Washington County, Rhode Island, is a county located in the southeastern corner of the state. It is bordered by Connecticut to the west and Massachusetts to the north and east. The county seat is Westerly, which also serves as the largest city in the county. Other cities and towns include Charlestown, Hopkinton, Richmond, South Kingstown, Narragansett and Exeter. The population of Washington County is estimated to be around 126,000 people.
According to wholevehicles.com, the history of Washington County dates back to 1663 when it was part of the original four counties established by Colonial Governor Samuel Gorton. In 1729 it was officially designated as a county by the Rhode Island General Assembly. Over time, Washington County has become known for its diverse culture with people from various backgrounds calling it home.
The attractions in Washington County are plentiful and include several popular beaches such as Misquamicut Beach in Westerly and Scarborough State Beach in Narragansett. There are also several museums such as The Prescott Farm Museum in Hopkinton which offers visitors a glimpse into 18th century life in Rhode Island. The area also features several hiking trails including those at Arcadia Management Area in Exeter and Burlingame State Park near Charlestown.
Washington County is home to a number of famous people including actor John Malkovich who was born in Christopher Columbus Park near Westerly; singer/songwriter Taylor Swift who grew up in nearby Westerly; actor James Woods who was born in Narragansett; actress Debra Messing who attended high school at East Greenwich High School; and musician Billy Joel who spent his childhood summers at Misquamicut Beach near Westerly.
Washington County offers something for everyone with its diverse culture, beautiful beaches, numerous attractions and famous residents. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an educational experience there’s sure to be something that fits your needs.
Climate and weather in Washington County, Rhode Island
According to mcat-test-centers.com, Washington County, Rhode Island experiences a humid continental climate, with hot and humid summers and cold winters. The average yearly temperature is around 50°F (10°C) but can range from below freezing in winter to the mid-80s (29°C) during the summer months.
The county experiences four very distinct seasons, with spring lasting from March to May, summer from June to August, fall from September to November and winter from December to February. During the winter months temperatures usually range between 20-30°F (-7- -1°C) with occasional snowfall. Spring is milder with temperatures ranging between 40-60°F (4-15°C).
Summer is hot and humid with temperatures often reaching the mid 80s (29°C). There is also an increased chance of thunderstorms during this time of year which can bring heavy rain and gusty winds. Fall is generally milder than summer but still sees occasional bouts of rain or thunderstorms. Temperatures typically range between 40-60°F (4-15°C).
Washington County receives an average of 47 inches (119 cm) of precipitation per year, most of which falls during the spring and summer months. Snowfall typically ranges between 25-35 inches (64 – 89 cm) per year but can vary depending on elevation and location within the county.
Washington County experiences a typical New England climate that can be enjoyed all year round. From relaxing beach days in the summer to snow covered landscapes in the winter there’s something for everyone in Washington County.
Transportation in Washington County, Rhode Island
Washington County, Rhode Island offers multiple transportation options for those looking to explore the area. The most popular form of transportation is by car, although there are also bus and train services available.
Those traveling by car will find that Washington County is connected to the rest of Rhode Island via Interstate 95, as well as several state highways including RI 2, RI 3, and RI 138. The county is also served by several local roads and highways which make it easy to get around.
For those without access to a car there are still plenty of options. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) operates bus services throughout the county with routes connecting many of the major towns and cities. There are also smaller regional bus companies that offer additional services between smaller towns within Washington County.
Train service is available via Amtrak with two stations located in Westerly and Kingston. These stations provide connections to other cities throughout New England as well as New York City and Philadelphia.
There are also multiple taxi companies operating in Washington County that can be used for shorter trips or when traveling from one town to another. Taxis can be found at most major hotels and airports throughout the county as well as at designated taxi stands in larger towns such as Westerly and Kingston.
Washington County offers plenty of transportation options for those looking to explore the area. Whether you’re looking for a quick trip into town or a longer journey out of state, there’s sure to be an option that fits your needs.
Cities and towns in Washington County, Rhode Island
According to COUNTRYAAH.COM, Washington County, Rhode Island is home to numerous cities and towns that offer a variety of experiences. Narragansett is the largest city in the county, located along the Atlantic Ocean and boasting a vibrant beach community. Tourists and locals alike can enjoy the Narragansett Pier, which was rebuilt in 2016 and offers access to fishing, swimming, and other activities. Nearby Galilee is an iconic fishing village with a laid-back atmosphere. There are plenty of seafood restaurants as well as recreational activities such as kayaking and hiking around Galilee’s harbor. Further inland lies Richmond, a rural town with farms, forests, and rolling hills. Here visitors can enjoy local produce at the farmers markets or take part in outdoor activities like hunting or horseback riding. Other towns in Washington County include Ashaway, Carolina, Hope Valley, Charlestown, Exeter and Westerly—each offering unique attractions for visitors to explore. From historical sites to outdoor recreation opportunities like sailing or biking on trails along the coastline—Washington County has something for everyone.