Wakefield (Rhode Island)

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Wakefield is a village of the town of South Kingstown in the state of Rhode Island. Settlers came to Wakefield early in the 18th century due to its proximity to the Saugatucket River. In the middle of the 19th century, Kenyon’s Department Store was founded, and Wakefield soon became the business center of South Kingstown. As time progressed, the mills throughout the village became bigger and allowed for population growth. By 1895, there were 1,543 people living in the village. The first hospital was created in 1919 inside a house, and by 1925, the South County Hospital building was erected. It is still in the same location today. The village of Wakefield is rich in history, and its proximity to beaches and other attractions bring in thousands of tourists each summer.

Get in

Get around

See

Wakefield is close to all of Rhode Island's beaches, ranging from Misquamicut beach on the western edge of the state to Second Beach in Newport. South Kingstown, the township of which Wakefield is a village, is home to three of the most beautiful beaches in the state, East Matunuck state beach, South Kingstown town beach in Matunuck, and the Moonstone Beach National Wildlife Refuge, the longest stretch of undeveloped beach in the state. There are numerous tourist destinations within an hour's drive, including the mansions of Newport, Rhode Island's Renaissance city Providence, the aquarium and seaport at Mystic, the world's largest casino Ledyard, and the ferry connecting to the breathtaking beauty of Block Island.

Hannah Robinson Tower and Rock

address: Intersection of Rt. 1 and Bridgetown Rd.
This tower was constructed in honor of Hannah Robinson, daughter of wealthy townsperson Rowland Robinson. The tower was constructed in 1938, and was rebuilt in 1988. It overlooks Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean (on a clear day).
Fishermen's Memorial State Park

phone: +1 401 789-8374

address: Route 108, 1011 Point Judith Road, Narragansett
This park is near the beaches but does not have the best reputation for cleanliness. Fishing, swimming, and other water activities are allowed at this park.
Burlingame State Park

phone: +1 401 322-7337

address: 4800 Tower Hill Rd
The campground has restrooms with shower facilities, a playground, arcade, freshwater beach, boat ramp, canoe rentals and hiking trails. The season is from April 15th until October 30th and reservations for sites and or cabins can be made on their website. Fishing, swimming, and other water activities are allowed at this site. Pets are also allowed as long as they are trained, get along with people and other animals, and are cleaned up after, however Burlingame has a strict one-pet policy.
Tuckertown Park

address: 1268 Tuckertown Rd
Next to a pond, it has baseball fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, picnic area, and a playground. Fishing, swimming, and other water activities are allowed at this site. Pets are also allowed as long as they are trained, get along with people and other animals, and are cleaned up after.
South Kingstown Dog Park

address: 349 Broad Rock Rd
Access to the park is via St. Dominic Road, off Broad Rock Road.

Do

Extreme Airsoft

phone: +1 401-789-1987

address: 1425 Kingston Rd
A local business that provides an indoor Airsoft field. Airsoft guns for rent and for sale.
Entertainment Cinema

phone: +1 401 792-8008

address: 30 Village Square Dr
Entertainment Cinema is off Rt. 1 in the South Country Commons. It offers wall-to-wall screens, digital sound, and stadium seating. Admission for adults $8.25, children $6, and seniors $6. On Tuesday’s nights, all seats are $6. They feature handicap access, 4-stand concession, and theatre rentals. Walking distance to Applebee’s and other shops and restaurants.
Lady K Sportfishing Charters

phone: +1 239 565-2949

address: 410 Gooseberry Rd
Fishing out of Snug Harbor Marina, the Lady K sportfishing vessel is owned and operated by Captain Steve Babigian. The Lady K is a Custom Built 43 foot Carolina Express Fisherman. Capt. Steve has over thirty-five years of experience on the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The Lady K is available for full day and half day fishing trips where up to six people. can fish inshore for striped bass and fluke, or offshore for shark, tuna and mahi-mahi. Captain Steve also offers tournament fishing, intercoastal waterway navigation, and transport of private vessels along the East Coast.
Old Mountain Lanes

phone: +1 401 783-5511

address: 756 Kingstown Rd
Old Mountain Lanes is a great place to bowl with auto scoring, cosmic bowling, billiards, and two large restaurants, one with a sports bar. On Friday and Saturday night, Old Mountain Lanes has “Rockin-Bowl” between 9PM-1AM, where they play loud music and flashing lights, which is popular with the youth/teenage group. Old Mountain Bowling can be busy at nights, but is generally pretty open during the afternoon hours.
Old Mountain Field

