Need a change of scenery? Rhode Island might be a small state, but there’s a lot to see here. And when you need a fun day trip but don’t want to break the bank, just head over to The Fantastic Umbrella Factory, our 19th-century farmyard shopperʼs paradise and international bazaar. This quirky place is open year-round, and it’s incredible.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory is located in Charlestown, where it has been since its 1968 opening.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory / Facebook This unique, eccentric complex is both a local gem and a national treasure.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory was established by Robert Bankel on an old farm homestead.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory / Facebook He started by utilizing one small building from the 1800s, selling penny candy and unusual gifts. He soon expanded his ventures into an old barn, and the rest is history.
These days, you’ll find quite a few little shops here, along with local craftsmen who set up their wares outside the fountains.
schedswilltravel / TripAdvisor The perennial flower gardens add a nice touch. There are also several unique species of trees, like Umbrella Pine and Dawn Redwood.
The current shops include Small Axe Productions, The Umbrella Factory Gardens, The General Store, Frills, Axiom, Block Print Graphics, Henna Body Art, The Purple Shell, WICK-ed Candle Co., and South County Artisans Loft.
Wil Snodgrass / Google And if you stick to window shopping, this goes from an affordable destination to a free one.
The General Store is an especially beloved treasure, featuring candy, toys, and gifts for the young and young at heart.
Greg & Lori Malec / Google There are a lot of things here you simply won’t find anywhere else in Rhode Island.
While you’re there, make sure to grab a bite from Small Axe Cafe.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory / Facebook Or, if you visit in the summertime, check out The Lunch Box Food Truck, serving seasonally inspired comfort food.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory is a unique year-round destination we’re lucky to have.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory / Facebook It’s open daily from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., except for January and February, when you can shop on weekends only.
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory / Facebook
This unique, eccentric complex is both a local gem and a national treasure.
He started by utilizing one small building from the 1800s, selling penny candy and unusual gifts. He soon expanded his ventures into an old barn, and the rest is history.
schedswilltravel / TripAdvisor
The perennial flower gardens add a nice touch. There are also several unique species of trees, like Umbrella Pine and Dawn Redwood.
Wil Snodgrass / Google
And if you stick to window shopping, this goes from an affordable destination to a free one.
Greg & Lori Malec / Google
There are a lot of things here you simply won’t find anywhere else in Rhode Island.
Or, if you visit in the summertime, check out The Lunch Box Food Truck, serving seasonally inspired comfort food.
It’s open daily from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., except for January and February, when you can shop on weekends only.
Have you ever been to the Fantastic Umbrella Factory? Learn more about it and see what’s currently happening on the website.
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Address: Fantastic Umbrella Factory, 4820 Old Post Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA
