Jamestown Windmill
A 1787 octagonal windmill on Windmill Hill, offering a glimpse into colonial agricultural life and scenic island views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Open for tours
Jamestown Windmill
Best Time
Open for tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 1787 octagonal windmill on Windmill Hill, offering a glimpse into colonial agricultural life and scenic island views.
"A wonderful find! Small but totally awesome! It ground corn in its day and still does one day each year."
Check Tour Hours
Tours are typically summer weekend afternoons. Confirm hours before your visit! :ticket:
Steep Stairs Inside
Be prepared for narrow, steep steps if you plan to climb to the top floors. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Windmill
Windmill Hill
A 1787 octagonal marvel, still grinding corn annually. Explore its three stories and rotating bonnet.
Windmill Hill Views
Windmill Hill
Enjoy scenic vistas from Windmill Hill, a perfect spot for photos and appreciating the island's charm.
Jamestown's Rural Charm
Windmill Historic District
Discover surrounding farms and the historic Quaker Meeting House in this picturesque district.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessibility & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tour Hours
Tours are typically summer weekend afternoons. Confirm hours before your visit!
Steep Stairs Inside
Be prepared for narrow, steep steps if you plan to climb to the top floors. :athletic_shoe:
Donations Welcome
Admission is free, but donations help preserve this historic gem. :moneywithwings:
Scenic Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the windmill, especially during sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tour Hours
Tours are typically summer weekend afternoons. Confirm hours before your visit!
Steep Stairs Inside
Be prepared for narrow, steep steps if you plan to climb to the top floors. :athletic_shoe:
Donations Welcome
Admission is free, but donations help preserve this historic gem. :moneywithwings:
Scenic Photo Ops
Capture stunning shots of the windmill, especially during sunset.
Driving In/Out
Parking on the lawn can make re-entering the road tricky. Drive with caution. :red_car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Jamestown Windmill as a 'wonderful find' and 'small but totally awesome,' appreciating its historical significance and the opportunity to explore its interior. Many enjoy the scenic location and the chance to see a piece of New England's past. However, some note that the interior is not handicap-friendly and that tours are limited to summer weekend afternoons.
"A great place to visit. The windmill was build in 1787 and ground corn for Jamestown farmers until 1896. The entire structure is open to the public and you can even take stairs up to the inside of the bonnet.
Unfortunately it is not handicap friendly inside. Also, it is only open in summer weekend afternoons. Admission is free though donations are accepted."
Bill Wood
"Wonderful find! Small but totally Awesome! It ground corn in its day and still does one day each year which I hope I can go and see. A really nice lady was there to greet us and answer our questions. I was able to climb up into the second and third floors to see the actual workings. Very steep narrow steps but good railings. Jamestown Island is a special place."
Joanne McLaughlin
"We happened to stumble upon Windmill Hill when we were driving through the area. Someone was having a birthday party so the windmill was open. We got to climb up to the top and learn about the grinding wheel. It was really cool."
Jacob Deklerk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Jamestown Windmill is located on Windmill Hill in Jamestown, Rhode Island. It's easily accessible by car, and there's parking available on the lawn. Many visitors enjoy driving through the scenic Windmill Historic District to reach it.
Yes, there is parking available on the lawn at Windmill Hill. However, be aware that exiting the grassy parking area back onto the road can be a bit challenging.
Absolutely! The Jamestown Windmill is a perfect stop for a day trip exploring Jamestown, RI. It's often visited alongside other historic sites and scenic spots on the island.
Driving is the most common way to explore Jamestown, RI, allowing you to easily visit the Windmill and other attractions like Clingstone and lighthouses.
Public transport options directly to the windmill are limited. It's best to visit by car or consider a taxi/rideshare service if you're not driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Jamestown Windmill is typically open for tours during summer weekend afternoons. It's always best to check the most current hours before your visit, as they can vary.
Admission to the Jamestown Windmill is free. However, donations are gratefully accepted to help with the upkeep and preservation of this historic site.
Yes, you can go inside the Jamestown Windmill and climb up to the second and third floors to see the actual grinding mechanisms. Be prepared for steep and narrow stairs.
Unfortunately, the interior of the Jamestown Windmill is not handicap-friendly due to its historic structure and steep, narrow stairs.
The windmill still grinds corn one day each year. This special event is a highlight for many visitors, so try to catch it if you can!
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The windmill itself offers fantastic photo opportunities from various angles on Windmill Hill. Sunsets are particularly beautiful here, creating a magical atmosphere.
Drone footage of the Jamestown Windmill has been captured, offering unique aerial perspectives. Always be mindful of local drone regulations and privacy.
The windmill is situated on Windmill Hill, offering picturesque views of the surrounding rural landscape, farms, and the ocean beyond.
Yes, the Windmill Historic District includes the historic Quaker Meeting House, and nearby you can find lighthouses and other coastal landmarks.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing the Jamestown Windmill.
🎫 📜 History & Significance
The Jamestown Windmill was built in 1787, making it a significant historical landmark in Rhode Island.
The windmill was used to grind corn for Jamestown farmers from its construction in 1787 until it ceased operation in 1896.
Interestingly, the windmill was reportedly burnt down by Tories after the Revolutionary War but was promptly rebuilt, showcasing its resilience.
Its three-story octagonal structure features a rotating bonnet designed to efficiently catch the breeze from any direction, a clever engineering feat for its time.
Yes, while the Jamestown Windmill is a prominent example, there is another windmill located in Middletown, Rhode Island.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on the day the windmill grinds corn for an extra special treat. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. The surrounding Windmill Hill provides open space for kids to run around before or after exploring the windmill.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Explore different angles from Windmill Hill to capture its full grandeur. The surrounding rural landscape and historic Quaker Meeting House also provide excellent complementary subjects. Drone photography offers a unique perspective, capturing the windmill's octagonal shape and its integration with the island's scenery.
+1 Remember to check local regulations for drone usage. The windmill's historical significance and picturesque setting make it a rewarding location for both amateur and professional photographers.🚶 History Buffs
Exploring the interior allows you to connect with the past by seeing the actual grinding mechanisms.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of the Jamestown Windmill
Visitors can ascend the steep, narrow stairs inside the windmill to witness the actual grinding mechanisms firsthand. This immersive experience allows you to appreciate the complexity and craftsmanship involved in its construction and operation. While the interior isn't accessible for those with mobility issues, the opportunity to see the inner workings is a highlight for many.
Despite its age, the windmill has a history of resilience. It was reportedly burned down by Tories after the Revolutionary War but was promptly rebuilt, underscoring its importance to the community. Today, it continues to be a beloved landmark, still grinding corn one day each year, offering a tangible connection to Jamestown's agricultural past.
Experiencing Jamestown's Historic Charm
+1The Windmill Historic District itself is worth exploring. It encompasses not only the windmill but also historic farms and the Quaker Meeting House, painting a picture of colonial life. Driving through this area provides a sense of the island's enduring rural character.
Drone enthusiasts can capture unique perspectives of the windmill and its surroundings, showcasing the island's picturesque landscape from above. +1While the windmill is the star, Jamestown offers other attractions like Clingstone and various lighthouses, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer stay. The combination of historical sites, coastal scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere makes Jamestown a truly special place to visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit