South County Museum
Dedicated to preserving “Rhode Island’s coastal legacy,” this museum, which is open to the public from May through September, features a living history farm, maritime gallery, print shop, blacksmith shop and more. 115 Strathmore Street, Narragansett. 401-783-5400
Varnum Armory and Varnum House Museum
The castle-like amory was built in 1914 in medieval style, and housed military units until 1996. It is now home to an extensive Military and Naval Museum. The Varnum House was built in 1773 by James Mitchell Varnum, a Brigadier General in Washington’s Continental Army. It is now a museum housing period furniture and historic artifacts. Armory: 6 Main Street. 401-884-4110. Museum: 57 Pierce Street, both in East Greenwich. 401-884-1776
Quonset Air Museum
Located just outside Wickford, this North Kingstown museum was originally a Naval Air Station, but now houses a history of aviation, including 28 aircraft either on display or under restoration.
488 Eccleston Avenue, North Kingstown. 401-294-9540
Biomes Marine Biology Center
When the weather turns bad, the kids might not be able to swim in the ocean, but they can still spend some time getting up close and personal with it. Biomes Marine Biology Center is a private aquarium where you can pet sharks, meet a friendly octopus and learn all about what lives in the Atlantic.
221 Shady Lea Road, North Kingstown. 401-295-4690
Fayerweather House
This craft guild, housed in a historic home in Kingston Village, has been offering uniquely handmade local gifts for 40 years. Every week during the summer, the guild hosts a talk by a local artist, followed by a hands-on craft workshop.
1859 Mooresfield Road, Kingston. 401-789-9072
Gilbert Stuart Museum
You’re probably familiar with Gilbert Stuart’s famous portrait of George Washington – in fact, you’re probably carrying that portrait on a dollar bill in your wallet right now. Tour Stuart’s 1750 birthplace, which also boasts a working Grist and Snuff Mill, woodland trails and boat rentals on Carr’s Pond.
815 Gilbert Stuart Road, Saunderstown. 401-294-3001
Smith’s Castle
Okay, so it might not actually be a castle – but Smith’s Castle does provide four centuries of living history in one beautifully preserved North Kingstown house. Roam the gardens of the 1637 home, or take a tour from a costumed interpreter at this award-winning historic site.
55 Richard Smith Drive, North Kingstown. 401-294-3521
Newport Art Museum
Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, the Newport Art Museum has plenty to keep the family entertained, from art classes for kids and adults to special events and lectures. The collection itself focuses on Rhode Island and New England artists both classic and contemporary.
76 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. 401-848-8200
Providence Children’s Museum
If you can’t be at the beach, spend the day in Providence – and don’t miss the Providence Children’s Museum’s indoor and outdoor exhibits. The museum, which is age-appropriate for kids up to 11 years old, operates under the premise that learning not only
can be fun, it
is fun.
100 South Street, Providence. 401- 273-5437
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