The Top 15 Things to Do in Warwick RI

If you find yourself wondering what things to do in Warwick RI, then read on for the top 15 activities. From outside beaches, walks, and parks, to restaurants and the arts, there is something for everyone in Warwick.

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Where is Warwick RI located?

Warwick is situated in Kent County, which is in the central eastern part of the state and is bordered by the cities of Cranston to the north and East Greenwich to the south. Located on the coast of Narragansett Bay and Greenwich Bay, it is approximately 12 miles (19 kilometers) south of Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island.

What is Warwick RI known for?

Warwick is the home base for T.F. Green International Airport. Even though the code for the airport is PVD, the airport is not located in Providence. The city sits on Greenwich Bay and Narragansett Bay with many beaches and natural areas. Home to several colleges and universities, Warwick also has a vibrant arts and culture scene. Several galleries, museums, and performance venues showcase local and regional talents.

Many people never think of Warwick as a place to spend time. Most think it’s just the airport city, but that is wrong. Warwick is a fantastic place to visit, so let’s look at the attractions and amenities to keep everyone happy.

Outdoor Things to Do in Warwick RI

We’ll start outside in nature and visit the places with views of Narragansett Bay. Boating, swimming, sunbathing, and fishing are all popular activities in Warwick.

Does Warwick RI Have Beaches?

Warwick absolutely has beaches! Situated on Greenwich and Narragansett Bay, Warwick definitely has several beaches popular with both locals and tourists. We will start at the northeast part of the city and work our way around the bay to the different swimming beaches. Then I’ll cover the locations that are not actual swimming beaches, but you can stroll to the water or fish from the shore.

1. Conimicut Point Beach

Conimicut Point Beach is a popular recreational spot located in Warwick, Rhode Island. Situated on a triangular peninsula that extends into Narragansett Bay, it is located across the river from West Barrington. Conimicut Point offers scenic views of the water and surrounding landscape.

The beach is known for its calm waters, making it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The amenities include picnic tables, restrooms, benches, and a playground for children.

In addition to beach activities, Conimicut Point is also a popular spot for fishing, with both saltwater and freshwater options available. Visitors can fish from the beach, nearby docks, or boats.

Conimicut Point Beach is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and there is a small parking fee for non-residents during the season.

(7 Point Avenue, Warwick, RI)

2. Rocky Point Beach

Rocky Point is a newer recreational area located off Warwick Neck Avenue. It is situated on a “rocky point” that juts out into Narragansett Bay. Rocky Point provides scenic views of the water and you can see Bristol, Rhode Island on a clear day. This area is not new for entertaining visitors, but the usage has changed dramatically.

The area was originally developed as a private amusement park in the mid 1800s, featuring roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and other attractions. Over the years, it became a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, and remained in operation until 1995. I have many childhood memories with my grandfather fishing from the old dock, or my own young children in Kiddie Land.

After the park closed, the land was acquired by the state of Rhode Island and turned into a public park. Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Rocky Point, including hiking, picnicking, fishing, and boating. The park also has a beach area, a covered fishing pier, and a boardwalk that offers views of the bay.

In addition to its recreational offerings, Rocky Point is known for its historical significance. The area was once home to Native American tribes, and was later used by early colonizers as a fishing and farming settlement. During the American Revolution, it was the site of several naval skirmishes between American and British forces.

The walking paths along the shoreline are beautiful, but I miss the sounds of laughter from the park. My memories are still of the fun times at Rocky Point. Reminders of the amusement park are hidden amongst the overgrown trees and shrubs. The skeletons of rides give the place an eerie feeling for me, but check it out for yourself.

(1 Rocky Point Avenue, Warwick, RI)

3. Oakland Beach

Oakland Beach is a popular recreational destination located on the shores of Narragansett Bay. The beach is a 1.5-mile stretch of sandy shoreline that attracts locals and tourists alike, especially during the summer months.

Aside from swimming and sunbathing, visitors can enjoy a range of activities at Oakland Beach, including fishing, boating, and kayaking. There is also a pier that is ideal for strolling or fishing, and a playground for children.

The beach features a number of amenities, including restrooms, showers, and changing rooms. There are also several snack bars and restaurants in the area that serve up seafood and other local specialties. The lines for these restaurants can be very long in the summertime, so be prepared. One of the most popular restaurants is Iggy’s, which I will talk more about later.

One of the main draws of Oakland Beach is the spectacular sunset views over Narragansett Bay. These can be enjoyed from the beach or from one of the many waterfront restaurants in the area. Several of the restaurants have outdoor seating making the most of the views. The beach is also home to a number of events throughout the year, including live music concerts, car shows, and fireworks displays.

(located at the end of Oakland Beach Avenue, Warwick, RI)

4. City Park Beach in Warwick City Park

City Park Beach is a public beach located in Warwick, Rhode Island. The beach is situated within the City Park, a 126-acre public park that includes a variety of recreational facilities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, walking paths, tennis courts, and a boat ramp.

