School Street Pier/Festival Pier

Located in Pawtucket just off I-95 North (Exit 28), this town-owned boat ramp provides convenient access to the Seekonk River at the point where the Blackstone River transitions to tidal waters. The ramp offers ample parking and is ideal for kayakers, canoeists, and powerboaters looking to explore this historic waterway. The site is easily accessible via School Street south, making it a straightforward launch point for paddlers of all skill levels.

The nearby Old Slater Mill Visitor Center (operated seasonally, 401-725-8638) offers additional context about the region's industrial heritage along the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park. Note that the visitor center is not ADA accessible and operates on a seasonal schedule, so contact ahead if accessibility is a concern. This access point is particularly valuable for those interested in exploring the tidal Seekonk River and the historic intersection of the Blackstone and Seekonk waterways.

The Visitor Information Center at Old Slater Mill is operated seasonally. Please see active exceptions to ensure that the visitor contact station is open for your visit.