Charlestown Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Located in the beautiful state of Rhode Island, Charlestown is a charming town that offers visitors a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes and rich history. With its stunning beaches, abundant nature reserves, and fascinating historical sites, this town has something to offer for every type of traveler.

One of the main attractions in Charlestown is its breathtaking coastline. The town is home to some of Rhode Island's most pristine and unspoiled beaches, such as Charlestown Town Beach and East Beach. These sandy stretches of paradise provide the ideal setting for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. Nature lovers can also explore the nearby Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, which spans over 4000 acres and is home to various species of birds, mammals, and plants.

For those interested in history, Charlestown has a wealth of intriguing sites to explore. The town is home to the historic Ninigret Park, which was once the site of a Native American village. Visitors can learn about the area's indigenous history and explore the park's hiking trails and picnic areas. Another must-visit historical site is the Frosty Drew Observatory, where visitors can stargaze and learn about the wonders of the universe.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Charlestown also offers a range of recreational activities. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, fishing, and boating in the nearby Pawcatuck River or take a leisurely hike through the Burlingame State Park. Golf enthusiasts can also tee off at one of the town's prestigious golf courses, such as the Meadowbrook Golf Course.

When it comes to dining and shopping, Charlestown doesn't disappoint. The town is home to a variety of charming restaurants, cafes, and seafood shacks where visitors can savor fresh seafood dishes and indulge in delicious local cuisine. The local boutiques and art galleries also offer a unique shopping experience, with an array of handmade crafts and artwork on display.

Alternative names: Population: 8.4 thous.Area: 59.3 mi²Elevation: 16 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 41°22'57"N, 71°38'27"W

Location

Rhode IslandUnited States

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Charlestown Top Attractions

Charlestown Attractions - What to See and Explore

Charlestown offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Frosty Drew Observatory, Ninigret Pond, Fort Ninigret, Charlestown Gallery. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Museum • Observatories and planetariums
Frosty Drew Observatory
Frosty Drew Observatory is an educational astronomical observatory owned and operated by the Frosty Drew Memorial Fund. It is located in the Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge in Charlestown, Rhode Island midway along the coast line between Westerly and Point Judith. It is named after Edwin "Frosty" Drew.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Ninigret Pond
Ninigret is a coastal lagoon in Charlestown, Rhode Island, in the United States, located at 41°22′45″N 71°38′43″W. It is the largest of the nine lagoons, or "salt ponds", in southern Rhode Island.
Forts and castles
Fort Ninigret
Fort Ninigret is a historic fort and trading post site at Fort Neck Road in Charlestown, Rhode Island, built and occupied by European settlers in the seventeenth century.

41°23'13"N • 71°38'25"W
Charlestown Gallery
Museum • Art gallery
41°22'57"N • 71°38'26"W
Charlestown Historical Society
Museum
Cemetery
Indian Burial Ground
The Indian Burial Ground is a historic Native American cemetery on Narrow Lane in Charlestown, Rhode Island. The small cemetery is believed to have been the burying ground for leaders of the Narragansett and Niantic tribes.
41°21'25"N • 71°42'17"W
Joseph Stanton House
The Joseph Stanton House is a historic house at 5153 Old Post Road in Charlestown, Rhode Island. The main house is a 2-½ story wood-frame structure built some time before 1739 by Joseph Stanton II, and it is where his son Joseph Stanton, Jr. was born.
41°25'47"N • 71°39'54"W
Joseph Jeffrey House
The Joseph Jeffrey House is an historic house on Old Mill Road in Charlestown, Rhode Island. It is located on the east side of Old Mill Road, just south of Saw Mill Pond and Sawmill Brook, on a predominantly wooded 9.5-acre lot.
41°20'14"N • 71°42'43"W
Babcock House
The Babcock House is a historic house also known as Whistling Chimneys, located on Main Street in the Quonochontaug section of Charlestown, Rhode Island.
41°22'57"N • 71°38'27"W
Cross Mills Public Library
Library
41°20'9"N • 71°42'32"W
Sheffield House
The Sheffield House is an historic house on Beach Road in the Quonochontaug section of Charlestown, Washington County, Rhode Island.

Day trips

Charlestown – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Charlestown, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Mystic Seaport (Mystic), The Breakers (Newport), Submarine Force Library and Museum (Groton).

17 milesW
Museum, Maritime museum
Mystic Seaport, Mystic
Mystic Seaport, nestled in the picturesque town of Mystic, Connecticut, is a quintessential New England attraction and a treasure trove for maritime enthusiasts. This expansive museum, often referred to as The Museum of America and the Sea, offers a unique glimpse into...
19 milesE
Opulent, late-1800s Vanderbilt mansion
The Breakers, Newport
Nestled along the picturesque cliffs of Newport, Rhode Island, The Breakers stands as a testament to the opulence of the Gilded Age. This palatial mansion, completed in 1895, was the summer home of Cornelius Vanderbilt II, a member of the wealthy Vanderbilt family.
23 milesW
Museum, Specialty museum, Military museum
Submarine Force Library and Museum, Groton
The Submarine Force Library and Museum, located in Groton, Connecticut, stands as a testament to the rich history and technological advancements of the United States submarine force. This unique museum is the only submarine museum operated by the United States Navy...
18 milesE
Museum, History museum, Vernacular architecture
The Elms, Newport
The Elms is a grandiose mansion nestled in the picturesque city of Newport, Rhode Island. This palatial summer residence, completed in 1901, stands as a testament to the opulence and luxury that characterized America's Gilded Age.
11 milesNE
Winter sport, Park, Outdoor activities
Yawgoo Valley, Exeter
Tucked away in the serene town of Exeter, Rhode Island, Yawgoo Valley holds the distinction of being the state's sole ski resort. This charming winter destination offers a cozy and intimate alternative to the larger resorts found in neighboring states, making it a...

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Best Time To Visit Charlestown

Learn when is the best time to travel to Charlestown weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in September.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in July. Most of it rains in March, April, November and December.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Charlestown?

The top attractions to visit in Charlestown are:

What is the best time to visit Charlestown?

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in September. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.