City Park Beach itself is relatively small, but it offers a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. The water is clean and clear, and the playground is close by. There are also lifeguards on duty during the summer months to ensure the safety of swimmers.

This beach is popular among families with young children, as the calm waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and wading. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and boating in the nearby waters of Greenwich Bay.

At the beach, there are restrooms, showers, and a changing area. Parking is close by but I can imagine the lot filling up on a hot summer day. A covered pavilion provides picnic tables protected from the sun.

(Steven O’Connor Boulevard, Warwick, RI)

5. Goddard Memorial State Park Beach

Goddard Memorial State Park is a public park located in Warwick. The park covers an area of over 490 acres and is situated on a peninsula extending into Greenwich Bay. It is one of the largest state parks in Rhode Island and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation.

The park features a wide range of amenities, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, a beach, and a boat ramp. There are also several athletic fields and courts, including basketball, volleyball, and soccer fields. Additionally, the park is home to the Goddard Park Carousel, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been in operation since 1930.

Goddard Park is a beautiful natural setting and is a great place to observe wildlife. Visitors can take a stroll along the park’s many walking trails, which wind through forests, marshes, and along the coastline. The park also offers a variety of educational programs and events, such as nature walks, birdwatching tours, and outdoor concerts.

(1095 Ives Road, Warwick, RI)

More Outdoor Things to Do in Warwick RI

6. Gaspee Point

Gaspee Point is a small peninsula located in Warwick, Rhode Island, in the United States. The point is named after the British ship HMS Gaspee, which was burned and destroyed by American colonists in 1772, an event that is considered one of the first acts of rebellion leading to the American Revolution.

Every year, Gaspee Days celebrates the move toward freedom the Rhode Island colonists took when they burned the ship. Watch the parade, or attend many of the public events leading up to the re-enactment of the burning of the HMS Gaspee.

Today, Gaspee Point is primarily a residential neighborhood, with a mix of single-family homes and condominiums. The area is known for its waterfront views and access to Narragansett Bay, making it a popular location for boating, fishing, and other water activities. There is also a small marina on the point, as well as several restaurants and shops in the surrounding area.

In addition to its historical significance, Gaspee Point is also known for its natural beauty and wildlife. The area is home to a variety of bird species, including ospreys and herons, as well as other marine life such as crabs and clams.

(located at the end of Namquid Drive, Warwick, RI)

7. Salter Grove Memorial Park

Salter Grove is a public park located in the city of Warwick, Rhode Island. The park is situated on a small peninsula that juts out into the Providence River. This provides visitors with views of the water and the surrounding landscape.

The park offers a range of amenities, including a playground for children, picnic tables and grills, and a path that leads out to Marsh Island. The park also has a walking path that loops around the park, providing visitors with a scenic place to take a stroll or jog.

In addition to its recreational offerings, Salter Grove is also an important natural area, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. The park is home to a salt marsh, which is a critical ecosystem that supports a wide range of wildlife. Visitors to the park can learn more about the area’s natural history and ecology through interpretive signs and educational programs.

Salter Grove is a local destination for families, fishermen, and nature lovers. The park is open year-round, with hours varying depending on the season. Visitors can enjoy the park’s amenities free of charge. This is not a swimming beach but access to the water is easy from the main path.

(461 Narragansett Parkway, Warwick, RI)

8. Warwick City Park

Mentioned previously as the home of City Park Beach, Warwick City Park is a large complex with many uses. There are three baseball fields, a dog park, an outdoor hockey skating rink, and three miles of paved walking and biking paths. City Park Beach is located at the end of the park area.

9. Harbor Lights

If you’re looking to golf, then visit Harbor Lights. This public golf course was created in 1965 by Geoffrey Cornish. It has been refurbished and everyone is welcome.

You can come in by land or sea with the adjacent marina. Call ahead to book tee times.

Visit Harbor Lights for golfing, boating, dining, swimming, or enjoying some of the summer entertainment planned each year.

10. Warwick Lighthouse

Flashing a green light to alert boaters to the dangers around Warwick Neck, the lighthouse has been in operation since 1826. Erosion forced the building of a newer lighthouse starting in 1932.

Just a few years later, the Hurricane of 1938 ripped off a huge chunk of the Point and the new lighthouse had to be moved further inland. It still sits there today.

The lighthouse is now automated and protects boaters looking for the west entrance to the Providence River.

Indoor Things to Do in Warwick RI- History and Art

11. Cloud Hill

Visit a late-nineteenth century Victorian home preserved with its original features. Marvel at the interior, the architecture, and the amazing grounds filled with more than 70 species of trees and shrubs.

Museum Director, Paul F. Miller wants you to know that “Clouds Hill represents that rarest of architectural gems, a perfectly intact period house with original contents, archives and contextual setting; further blessed with important family historical associations and interiors of national significance.”

12. Warwick Historical Society

Located in the John Waterman Arnold House (1785) the historical society’s mission is to preserve the history of the City of Warwick, Rhode Island. The Arnold House was acquired by the society in the 1930’s and includes period pieces and details. Visit the Historical Society for pictures, maps, and genealogy records.

13. Warwick Center for the Arts

If art is your vibe, visit the Warwick Center for the Arts gallery or take part in a class. Art classes for both children and adults are available. Check out their calendar of events for upcoming classes and art exhibits.

Does Warwick RI Have a Downtown?

Warwick, RI has a downtown area known as “Apponaug Village.” This area is located in the eastern part of Warwick and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and other businesses.

14. Visit Apponaug Village

The village is centered around the historic Apponaug Four Corners, where four roads converge. Some of the notable attractions in Apponaug Village include the Warwick Public Library, Warwick City Hall, and the Apponaug Village Historic District, which includes a number of well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

15. We Can’t Forget T.F. Green International Airport

First opened in 1931 and then renamed for the governor at the time, T.F. Green has 2 runways. They fly both international and domestic flights.

Although you cannot get inside the airport unless you’re traveling by air, there is nothing better than sitting and watching planes flying in and out of the airport. I could not find a dedicated park or area to sit and watch the planes. We did find a few places, mostly parking lots of local businesses, where you can clearly see a part of the runway. If you don’t draw too much attention to yourself, you should be fine for some plane spotting.

Restaurants in Warwick RI

Whether you are looking for a chain restaurant or a local place, Warwick has plenty of restaurants to choose from. Oftentimes, it’s easier to go to a chain restaurant that the kids are familiar with. Other times, you’re ready to try something a little different. Here is a list of some of the restaurants you can find in Warwick. There are also plenty more!

Chianti’s Pizza & Pasta: Italian restaurant known for their brick-oven pizza, pasta dishes, and salads.

The Shanty: A casual seafood restaurant featuring fresh seafood and raw bar options.

Iron Works Tavern: American gastropub serving elevated pub fare and craft beers in a restored 19th-century mill.

Gregg’s Restaurants & Taverns: Family-friendly restaurant chain serving classic American comfort food and desserts.

The Thirsty Beaver: Casual pub with a rustic atmosphere featuring comfort food, craft beer, and live music.

Nami Japanese Restaurant: Modern Japanese restaurant featuring sushi, sashimi, and other traditional dishes.

Ming’s Asian Street Food: Casual restaurant featuring a variety of Asian dishes, including sushi, noodles, and rice bowls.

Pane e Vino Ristorante: Upscale Italian restaurant featuring handmade pasta and other traditional Italian dishes.

Siena: Contemporary Italian restaurant serving pasta, pizza, and other Italian classics in a modern atmosphere.

Here are some well-known chain restaurants in the area.

• Olive Garden
• LongHorn Steakhouse
• Applebee’s
• Buffalo Wild Wings
• T.G.I. Friday’s
• Chili’s Grill & Bar
• Carrabba’s Italian Grill
• Outback Steakhouse
• IHOP

How to Get to Warwick RI

The best way to get to Warwick depends on your starting location and mode of transportation.

✈️If you are traveling by air, T.F. Green Airport (PVD), is located in Warwick itself. Many major airlines offer direct flights to T.F. Green Airport from several US cities.

🚗If you are traveling by car, Warwick is located at the intersection of Interstates 95 and 295. Depending on your starting location, you can take one of these highways and exit at the appropriate exit for Warwick.

🚂If you are traveling by train, Amtrak provides service to Providence, which is located about 10 miles north of Warwick. From there, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or public transportation to get to Warwick.

🚌If you are traveling by bus, several bus companies such as Greyhound and Peter Pan provide service to Providence. From there, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or public transportation to get to Warwick.

Where to Stay

📍The Crowne Plaza (Providence-Warwick)

They offer an airport shuttle and it is less than 2 miles from the airport. Located in a central area, nearby shopping and plenty of restaurants make this a great spot to stay. Meeting facilities make this a convenient place for business stays.

801 Greenwich Avenue, Warwick, RI

📍Best Western Airport Inn (Warwick)

If you want to stay close to the airport, this hotel is close to everything. Of course, you’re right by the airport, but there’s restaurants and shopping close by as well. It is also on the main road that leads to the highways to travel further into Rhode Island.

2138 Post Road, Warwick, RI

Is Warwick RI worth visiting?

Warwick, Rhode Island is often overlooked as being just the airport city. People stop there on the way to somewhere else. But it is definitely worth your time to explore some of the different parts of Warwick once you leave the airport. I’ve outlined many of them for you in this post. Have fun in Warwick.

In Conclusion: Things to Do in Warwick RI

I believe Warwick, Rhode Island is a wonderful place to visit. Hopefully, the information provided in this post shows you that Warwick is worth the time to explore the next time you’re in Rhode Island. If you’re interested in Rhode Island, check out this post about Newport.

Close to so many other attractions, this city makes an excellent central home while you experience all that Rhode Island has to offer. And welcome!