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Wickedly Fun: Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Westerly, Rhode Island

Westerly earns rather more of a stop than a small Rhode Island town would ever really suggest right out there. Napatree Point runs completely undeveloped out there, so the dunes and the salt marshes stay quiet as well. Watch Hill Lighthouse has been working since 1807 and it still is today right out there as well. Seals turn up on the rocks right out there. Genuinely.

Welcome to Westerly, Rhode Island, a charming coastal town packed with fun and exciting things to do. Taking the sun on sandy beaches, working historical landmarks, indulging in culinary delights, or simply taking nature’s playground, Westerly covers all four.

One of the biggest draws of Westerly is its beaches. With soft, powdery sand and clear water, the spots to slow down run plenty. And that is not all, because Westerly also holds museums and landmarks across the range that give a look into the town’s history and culture. And eaters do well too, because the dining options run long, seafood shacks through upscale restaurants.

But that is only the start, because Westerly also runs outdoor activities, shopping spots and nightlife options. And when it is time to rest and recover, the hotels and resorts that run comfort and luxury are plenty. So pack the bags and get ready to find the best and most fun things to do and places to visit in Westerly, Rhode Island.

Key Takeaways

• Westerly offers a wide range of activities for every interest, from sandy beaches to historical landmarks and outdoor adventures.
• Foodies will be delighted by the many dining options available, from seafood shacks to upscale restaurants.
• When it’s time to rest and recharge, Westerly offers plenty of hotels and resorts that offer comfort and luxury.

Sandy Delights: Best Beaches in Westerly

After some fun in the sun? Westerly has you covered with its fine beaches. Surfing through swimming, everybody is covered. Here are the top three beaches not to be missed:

Surf’s Up at Misquamicut State Beach

Misquamicut State Beach is the place for serious surf. With waves that can run seriously high, it is a popular spot for experienced surfers. But do not worry if you are a beginner, because the surf schools in the area that can teach you the ropes run plenty. And if surfing is not your thing, the beach’s soft sand and clear water still hold up. And the food stands and restaurants nearby handle the hunger after a long day in the sun.

Napatree Point: Nature’s Paradise

For a more secluded beach day, head to Napatree Point Conservation Area. This undeveloped beach suits nature lovers, with its dunes, salt marshes and rocky shoreline. It is a strong place for birdwatching, hiking, or simply a quiet stroll along the beach. And with luck you spot some seals lounging on the rocks. Just pack some snacks and drinks, because there are no food stands or restaurants nearby.

So catching some waves, building sandcastles, or simply sitting with nature, Westerly’s beaches cover all three. And do not forget the sunscreen, and take the day in the sun.

Historical Highlights: Museums and Landmarks

History people have plenty of museums and landmarks in Westerly, Rhode Island. Here are the highlights:

Lighting the Way: Watch Hill Lighthouse

You cannot miss the iconic Watch Hill Lighthouse, which has been lighting the way for sailors since 1807. This historic landmark is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and should not be skipped by anybody visiting Westerly.

Take a tour of the lighthouse and learn its history. You also get a long view of the ocean and the nearby mansions from the top. And snap a photo for the Instagram.

Armory Adventures at Westerly Armory

For an unusual historical day, head over to the Westerly Armory. This former military facility is now a museum and event space, and it is packed with interesting artifacts and exhibits.

Take a guided tour of the armory and learn its role in American history. You see everything from antique weapons to military uniforms and equipment. And the armory hosts events across the year, so check their calendar before you visit.

History buff or simply somebody after something different in Westerly, these museums and landmarks land.

Culinary Journey: Best Restaurants and Dining Spots

Ready to indulge in some strong seafood? Westerly, Rhode Island has you covered with its culinary scene. Seafood shacks through fine dining restaurants, you find everything here. Let us take you on a culinary journey to the strongest dining spots in Westerly.

Seafood Cravings at The Cooked Goose

The Cooked Goose is a local favorite and should not be skipped by seafood lovers. This cozy restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and its homemade bread. Lobster bisque through clam chowder, The Cooked Goose runs it all. Their seafood platter should not be skipped, and it holds shrimp, scallops, clams and fish. And the strongest part is that they serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, so the seafood works at any hour.

Lobster Love: Top Lobster Roll Spots

Who does not love a good lobster roll? Westerly runs some of the strongest lobster roll spots in the state. Head over to Bridge Restaurant for their famous lobster roll, served on a toasted brioche bun. Another strong spot is The Sea Goose Grill & Raw Bar, which serves a lobster roll that blends sweet and savory well.

Two Little Fish: A Seafood Haven

After a seafood haven? Two Little Fish is the place. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, lobster and clams and oysters among them. Their battered fish should not be skipped, and it comes with homemade tartar sauce. Two Little Fish also runs a strong selection of craft beers that go well with the seafood.

So what is the hold-up? Get ready for a culinary journey in Westerly, Rhode Island, and take some of the strongest seafood you will ever taste.

Shop ‘Til You Drop: Best Shopping Spots

After some retail therapy in Westerly, Rhode Island? The downtown area runs some of the strongest shopping around. Charming boutiques through trendy shops, everybody is covered.

Retail Therapy in Downtown Westerly

Downtown Westerly suits shoppers, with stores and boutiques across the range to work. Unusual gifts or stylish clothing, you find it here.

One spot not to be missed is the Savoy Bookshop & Café, which runs a broad selection of books, gifts and strong coffee. This cozy bookstore suits curling up with a good book or browsing the latest bestsellers.

Another strong option is the Purple Ape, a funky boutique running a mix of vintage and new clothing, accessories and home décor. You find everything from retro t-shirts to quirky wall art at this eclectic shop.

Main Street Mania

For even more shopping options, head to Main Street for stores and boutiques across the range. Clothing through jewelry through home goods, everybody is covered on this busy street.

One standout shop is the Pink Paddock, a chic boutique running a curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories. You find stylish pieces from top brands like Free People and BB Dakota, along with unusual jewelry and handbags.

Another strong option is Bogue’s Alley, a gift shop running a mix of home goods, décor and specialty food items. You find everything from gourmet popcorn to handmade pottery at this charming store.

So why wait? Grab the wallet and head to downtown Westerly for some serious shopping.

Napatree Point runs no food stands at all, so pack the snacks before you go. Misquamicut has all of the restaurants instead, so plan the eating around that one. The Quonochontaug Pond Trail runs 5 miles, which is a comfortable morning out there. Book the inn well ahead of time out there.

Nature’s Playground: Outdoor Activities

Westerly, Rhode Island suits nature lovers. Between the beaches, the tranquil parks and the diverse wildlife, Westerly is where you go to work the outdoors. Here are the strongest outdoor activities in Westerly:

Hiking Hotspots

After a good hike? Westerly runs plenty of options. The Quonochontaug Pond Trail is a popular choice for hikers at every skill level. This 5-mile trail takes you through the woods and along the pond, carrying long views of the landscape around it. For a harder hike, take the Dr. John Champlin Glacier Park. This heavily wooded park covers about 173 acres and runs several hiking trails leading to long views of the area.

Bird Watching at Napatree Point

Westerly is a prime destination for bird watchers. Napatree Point should not be skipped by anybody interested in bird watching. This fine beach is a popular spot for migrating shorebirds, sandpipers and plovers among them. Keep watching for these feathered friends as you walk the beach.

Avid hiker or simply somebody after a relaxing stroll, Westerly covers both. Between the diverse wildlife, the tranquil parks and the beaches, Westerly genuinely is nature’s playground.

Nightlife and Entertainment

After some fun once the sun sets in Westerly, Rhode Island? You are in luck. This charming seaside town runs plenty of options to keep you entertained all night. Live music through theater performances, everybody is covered. Here are the strongest spots to take:

Knickerbocker Music Center: Live Music Galore

Live music fans should not miss the Knickerbocker Music Center. This historic venue has been a staple of the Westerly music scene for over a century. Between the cozy room and the top-notch sound system, it suits catching a show. Blues through jazz through rock and roll, the Knickerbocker hosts acts across the range. And check their calendar for upcoming shows.

Curtains Up at Granite Theatre

For a night of culture and entertainment, head to the Granite Theatre. This charming venue hosts theater productions across the year, classic plays through contemporary dramas. Between the intimate setting and the talented cast, it holds you from start to finish. And the theater sits in the heart of downtown Westerly, so grabbing a bite or a drink before or after the show is easy.

Windjammer Surf Bar: Party by the Beach

After a lively room and a beachy feel? Then head to the Windjammer Surf Bar. This popular spot sits right on the beach, so you can take a drink while taking the ocean views. They often run live music and DJs on weekends, so you can dance the night away. And if hunger lands, they put out strong pub fare, burgers and fries among them.

