Three RI bars that evoke the feeling of our state’s past

Living in Rhode Island is the closest you can get to living in the past. Colonial Era houses, preserved farms, historic museums – we have it all. But as much as we love the quiet walking tours and flipping through info pamphlets, sometimes it’s better to just appreciate the atmosphere with a glass of beer in hand. Wouldn’t you know it, RI has a plethora of old-school bars where you can enjoy the historic ambiance without all the fuss. 

First and foremost is the White Horse Tavern. It’s not just the oldest tavern in Rhode Island – it’s the oldest in the country (not up for argument!). If you want to grab a bite to eat as well, and you’re a foodie who pledges allegiance to farm fresh ingredients, this place has been serving farm-to-table since 1673. Yeah, try to beat that. 26 Marlborough St, Newport. 849-3600. 

Though the bar itself has only been in this space for 16 years, the Wild Colonial provides an authentic, centuries old feel. The walls are exposed brick, the tables are dark wood and the building sits in perfect view of the Providence WaterFire, not to mention it’s a stones throw from plenty of historic East Side architecture. 250 S. Water St, Providence. 621-5644. 

Tracing its roots back to 1760, the Carriage Inn and Saloon (originally a stagecoach stop named “Old Acres”) building has seen several different owners in the last century. In 2013, it was re-bought and redesigned to showcase its original stonework and rustic elegance. 1065 Tower Hill Rd, North Kingstown. 294-8466.