Although Rhode Island may be the smallest state, it has a pretty cool craft beer scene that is just great for families who want to go out and have a chilled day. Whether you are a local or visiting from nearby places to visit in Massachusetts, Rhode Island breweries offer something a little different, often catering equally to the beer enthusiast and families. Here are some of the top family-friendly breweries in Rhode Island that everyone can enjoy.
1. Tilted Barn Brewery – Exeter, RI
Tilted Barn Brewery in picturesque Exeter should be on every family-with-kids bucket list. Sure, it is a brewery-but more so, it is a farm experience. Chalked up to be Rhode Island’s first farm brewery, Tilted Barn literally contains massive areas of outdoors where kids will love to play around. There’s no shortage of picnic tables and outdoor games outside the brewery-and a few friendly farm animals for the little ones. In addition to open fields across the street, this can be the perfect spot for a day out as adults sample a taste of fresh IPAs and seasonal brews while kids playtime ranges.
Why It’s Family-Friendly: The casual nature of the establishment, openness of the space, and farm location truly make it perfect for families. Bring in a picnic, allow the kids to play, and enjoy a cold beer outside.
2. Whalers Brewing Company – South Kingstown, RI
Whalers Brewing Company, located in South Kingstown, has a very warm and welcoming atmosphere that works quite well for families. This brewery has a pretty big taproom and is great to relax in, with an outdoor seating area. Whalers Brewing generally has food trucks available on weekends, and they have delicious options for kids and adults alike. And they also have drinks other than beer to make sure that everyone has something to drink and enjoy themselves.
Why It’s Family-Friendly: The casual, open set-up and family-friendly events here make it perfect for all ages. If you are going on a Rhode Island brewery tour with any kids in tow, this makes for a great stop.
3. Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. – Newport, RI
If you’re visiting the beautiful city of Newport, one of the places you should not fail to visit is the Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. It’s a brewery recognized for its various craft beers and spirits, one that indeed provides quite an experience for the family. This is because it contains an outdoor beer garden with picnic tables, shaded areas, and yard games such as cornhole to make it entertaining for the family. While the adults will be having a great time with their craft beer, kids can really have fun playing games or snacking on food from local vendors.
Why it’s family-friendly: An open-air beer garden and regular events that cater to being family-friendly make it an ideal location for a casual afternoon with the family.
4. Ragged Island Brewing Co. – Portsmouth, RI
Another great family-friendly option is the Ragged Island Brewing Co. in Portsmouth. It features a large outdoor area where families can lay out picnic blankets and relax. It holds a number of community events at large, including live music, food trucks, and seasonal activities. It is a great place to let the parents relax while the kids are playing in a safe area.
Why It’s Family-Friendly: The open feel of the facility and the spacious outdoor area accommodate all ages on tours through breweries in Rhode Island.
5. Proclamation Ale Company – Warwick, RI
The locals and visitors alike have favorite spots that they return to regularly, and such a place is Proclamation Ale Company in Warwick. Here, there’s a spacious taproom and an outdoor patio that is well-suited for families. Very often, Proclamation teams up with various food trucks that offer menu items for all, including kid-friendly ones. Things to do here include giant Jenga and cornhole-excellent ways to keep kids preoccupied as adults sample strange brews.
Why It’s Family-Friendly: Energetic atmosphere, outdoor seating, and games make it a hit with families looking for a fun outing.
Making It a Day Trip: Explore Nearby Massachusetts
If you are planning to pay a visit to Rhode Island and want to make the most of your tour by visiting more exciting places, then some of the best places to visit in Massachusetts lie just a few miles drive from this state, starting with the historic city of Boston down to beautiful sceneries in Cape Cod. You might start having your morning at a brewery down in Rhode Island and then head up towards Massachusetts for either a beach day or historical tour.
Suggested stops:
Boston: This is where you visit the Freedom Trail and go to the Boston Children’s Museum.
Cape Cod: Enjoy nice beaches here and its sceneries with the bikes on the bike trails.
Salem: See the history and character of this old town.
Closing Remarks
From the beer connoisseur to the families seeking a fun, casual atmosphere, Rhode Island’s craft beer scene has something to fit each taste. With so many family-friendly breweries to choose from around Rhode Island, one can enjoy the day tasting local brews while keeping the little ones amused. Be it a weekend getaway from Massachusetts or self-exploration in the Ocean State, these breweries provide great experiences across all age groups.
So next time you seek a casual family outing or want to add one more stop to your tour of places to visit in Massachusetts, make sure to add one of these great Rhode Island breweries to your list. It is a great way to enjoy quality time together and sample some of the best craft beers the region can boast!