Whatever your idea of a fun night out, Westerly runs it. So grab the friends and hit the town.

Unforgettable Stay: Best Hotels and Resorts

After a place to stay in Westerly, Rhode Island? Here are two strong hotels that make the stay one you keep.

Luxury Living at Weekapaug Inn

After luxury living? Weekapaug Inn is the answer. This hotel runs the best of both worlds, a fine location and luxurious amenities.

Set on the coast of Rhode Island, Weekapaug Inn carries long views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can slow down on the beach, take a dip in the pool, or take a strong meal at the hotel’s restaurant.

But what really sets Weekapaug Inn apart is the amenities. The hotel runs a spa, a fitness center and even a golf course. And the rooms hold up, with luxurious bedding and long views of the ocean.

So for luxury living in Westerly, Weekapaug Inn is the call.

Hotel Maria: Home Away from Home

After a more homey feel? Hotel Maria is the answer. This hotel runs all the comforts of home, with a touch of luxury.

Set in downtown Westerly, Hotel Maria sits a short walk from the strongest restaurants and shops. And the hotel itself is charming, with a cozy lobby and comfortable rooms.

But what really sets Hotel Maria apart is the personalized service. The staff are friendly and helpful, and they do everything they can to make the stay one you keep.

So to feel right at home in Westerly, Hotel Maria is the call.

Luxury living or a more homey feel, these two hotels make the stay in Westerly one you keep. So book the stay and get ready for a serious adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you recommend any must-visit restaurants in Westerly?

Absolutely. Westerly runs restaurants that satisfy the taste buds. In the mood for seafood? The Cooked Goose will not let you down. They serve some of the freshest seafood in town. For Italian cooking, head over to Amigos Taqueria y Tequila. They run a strong selection of pasta dishes and their margaritas hold up. And for a casual spot with a strong atmosphere, try Malted Barley. They run a serious selection of craft beers and strong pretzels.

What are some fun things to do in Watch Hill?

Watch Hill is a fine place to visit, and there is plenty to do there. Beach lovers should take East Beach. It suits taking the sun and the ocean breeze. In the mood for shopping? Head over to Bay Street. They run a strong selection of shops and restaurants. And for a little adventure, take a ride on the Flying Horse Carousel. It is the oldest continuously operating carousel in the United States.

What’s the vibe like in downtown Westerly?

Downtown Westerly runs a strong feel. It is a charming area with plenty of shops, restaurants and bars. You find a mix of locals and tourists, and everyone is friendly. Through the summer months there are often outdoor concerts and events, which only add to the lively atmosphere. It is worth walking through downtown Westerly to take it yourself.

Are there any unique shops worth checking out in Westerly?

The unusual shops in Westerly worth taking run plenty. Book lovers should stop by Savoy Bookshop and Cafe. They run a strong selection of books and a cozy room. In the market for new jewelry? Christina Ltd is the answer. They run a fine selection of handmade jewelry you will not find elsewhere. And for unusual home decor, head over to The Elephant’s Trunk. They run a strong selection of vintage and antique items.

Is Westerly, Rhode Island worth a visit?

Absolutely. Westerly is a charming town running plenty. Beaches through strong restaurants and shops, everybody is covered. It suits a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. And the people are friendly and the atmosphere runs lively. So pack the bags and come see why Westerly, Rhode Island is worth the trip.

Frequently asked questions about Westerly, Rhode Island

How long exactly is the whole of the Quonochontaug Pond Trail actually running out there, then, really now, in the end?

It runs 5 miles out there, and the going stays level right the way round it. Woods on the one side and the pond on the other for most of it. Glacier Park is the harder option instead out there, over its whole 173 acres. Easy.

How old exactly is the whole of the Watch Hill Lighthouse standing out there, then, really now, in the end?

It has been lighting the way since 1807 and it is on the National Register out there. The tour takes you right up, so the stairs are the only real effort out there. The view covers the ocean and the mansions along the whole of the shore. Steady.

How far exactly is the whole of Napatree Point sitting from the food out there, then, really now?

Far enough that you carry your own out there, because nothing at all sells on it. The sand is soft out there and the walking gets slower than it actually looks. Dunes and salt marsh and rocky shore run the whole of the length out there. Remote.

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