The coast of Rhode Island from Westerly in the southwest to Newport and Jamestown in the east varies greatly from the shores of Connecticut and Massachusetts. The shoreline is lined with long sandy stretches, then pine tree filled areas, rolling hills and cliffs that remind one of the coast of Maine. Our journey takes us along the coast from Westerly to the historic colonial city of Newport.

Starting in Westerly on old route 1a follow into the charming area of Watch Hill, popular among 19th century and current persons of higher financial means the shore was once crowned by the Ocean House Hotel, a fine 1860s yellow wooden building, one of the few remaining from that era anywhere in the US. Due to it's condition it was torn down in 2005 and is being rebuilt to it's former glory.

Watch Hill is dotted with summer shops and restaurants and one of the oldest carousels in America. However the foliage here is specifically left to the areas just inland so we suggest a trip through Westerly, perhaps a walk in the park in Westerly which is dotted with trees, perhaps breakfast or lunch in Westerly, a quick scenic journey to Watch Hill then follow out of Wath Hill and look for signs toward Route 1 North. Route 1 will take you along scenic 2 lane roads with some thick foliage cover on the sides of the road. There are a few historic stop overs including Gilbert Stuarts (painter) home. Some "side journeys" are great from Route 1 if you head toward Kingstown and the campus of the University of Rhode Island & Wickford a small town with a handful of historic buildings.

Following Route 1 until you see signs for Newport and Jamestown. Follow these and drive about 10-15 minutes noticing the different landscape in this area. A mixture of northern pine and maple gives a hint of green to the orange and red of the maples. From here follow for a short stop in Jamestown, the city across from Newport. While the homes and the downtown are not as impressive as Newport (you will find) the short 5 minute drive is worth the turn off as victorian homes and shops are spread out throughout the main street. Bed & Breakfasts along with inn's dominate the area.

When returning on the road to Newport and whilst going over the Jamestown and then Newport bridges it feels as though you are 1000 feet above the bay below.



Just outside of Newport, RI

While the season is now fast approaching it's end take this last week and enjoy a trip along the routes adjacent to the waterfront. In Newport follow the Bellevue Area by the mansions, many have some autumn and halloween arrangements while other parts of Newport offer haunted tours of the old town, some of the mansion area and others of the various colonial cemeteries.

There are several tours that at days end one can take in to get a real "spooky" feeling-- perfect to compliment any leaf peeping journey. One of the most popular can be found at
(click on Pic)

Newport Wharf Area in warmer times

For this time of the year we suggest a cup of clam chowder and warm cocoa at any of the establishments of Newport. Ask at the tourist information center located at the gateway to Newport at the Bus Station and they will be happy to point you in the right direction or check out our other posts on Visiting Newport.

Our next trip will take us along the south shore of Rhode Island and into Massachusetts. We may miss the foliage but we will be able to still enjoy less crowded areas and even more affordable accomodations.