Narragansett: More Than Beaches!

The seaside community of Narragansett has more to offer than just beaches. Even the beach haters out there can find something to love in this picturesque town.

One of Narragansett’s major attractions is the Point Judith Lighthouse at 1470 Ocean Rd. The original building, which used whale oil to light its revolving spider lantern, was completed in 1810 and subsequently destroyed by a hurricane five years later. The lighthouse was rebuilt in 1816, and then replaced in 1857 by the building that remains today. The coast guard administrative buildings were added in 1937, and the lighthouse became automated in 1957. Visitors are welcome to the grounds, but the lighthouse and Coast Guard Station are restricted. For more information: newenglandlighthouses.net

Another landmark is The Towers on Ocean Blvd. This gothic-looking structure has served as the setting for weddings, anniversary parties, birthdays, Bar Mitzvahs and a variety of live concerts. Check out thetowersri.com/events for details on upcoming performers, or see The Roots Report on Page XX. If you prefer to hit the dance floor than attend a concert, try the ballroom dance lessons that are offered every Wed evening.

History lovers should check out the South County Museum, which aims to preserve the heritage of rural and coastal life in Rhode Island. Visitors can view an impressive collection of artifacts in the museum’s main exhibit hall. Nearly two dozen horse-drawn carriages and sleighs are housed in the museum’s Carriage Barn. The collection includes a fire engine, a one-horse hearse, an elegant Brougham, and postal and milk delivery wagons. At another part of the museum are four classic automobiles — a 1921 Model T Depot Hack, a Model A with sideboards and rumble seat, a 1950 Plymouth Club Coupe and a 1931 Willys Overland. There’s also an animal paddock and barn, carpentry shop, a blacksmith and a schoolhouse. The Robinson Family Cemetery, which is located on the property, contains burials dating back to 1775. On June 26, the museum is hosting a fundraising party called Taste of Summer, which is a celebration of local culinary delights. Grand prize: dinner for six in your home prepared by chef and cookbook author Normand Leclair. The museum also offers workshops for youngsters and adults in letterpress and blacksmithing. The Letterpress sessions are led by Museum Press Curator Ed Shunney and the blacksmithing is by Museum Director Jim Crothers, a master blacksmith. For more information, go to southcountymuseum.org.

Fishermen’s State Park and Campground offers campers a seaside village atmosphere where visitors will find neatly trimmed grass, tree-lined paths and activities for the whole family. Whether you are looking for a place to pitch a tent and enjoy a campfire or park your RV and play some basketball or tennis, Fishermen’s can accommodate you. One of Fishermen’s most appealing features is its close proximity to popular state beaches like Scarborough, Roger Wheeler and Salty Brine. The park is also just 1 mile from the Block Island Ferry Dock and 15 minutes from scenic Newport. The park’s farmers market runs from May – Oct, on Sun from 9am to 1pm. Contact Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, Division of Agriculture at 401.222.2781 or visit dem.ri.gov/programs/bnatres/agricult/markets.htm for more information.

A trip to Narragansett wouldn’t be complete without a stop for clam cakes and chowder at Aunt Carrie’s. The restaurant has been serving patrons since 1920 and has won numerous awards from Rhode Island Monthly and Yankee Magazine for their cuisine. Check out auntcarriesri.com for more info.