Kingston stands as a village and a census-designated place in the town of South Kingston, Rhode Island. It is the site of the University of Rhode Island’s main campus, so this area of New England is always youthful and there are plenty of events going on around town, particularly if you visit during the academic school year. In addition to the attractions that the University of Rhode Island gives to the town, much of Kingston is designated on the National Register of Historic Places, which means that the town is chock full of the architecture and charm that most tourists come to Rhode Island to enjoy.
Most people who come to Kingston do so for the historic feel and the many old buildings that occupy the town. A good example of this is the historic Kingston Railroad station, which is nearly 120 years old and is still used today as an Amtrak station. Even if you aren’t traveling around New England by train, it’s worthwhile to stop by the station and check out how much attention used to be paid to the rails!
Other places of interest include King’s County Court House, which is now a public library – this was the last place that the Constitution was voted against by the state of Rhode Island in 1790. It has a tall old-world feel to it, and you’ll enjoy perusing the library as you walk through one of our country’s best historic buildings.
In addition to the King’s County Court House and the Kingston Railroad Station, be sure to make time in your schedule just for wandering. There are several old housing units and buildings that are now owned privately that give the town its charm – maybe you won’t be able to enter, but you will be able to enjoy the unique ambiance of Kingston. Combine this with the many eateries and coffee shops that line the downtown area thanks to the large student population, and you have a great little New England retreat town that is beautiful during the spring and summer, and charming during the fall and winter. Be sure to check out Kingston during your next foray into New England!




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