North Smithfield is a town in Providence County, Rhode Island, United States, settled as a farming community in the 17th century and incorporated into its present form in 1871. North Smithfield includes the historic villages of Forestdale, Primrose, Waterford, Branch Village, Union Village, Park Square, and Slatersville. The population was 10,618 at the 2000 census. According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 24.7 square miles (64.1 km2), of which, 24.0 square miles (62.3 km2) of it is land and 0.7 square miles (1.8 km2) of it (2.83%) is water. North Smithfield is in a New England upland region. The Branch River and Blackstone Rivers provided much of the power for the early mills in the town.
Though the town of North Smithfield is small in size, there is an abundance of historic houses, sites, landmarks and mills enriched with history to visit. Originally settled in the 17 century by British colonists it started out prodominately as a farming community. Located along the Blackstone River, mills were later built along the river. These mills are still standing today, some of them are open to public tours and others have been turned into luxury living communities or offices. If you are into old, historical New England architecture, then consider checking out the historic Slatersville Congregational Church. Built in the early 1800's this historic white colonial church features an old piano, organ and the original pwes and balcony. The church is open for viewing Monday - Friday from 9 am - 12 pm and worship is open to all on Sundays from 10-11 with a coffee hour following the service. The service is open to all religions and all people. The historic Slatersville Public Library may be of another interest to some. This Public library was also built in the 1800's right on the Blackstone river. Behind the library lies an old bridge as well as remnants of old mill engineering devices. If you are into historic school houses, the Forestdale Red School House is also located here. Though this old one room school house is no longer used for educational purposes, it is open to tours.
'''Slatersville Reservoir''' - Located in Slatersville (North Smithfield) Accessible off of Providence Pike. On this body of water people are allowed to fish, and boat (electric boats. However, make sure you have a fishing and boating license if you plan on doing either!
'''Wright's Dairy Farm''' - 200 Woonsocket Hill Rd. Another farm, yet this time selling to die for pastries, cakes and any other item you could imagine to make your mouth water! These delicious treats are moderately priced and freshly baked daily! Fresh, organic skim, whole, chocolate and coffee milk are also available for purchase! Cakes can also be custom made for any celebration!!
'''Beef Barn''' 1 Greenville Rd. If you're looking for a "quick eat" without fast food quality this would be the place for you. The name might not be the most appealing to you but the food is fairly decent! The menu consists of shakes, sodas, burgers, sandwiches, soups and pies for desserts. This tiny restaurant is low in price and the service is fast! Food here is also available for take out if you call ahead of time.
'''Coffee & Cream''' 1 Greenville Rd. Coffee and Cream is a Breakfast nook located right next to Beef Barn. Again, this is a quick eat with an array of crepes and pancakes on the menu as well as eggs (cooked to your preference) muffins, cereals and anything else you could imagine for breakfast! The prices are very low,and the service is friendly and fast!
'''Gator's Pub''' Corner of Main St and Victory Highway. This restaurant is also a bar and features an outdoor, sand volleyball court. The food ranges from pizza to sandwiches, steaks to fish. There is a wide range of beer on tap at the sports bar. This restaurant has a tendency to be very crowded on Fridays, yet the service is also very quick and the food is moderately priced.
'''Hercules Pizza''' 9 North Main Street. Looking for a Pizza place? Well Hercules Pizza would be ideal. This Greek inspired pizza parlor is generally a take out atmosphere, yet if you so choose you may eat in as well. There are two pizza sizes, small and large and you can order virtually any topping and prices range from $6-12. Grinders are also available for order as well as greek salad!