phone: +1 401 789-9301

address: Rt. 108
Over 60 acres with skating park, softball field, baseball field, basketball court, nature trails, tennis courts, picnic area, and swings. Every Fourth of July, Old Mountain Field becomes a popular destination for fireworks. With attendance of hundreds of people, the fireworks at Old Mountain Field have become notorious within the area, attracting families and groups of friends of all ages. Admission is free and usually starts around 10PM. There is parking available at South Kingstown High School, which is located a street away on Columbia Street, or if arriving early enough, there is free parking along Rt. 108. During the summer, Old Mountain Field Camp occupies many of the recreational activities, so it can be busy during the day between May–September. Also, softball and baseball leagues occasionally occupy the fields. During Easter, Old Mountain field has an Easter Egg hunt for children 8 to 10 years of age.
South County Bike TrailBeginning at the Kingston Train Station, the South County Bike Trail extends 8 miles, passing through Peace Dale and Wakefield, ending into Narragansett. The trail offers scenic views, as it passes through the Great Swamp, which has a variety of wildlife. It is in excellent condition and is very spacious, allowing room for many. During spring, summer, and fall months, the trail is occupied by runners, bicyclists, walkers, and rollerblading. The trail is a fun spot to exercise, with beautiful surroundings. Parking is available at the Kingston Train Station (on Rt. 138), where the trail begins. Enjoy the beautiful scenery while you run, jog, walk, bike, skateboard, and rollerblade along the smoothly paved bike path.
The Neighborhood Guild

phone: +1 401 789-9301

address: 325 Columbia St
With over 1,000 programs, the Neighborhood Guild provides activities for all ages. They manage the town parks, the South County bike path, Old Mountain Field, and the Town Beach. The Neighborhood Guild offer classes for children, teens, and adults, ranging from subjects of art, financial planning, heath and fitness, nature, sports, dance, music, and general interest. In the summer there are camps for children and teenagers, specially designed for specific interests, or general activity. At the Neighborhood guild there are tennis courts, a playground, and a picnic area. During the winter months, the tennis courts are converted into a skating rink, where many town residents come to enjoy the winter sport.
Hosts concerts, activities, clubs and has a popular park out front. Over the summer, there are outdoor concerts on the park.
Saugatucket River

phone: +1 401 789-0034

address: 26 Lacey Ln
Kayak or canoe on the Saugatucket River. Kayak and canoe rentals are available at Narrow River Kayaks.
Adventure Rhode Island Fishing Charters

phone: +1 401 359-1785

address: 1175 Succotash Rd.
A family-owned fishing charter from Jerusalem.
South Kingstown Public Library

phone: +1 401 789-1555

address: 1057 Kingstown Rd
Wide selection of books, also has some movies and music.

Events

Snug Harbor Fourth of July Parade,

address: Gooseberry Rd, Snug Harbor
What began as a few people celebrating in the streets of the quaint village of Snug Harbor, has grown into an event celebrated by people all over and outside of the state. Every Fourth of July, the people and businesses of Snug Harbor celebrate our independence by parading their handmade floats throughout the streets. With a somewhat wild atmosphere, the Snug Harbor Fourth of July parade provides a small town New England perspective on a national holiday.

Buy

BasketCase

phone: +1 401 284-1551

address: 212 Main St
This friendly and quaint shop has jewelry and accessories, bath and body products, cards, dishware, home décor, gourmet foods, music, linens and aprons, and specializes in customizing gift baskets
Hera Gallery

phone: +1 401 789-1488

address: 327 Main St
The Hera Gallery is a non-profit artists co-op open year round (except January).
Little Bits

phone: +1 401 284-3933

address: 50 South County Commons Way, Unit E1
Main StreetHas a variety of shops of all kinds including jewelry, shoes and clothes. There are also a number of antique shops.
The Purple Cow

address: Main St
Small, eclectic store that has a wide variety of gifts, from clothing to jewelry to furniture.
The Glass Station

phone: +1 401 788-2500

address: 318 Main St.
Glass creations made right before your eyes! These glass blowers create some amazing pieces of art, and there’s a gallery connected to the workshop where you can buy them.
The Wakefield Mall

address: 160 Old Tower Hill Rd
The Wakefield Mall is not much of an attraction for the serious shopper, but it does have some claim. It is one of the smallest malls in New England. It occupies less that 200,000 sq ft. It is home to Panera Bread, Shaw’s grocery store, Staples, FYE, Olympia Sports, Payless Shoe Store, Fashion Bug, GNC, Jennifer’s Chocolates, Hallmark, POW Science, and soon to be the home of Wet Seal as well. While not vastly populated with customers, locals and tourists alike walk the corridor do find what they need in the mall. The busier spots are the larger businesses that call the mall home, like Shaw’s. This is also a bus stop for the Route 66 bus into and out of Providence.
Looney Tunes II

