06/10/2026
One of Rhode Island's Quirkiest Towns Is Still Flying Under the Radar
Learn all about one of the quirkiest towns in Rhode Island, filled with unique attractions, beautiful nature, and small-town charm.
Charlie Boyle
With long stretches of pristine, gorgeous coastline and odd (but fun) roadside attractions, this quirky town in Rhode Island is well-known to locals and conservationists, but not so much to tourists. Why? Because they like it that way. But, this shouldn't detour tourists who know how to respect nature, as Charlestown is a virtual treasure trove of gorgeous views and unique places to visit.
Where Is Charlestown and Why Is It So Unique?
altRafael Rodrigues/Wirestock Creators - stock.adobe.com
This coastal town is located on the southwestern part of Rhode Island, and as the state itself is tiny, it's close to many better-known towns like Newport or even Mystic, Connecticut (made famous by the movie 'Mystic Pizza,' of course). The land has seen much change: it is the historical home of the Narragansett Tribe, housed Revolutionary War figures, hosted a naval air base during WWII, and then started to move into a more nonconformist direction with speakeasies during prohibition and hippie communes in the 70s.
Today, the land has an extreme focus on conservation. This, plus the remnants of hippie culture, has created a unique blend of distinctly individual people who are fierce protectors of nature, but are also artisans.
The Quirky Attractions That Define This Town
altPhoto by Jill L, courtesy of AllTrails
The Sculpture Trail
This charming little trail in Ninigret Park isn't long, but it has troll art made by the Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Anyone looking for a unique stroll with family and friends would do well to visit this little spot (and bring a camera).
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory
Yes, that's really the name. Originally a farm from the 19th century, then a hippie commune in the 70s, this space converted the old barns into storefronts. Open since 1968, paths through a garden lead to various stores selling specialty items (toys, candy, thrifted items, Native American jewelry, food, and all manner of bits and bobs).
The Frosty Drew Observatory
This isn't really a quirky attraction, so to speak, but it does attract some distinctly off-the-grid people, so it counts. They put on stargazing events for free on Fridays, have a theater that hosts all manner of educational material, and own a telescope that allows one to see other planets in the solar system.
Why This Unusual Town In Rhode Island Still Flying Under the Radar
altOwl Post Photography/Wirestock Creators - stock.adobe.com
Ironically, while a unique small town in Rhode Island, Charlestown is actually pretty well known to locals, just not so much by tourists. Their lack of tourists is purposeful. With more than half of the town being water-based nature (salt ponds, the ocean, etc), the area is heavily focused on conservation. Forty percent of the land will never be developed to protect wildlife and natural landscapes, and very strict zoning laws exist for the rest of the town. There are also lighting ordinances to minimize light pollution and help with the dark sky protection order.
This artsy, hippy town rejects tourist traps in favor of nature in its rawest form - left pristine and peaceful in the way it should be. Charlestown is one of the most underrated towns in Rhode Island, falling under the radar because it WANTS to. But, this doesn't mean they discourage visitors. So, plan accordingly, bring a camera and a sense of wonder, and visit one of the most charming hidden gem towns in Rhode Island!
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/trip-ideas/rhode-island/quirkiest-town-flying-under-radar-ri
Learn all about one of the quirkiest towns in Rhode Island, filled with unique attractions and small-town charm. A hidden gem worth exploring.
