Ghost Towns in Rhode Island
8 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of Rhode Island.
All Ghost Towns
Fort Getty
Fort Getty was built in the early 1900s to defend Narragansett Bay. It was expanded during WWII and abandoned after. Today, massive concrete bunkers a...
Fort Wetherill
Fort Wetherill was built to defend Narragansett Bay. Massive granite walls, gun emplacements, and underground bunkers housed hundreds of soldiers. Whe...
Hanton City
Hanton City is Rhode Island's mysterious ghost town, its origins debated for centuries. Stone foundations and cellar holes dot the forest near the res...
North Light
North Light stands at the desolate northern tip of Block Island, accessible only by a long beach walk. Built in 1867, it was abandoned in 1973 when au...
Prudence Island
Prudence Island was once home to farms, summer colonies, and a WWII naval station. Most of the island is now uninhabited nature preserve (50% is Prude...
Ramtail Factory
Ramtail Factory was a small manufacturing village centered around a woolen mill. After the owner, Peleg Walker, was found hanging in the mill tower in...
Rocky Point
Rocky Point was a beloved Rhode Island amusement park for nearly 150 years. It closed in 1995 due to financial troubles. For decades, the site sat aba...
Valley Falls Mill
Valley Falls Mill was a massive textile mill complex on the Blackstone River. After a fire in 1999, the mill was abandoned. The imposing brick ruins s...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in Rhode Island?
We have documented 8 ghost towns in Rhode Island. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in Rhode Island safe to visit?
Most ghost towns are safe to explore, but exercise caution. Watch for unstable structures, mine shafts, and wildlife. Some are on private property - always check access rules before visiting.
What should I bring when visiting ghost towns?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Many ghost towns are in remote areas without cell service, so download offline maps.
Can I take artifacts from ghost towns?
No. Removing artifacts, bottles, or debris is illegal and destroys historical sites. Take only photos and leave only footprints.
What's the best time to visit ghost towns in Rhode Island?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.