phone: +1 401 782-9860

address: 562 Kingston Rd
A quaint yet novel record store in the middle of all the hustle of Wakefield, Looney Tunes provides reliable and friendly service that knows just what to do for their customers' musical appetite. Be it the latest best-selling CD, or your favorite LP, Looney Tunes is bound to have it for you. If the product you are looking for isn't in stock, you can always have them pre-order it for you online as well. The employees have a very deep appreciation of music of all kinds; you can approach any of them for their opinions on what is commendable, and they are enthusiastic about what they know.
Belmont Market

phone: +1 401 783-4656

address: 600 Kingston Rd
One of Wakefield's most well known, and most popular grocers, Belmont Market is a supermarket in the center of Wakefield's busy traffic.
Wakefield Music

phone: +1 401 783-5390

address: 58 Main St
Musical instruments ranging from harmonicas to guitars, pianos and drum kits; saxophones, and bass guitars. However, their staff also will repair sone instruments upon request. Spare reeds, guitar strings, and sheet music booklets.
Sweenors Chocolates

phone: +1 401 783-4433

address: 21 Charles St
Locally owned, 3rd and 4th generation confectioners that have been providing RI with great chocolates, candies, and special occasion goodies for over 50 years. Friendly staff that can make up beautiful baskets, boxes, or bags of your favorite candies for all occasions.

Eat

Budget

Brickley’s Ice Cream

phone: +1 401 782-8864

address: 322 Main St
Brickley’s is very popular with locals, and is very busy during the summer months. Located on Main St, many people enjoy their ice cream while walking downtown or sitting on a bench nearby. The family owned and operated ice cream shop has a second location in Narragansett at 921 Boston Neck Rd., which is where all of the ice cream is made.
The Bluebird Cafe

phone: +1 401 792-8940

address: 554 Kingstown Rd
Serving breakfast and lunch opened until 2PM.
The Breakfast Nook

phone: +1 401 783-1555

address: 409 Kingstown Rd
The Breakfast Nook is not the most revered breakfast diner in the area, but it has been around a long time and is said to have a great cup of coffee.
Chen's

phone: +1 401 793-8516

address: 60 Tower Hill Rd
Classic Chinese restaurant, a Wakefield institution.
DB’s Pizza,

phone: +1 2879 401 789-4222

address: 546 Kingstown Rd
A local pizza making business.
El Fuego

phone: +1 401 284-3353

address: 344 Main St
Focusing on tacos, burritos, nachosand quesadillas. The prices are very good if you’re on a budget and easily customizeable for picky eaters. The most expensive thing on the menu is the El Fuego Winnebago at $8.99. El Fuego makes their own tortilla chips which are served with every meal and even offered as an extra side. You can choose from chicken, turkey, beef, steak, fish and veggie. Every Tuesday is Taco Tuesday where patrons automatically receive half off of all the tacos purchased for pick up or dine in. It is a small restaurant but it makes up with tasty tacos. Burritos come in 11 styles to choose from which does not include daily specials and burrito contest winner. Salads are available. Meat can be added upon request. Their nachos are made with their signature chips. Restaurant offers a kids' menu. Open for lunch and dinner. Delivery is available in South Kingstown.
Friendly's Ice Cream Shop

phone: +1 401 783-0562

address: 600 Kingstown Rd
Menu includes burgers, chicken fingers, wraps, sandwiches and other items.
Honey Dew Donuts

address: 1237 Kingstown Rd
Lickety Splits Ice Cream and Sweet Shoppe

phone: +1 401 789-4035

address: 36 South County Commons Way, Unit C4, South Kingstown RI
A great place for a tasty treat near the movie theater. Has many ice cream flavors and toppings such as M&Ms, gummy bears, sprinkles, and cookie crumbs.
Phil's Restaurant

phone: +1 401 783-4073

address: 323 Main St
This little diner offers great breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You definitely get your money's worth at Phil's. Known for the homefries.
Pier Pizza,

phone: +1 401 788-8181

address: 328 Main St
River's Edge Cafe

phone: +1 401 789-5960

address: 406 Main St
Popular with the locals, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Mid-range

