Warwick, RI Summary

With a population of 85,400, this city just 12 miles south of Providence is Rhode Island’s second largest. Samuel Gorton, who was expelled from the Puritan Massachusetts Bay Colony as well as from Roger Williams’ more tolerant Providence, purchased the site, originally called Shawomet, from the Narrangansett people in 1643. After his imprisonment for blasphemy, he sailed to England and obtained the protection of Robert Rich, the second Earl of Warwick. Gorton returned to his settlement, and in 1648 named it for the earl.

A textile manufacturing center in the nineteenth century, Warwick today is a suburban community known for its malls and outlet stores, and insurance and healthcare companies. Many of Providence’s downtown retailers have moved to Warwick.

The city has 39 miles of undeveloped coastline. Warwick City Park provides a public beach and recreational facilities. Swimming is available at Oakland Beach.

Warwick is reached by Hwy 117.