October
Annual Festival Of Lights: End Nov.- Early Dec.
Accommodations:
Classic Accomodations and Inns
Crosswinds: Beautifully
decorated with an array of eclectic artifacts and classic antiques,
this 1850 style farmhouse is a delightful place to stay. Call
401-339-7813
Haddie Pierce House: A
classic maritime house, complete with widow’s walk, waiting for you to
come enjoy its classic beauty and prime location. Call 401-294-7674.
Wickford Junction Inn:
Situated in a park-like setting right at the gateway of historic
Wickford, the Junction Inn is a beautifully restored 1880’s Victorian.
Call 401-295-4434.
Modern Accomodations & Hotels
Hamilton Village Inn: (Just across the street from Safe/Sea's new Emergency Response Center) Enjoy modern,immaculate, economical accommodations on a scenic road. We are located
just minutes from beaches, harbors, villages, the University of Rhode
Island, and Newport.
Hampton Inn South Kingstown: Our hotel in South Kingstown is conveniently located in the Village at
South County Commons - a unique mixed-use development in a quaint New
England Village setting. From the Hampton Inn South Kingstown - Newport
Area, you can take a short walk to grab dinner or watch a new release
at the eight-screen movie theater.
Holiday Inn South Kingstown: Beaches, downtown Newport, The Ryan Center, many restaurants, shops,
the Block Island Ferry, great fishing, kayaking and bicycling trails
are all within minutes of this hotel.
History:
