Kent County Travel Guide

Discover the top places to visit, food and drink scene, things to do, hiking/biking routes, and local culture of Kent County, Rhode Island.


Introduction to Kent County

Kent County is a picturesque region in Rhode Island, located in the northeastern part of the United States. Known for its rich history and scenic beauty, this area is a popular destination among tourists who are interested in exploring the great outdoors and learning about the country’s colonial past. From museums and historical landmarks to hiking trails and waterfront views, Kent County has something to offer to everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Kent County

Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Kent County that you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Warwick Museum of Art - showcases local and regional artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs
  • Pawtuxet Village Historic District - a charming village with colonial architecture, waterfront views, and a variety of shops and restaurants
  • Linden Place Mansion - an exquisite example of Federal-style architecture, it has served as a location for many popular movies and TV shows
  • Clouds Hill Victorian House Museum - a historic house and museum dedicated to preserving the social and cultural history of Rhode Island
  • Museum of Work and Culture - an interactive museum that showcases the industrial history of Rhode Island’s mill towns

Natural Attractions of Kent County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Goddard Memorial State Park - a 490-acre park with a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, picnicking, golf, and hiking trails
  • Rocky Point State Park - a scenic waterfront park with stunning views of Narragansett Bay, a historic amusement park, and a variety of walking trails and picnic areas
  • Green Animals Topiary Gardens - a unique attraction featuring over 80 topiary sculptures, including animals, people, and geometric shapes
  • River Bend Farm Visitor Center - a picturesque park with a historic grist mill, farm animals, and scenic views of the Blackstone River

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kent County

Kent County boasts of several great hiking and biking trails that offer some of the most stunning views. Here are a few that you should consider during your visit:

  • East Bay Bike Path - a 14-mile bike path that runs from Providence to Bristol, offering breathtaking views of the Narragansett Bay
  • Washington Secondary Bike Path - a 19-mile trail that connects Cranston and Coventry, winding through forests, wetlands, and historic mill towns.
  • Caratunk Wildlife Refuge - a 207-acre wildlife reserve with over 3 miles of hiking trails, offering visitors a chance to spot local fauna and flora.

Best Things to Do in Kent County: Activities and Tours

Kent County offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. Here are the best things to do while you are here:

  • Take a Sunset Boat Tour - Narragansett Bay is known for its fiery sunsets, and there’s no better way to enjoy them than by taking a sunset boat tour around the bay.
  • Try your hand at fishing - Rhode Island has many great fishing spots, including in Kent County that offer unparalleled fishing experiences.
  • Take a Guided Tour of Warwick’s Historic Houses - Warwick has a rich history, and houses some of Rhode Island’s most beautiful historic homes.
  • Visit a Local Winery - The Newport Vineyards is one of the most popular wineries in the state, offering wine tastings and tours.
  • Take a Whale Watching Tour - The area offers a wide variety of whale watching tours to explore the magnificent marine animals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kent County

For those who plan to spend a week in Kent County, Rhode Island, here’s a recommended itinerary for your trip:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Warwick Museum of Art, take a stroll in Pawtuxet Village, and savor Rhode Island’s seafood for dinner.
Day 2 Explore the historical Linden Place Mansion, go hiking in Goddard Park and end the day with a sunset boat tour.
Day 3 Take a bicycle ride on the East Bay Bike Path and indulge in wine-tasting at Newport Vineyards.
Day 4 Visit the Museum of Work and Culture and Green Animals Topiary Gardens before a picnic lunch at River Bend Farm Visitor Center.
Day 5 Go whale watching and enjoy the beauty of Narragansett Bay.
Day 6 Visit the historic Warwick Mansion and roll out a mat for yoga at Goddard Park.
Day 7 Take a walk in Brigido’s Fresh Market and shop for some souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Kent County

Rhode Island is known for its food, and Kent County is no exception. Here’s everything you need to know about the food and drink scene in Kent County:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Clam Cakes: These delicious fried balls of dough mixed with clam meat are a local favorite.
  • Stuffies: Clam and bread stuffing baked in a clam shell, this popular appetizer delights visitors with its crispy texture.
  • Lobster Rolls: toasted hot dog bun filled with fresh lobster, often mixed with a little mayonnaise and other local ingredients.
  • Chowder: Rhode Island Clam Chowder is known for its lighter broth and lack of cream

Local Beverages

  • Coffee Milk: A local drink that is made by mixing milk with sweet coffee syrup, considered the unofficial state drink of Rhode Island.
  • Del’s Lemonade: A traditional lemonade served in a frozen sherbet form creates a heavenly tangy delight.
  • Narragansett Beer: locally brewed since 1890, is a staple beer in Rhode Island.

Where to Stay in Kent County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

For a memorable stay experience in Kent County, try one of these options:

  • Hotel Providence: A four-star hotel located in downtown Providence offering luxury rooms and an onsite gourmet restaurant.
  • Budget Host Inn: An affordable option located on Warwick Ave, right by the airport, with a variety of amenities and comfortable guest rooms.
  • Airbnb: Offering a variety of unique and affordable accommodations along with a chance to experience living like a local

What to Buy in Kent County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For a unique souvenir or gift idea from Kent County, here are some options to consider:

  • Del’s Lemonade: A good choice to have a taste of the local drink even after returning home.
  • Rhode Island Reds: This souvenir item, named after the state bird, is available in plush toys and other forms.
  • Blueberries: This indigenous fruit is renowned for being a healthy source of anti-oxidants and can be bought from the local markets

Local Culture and Customs of Kent County

The culture of Kent County reflects the region’s history and the state’s identity. Most people here are friendly and welcoming and, the English is the commonly spoken language. The culture of this area is deeply rooted in the maritime history and connectivity with the sea.

Best Time to Visit Kent County

The best time to visit Kent County is from May through October when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing. The season offers high visibility and is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports enthusiasts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kent County

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip to Kent County:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Carry a small backpack with all essentials for hiking and biking expeditions.
  • Order seafood, lobster rolls, and clam cakes from the local stores

Don’t:

  • Litter on beaches or other public places
  • Take for granted the health and safety regulations
  • Overspeed or drive rashly on narrow roads.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kent County

Kent County is a safe destination for travelers. Visitors should take the usual safety measures such as locking doors and windows and staying aware of their surroundings at all times. Travelers should follow the safety guidelines while hiking and biking around in Kent County.

Health in Kent County

There are several hospitals, health clinics, and pharmacies available for any medical assistance one might need when traveling to Kent County. Visitors should ensure that they carry all essential medicines and follow COVID-19 guidelines in a healthcare facility if any medical assistance is required.

Getting to Kent County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kent County is well-connected to other parts of Rhode Island and the country. Here are the transportation options and logistics to reach the region:

Airports Near Kent County

  • T.F. Green Airport - located in Warwick, offers several direct flights to major cities in the United States.

Bus Stations Near Kent County

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines - has a bus station in downtown Providence, with routes to different parts of the country.

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train - Rhode Island is served by Amtrak via the Providence train station, which is located in downtown Providence.

How to Get Around in Kent County

The most popular modes of transportation to get around in Kent County are rental cars, bicycles, and Uber or Lyft. Several rental car companies and bicycle rental services are available for visitors to rent these modes of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Kent County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kent County is a hub for several destinations and excursions in the area. Here are some of the nearby destinations you should consider visiting:

  • Newport: A coastal town with some of the state’s most beautiful beaches, amazing mansions, and seafood.
  • Providence: Rhode Island’s capital city, famous for its art, culture, and great food.
  • Block Island: An idyllic retreat with world-renowned beaches and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Kent County, Rhode Island, is an underrated destination that offers a diverse range of attractions from scenic landscapes, to historical sites, and delicious local delicacies, making it perfect for travelers interested in exploring different facets of American culture. With this comprehensive tour guide, you now have everything you need to plan a memorable trip to Kent County.



    Coventry
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