"~ Pawtuxet Village ~" Pawtuxet by gosiaPL

Pawtuxet Travel Guide: 68 reviews and 190 photos

A PLACE YOU CAN'T FORGET

Pawtuxet village is a charming little place with grand history. It is one of the oldest villages in New England and in 1973 it was designated a Historic District in the National Register. No wonder the people of Pawtuxet are dedicated to preserve their heritage, the colonial architecture and their traditions.

Pawtuxet means "Little Falls" in the native language of the local Indian tribe that was a part of the Narrangasett Indian nation (many places in Rhode Island still bear the Indian names). But the village prouds itself in much more than its little falls on the river! It was here that America's First Blow for Freedom was made - read about it below.

Besides the historic importance which is celebrated annually during Gaspee Days, Pawtuxet village is beautifully located on the lovely Pawtuxet Cove of the Narrangasett Bay which makes the village a nice and quiet retreat if you want a relaxing weekend. Check Pawtuxet village website for the details you want.

Common confusions about Pawtuxet that you may want to avoid:

1) Although historically it is one village, in official or administrative terms it is divided between two cities: Cranston and Warwick. That's why some addresses in Pawtuxet are in Cranston and others are in Warwick.

2) Bear in mind the spelling of PAWTUXET if you look for information or directions. Two other names in Rhode Island that Pawtuxet can be mistaken for are PAWTUCKET and PAWCATUCK! Don't rely solely on your feeling that the name "sounds familiar" :-)

Hope you'll find my tips helpful :-)

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Link to Roger Williams

Pawtuxet Bridge

The Pawtuxet River separates the Cranston and the Warwick sections of Pawtuxet Village and was one of the bounds of Providence mentioned in the Indian deed to Roger Williams (the founder of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations), which the sign proudly commemorates. The bridge offers a great view of the river emptying into the Pawtuxet Cove - check my intro picture above.
In the 17th century the two banks of the River were connected with just a rope bridge.

Pawtuxet's proudest tradition

Gaspee Days Parade

Gaspee Days are a series of events in Pawtuxet, with the Gaspee Parade being the core of the days. It commemorates the Burning of HMS Gaspee, the much hated British revenue schooner, that took place on Pawtuxet waters in 1772. It was the first attack against the British in American colonies, a year before the Boston Tea Party, the first step towards the War of Independence. Hence the burning of Gaspee is often referred to as America's First Blow for Freedom and, naturally, the people of Pawtuxet (and of Rhode Island in general) are very proud of it.
If you're interested in the other events and wish to plan your trip to Pawtuxet accordingly, check the Gaspee Days website.

Pros and Cons

In a nutshell:Quiet, lovely place that marks its presence loudly once a year :-)

Last visit to Pawtuxet: Jun 2004
Intro Updated Jun 24, 2006
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Reviews (24)

Comfortable cottage in a perfect place Hotels (1)

Janet's lovely cottage for rent is in a perfect location: just 4 minutes' walk to the cove and the park. You'll love the... more travel advice

Pawtuxet Park Favorites (8)

Pawtuxet Park by the cove and the Aspray Boathouse is just the place to relax, have a picnic or simply to enjoy the... more travel advice

Best place to buy china Shopping (1)

There are several antiques stores in Pawtuxet but my favourite one is Antiques Haven. Claire, who owns it, certainly... more travel advice

Pizza, pastry and great coffee Restaurants (2)

I never had pizza at Jeff's cafe but I can recommend the coffee (oh, that espresso!) and delicious pastry that comes in... more travel advice

Travelogues (2)

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Comments (8)

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Pawtuxet Sep 28, 2012 at 6:04 AM

Back again...always fun to read your comments about my home village. Wish you could come back. Miss you.
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gilabrand Jan 26, 2009 at 3:36 AM

When I was in Rhode Island a few months ago, we didn't get to Pawtuxet, so you have filled me in on what I missed.
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KiKitC Nov 10, 2006 at 3:57 AM

Wow! Great tips and beautiful photos! Loved your favorite quotes, too. Have a magical birthday!
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icunme Aug 24, 2006 at 1:14 PM

You and Janet should be official Pawtuxet PR reps and be given keys to the city!! Great tour. Ciao, Carol
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mtncorg Jul 3, 2006 at 12:53 PM

Very nice look at a Right Coast town! Good to see the camera clicking. The townsfolk should get over the realtor, though.
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susaninri Jun 22, 2006 at 7:47 AM

Gosia, you make me even prouder of my home than I am. Your pages and notes are wonderful and make me wish for a new visit from you. :-)
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Pawtuxet Jun 22, 2006 at 5:54 AM

Great job, Gosia! I love reading the descriptives from your perspective. So many things we take for granted are explained so well in your tips. Now all that is left is that you come back for more!! :-)
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matcrazy1 Mar 6, 2005 at 2:25 AM

Wow Gosia! I do enjoy your page on my future destination a lot, let me know when you finish it, please. Great pictures and excellent restaurant tips! Hugs and smiles from matcrazies ---> :-)))