The water is never far from view in the small, suburban town of Barrington, with Narragansett Bay to the west, Palmer River to the east and the Barrington River running down its center, effectively splitting it in two. Enjoy the abundant water by trying sailing, fishing and waterskiing.
Trace Barrington’s origins back to the 17th-century arrival of Plymouth settlers, who founded a settlement in the region. Though once part of Warren to the east, Barrington was separated and incorporated in 1717.
Bring a swimsuit and paddle around Barrington Town Beach, a spacious sandy stretch on the Narragansett Bay shoreline. The beach is equipped with restrooms, showers and picnic tables, as well as lifeguards on duty during the summer. Note that parking is available only for residents of Barrington.
For more outdoor fun, rent a bike and cycle along the East Bay Bike Path, which extends for more than 14 miles (23 kilometers) along the coastline from India Point Park in Providence to Independence Park in Bristol. The route passes through Barrington’s Haines Memorial State Park, a 100-acre (40-hectare) park featuring grassy patches, a farmers market, a kayak launch spot, a picnic area and jogging and walking paths.
Enjoy some of the other popular green hangouts in town including Tall Cedars, a wooded wetland conservation area, and Veterans Memorial Park, which features trails and ponds.
For travelers with a car, several other area attractions are easy daytrips from Barrington. Drive for just over 20 minutes to take a guided tour of the Lizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast Museum. Here you’ll find out more about the infamous 1892 axe murders. Closer still are the Colt State Park with picturesque waterfront paths and ocean views, and the Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art.
Find Barrington in east Rhode Island, near the boundary with Massachusetts. The best way to get around is by car or bike. Buses run within the town.