Camdens

phone: +1 401 782-2328

address: 756 Kingstown Rd
Homestyle food. Connected to the Old Mountain bowling alley.
Crave Seafood Steak

phone: +1 401 284-1850

address: 213 Robinson St
Crave offers creative cuisine that puts twists on original dishes.
Estia Restaurant and Pizza

phone: +1 401 782-8800

address: 28 Old Tower Hill Rd
Greek cuisine.
The Italian Village

phone: +1 401 783-3777

address: 195 Main St
Classic Italian dining in the heart of Wakefield. Traditional Italian cuisine made in the old-country style.
Jim's Dock

phone: +1 401 783-2050

address: 109 Succotash Rd
Pick Pockets

phone: +1 401-792-3360

address: 231 Old Tower Hill Rd
The sandwiches are expensive, but they are made in large portions and full of flavor.
Luk Thai

phone: +1 401 284-4370

address: 249 Main St
Authenic Thai cuisine.
Tony’s Pizzeria & Ristorante

phone: +1 401 789-8383

address: 1916 Kingstown Rd
Though Tony’s specializes in pizza and pasta, they also serve burgers and subs. The restaurant is well maintained and a pleasant setting for eating. The price ranges from $7-15, and it is open for lunch and dinner.
Trattoria Romana,

phone: +1 401 792-4933

address: 71 South County Commons Way
This Italian restaurant has an extensive food and drink menu.

Splurge

Kabuki

address: 91 Old Tower Hill Rd
A modern Japanese restaurant offering everything from classic sushi to Kabuki’s original rolls to Japanese interpretations of delicious American dishes. Offers 15% off for URI students.
Shogun Steak and Seafood House

phone: +1 401 284-0444

address: 59 S County Commons Way
A great Japanese place. They have fantastic sushi and habachi. Quite upscale and appropriate dress is required. Provides private seating and a hibachi bar so you can watch your food made in front of you. This environment makes for an enjoyable evening.

Drink

Bars

Bobby G's

phone: +1 401 789-1130

address: 703 Kingston Rd
Great place to go for drinks with friends. Very popular for college students on Tuesday nights. Try the $5 Tidal wave.
The Mew's Tavern

phone: +1 401 783-9370

address: 456 Main St
69 draft beers on tap, including one specifically made by Magic Hat for the Mews. There are three different sections to the bar, including an bar upstairs known as the “Celtic Pub”. $5 drafts, $6 mixed drinks. Mew's also has a large lunch and dinner menu with possible burger, pizza, burrito, and vegetarian options. During the day, there is generally no wait, but at night, the wait can be 1-2 hours.
Casey's Grill and Bar

phone: +1 401 789-9714

address: 191 Old Tower Hill Rd
Enjoy the fun atmosphere with reasonably priced drinks. Come watch the game with friends, or enjoy 10 cent wings on Tuesday nights. $4 drafts, $5 mixed drinks. Monday and Tuesdays: two dinners for $20 (a glass of their house wine included). Their menu ranges from sandwiches, steaks, chicken, seafood, pasta, and even some Mexican dishes. Has a great room for private functions and banquets. Serves food till midnight.
Fat Belly's Pub

phone: +1 401 284-4540

address: 333 Main St
Family friendly pub with a large menu. There are many drink choices as well. The kitchen is open until 11PM. $4 drafts, $6 mixed drinks.
Rhody Joe's

phone: +1 401 783-0008

address: 515 Kingstown Rd
Rhody Joe’s is a branch of Chelo’s family restaurant and is primarily a college bar and staffed by a majority of University of Rhode Island students. It is most popular on Monday and Wednesday nights. Great food and great prices. 20 cent wings every Monday. The menu is a typical bar and grille menu with burgers, pizza, pasta and entrees. The pricing is about $7-20, and is open for lunch and dinner. They offer $2 draft specials and $4 house margaritas. A late night menu is served until midnight.
Geaber's Liquors

phone: +1 401 783-8313

address: 231 Tower Hill Rd
Family-owned since 1966, Gaeber’s offers a decent selection of wines, beer, and spirits. They also offer cigars and tobacco products, as well as lottery.

