Wickford Things to Do

Wickford is one of the best-preserved colonial-era towns in New England, with blocks of historic buildings dating back to the 1700s and 1800s. We enjoyed just walking around the town, enjoying the well-preserved houses, churches and other buildings.

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It's all part of the atmosphere of Wickford. Old Americana at its finest. The nice thing is that altho the town has been discovered by a lot more tourists nowadays...it still has a very "real" feel to it. From the fishing docks and quohaugers to the funky shops on the main street...to the funny little houses tucked in here and there.... I enjoy these places that are valued but not too gentrified or pristine.
This old house was built in the 1700's. (2nd pic) It could have been smaller and then added to later. Or...sometimes they would simply roll a 2nd house on logs to join the first...and enlarge their living space. Waste not, want not, so they say. Perhaps the family grew or a son got married.....wonder who those people were...

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Gilbert Stuart was one of America's greatest painters. He is best known for his portraits of George Washington, the first President of the United States.

Gilbert Stuart was born near Wickford, Rhode Island in 1755. His birthplace has been preserved as a small museum, which is open to visitors. In addition to the house, you can tour the adjacent mill, which was powered by a small waterwheel on the local creek. he entire tour only takes about 45 minutes, so it is easy for families with children. Unfortunately, the museum doesn't have any of his paintings, which are hung in museums throughout the United States.

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This is such a relaxing easy going and lovely tiny town. You can just spend the day strolling, taking pictures, getting and ice cream and later a lobster roll, and sitting on one of the many benches that I saw all over town.

I was really amazed to see all the benches in Wickford. This wouldn't work in NY in the town where I live. People would take them over and sleep on them.

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Just south of the Wickford village, you can visit another National HIstoric site. It's the birthplace of the most well known portrait artist of the 18th century. Gilbert Stuart painted the portrait of George Washington which is found on our one dollar bill.... as well as in many other places. He actually painted the portraits of 5 presidents and many other notables of the time. He was born Dec. 3, 1755 in Saunderstown, Rhode Island, which is the community just south of the Wickford village. His father operated a snuff mill on the site. He lived here until he was 7 yrs. old...and then the family moved to Newport. He lived in a number of places, including Europe over his life of 72 years...and died in Boston, Mass. The birthplace site is a lovely little museum back in the woods...with young docent guides who are very devoted to their history lessons. I will create a travelogue on the buildings, grounds, and interiors....which I felt were well worth seeing. My husband was intrigued with their May celebration when the herring come up stream to spawn in the little pond on the grounds of the museum. There are a number of interesting programs throughout the year including rug hooking, spinning, and artists in residence.

As you come into the main street in Wickford, you find a sweet little park right on Main Street. It's a nice respite from all the retail and hustle and bustle on busy summer days. The old architecture in the background lends interest to the gardens, making it a pleasing rest for the eye.

There are many 18th and 19th century homes in Wickford. Restoration is part of life here. Several churches are worthy of exploration as well. You could spend hours if you are an architecture buff. Bring your camera...take your time...walk a lot.

The Wickford Art Festival is a very old and popular tradition in Wickford. There are 250 artists scheduled to be on the street displaying their works this year. Festival is scheduled for July 8 and 9. Parking and traffic are always a problem in the little village, so plan to park a distance away and bring your walking shoes. There are some very good artists in the area...as it has been a popular haven with its picturesque waterfront and quaint architecture for many years.