Foster Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Foster, Rhode Island with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to stay, where to eat, and more!


Introduction to Foster

Foster is a charming town nestled in the heart of Providence County, Rhode Island. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Foster offers a perfect blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures.

In this Foster travel guide, we present a comprehensive rundown of all the top attractions, activities, and must-see sights to help you plan your itinerary.

List of Places to Visit in Foster

From historical sites to outdoor excursions, and scenic vistas, Foster has something for everyone. Here are some of the top attractions to put on your list.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Foster Old Home Days: A town-wide event held every summer, Foster Old Home Days is a celebration of the town’s history and cultural traditions.

  • The Foster Preservation Society Museum: This is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum showcases the town’s rich history, complete with photographs, artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

  • Pocasset Cemetery: This cemetery has the graves of many veterans, including the graves of the Revolutionary War that is maintained by the Rhode Island Historical Cemetery Commission.

  • Stephen Hopkins House: This beautiful home is an architectural masterpiece and tells the story of one of the founding fathers of Rhode Island.

Natural Attractions of Foster: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • George Washington Management Area: This vast natural area offers miles of scenic hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas.

  • Snake Den State Park: This park offers hiking, bird watching, and boating in a serene and tranquil setting.

  • Waterman Pond: This small yet picturesque pond boasts a fantastic view of the quivering breezes and the fall foliage.

  • Foster-Auxiliary Reservoir: This 91-acre reservoir is ideal for kayaking, fishing, bird watching, and wildlife sighting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Foster

Foster offers many trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts, and every trailhead offers picturesque views of the surrounding area. Some of the popular hiking trails include:

  • The Trestle Trail: This 1.2-mile trail follows the path of the old Providence-to-Danielson Railroad.

  • The Ponaganset River Trail: This moderate 2.6-mile trail follows the gentle curves of the Ponaganset River as it winds through the woods.

  • The Durfee Hill Trail: This trail offers sweeping views of the surrounding hills along its 4.5-mile length.

Best Things to Do in Foster: Activities and Tours

Foster is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers plenty of exciting activities and tours, including:

  • Foster Farmer’s Market: Held every Saturday morning, this farmers’ market offers an array of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

  • Foster’s Famous Food Festival: A town-wide celebration held annually in the fall.

  • Bicycle Tours of Foster: These tours are organized by several companies and let you explore the beautiful countryside of Foster on two wheels.

  • Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle along the serene waterways of Foster, admiring the abundant flora and fauna.

Week-Long Itinerary for Foster

Day 1: Stephen Hopkins House and Pocasset Cemetery Day 2: Hiking trails in George Washington Management Area Day 3: Canoeing and Kayaking in Foster-Auxiliary Reservoir Day 4: Trestle Trail and Ponaganset River Trail Day 5: Foster Preservation Society Museum Day 6: Foster Farmer’s Market Day 7: Foster’s Famous Food Festival

Food and Drink Scene of Foster

Foster is a treasure trove of New England’s culinary delights. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to savor.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood: Rhode Island is home to some of the best seafood in the country, and Foster has no shortage of fresh seafood eateries.

  • Johnnycakes: These tasty pancakes made from cornmeal are a staple in Rhode Island.

  • Pizza Strips: A unique Rhode Island delicacy, pizza strips consist of a thick crust topped with tomato sauce and served cold.

Local Beverages

  • Rhode Island Coffee Milk: This sweetened milk flavored with coffee syrup can be found in every Rhode Island diner and café.

  • Narragansett Beer: This iconic Rhode Island beer has been brewed since 1890 and is a favorite of locals and tourists alike.

Where to Stay in Foster: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Old Stone Mill Inn: This charming bed and breakfast located in nearby Wickford is perfect for a romantic getaway.

  • Holiday Acres Camping Resort: This family-friendly campground offers RV sites, tent sites, and cabins in a picturesque setting.

What to Buy in Foster: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Rhode Island Half and Half: This unique seasoning mix blends salt and pepper, and it’s a must-have in any Rhode Island kitchen.

  • Sea Glass Jewelry: Craftsmen in and around Foster make beautiful jewelry from the colorful sea glass found along the coastline.

Local Culture and Customs of Foster

Foster, like the rest of Rhode Island, has a vibrant and unique culture that reflects its diverse history and traditions. Locals are friendly and hospitable, and there is a strong sense of community.

Best Time to Visit Foster

The best time to visit Foster depends on what you want to do. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summers are popular for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. Winters can get chilly but are lovely for cozy indoor activities like museums and food festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Foster

Do:

  • Respect nature and the environment.
  • Patronize local businesses and farmers’ markets.
  • Participate in community events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb wildlife.
  • Disrespect historical landmarks and museums.
  • Ignore local customs and rules.

Safety and Health

Safety in Foster

Foster is a safe and welcoming town, but it’s always advisable to take the usual precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Foster

There are no major health concerns in Foster, and medical facilities are available in nearby towns like Providence.

Getting to Foster: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Foster

  • T.F. Green Airport: Located in Warwick, RI, T.F. Green Airport is the closest major airport to Foster.

Bus Stations Near Foster

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines: Peter Pan Bus Lines has a stop in nearby Providence, RI.

Other Options

The best way to get around Foster is by car.

How to Get Around in Foster

Driving is the best way to get around Foster and to explore the nearby towns and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Foster: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Foster is located in the heart of Rhode Island and is close to many other exciting destinations. Nearby places to explore include:

  • Providence: The capital city of Rhode Island, Providence, is known for its art, culture, and culinary scene.

  • Newport: Famous for its stunning mansions and picturesque coastal scenery, Newport is a must-visit for any trip to Rhode Island.

  • Wickford Village: This charming village is lined with beautiful historic homes and offers shopping, dining, and scenic views of the waterfront.

Conclusion

Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Foster is the perfect destination for your next vacation. Plan your visit today and experience the best of Rhode Island!