Coffee

Bagelz

phone: +1 401 783-9700

address: 90 Perhsing Ave
They offer WiFi at both locations and tables and chairs for the students and workers as well as couches and more relaxed seating for those who just want to enjoy the atmosphere. Bagelz offers a variety of bagels and spreads as well as breakfast sandwiches. There is also a full menu of non-breakfast items including soups, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and other baked goodies, like muffins and cookies. Also on the menu is a variety of coffee beverages, teas, and bottled juices, milks, and energy drinks. Bagelz is frequently habited by students, but the menu is very eclectic and appeals to people who appreciate their gourmet coffee blends, and unique bagel flavors and spreads. There are also a number of vegetarian and vegan food options available.
Brewed Awakenings

phone: +1 401 783-8086

address: 60 South County Commons Way
Brewed is one of the most on-the-clock coffee shops in the area, as it is open until 11PM nightly, and it has a nice staff, food, and abundant seating. It is one of the more generic feeling coffee shops and usually populated by studious college students and high school students around 3PM, but it has a multitude of options for food and drinks, including pastries and breakfast sandwiches. Free Wifi.
Java Madness

phone: +1 401 788-0088

address: 134 Salt Pond Rd
Great local coffee with a beautiful location of Salt Pond, a small bay area that offers exceptional views during all seasons. Java offers a variety of flavored coffees, teas, hot chocolate, and iced beverages. Java Madness also sells various bakery items, including bagels, muffins, pastries, and other sweets. Also provides a wide selection of sandwiches and salads that are made fresh every day. Java features new artists every month, hanging their paintings around the shop and selling them for reasonable prices. They host local musicians on the regular throughout the summer season and even host a local theater company’s improv troupe once a week.
Orbie's

phone: +1 401 792-4340

address: 396 Main St
Orbie's is not very well known in the Narragansett area, but has a handful of regulars. It is a nice place to sit with your coffee.

Wine & spirits

Wakefield Liquors

phone: +1 401 783-4555

address: 667 Kingstown Rd
The largest liquor store in wakefield, this sprawling three room establishment offers a wide selection of fine wine, beer, and spirits. With two full rooms devoted to wines from countries all around the world. Wakefield Liquors has the largest selection of microbrews, imported beers and small batch bottle-conditioned beers in Rhode Island. Also offers cigars, cigarettes, soda, and snacks. Wine tastings are offered on Fridays from 4PM-7PM and Saturdays 2PM-5PM, and also offer beer tastings on Saturdays from 4PM-6PM.
Geaber's Liquors

phone: +1 401 783-8313

address: 231 Tower Hill Rd
Family owned since 1966, Gaeber’s offers a decent selection of wines, beer, and spirits. They also offer cigars and tobacco products, as well as lottery.
Sweeney's Wine & Spirits

phone: +1 401 784-555

address: 408 Main St
Located away from the center of town, Sweeney’s offers the typical selection of wines, beers, and spirits. Offers a monthly beer special.
Patsy's Package Store

phone: +1 401 783-5043

address: 520 High St
A family-owned and -operated store that has been in business for over 50 years. The liquor is kept behind the counters and is inaccessible to customers, while wine and beer are kept on a counter that circles the rather small store.

Sleep

Eden Manor

phone: +1 401 792-8234

address: 154 Post Rd
Romantic Rhode Island bed and breakfast near beaches, Newport, Block Island, University of RI.
Hampton Inn

phone: +1 401 788-3500
South County Commons. Oversized indoor pool and whirlpool, fitness center. The area near the Hampton Inn South Kingstown-Newport Area Rhode Island hotel has numerous restaurants with water views of Narragansett Bay. It is in walking distance to shops and dining in the Commons.
Silver Lake Cottage

phone: +1 401 782-3745

address: 361 Woodruff Ave
On Silver Lake, this waterfront Colonial offers guests a scenic and relaxing stay on the water. Once used as a summer home in the 1900s, Silver Lake Cottage has the charm of the past. There are five bedrooms, all which have a private bath, AC, and the beautiful scenic views. Breakfast is included. The cottage is in Wakefield, within walking distance to shops and restaurants. Special events such as bridal showers, reunions, luncheons, teas, small dinner functions, business meetings, brunches and cocktail parties can be accommodated.
Sugar Loaf Hill Bed & Breakfast

phone: +1 401 789-8715

address: 607 Main St
On 1½ acres, Sugar Loft Hill B&B is in a charming historic area, in downtown Wakefield. The back of the house was built in 1720 and was used as a farmhouse and then in the mid-1800s, the main house was added to the front. Sugar Loft Hill B&B has three rooms, all with private baths. Twin, queen, and king size beds are available. Breakfast is included. The Inn is in the center of Wakefield so it is in walking distance of all the shops and restaurants on and nearby Main St.

Campground

Warden Pond Family Campground

phone: +1 401 789-9113

address: 416A Worden Pond Road
The park is family-owned and family-friendly. Fishing, swimming, and other water activities are allowed. No tent camping - RVs, campervans and trailers only. They have recreational activities such as fishing, playgrounds, horseshoe pits, basketball court, and sand volleyball courts. During the summer, there is live entertainment such as karaoke and DJ. Stay for a night, or an entire season.