With sandy beaches and small-town charm, South County has the laid-back attitude you're looking for in a vacation destination. Whether you're relaxing at one of South County's breweries or distilleries, or shopping for anything from chocolate to jewelry to bikes, you're guaranteed to have a good day. And with so many ways to Buy Local RI, you can support the small businesses that make South County such a cool place to be.
Sons of Liberty Spirits
401-284-4006 / Sons of Liberty Spirits in South Kingstown makes award-winning whiskey, single malt and flavored varieties, gin, beer and Loyal 9 canned cocktails.
Tilted Barn Brewery
401-500-6765 / This farm brewery in the woods of Exeter, adjacent to a Christmas tree farm, has a cult following for good reason. They started out as a hops farm and then started using their hops to make beer. They’re famous for their Double IPAs and the beautiful can designs. Perfect for the craft beer lover on your list. Photo: Amy Soucy
Grey Sail Brewing
401-212-7592 / Located in an old factory building in Westerly, Grey Sail is one of Rhode Island’s premier microbreweries. Their taproom and beer garden are serving beer, wine and cocktails. To-go beer and merchandise are available at the brewery.
South County Distillers
401-212-7592 / Right next door to Grey Sail in Westerly is their sister company South County Distillers. Purchase handcrafted bottles of vodka, gin, rum and more, including pre-mixed canned cocktails.
Whaler’s Brewery
401-552-0002 / Whaler’s Brewery in Wakefield is another favorite craft brewery known for their hazelnut stout, as well as Rise, their award-winning American pale ale.
Sweenor’s Chocolates
401-783-4433 / A 60-year Rhode Island chocolate institution — Sweenor’s in Wakefield offers chocolate confections for every season and occasion, including corporate gifts.
Hauser Chocolates
800-289-8783 / Hauser Chocolatier in Westerly is a second-generation, family-owned business crafting chocolate confections in the tradition of fine Swiss chocolatiers. Ruedi Hauser Sr. who started the business was trained as a pastry chef and chocolatier in Switzerland. All the chocolate is made in-house.
Peter Pots Pottery
401-783-2350 / Nothing is more iconic than the handcrafted Rhode Island pottery of Peter Pots in Kingston. Founded by a couple of RISD students in 1948, the pottery still has a strong following. There are seasonal pieces and timeless pieces, and before you know it, you’ll be collecting all the pieces.
The Glass Station
401-788-2500 / Is there anything more beautiful than handblown glass? The Glass Station in South Kingstown offers unique, handcrafted glassware made in South County — from small gift items and figurines to large serving platters, vases and art pieces, there are many choices for gifts.
A Gracious Soul
Stop into A Gracious Soul for high vibe products consciously sourced from other artisans, small businesses and makers who are also giving back and making a difference. Buy local and support worthy causes — it's a win-win!
Stedman's Bike Shop
What kid doesn't appreciate a new bike? Stedman's Bike Shop in Wakefield has been around since 1920 and has every kind of bike you can think of — road, mountain, children's and even electric. While you're there, ask about their favorite local bike rides.
The Current
"Shop small" is the motto of The Current in East Greenwich. This store provides a home for curated gifts, clothing and decor from small businesses in Rhode Island and around the world. With everything from coffee and tea to local-made bath and body products, you're sure to find a unique gift or a little something for yourself.
The World Store
If you've got a science lover on your list, you'll want to check out The World Store in Wickford. When you've stocked up on fun gifts like bat houses, science kits and fossils, take a stroll through Wickford Village and check out some of the other local shops.
JW Graham Yes! Gallery
Visit the JW Graham Yes! Gallery for a fantastic variety of handcrafted gifts and home decor. In true Buy Local spirit, pick up a hat or shirt from their "Rhode Island Local" line, inspired by the pride and support of the Rhode Island community.
OMO Jewels & Gifts
860-961-4678 / OMO Jewels & Gifts in Westerly is a curated collection of American-made jewelry, ceramics, handblown glass and more. They represent local and national artists who are committed to their craft and offer only the highest quality goods.
Mills Creek Market
401-364-9399 / Mills Creek Market features handmade earth-inspired gifts from over 150 local artisans.
Simple Pleasures
401-364-9852 / Located in Charlestown, Simple Pleasures offers coastal inspired gift ideas, home décor and more.
The Purple Shell
401-315-2213 / You don’t get more local than this Charlestown shop’s handcrafted jewelry, belt buckles and more, made by native and non-native artists using wampum.
The Woven Path
401-667-3722 / The Woven Path in the quaint village of Wickford offers distinctive gifts made by Rhode Island artisans. They use a 1979 Harrisville loom to weave scarves, shawls, handbags and more.
Gooseneck Vineyards
401-294-4289 / Gooseneck Vineyards in Wickford Village is a winery run by two cousins who scour the globe to create wines that overdeliver, while remaining true to the grape variety. Purchase wines inspired by the New England coastline and visit their website to try out some recipes. Online only as the tasting room is closed for renovations and they are moving.