The Smithfield center point is approximately 1 mile south of Bryant University and 5 miles northwest of Providence College.
Like many destinations, summer is a peak time for visitors to Smithfield, but with typical New England highs of 70s and low 80s, it's also a great time for not-too-hot summer travel. Naturally, hotel rates are at their highest in summer, but so is interest in Smithfield's full calendar of summer events.
The fall is also a high time for Smithfield visitors who are drawn by both the famous New England foliage and the town's large number of apple orchards and farms. Autumn is prime season for both apples and fall colors. This means that summer hotel pricing holds more steady throughout the popular fall season instead of dropping off after Labor Day. And speaking of dropping, be warned that the temperatures fall into the 30s by November, so make sure to bundle up!
Winter in Smithfield usually brings with it a reduction in crowds, temperatures, and hotel prices. For those seeking Smithfield less for its apples and lakes and more for its quiet, history, and beautiful natural scenery, this is an ideal time to get a bargain on a room.
But probably the best combination of weather and travel frugality is the spring when temperatures edge up into the 60s, but the local hotels have not yet raised their rates for summer. This is also a beautiful time to visit Smithfield. Just keep in mind that one should check the temperatures before leaving and always pack layers. Another consideration is that Smithfield is so small that many of the best hotel options are not located right in Smithfield proper, but rather in nearby places like Providence and Attleboro.
The best combination of low rate, high rating, and proximity to Smithfield is probably found at America's Best Value Inn in Providence-North Scituate. Located a scant 4.8 miles away, America's Best Value is described as "no-frills," but also "clean" and "well-kept." It provides a complimentary breakfast and is an easy 2 miles from the highway so you can easily hit the road to Newport, Providence, and, of course, Smithfield. AARP members can enjoy 10 percent discounts on room rates, and service members, first responders, and government employees also receive special rates.
Slightly further up the road is the Knights Inn in North Attleboro, MA, which offers free breakfast, parking, and WiFi. Guests say that they find the Knights Inn a quick, easy, and clean place to stay overnight, but its affordable room rates make it easy to spend a week there. AAA and AARP members, seniors, and government employees can all enjoy special discounts at this convenient Smithfield-area hotel.
At least one good value can be had right in town at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Smithfield-Providence. The hotel combines Holiday Inn's famous efficiency and consistent standard of care with business traveler friendly amenities. Among these are complimentary newspapers and coffee makers, in-suite conveniences like a microwave and refrigerator, and additional thoughtful touches like a separate hanging closet for keeping your finery wrinkle-free. The All Seasons Inn & Suites features a similar mix of efficiency and comfort, offering a gorgeous outdoor pool and 24-hour fitness center, as well as an in-lobby computer center and pet-friendly rooms.
Another great stay for not-so-much pay is nearby Providence's Dean Hotel. The Dean Hotel has been praised in numerous travel publications from Conde Nast Traveler to the Wall Street Journal to London's Daily Mail as one of New England's top boutique hotels. This historic building, which started out in the 1920s as a run-down club, has since been transformed into an architectural showpiece. Decorated with the work of local artists, the Dean has a free bike-share program for guests, an artisanal coffee bar, and a karaoke lounge!
Anyone stopping through Smithfield is bound to run smack into its storied history — and indeed the town invites you to do just that. The centerpiece attraction is the Smith Appleby House, built in 1696 by founder John Smith's grandson Elisha. It is now home to the Smithfield Historical Society, where for many events, locals dress up in Colonial garb and offer tours and historical interpretations. Another memorable way to experience Smithfield history is at one of the town's famous mills. Georgia Cotton Mill was built in 1830 but has been preserved until today in good working order. It offers an inside look at how mills worked and how crucial they were to the local and national economy.
Of course, one of the biggest draws in Smithfield is its wealth of pick-your-own orchards and farms. Although apples are the crown jewel, these hands-on, family-friendly places also offer peach and pumpkin-picking, as well as seasonal favorites like homemade pies and cider. The hayrides shouldn't be missed either! The largest orchard to visit is Steere on Austin Avenue, but there are many others to choose from, like Knight Farm, Jaswell's Farm, and Appleland Orchard. Please be advised that you may need to visit during certain hours or by appointment, so it's often best to call ahead.
Another way to explore the great outdoors is by visiting one of Smithfield's numerous nature conservation areas. Mowry Park and Connors Farm are popular among Smithfield locals, and both are easily accessed from simple walking paths by foot or bike.
Although admittedly not much of a shopping town, Smithfield does offer some unique gift and decor-buying opportunities at Flaunt's Boutique. Located inside Conti's Plaza, Flaunt's Boutique sells the work of local Rhode Island craftspeople as well as national brands, with everything from purses to baby clothes to collectible trinkets. The boutique is also conveniently connected to Ephraim Doumato Jewelers, a great place to pick up bejeweled creations for reasonable prices.
After burning off all those calories, be sure and check out one of Smithfield's many family-friendly eateries, like the Greenville Inn or Tavern 743 (which also features Karaoke Night on Wednesdays). Grab a beer and take part in the revelry at Blackie's Bull Dog Tavern. Or enjoy a more intimate meal for two at the small, family-run Parente's Restaurant. And no trip to Smithfield is complete without a visit to legendary Rhode Island institution Del's Lemonade. Use its drive-thru or walk-up window to get a cup of its famous frozen lemonade.
No matter whether it's history, nature, or a red delicious you want to sink your teeth into, Smithfield's got a little "taste" of something for everyone. And just as important, it has a bounteous orchard of places to rest your head afterward.
Below are reviews of the city of Smithfield, RI from an actual visitor's perspective.
Steve at the front desk was GREAT!
Close to the casino which is great to see events
Close to casino.
Great restaurants and not too far from home but feels like home still!
Stayed near a convenient friendly little place called Parente's, a sports bar sort of place servicing, what else? Italian food. buffet style for all to enjoy. I had time too kill on Christmas Eve and stopped down the street at this restaurant; although everyone seemed to know each other they were welcoming to this stranger.
Near a convenient friendly little place called Parente's. a sports bar sort of place servicing, what else? Italian food. buffet style for all to enjoy. I had time too kill on Christmas Eve and stopped down the street at this restaurant; they were welcoming to this stranger, tough everyone else seemed to know one another.
Went to the city to visit Bryant University. Great school and people.