Embark on a delicious journey through Rhode Island, where fresh seafood and craft beer reign supreme. This foodie road trip will guide you to Rhode Island’s best clam shacks and breweries. Get ready for scenic views, salty air, and unforgettable flavors. Along the way, we’ll make sure to try the seafood that Lil’ Rhody is known for–clam fritters, stuffies (stuffed quahogs), and Rhode Island style chowder, and calamari, as well as coastal breweries including Whaler’s, Narragansett, and Newport Craft Brewing.
Coastal Charm & Culinary Delights
Rhode Island’s coastline is dotted with charming towns and hidden gems. Each stop on this road trip offers a unique taste of the state’s culinary heritage, from classic clam cakes to delicious brews. Our backyard “Rhode” trip will consist of three stops: Narragansett and South Kingstown, Newport, and Providence. Let’s head out to some of the best Rhode Island clam shacks and breweries!
Stop 1: Narragansett/South Kingstown
Start your adventure in Narragansett, a classic beach town with a laid-back vibe that has three of Rhode Island’s best clam shacks. Then we’ll head next door to South Kingstown for two great breweries.
Clam Shacks
- Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowderhouse: A local institution, famous for its doughboys and clam chowders. Like many Rhode Island clam shacks, they are known for their clam cakes, also referred to as clam fritters, which are delectable balls of dough stuffed with clams. Doughboys are similar to fried dough but are smaller in size.
- Aunt Carrie’s: Offers traditional Rhode Island fare with stunning ocean views. Dine in or eat outside. It’s been in business for literally 105 years with excellent seafood options, including steamers, lobster, and calamari. Try a Rhode Island shore dinner, and after that, head to their ice cream stand across the state.
- George’s of Galilee: A popular spot known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere. Favorite seafood options include Rhode Island classics, including their chowder, calamari, and clam cakes. It’s been around since 1948.
Breweries
- Whalers Brewing Company: Offers a range of craft beers in a welcoming taproom. The most popular in the state outside of Narragansett Lager is Whaler’s Rise American Pale Ale. It’s crushable and full of flavor with the state’s cutest beer can.
- Tower Hill Brewing: Sample local favorites and enjoy the brewery’s lively atmosphere, which is large and airy inside. They feature a selection of excellent craft beer.
Stop 2: Newport
Next, head to Newport, a historic city known for its Gilded Age mansions and bustling waterfront. Among Rhode Island’s best clam shacks and breweries in the Newport area are those located outside of the downtown, with both clam shacks technically in Middletown.
Clam Shacks
- Flo’s Clam Shack: A no-frills spot serving up fresh clams and chowder. This is an absolute classic. This mainstay has been around since the 1930s. Try favorites including fried oysters, fried fish, and of course, clam cakes!
- Salty’s at Second Beach: Enjoy casual beach eats with a view of the Atlantic, literally on the beach. Salty’s serves a lobster (a single or twin) that made Easton’s Beach Snack Bar famous. Easton’s closed, and Salty’s has taken up the reins.
Breweries
- Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co.: Offers a variety of beers and spirits in a spacious setting. The former Newport Storm brewery, combined with Radiant Pig and Braven breweries, was rebranded as Newport Craft Brewing a few years ago and has since added a distillery.
Stop 3: Providence/East Providence
Wrap up your road trip in Providence, Rhode Island’s capital and largest city. Providence is a small metropolitan city with plenty to do. Luckily, it’s also home to two of the best Rhode Island clam shacks and breweries, just in an urban setting. Head across the river to East Providence for another delectable clam shack.
Clam Shacks
- Dune Brothers operates two clam shacks and a market in the Fox Point neighborhood. Locals and visitors alike flock here for lobsters, steamers, and fried fish sandwiches. If you’d rather be inside, head to the market.
- Dune Brothers Riverside– Dune Brothers has another location at Crescent Park in East Providence. Same excellent seafood but with the classic circa 1895 Looff Carousel right next to it.
Breweries
- Narragansett Brewing Company: When you think of Rhode Island, Narragansett is THE beer. Narragansett has been around in one way or another since 1890. Although Narragansett today is owned by Genesee Brewing, it recently opened a beautiful state-of-the-art brewery inside an industrial building in Fox Point. Try an array of different beers and sample old favorites.
Road Trip Planning
To make the most of your foodie adventure, consider the following:
Best Time to Visit Rhode Island’s Best Clam Shacks and Breweries
Summer offers the best weather, but spring and fall can also be delightful, with fewer crowds. During the off-season, though, some clam shacks may be closed for the season.
A Sample Itinerary for Rhode Island’s Best Clam Shacks and Breweries
Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:
| Day | Location | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Narragansett/ South Kingstown | Visit Iggy’s, Aunt Carrie’s, Tower Hill Brewing, George’s of Galilee, Whalers Brewing Company |
| Day 2 | Newport | Visit Flo’s, Salty’s on Second, Newport Craft Brewing |
| Day 3 | Providence | Dune Bros, Narragansett |
Conclusion
This Rhode Island road trip is a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget. From Newport to Narragansett to Providence, the state is known for its fresh seafood, craft breweries, and stunning coastal scenery. Rhode Island’s best clam shacks and breweries are a hit for the whole family. Enjoy the journey and savor every bite!
