Introduction to Kingston, Rhode Island
Kingston, Rhode Island, in Washington county, is 16 miles S of Warwick, Rhode Island (center to center) and 65 miles S of Boston, Massachusetts. The town is located in the Providence - Fall River - Warwick metropolitan area.
Kingston History
Kingston, which was formerly known as Little Rest, was named in 1826, in honor of King Charles II of England. It was also the county seat for Washington County from 1752 to 1894. In 1974, a large part of Kingston became a National Register Historical District and was called Kingston Village Historical District.
Kingston and Nearby Attractions
- University of Rhode Island Botanical Gardens
- Fayerweather House Museum
- Beavertail Lighthouse Museum
- Lorenzo Kinney Azalea Gardens
- Historic Kenyon Grist Mill
- Peckham Farm Animal Center
Things To Do In Kingston
Beavertail State Park and Fort Wetherill State Park provides recreational opportunities, such as boating, hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. The University of Rhode Island Botanical Gardens is open to the public. Museums like Fayerweather House Museum and Beavertail Lighthouse Museum may also be visited. Local celebrations include the South County Hot-Air Balloon Festival, the Chamber Music Festival, and the Jazz and World Music Festival.
Kingston Transportation
New Bedford Regional airport is nearby.
Kingston Higher Education
The University of Rhode Island has its main campus located in Kingston. Other colleges and universities nearby include Salve Regina University, Roger Williams University, and Rhode Island College.