Quick Summary:

  • Q: What is Jamestown known for?
  • A: Jamestown is one of Rhode Island's most historic towns, located within Newport County on lovely Conanicut Island. The city is one of America's wealthiest towns, known for its gorgeous preserved historic architecture dating all the way back to the 18th century.
  • Q: What historic sites can you explore in Jamestown?
  • A: Visitors can explore historic sites such as Beavertail Light, the state's most notable lighthouse, or travel across the Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge, which spans the Narragansett Bay's East Passage and is one of the world's longest suspension bridges.


  • Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Step back in time at the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Step back in time at the Beavertail Lighthouse Museum | Things to Do in Jamestown, Rhode Island
© sbgoodwin/stock.adobe.com

2. Go fishing in Fort Wetherill State Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Go fishing in Fort Wetherill State Park | Things to Do in Jamestown, Rhode Island
© LG Photography/stock.adobe.com

3. Enjoy the vist from Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge

Enjoy the vist from Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge | Things to Do in Jamestown, Rhode Island
© Mcdonojj/stock.adobe.com

4. Learn about history at Fort Getty Park

Category: Activities
Learn about history at Fort Getty Park | Things to Do in Jamestown, Rhode Island
© Vinoverde/stock.adobe.com

5. Take a self-guided walking tour of Historic New England Watson Farm

Tours
Take a self-guided walking tour of Historic New England Watson Farm | Things to Do in Jamestown, Rhode Island
© Historic New England Watson Farm

6. Pick up a treat at Village Hearth Bakery Cafe

Category: Food & Drink
Pick up a treat at Village Hearth Bakery Cafe | Things to Do in Jamestown, Rhode Island
© Village Hearth Bakery CafĂ©

7. If you love art, head to the Jamestown Arts Center

Category: Attractions
If you love art, head to the Jamestown Arts Center | Things to Do in Jamestown, Rhode Island
© Jamestown Arts Center

8. Visit Clancy Designs Glass Studio

Visit Clancy Designs Glass Studio | Things to Do in Jamestown, Rhode Island
© Clancy Designs

Where to stay:
- Wyndham Bay Voyage Inn
- Lionel Champlin Guest House

Jamestown, Rhode Island Events:
- America's Cup Races
- Newport Oktoberfest
- More events

Getting to Jamestown:

Jamestown is 12 min from Newport, RI (l5.5 miles via RI-138 W).

Town history:

Jamestown was originally settled in 1678, named in honor of James, Duke of York, and played a significant role in the American Revolution.

Best time to visit Jamestown, Rhode Island:

Visit during the shoulder seasons of spring (May-June) and fall (September-October) because you'll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and stunning scenery especially during the fall foliage season.

Plan Your Trip

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