Full of charm, history and smack dab in the middle of our state; the city of Cranston has a little bit of everything! There are fantastic shopping and dining options, farms for berry and pumpkin picking on the western side of the city and festivals throughout the year that bring the community together. For three years in a row Cranston was named one of the 50 best cities in live in the US by 24/7 Wall Street. The website’s editors said Cranston was "the most livable city in Rhode Island and one of the most livable in New England."
History
Much of Cranston’s land was purchased by Roger Williams from the Narragansett Indians in 1638 as part of the Pawtuxet Purchase. Cranston incorporated as a town in 1754 after 116 years of being part of Providence. After losing much of its territory to neighboring towns and the city of Providence, Cranston itself became a city on 10 March 1910.
Governor Sprague Mansion on Cranston Street is one of the older homes in Cranston. Originally built in 1790, it is now the headquarters for the Cranston Historical Society.
Events and Community
One of the more well known and much loved yearly celebrations in Cranston is the St. Mary’s Feast, inspired by the Feast of the Madonna della Civita celebrated in Itri. Since 1905, the St. Mary's Feast has been a week-long festival celebrated in July in Cranston with vendors, a carnival, fireworks, and a religious procession from St. Mary's Church. In 2000, Cranston and Itri became sister cities.
Garden City Center is one of the most lovely places to shop, year round. The outdoor mall has retail, dining and entertainment all at your fingertips. In the summer there is a free weekly concert series at the Gazebo.
Outdoor Spaces
There is no shortage of outdoor space to relax, exercise, walk your furry friends and enjoy the beautiful New England weather in Cranston. Meshanticut, which is a Narragansett Indian word meaning "place of woods" features an eclectic array of housing styles including Victorian homes, cottages, and capes. The focal point of the neighborhood is Meshanticut State Park which surrounds Meshanticut Lake, a small lake popular for fishing in the summer and walking and jogging year round. Ducks, Geese and Swans reside at the lake and it is stocked for fishing.
The Washington Secondary Bike Path is the longest bike path in the state with a significant portion going through Cranston. Popular for biking, walking and jogging. Keep in mind you may find yourself needing to stop for a scoop or two at Sundae’s Ice Cream!
Thinking about moving to Cranston? I have listed a few Cranston homes below currently on the market for you to check out.
Alpine Estates
65 Alpine Estates Drive is a 4 bed, 5 bath Colonial on almost half an acre with a gorgeous chef’s kitchen, library with built in bookcases, high end lighting, a finished basement and oversized garage. Asking $695,000. Listed by Residential Properties, Ltd.
Meshanticut Lake Neighborhood
At 27 Metropolitan Ave; this 3 Bed, 3 Bath 1924 Bungalow is full of charm with touches of modern elegance and almost 3000 square feet. Asking $399,900. Listed by Homesmart Professionals.
Please contact Lisa Pagano at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505 to view these or similar homes.