Hey Rhody July 2026

Waterside Living

A.R. vs . A.I.

Algorithms are great for processing data, but real estate is always personal.

Discover the difference between digital automation and the bespoke, localized expertise of Alicia Reynolds:

ALICIA REYNOLDS: ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE:

Personally Verified Tradespeople

Hand-selected, local professionals

Pre-Screened Buyers

Yelp Verifications

Algorithmic and easily gamed reviews

Online / Google Leads

Qualified individuals ready to purchase Unverified search traffic

In-Depth

Local Knowledge

Incorrect or Outdated Online Data

Real-time boots on the ground data Outdated data pulled from random sources

Professional Photography iPhone or AI Generated Images

Stunning, high-end visual marketing made by real people

Accurate Listing Prices

Hyper-local, strategic pricing.

Flat, distorted, or artificial imagery.

Broad Market Estimates

Generalizations from sweeping data.

Recently, an AI algorithm valued my clients’ unique home at $1.4M using broad data, completely missing its specific architectural style. I knew the market reality. Today, we are under contract precisely within my original human estimate, saving my sellers weeks of frustration.

Photo by Sandra Bonazoli

News & Culture

14 RHODY READS: Picks from downtown Providence’s bookstore

16 OCEAN STATE MEDIA: Did RI start the American Revolution?

18 RHODY GEM: The scoop on a Gansett grandma living her dreams

20 CALENDAR: This month’s must-do’s

Rhody Pets

23 Places where furry travelers are welcome

26 This month’s trio of adoptable pals

28 A rescue in Foster focused on serving senior dogs

Home & Style

43 HOME: Hospitable touches turn a first-floor into a summer rental

46 SHOP: Stylish accessories for outdoor living

50 ROADTRIP: One-tank wonders around New England Food & Drink

58 EXPERIENCE: A resort restaurant in Westerly goes all à la cart

60 REAL FOODS: How and where to eat like a real one – housewife or not

62 ROUND-UP: Foodie-forward places to try right now

Hey Rhody Photos

64 A colorful mosaic from our talented followers via Instagram

Photography by Erin McGinn, courtesy of The Gilded Gull

Photo by Elyse Major

neighborhood. Photography by Nick DelGiudice

Photo courtesy of Wayfinder Newport

Publishers

Barry Fain

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John Howell

Editor in Chief Elyse Major Elyse@HeyRhody.com

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Account Managers

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Contributing Photographers

Sandra Bonazoli

Patty J Karen Kalunian Erin McGinn Donna Normand Anat Sagi

Contributing Writers

Bekah Berger

Jane Govednik

Emily Homonoff

Patty Jeffrey

Interested in writing?

Justin Kenny Britt Machado Erin McGinn Pamela Watts

Email Editorial@HeyRhody.com

Interns

Janibell Martinez Paige Martins

Looking for an internship?

Email Ken@HeyRhody.com

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Summer-by-the-Sea

CONTRIBUTORS

BEKAH BERGER

In “Dos and Don’ts for Eating Like a Real RI Housewife” (page 60), the host of the Real Talk with Bekah Berger podcast focusing on all things RHORI , joins us as a first-time contributor to dish on everything from pizza chips to crackahs . Warwick-based Berger is the co-host of 92 PRO FM Mornings , and when she’s not behind a mic, this cool mom is busy having fun with her family.

BRITT MACHADO

Britt Machado is the force behind JohnnyCakes, an awardwinning interior design studio and storefront. Each month, she searches the state to assemble cool finds for the Shop page. This month (page 46) it’s all about being outside, whether glamping, beaching, or attending a music fest. Visit Machado’s shop on Broadway and don’t forget to ask about the signature line of Squiggle goods.

ERIN MCGINN

Providence West Enders have known about the fantastical ice cream sandwiches being served up on Battey Street for years, and we thought it was about time to revisit the all-season biz. In “Sandwich Generation” on page 53, writer/photographer Erin McGinn works her magic, showcasing the teamwork making the ice cream dream work. To see more of McGinn’s work, visit ErinMcGinn.com or on Instagram at erinmcginn.

KOU TUKALA NYAN

Longtime contributor Kou Tukala Nyan is an author, journalist, artist, editor, and performer, co-founder of blackearth collective + lab, and a recipient of the RISCA Make Art Grant. This month, she reports on the important work and ongoing efforts at the new African American Museum of Rhode Island. Turn to “Built for the Neighborhood” (page 9) to learn more.

NEWS & CULTURE

Museum | Rhody Reads | Ocean State Media | Rhody Gem | Calendar

Built for the Neighborhood

A new museum puts Rhode Island’s African American stories at the center of the community

By Kou Tukala Nyan

Tucked into Upper South Providence, at the Southside Gateways storefront, is a new, welcoming space with many stories to tell. Here, people gather to learn about African American Rhode Islanders who made history and, in some cases, meet them. Stories emerge, such as those of Meredith Costa, RI’s first African American woman principal, and her husband of over 50 years, Joseph Costa, director emeritus of Student Support Services at Rhode Island College, as well as musical prodigy Randall Ashe.

FIRST EXHIBITION

Welcome to the Neighborhood:

Mapping Black Providence 1940s-1970s , shows the community life and contributions Black Rhode Islanders built across Fox Point, Lippitt Hill, University Heights, and South Providence. For hours and more information, visit AAM-RI.org.

“Folks want community,” reflects Dr. Christopher West, executive director of the African American Museum of Rhode Island (AAMRI). “People ask, ‘Why a storefront on Broad Street?’ Because history belongs on the sidewalk. It belongs where people buy their groceries, where they catch the bus. We want a space where an elder can walk past the window, see Omar Bradley’s photography, and walk inside to say, ‘I know exactly who that is.’”

The new museum showcases Rhode Island’s African American culture, life, and history while fostering community and youth empowerment. Through core programming, the space serves as a site of learning, production, and preservation, with a focus on Black Rhode Islanders and their contributions.

West explains that AAMRI’s origins date back to a stroll down Camp Street, when founding member Helen Baskerville Dukes

saw a sign for Willie Dixie Matthews on a light pole. She asked fellow founding member Robert L. Bailey, V about him. Bailey revealed that Matthews was his uncle, a professional baseball player who was inducted into the Rhode Island Heritage Hall of Fame for speaking out against racial injustice, including the treatment of African American players in professional sports. Dukes realized that neighborhood children walk through these streets

Photo courtesy of African American Museum of Rhode Island

The museum shares previously untold stories of those who overcame significant challenges

“Here is the fundamental story of Rhode Island,” says West. “That these Black men... are going to give their lives. The bullets didn’t go into their backs, the bullets stood because they were soldiers and they chose that.”

He also highlights Arthur J. “Daddy” Black, who lived an extraordinary life as a US Navy veteran, prominent businessman, and investor

in Black baseball teams. However, the only photo of him in public archives remains his mug shot, ironic considering his significant achievements. Like similar stories of many notable African Americans, the historical information often gets lost, and it can be heavy work to find it.

The museum’s goal is to make stories like

these accessible to all. To achieve this, AAMRI is leading the charge to introduce a new high school curriculum by the fall of this year. The framework aims to bring the state’s rich Black history directly into local classrooms, ensuring the next generation grows up with an active connection to the extraordinary legacies built right in their backyards.

Photo courtesy of African American Museum of Rhode Island

$799,900

Welcome to this 3/4 bedroom 2.5 bath colonial in the Gardners Neck area with deeded beach rights and close proximity to marinas beach club and major highways. This home has many upgrades from its in ground pool with cabana with a half bath and kitchenette, 20 KW house generator and a two-level barn perfect for car or toy storage or to convert to an ADU unit.

The main level has a fireplaced living room/dining room combo with hardwoods. Gourmet style kitchen with two full ranges built into the breakfast bar, family room with fireplace primary ensuite with walk in closet. Second level has 2 bedrooms, den and a full bath. The lower level is a finished media room with wet bar and laundry room and access to a heated sunroom.

FATHOM REALTY GROUP

Real Estate & Appraisals

Chris Howard • 508-801-7485

757 Stevens Road • Swansea, MA

ChrisJHoward@Hotmail.com

What’s hot for July at Symposium Books

By Scott McCullough and Anne Marie Keohane

Rhody Reads S

everal recent releases are part of this month’s list, curated from downtown Providence’s independent bookstore.

In Stephanie Wambugu’s coming-of-age story Lonely Crowds , readers follow the intense, decades-long friendship between two Black girls, Ruth and Maria as they navigate their childhoods and the competitive New York City art world of the 1990s. Ruth owns the narrative here, and explores the nature of intimacy, desire, class, and time. Lonely Crowds challenges readers to reckon honestly with ambition and intention.

Set in the early 2000s indie music scene, Gabrielle Korn’s Long Island Girls is a queer comingof-age novel about an intense, on-again, off-again relationship between protagonists Susan and Eliza and their dysfunctional coupling. Through Susan’s perspective, readers learn she reunites with Eliza and forces her to confront where she’s from and her ultimate destiny. Universal themes of first love, identity, career, and the lasting impact of a formative connection reign here.

Follow a year in the life of a family that moves from California to rural Vermont in Daniel Mason’s Country People . Husband and Ph.D student Miles becomes involved with eccentric locals while his wife starts a new professorship. From the cast of characters, Miles learns of a local legend that may be… a fraud? Marriage and parenthood, the nature of belief, the power of stories, and the importance of connection in a fragmented world are the themes here.

In the aptly-named novel I’m a Lot, Surviving Myself and All the People I’ve Been , author Alison Lieby proudly embraces the identities we’re often encouraged to hide: Housewives stan (stalker/fan), discount shopaholic, former jock, happily single, childless by choice, and proud cat mom. With deadpan jokes, tender moments, and incisive social commentary, Leiby urges readers to embrace ambiguity. Leiby reveals her hard-earned wisdom about what it’s like to be a woman who does it all.

July 2 Event: Ink & Echo

The Creative Current and America Unfinished Join Symposium Books and Ink & Echo for an evening of spoken word, music, and artistry. Free to attend with a suggested donation. WaterFire Arts Center, 475 Valley Street, Providence

ABOUT SYMPOSIUM BOOKS

For over 20 years, Symposium Books has been downtown Providence’s go-to for books, vinyl, fun merch, and conversation. Named after the ancient Greek dialog by Plato, the elegant storefront has built a solid reputation for its stellar selection of new, used, and bargain books across various genres – including independent presses, academic publishers, and art publishers. Shelves are filled with a diverse range of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry, which promote differing voices and perspectives. “Symposium Books is known for fostering a welcoming environment for book lovers in a cozy space,” says Scott McCullough, who co-owns the business with wife Anne Marie Keohane. “Also, check out our highly-curated vinyl section. Plus keep an eye out for our author events, book clubs, silent book clubs, music nights, and other events.” 240 Westminster Street, Providence. SymposiumBooks.com

In her debut Agnes Lives! , Hallie Elizabeth Newton’s readers encounter a fading socialite named Agnes who’s on the hunt for someone to kill her before her next SoulCycle class. Candidates include an icy magazine editor with a special cutlery set, an eccentric designer from her past, and her cruel novelist boyfriend. As she moves from Upper East Side shopping to Craigslist gun deals, she becomes more desperate before her existential despair culminates in a worthy, intense denouement.

In A Philosophy of Shame: A Revolutionary Emotion , author Frederic Gros argues that shame is a powerful, revolutionary force for political and personal change, rooted in collective anger at injustice, inequality, and exploitation, rather than just individual guilt and negativity. In a survey that draws on literature, philosophy, and psychoanalysis, Gros reframes shame as a catalyst for transformation and a necessary emotion for the polycrises of today.

Did Rhode Island Start the American Revolution?

A daring nighttime raid in Narragansett Bay came before the Boston Tea Party and helped push the colonies toward a united response to Britain

In Partnership with Ocean State Media

• OceanStateMedia.org • By Justin Kenny and Pamela Watts

Before Boston dumped tea into its harbor, Rhode Island colonists set a British ship on fire. On a June night in 1772, a group of Rhode Islanders rowed out from Pawtuxet Village, boarded the British revenue schooner HMS Gaspee, and left it burning in Narragansett Bay. The attack happened 18 months before the Boston Tea Party and nearly three years before the first shots at Lexington and Concord. More than 250 years later, some historians and local advocates say the Gaspee Affair deserves a much bigger place in America’s founding story – not as a footnote, but as one of the first major acts of armed resistance against British rule.

WHY THE GASPEE BECAME A TARGET

According to historian, archaeologist, and historical reenactor John McNiff, tensions had been building for years before the attack. Following costly wars with France, Britain sought to raise revenue by taxing the American colonies and tightening trade restrictions. In Rhode Island, where merchants often relied on maritime commerce and smuggling, those policies were deeply unpopular. “The Gaspee was the final straw,” McNiff says.

The ship arrived in Narragansett Bay in January 1772 with orders to crack down on smugglers. McNiff believes local colonists began plotting against the vessel months before it ran aground. Earlier that year, the Gaspee had seized a ship called the Fortune, owned by future Revolutionary War General Nathanael Greene. Its captain, Rufus Greene, was reportedly injured during the confrontation. “I’m thinking from February on, people are making plans about what to do, how to find the Gaspee, where to get it,” McNiff says.

A SPARK BEFORE BOSTON

The attack began on the night of June 9, 1772. According to historical accounts, colonists rowed from Pawtuxet Village in longboats, surrounded the stranded vessel, and demanded its surrender. During the confrontation, Lieutenant William Dudingston, commander of the Gaspee, was shot and wounded. The ship was later destroyed by

fire. Whether the colonists intended to burn the vessel remains a matter of debate. McNiff believes the destruction may have been accidental because much of the ship’s equipment, sails and rigging would have been valuable to sailors.

Others see it differently. Among them is Providence restaurateur and Gaspee advocate Bob Burke, who has spent years promoting the event as a pivotal moment in American history.

“They row out right from that wharf,” Burke says. “They surround him, they call the captain out, he comes out in his nightshirt. Joseph Bucklin takes a shot, hits him. Our sailors clamber aboard, take them prisoner, remove them from the ship, go back, light it on fire, burn the ship.”

The flames eventually reached the ship’s powder magazine, causing an explosion that lit up the bay.

THE RAID THAT UNITED THE COLONIES

British officials viewed the attack as a direct assault on royal authority. “That’s an act of war,” McNiff says. “That’s the way it was considered back home in England.” Authorities launched an extensive investigation and offered substantial rewards for information leading to the attackers. Yet despite the promise of a king’s ransom, no one came forward. “It was just typical Rhode Island,” McNiff says. “Nobody betrayed anybody else that was involved.”

The controversy intensified when British officials considered sending suspects to England for trial rather than allowing them to be tried in the colonies. McNiff explains that the possibility alarmed many Americans and helped inspire the creation of Committees of Correspondence, communication networks that allowed colonies to coordinate their response to British actions. Those committees later evolved into the Continental Congress. “This little spark, this little ship going up in flames, started the colonies talking together as a unit,” McNiff says.

FIGHTING FOR HISTORICAL CREDIT

For some Rhode Islanders, the debate is no longer just about what happened in 1772. It’s

Artistic rendering of the burning of the HMS Gaspee

also about who gets credit for helping launch the Revolution. Burke has become one of the most vocal advocates for elevating the Gaspee Affair’s place in American history. He has even sent cease-and-desist letters to Boston, Lexington, and Concord, arguing Rhode Island’s role has been overshadowed by Massachusetts. “Rhode Island is the true beginning of the Revolution, the Gaspee attack,” Burke says.

Rhode Island Secretary of State Gregg Amore, a former history teacher, agrees the Gaspee Affair deserves greater attention. Documents preserved in the state archives include records related to the British investigation ordered by King George III following the attack.

“That’s living history,” said Amore. “We can attract people to learn more about the Gaspee incident by presenting something like this.”

For Amore, the significance of the event extends far beyond Rhode Island.

The Gaspee Affair is still commemorated each June through Gaspee Days, a weeks-long celebration centered in Warwick, Cranston, and Pawtuxet Village. The weekend’s events include the annual Gaspee Days Parade, colonial reenactments, and the symbolic burning of the Gaspee, drawing thousands of spectators to the community where the story began.

For many Rhode Islanders, the celebration is more than a community tradition. It is a

Photo courtesy of Ocean State Media

reminder that a pivotal chapter in the nation’s founding unfolded not in Boston, but along the shores of Warwick.

WHY MANY AMERICANS HAVE NEVER HEARD OF IT

Despite its importance, the Gaspee Affair remains largely absent from national history books.

McNiff says part of the reason is that organized commemorations did not begin until the late 1960s, when local residents launched the annual Gaspee Days celebration. He also points to the influence of Massachusetts on how the Revolutionary era is taught. “Boston is a huge market for textbooks,” McNiff says. “If the Boston Massacre and the shot heard around the world happened near Boston, that’s going to be in the textbooks.”

Whether the Gaspee Affair deserves to be called the true beginning of the American Revolution remains a matter of debate. But 254 years after Rhode Islanders boarded a British ship and left it burning in Narragansett Bay, supporters say the event’s place in American history is getting a second look.

This article was originally posted on June 9, 2026. Justin Kenny can be reached at jkenny@oceanstatemedia.org. Pamela Watts can be reached at pwatts@oceanstatemedia.org.

SEARCH FOR THE BEST SCOOP SHOP

PARTICIPATING SCOOP SHOPS AGREE TO OFFER 1 FREE SINGLE SCOOP CONE OR CUP!

WE'LL HAVE AT LEAST 30 SCOOP SHOPS PARTICIPATING!

LAST YEAR WE HAD 40 SO IT'LL BE CLOSER TO THAT NUMBER WE COMBINE THE COUPONS INTO WHAT WE CALL A PASSPORT! PASSPORTS ARE ONLY $30! THAT'S AT LEAST 30 BEST ICE CREAM CONES FOR ONLY $30!

Nana’s Ice Cream & Gelato

Sweet shop

What it is:

A seaside scoop and candy shop that’s been serving up memories in South County for 40 years.

Where to find it:

Directly across from Narragansett Town Beach in Pier Market Place, it’s the perfect summertime stop.

What makes it a Rhody Gem?

Owner Dianne Mann worked in corporate finance and dreamed of living at the beach when she retired. Well, dreams do come true, and her Narragansett ice cream and candy shop now teems with beach-going families and teens from morning til evening. “Everyone who walks through our door is smiling and happy, and the kids are screaming with excitement,” Mann, or “Nana” to her three grandchildren, says. “The smell of our delicious waffle cones hits you as you walk in the door barefoot and sandy right off the beach. Our customers wait in the long lines for a selection of 57 flavors of premium ice cream, Italian gelato, soft serve cones, and Del’s lemonade.” Even vegan customers have seven flavors to choose from, all made with coconut milk. “Nana’s Candy Bar is right next door,” says Mann, whose daughter Crissi helps run the happy madness. “It has walls and walls of nostalgic candy, saltwater taffy and fudge,” Mann says. Grab a beach pail and fill it to the brim!

Nana’s Ice Cream & Gelato

28 Pier Market Place, Narragansett 401-500-1900 NanasGelato.com

Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool, unusual, or hole-inthe-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours, and we just might feature it!

Photo courtesy of Nana’s Ice Cream & Gelato

Ninigret Park Summer Events

FRIDAY, SEPT. 4

ST. PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES MARTY STUART & HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES

FUTUREBIRDS • DONNA THE BUFFALO KINDRED VALLEY • LOS TEXMANIACS

SONS OF LEVIN • PAUL GABRIEL BLUES BAND • PLANET ZYDECO

SATURDAY, SEPT. 5

TOWER OF POWER • MARGO PRICE

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY • JOHNNY MULLENAX

LOS TEXMANIACS • DONNA THE BUFFALO WARD HAYDEN & THE OUTLIERS • KNICKERBOCKER ALL-STARS

THE QUAHOGS • THE ALPACA GNOMES CURLEY TAYLOR & ZYDECO TROUBLE

SUNDAY, SEPT. 6

THE DEVIL MAKES THREE PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND

YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND • ROOMFUL OF BLUES

QUINN SULLIVAN • THE SUITCASE JUNKET

JASON INGRISELLI & THE MILES NORTH

CURLEY TAYLOR & ZYDECO TROUBLE

SUNDAY SCHOOL WITH CHRISTINE OHLMAN & REBEL MONTEZ FEAT. THE SIN SISTERS & FRANK VIELE

PERFORMING DAILY

STEVE RILEY & THE MAMOU PLAYBOYS

PINE LEAF BOYS • OLD-FASHIONED ACES RUBEN MORENO

4-6, 2026

The Must List

10 essential events this month

Through September 5: The History of Soccer in Rhode Island at the Museum of Work and Culture tells the story of immigrant workers who formed teams, including the Pawtucket Free Wanderers, one of the earliest soccer clubs in America. Woonsocket, RIHS.org

 July 4: A special Independence Day WaterFire kicks off with the RI Philharmonic Orchestra performing at the State House in commemoration of the nation’s 250th birthday, plus a food and arts market, patriotic souvenirs, and festive fireworks. Providence, WaterFire.org

July 8: Emerging artists ages 14 and over are welcome to Walk and Watercolor Wednesdays at the Maxwell Mays Art Studio, an evening that includes a short walk in the wildlife refuge, followed by a class in the art studio. Coventry, AARI.org

 July 4: Enjoy the oldest and one of the grandest Fourth of July parades in the nation in comfort at the Linden Place Annual Picnic , a fun morning that includes a continental breakfast and a picnic lunch. Bristol, LindenPlace.org

July 10: FirstWorks Summer Beats Concerts return to Roger Williams Park Dalrymple Boathouse lawn with trumpeter Etienne Charles kicking off the series for an evening of Afro-Caribbean-influenced jazz concert outdoors. Providence, FirstWorks.org

July 10: The RI Philharmonic Summer Pops

Concert on the beach features Emmy awardnominated Troy Quinn conducting Outstanding Overture s – favorites from theater, film, and classical music from My Fair Lady to Wicked Rain date: July 11. Narragansett, RIPhil.org

July 12: Music at the Farm , a classical series at Grace Note Farm, presents a piano trio concert with Artists in Residence David Bernat (violin), Yunwen Chen (cello), and Elias Dagher (piano) covering works by Liszt, Ravel, and Prokopviev. Pascoag, GraceNoteFarmWeb.com

Through July 18: Don’t miss Grease, the Musical , the enduring story of bad boy Danny who falls for new girl Sandy, featuring classic favorites like “You’re the One That I Want,” and “Hopelessly Devoted to You.” Wakefield, TheatreByTheSea.com

 July 22-August 2: The Kingston Chamber Music Festival returns for its 38th season with Life, Liberty & Music , seven exciting concerts celebrating 250 years of live chamber music held at the URI Fine Arts Center. Kingston, KingstonChamberMusic.org

July 26-August 8: Enjoy two weeks of delicious eats during Providence Restaurant Weeks , featuring deals and specials for lunch and dinner, with some restaurants offering hearty breakfasts, prix fixe menus, and signature cocktails. Statewide, GoProvidence.com

For weekly Musts subscribe to our newsletter at HeyRhody.com  = Fireworks  = 250

Photo courtesy of Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau

The nation’s oldest parade is a summer highlight for many Rhode Islanders

RHODY PETS

Stay | Adopt | Seniors

Welcoming Spots

These dog-loving stays prove vacations are better when nobody gets left behind

By Jenna Kaplan

You can always spot the dog people in a hotel parking lot. They’re the ones unloading a suitcase for themselves and what appears to be an entire second vacation’s worth of gear for their four-legged travel companion. There’s the leash, the collapsible bowl, the favorite blanket that somehow takes up half the car, and enough treats to get through a small natural disaster.

The real challenge comes long before check-in. For devoted dog owners, finding a place that welcomes pets isn’t a bonus; it’s often the first item on the vacation checklist. Luckily, a growing number of Rhode Island hotels have embraced the idea that dogs deserve a getaway, too, offering everything from welcome treats and plush beds to pet menus and concierge services.

The Ocean House

THE BEATRICE

For pups who prefer city streets to sandy beaches, The Beatrice offers a stylish alternative. Dogs up to 35 pounds can check in through the Pampered Pup Package, which includes a dog bed, food and water bowls, and a treat from local favorite Jack’s Snacks. The hotel also shares its Bark About Town guide, helping guests discover nearby parks and pet-friendly spots throughout the city. It’s a smart home base for exploring Providence with a four-legged sidekick in tow. 90 Westminster Street, Providence

BRENTON HOTEL

At Newport’s Brenton Hotel, harbor views and luxury touches extend to canine guests. The hotel welcomes up to two dogs of any size and

offers in-room beds and bowls, plus access to a pet concierge who can arrange walks and sitting services. The standout feature is the Top Dog Menu, where pups can dine on grilled chicken, lamb, or a burger served with rice, celery, and sweet potato. A reasonable pet fee per dog per stay makes this one of Newport’s more approachable luxury stays, especially for travelers who believe room service should include everyone. 31 America’s Cup Avenue, Newport

NEWPORT HARBOR ISLAND RESORT

Set on Goat Island, Newport Harbor Island Resort gives dogs a front-row seat to Newport Harbor. Waterfront walking paths circle the property, creating plenty of opportunities for early-morning strolls and sunset sniffing sessions. The

resort’s Very Important Pups package includes a plush bed, gourmet treat, lobster toy, travel water bottle, and souvenir tote, while pet-friendly rooms come stocked with the essentials. The resort welcomes up to two dogs and charges a daily pet fee, making it an easy choice for travelers looking to fully embrace a pet-friendly escape. 1 Goat Island Road, Newport

OCEAN HOUSE

Ocean House extends its signature brand of luxury to four-legged guests. The Watch Hill resort’s Pet Passionate Package includes an Annie Selke dog bed, bowls, treats, a take-home toy, and a complimentary meal from the pet menu. Up to two dogs with a combined weight of 50 pounds are welcome. Concierge-arranged

Wayfinder Newport

The Brenton Hotel

walks and sitting services add convenience, while designated beach access hours allow pups to experience one of the state’s most iconic stretches of shoreline. It’s difficult to say who gets more spoiled here, the dog or the owner. 1 Bluff Avenue, Westerly

PAWS ON PELHAM

If your dog could book a hotel, this would probably be the one. Paws on Pelham has built its entire identity around canine guests, complete with built-in dog beds, bowls, treats, and the aptly named Rufftop deck. The inn’s location puts Newport’s shops, restaurants, and waterfront within easy walking distance, making it easy to spend the day exploring before returning to a room designed with both species in mind. The vibe is relaxed, playful, and proudly dog-obsessed. 96 Pelham Street, Newport

WAYFINDER NEWPORT

Wayfinder’s laid-back personality makes it a natural fit for travelers bringing dogs along for the adventure. Pups receive treats

upon arrival and have access to pet-friendly outdoor spaces throughout the property. The hotel’s Newport Dog Guide highlights nearby beaches, parks, and businesses that welcome canine visitors, taking some of the guesswork out of trip planning. A nightly pet fee applies, but the casual atmosphere and thoughtful touches make the stay feel effortlessly accommodating. 151 Admiral Kalbfus Road, Newport

WEEKAPAUG INN

For a slower pace, head to Weekapaug Inn. The South County property welcomes up to two dogs with a combined weight of 70 pounds through its Pooch Program, which includes treats, a toy, designer bedding, bowls, and access to a pet dining menu. Walking and sitting services are available for guests who want to sneak away for a few hours, but many find there’s little reason to leave. Between the salt air, pond views, and winding walking paths, it’s the kind of place where a quick stroll with the dog somehow turns into the entire afternoon. 25 Spray Rock Road, Westerly

The Pooch Program at Weekapaug Inn

Rhody Pets of the Month

By Karen Kalunian

Looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home? Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters around the state have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are three pets ready to meet you, or reach out to the shelters to learn about even more adoptees.

If you have been thinking of adopting or if you know of an animal in need, please contact Karen Kalunian directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.

MANDA

BREED: Domestic Shorthair

AGE: 2 years

GENDER : Female

What’s sweet as candy and as soft as a marshmallow? If you guessed this beautiful girl, you are correct. Meet Manda, a whiteand-orange domestic shorthair who longs for love and attention. Manda is gentle and loving, comfortable around other friendly cats, and ready to be a part of your family. She hopes to meet you in person so she can show off her true beauty.

WALKER’S WAY

petmom73@yahoo.com

ANGEL

BREED: Lab Mix

AGE: 6 years

GENDER: Male

Like so many other pets that end up in a shelter, Angel lost his home when his parents went into a nursing home. While that’s heartbreaking enough, he was given up to the shelter along with his brother, who was later found to have cancer and has since passed. At his young age, Angel has been through so much, yet still has so much love in his heart. He will need to be your one and only pet in a home with a fenced-in yard, where he can run, play, and bask in the sun.

WARWICK ANIMAL SHELTER

401-468-4377

Manda Angel

Photo (L) courtesy of Walker’s Way

PHOEBE

BREED: Mixed Breed

AGE: 5 months

GENDER: Female

Puppy love is waiting for you. Meet little Miss Phoebe, a mixed breed who can’t possibly be any cuter. From her spotted black-and-white coat to her two differentcolored eyes, she’s got it all. She’s got so much puppy love to give and can’t wait to meet her forever family. If you just fell in love, be sure to email Furbaby Ranch now. Phoebe can’t wait to steal your heart!

FURBABY RANCH

katelynncaruso@furbabyranch.com

Phoebe

Hope and Healing for Dogs in Their Golden Years

Foster shelter serves the needs of elderly pups

By Ken Abrams

In a world where high-energy puppies often steal the spotlight, one Rhode Island rescue is proving that there is something beautiful about growing old. Tucked away in the woods of Foster, Vintage Pet Rescue has built a national reputation caring for dogs that many shelters struggle to place – seniors, hospice cases, and animals with special needs.

While younger dogs are often snapped up quickly, older pets can spend months or even years waiting to be adopted. For co-founder Kristen

After medical checks, all dogs get a professional gromming at Vintage Pet Rescue

Peralta, who opened the shelter with her husband, Marc, those often-overlooked animals are exactly the ones worth saving. “People assume senior dogs are too much work or that there isn’t enough time left with them,” she says. “What we see every day is that they have so much love left to give.”

The couple met at a pet shelter in Los Angeles, moved in together, and adopted a senior dog named Rue McClanahan. “When she passed away, we went to the shelter to adopt another dog in her memory. Honestly, it kind of just spiraled from

there – we knew so many folks in animal welfare, people just started sending us old dogs, and suddenly we had 10 senior dogs in our house.”

The couple moved to Rhode Island to be closer to family and opened Vintage Pet Rescue in an old church in 2013. “Honestly, I didn’t know what I was getting into,” laughs Peralta. “I thought we’d take in maybe 20 dogs a year; it would just be kind of a small rescue. We really underestimated the need for a senior rescue in the area and ended up taking in around 20 dogs every few months.”

Photo courtesy of Vintage Pet Rescue

Thankfully, the community has offered a lot of support, which is important because shelters are expensive to run. Peralta credits media coverage and social media for helping spread the word. “Our social media is big, we have a huge following there,” she explains. “We are able to do this because of the support we get from people financially, and by sharing our posts and adopting our animals.”

At the shelter, dogs start getting care as soon as they arrive. “The bare minimum when we get them is to do senior blood work and full vet checks. Many of them have eye issues, so they need eye meds, checking for ear infections, and checking for any skin infections. The vast majority need dentals, on average, about $1,200. Unfortunately, most of the animals that come into us haven’t had

vet care in a very long time.” The shelter relies entirely on donations, which total about $500,000 each year. They also raise money through community events like Paws and Listen, a concert held in April at The Guild in Pawtucket. The shelter even helps with some medical costs for adopted dogs. “We help pay veterinary bills for people who have senior dogs that maybe can’t afford the surgery. The shelter aims to change how people think about adopting senior pets. Older dogs are usually already house-trained, have calmer personalities, and need less training than puppies. For many adopters, bringing home a senior dog is a very rewarding experience. If you are thinking about adding a pet to your family, Vintage Pet Rescue has a simple reminder: age is just a number. Learn more at VintagePetRescue.org.

Providing financial assistance to the parents of children battling brain cancer

Honoring the children who suffer from cancer and fight everyday. Our hopes are to make a day in the life of a family suffering from cancer a little bit brighter For more information or to donate, please visit our website

Vintage Pet Rescue welcomes dogs of all sizes, breeds and temperment

Waterside Living

Rhode Islanders share the appeal of life in a coastal neighborhood

BY ELYSE MAJOR

In the Ocean State, you’re never far from a body of water, whether it’s the bay, a lake or pond, or the ocean. While tourist destinations dominate the national spotlight, it’s the quiet neighborhoods, steps from the shore, that embody the feeling of a quintessential summer for Rhode Islanders. In these coastal communities, cars are reserved for bulky grocery runs while basketed bikes and boats are the preferred modes of transport. Sandy floors aren’t just tolerated; they’re the welcome sign of a day well spent, and the appeal of living life where the sea meets the sky is completed by towels hanging out to dry and dinner served at the picnic table.

“Conimicut Point is one of the very best spots in the state for watching the fireworks. “They are all around you on the Fourth of July,” says resident Mike Ryan. Adoration for the water and a serendipitous opportunity prompted Ryan, his parents, and siblings, to purchase a house in Conimicut Village, a neighborhood in eastern Warwick far removed

from the hustle-and-bustle largely associated with the sprawling city. By day, the Ryans are the purveyors behind Mapleville Farm in Burrillville, where they sell scratch-made baked goods, flowers, produce and other provisions, and host events. “The house is in a sheltered cove pretty far up the bay, and it’s a pedestrian dream!” says Ryan, adding that the Conimicut

Village Association is very active, and has been so welcoming. “They encourage everybody to be involved and invested, in an old town meeting kind of way,” says Ryan. “Most of our fun time revolves around the water. We swim, we fish, we dig quahogs, we float on giant floaties and putter around in questionably seaworthy small boats,” he chuckles.

Conimicut Lighthouse marks the mouth of the Providence River as it empties into Narragansett Bay

Many fireworks displays can be seen from Conimicut Point Park, Warwick

P hoto (top) courtesy of Conimicut Village Association, (bottom) courtesy of PWCVB

South CountyRhode

Island

Summer in South County, RI...

100 miles of coastline featuring 20 public beaches await you. Hike or bike miles of trails through lush forests and wildlife preserves and discover the Thomas Dambo trolls—two new additions in South County: Iver Mudslider in North Kingstown and Young Boulder in Arcadia, plus the originals Erik Rock and Greta Granit in Ninigret Park. Paddle peaceful inlet waterways and dine on fresh local seafood. We are the reason Rhode Island is known as “the Ocean State.” Learn more at SouthCountyRI.com.

Let’s Jaunt

Set your GPS to avoid highways and enjoy a day of exploring these waterfront communities.

Common Fence Point (CFP), Portsmouth

Start here: CFP Arts, Wellness, and Community Center, CFP Playground, Mil’s Marsh

Conimicut Village, Warwick

Start here: Bloom Patisserie, Conimicut Lighthouse, Conimicut Village Community Market

Island Park, Portsmouth

Start here: Blue Anchor Grill, Pirate Cove Marina, Sunset Cove

Keech Pond, Glocester

Start here: Route 6 Outpost, Shady Acres Diner, Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge

Matunuck, South Kingstown

Start here: Daddy’s Bread, Matunuck Oyster Bar, Theatre By The Sea

Narragansett

Start here: Aunt Carrie’s, Crosswynds Traders, Narragansett Pier Marketplace

Pawtuxet Village, Warwick

Start here: Fellini’s Pizzeria, Pawtuxet Bridge, Pawtuxet Park

Stonebridge, Tiverton

Start here: Coastal Roasters, Dune Brothers, The Red Dory

Like many seaside areas in Rhode Island, steamboats and railways brought affluent folks, who built summer houses in the mid-1800s. Across the bay, Riverside was once known as the “Coney Island of the East,” Island Park in Portsmouth had the second largest roller-coaster in the eastern US, and in Conimicut, there was the Mark Rock Hotel, which went from swanky to unsavory. “Like a lot of houses in the neighborhood, ours started as a small beach cottage more than a century ago and grew progressively outwards by way of additions. It’s basically a series of sheds bolted together into a nebulous whole. Not a single wall in the place is square to another, and it all loosely fits into a floor plan that’s a rhombus with an awkward peninsula,” says Ryan, who lets us in on the family

Conimicut Village signage

Breakfast with treats from nearby Bloom Patisserie

joke that their house was built by boat builders, because nothing’s straight, but it mostly doesn’t leak. “We love it because it’s loaded with idiosyncratic charm and good feels, even if it’s the second ugliest house on the street!”

Emily Burns is a familiar face in South Kingstown’s beach village of Matunuck, serving as the general manager of the Admiral Dewey Inn, a historic 12-room hotel that, as she points out – “is the tallest point in Matunuck!” Burns moved to South County with her family when she was six, left briefly after college but returned. “I love it here. The beach, boating, hiking trails, fresh seafood and farm stands. And the food scene!” Within a small footprint, there are

Idyllic charm, off West Shore Road

myriad dining and drink options, and Burns quickly rattles off Ocean Mist and The Pub, Seaview Market for quality sandwiches, Vanilla Bean – “an essential for ice cream” – and Matunuck Pizza Pie Company. “Matunuck comes alive for the Fourth of July, with excellent bands playing at the Ocean Mist, and nearby, Wakefield hosts its spectacular annual fireworks display at Old Mountain Field.” Smiling, she adds, “Matunuck is a destination that is enjoyable year-round.”

In the northern part of the state, Tom Fecteau, an assistant district manager for Rhode Island state parks, has called Keech Pond in Glocester home for 40 years. He lives there with his wife, Amanda, and their baby daughter, right next door to his parents’ house, which his father built in the 70s. “She can grow up like I did and enjoy the water,” he says with palpable joy. “We boat a ton with our pontoon

boat, and there’s always kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards ready for friends and family. There’s fishing all summer, and almost every night I’ll have the campfire going down by the water.” Fecteau says that there are a couple of small farmstands with sourdough and baked goods within walking distance but everything else is just a short car ride away. As for celebrating the Fourth: “We all know what houses do fireworks, so we go out on those nights in the boats and watch.”

Sandra Bonazoli and Jim Dowd, the creative duo behind Beehive Handmade, a pewter studio and retail space in Warren, have lived in Tiverton’s Stonebridge neighborhood for 25 years. “We were the first people to buy our house,” Bonazoli begins. “It was built in 1918, but had been in the Grinnell family since it was built and never sold.” The couple was instantly smitten. “It looked just like a

Photos by Abigail Burnham

The Atlantic is the backyard for these Matunuck homes

Live the Life

Within the town of Narragansett, there are 13 villages and hamlets, most of which swell in size during the summer months due to close proximity to ocean beaches, plus being a coveted East Coast spot for surfers. Since 1945, the Durkin family has been selling and renting cottages, houses, and condos, and giving folks –many who live in state – a taste of beachy living. With over 150 homes – from snug studios for solo travelers to an 11-bedroom house perfect for a family reunion – enjoy reviewing listings offering amenities like beachfront, walkto-beach, walk-to-pond, and pond views. Just, remember to BYO sheets, towels, and soaps, as these are rental homes, not hotels.

Durkin Cottage Realty Narragansett, DurkinCottages.com

Summer Stays

Audubon’s Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge Lakeside Cottage Coventry, ASRI.org

Beach Cottage Rooms at Castle Hill Inn Newport, CastleHillInn.com

Harmony Home Farm Little Compton, HarmonyHomeFarm.com

Hathaway Guest Cottages Charlestown, HathawayCottages.com

Holdredge House and Cottage Rentals

Westerly, HoldredgeHouse.com

Point Break Cottages Matunuck, PointBreakCottages.com

The Willows Inn & Resort Charlestown, WillowsCountry.com

Cottage Camping

Burlingame State Campground Charlestown, RIParks.RI.gov

George Washington Campground Chepachet, RIParks.RI.gov

traditional old summer cottage with shingles and white paint, a wrap-around porch, and matchstick paneling everywhere. We thought our little house would be our starter house, but we just never left!” says Bonazoli, who enjoys their vacation-like routine of watching the sunset over the water every night over a coffee or cocktails. Despite the section being old and historic, she describes it as warm and accessible. “There are fireworks, a parade, and townwide celebration at Grinnell’s beach for July Fourth,” says Bonazoli. It’s a great neighborhood!”

A stone’s throw from where the Pawtuxet River flows into the Providence River and Narragansett Bay is Pawtuxet Village, a charming area where your address could be Cranston or Warwick, and where Kristy Knoedler has lived year-round (on the Cranston side) with her family since 2005. “It provides both the benefit of coastal access and the quaint, hometown vibe I was looking for,” says Knoedler. The location also offers easy commutes to both Fellini Pizzerias, her popular two-chain eatery, plus easy access to highways and beaches. “I enjoy all of the great

Year-round vacation vibes in Stonebridge

A sunset view of Goose Island, from a cottage on Great Island

P hoto (top) courtesy of Durkin Cottages, (bottom) courtesy of Sandra Bonazoli

dining and entertainment in the village, and I also take the time to enjoy the scenic pathways and waterfronts like Gaspee Point and Salter Memorial Grove,” she adds. The historic district also bursts with pride for the burning of the Gaspee, the first hostile act against the Crown, celebrated each June with a parade that boasts fife and drum corps and the Shriners in their miniature cars, a road race,

fireworks, a stirring reenactment, and more. “We have history dating back through the colonial era,” says Knoedler. “How cool is that?”

Along a windy stretch along Park Avenue in Portsmouth, is a decidedly eclectic mix of businesses ranging from Schultzy’s Snack Shack to the outpost of sustainable furniture designer Jeff Soderbergh. It’s where the annual Margaritas and Memories fundraising

concert takes place each July; the site of

er-songwriter Jimmy Buffett’s final performance. Known as Island Park, it’s also where Christina Campbell, operations and marketing coordinator for Island Park Hospitality Group, and her family “accidentally” ended up after falling hard for a house on Bluebill Cove (could that sound any more idyllic?). “We always drove over here for dinner,” says Campbell, who still

by Elyse Major

sing -

Pawtuxet Village is a hidden gem minutes from Providence

Bicycles make getting around Block Island a breeze

Don’t miss July corn at Morris Farm, Warwick

Enjoy views of Narragansett Bay and the Sakonnet River at Island Park

Photos

MORE TO EXPLORE...

Adamsville, Little Compton

Annaquatucket, North Kingstown

Ashaway, Hopkinton

Buttonwoods, Warwick

Camp Russell, Glocester

Chepachet, Glocester

Common Fence Point, Portsmouth

Conimicut, Warwick

Echo Lake, Pascoag

Gaspee Point, Warwick

Georgiaville, Smithfield

Great Island, Narragansett

Hope Valley, Hopkinton

Indian Lake, Wakefield

Island Park, Portsmouth

Jerusalem, Narragansett

Johnson’s Pond, Coventry

Keech Pond, Chepachet

Longmeadow, Warwick

Matunuck, South Kingstown

Narragansett Terrace, East Providence

Nausauket, Warwick

New Shoreham, Block Island

North Scituate, Scituate

Oakland Beach, Warwick

Old Harbor, Block Island

Pawtuxet Village, Cranston & Warwick

The Point, Newport

Point Judith, Narragansett

Potowomut, Warwick

Prudence Island, Portsmouth

Quonochontaug, Charlestown

Riverside, East Providence

Spring Lake, Burrillville

Stonebridge, Tiverton

Tiverton Four Corners, Tiverton

Touisset, Warren

Warwick Neck, Warwick

Watch Hill, Westerly

Wickford Village, North Kingstown

Wilson Reservoir, Burrillville

marvels that all of these places are now within walking distance from her home. She easily rattles off “Flo’s Clam Shack, Graziano’s 501 Cafe, Schooner’s Bar and Beer Garden, Localz Kitchen and Cocktails, 15 Point Road…” acknowledging that she’s surely missed naming a few go-tos. “It’s a very warm, tight-knit community,” says Campbell. “We love boating, going for walks, and watching the sunset at Sunset Cove. Some places in Portsmouth have changed names over the years, but Common Fence Point was the name used in 1638, and it is the name used today. It’s where Brenda Brock, founder of fine herbal skincare brand Farmaethetics and

her husband Paul Barclay De Tollay, a fine furniture designer, have made their home for 28 years. The pair chose the area for its natural, protected environment, views of Mount Hope Bay (that include the famous Bristol fireworks display in July), and verdant marshlands. Brock, an avid gardener, especially appreciates the conserved shoreline and all the wildlife. “There are turtles, birds of all kinds, coyotes, you name it!” her subtle Texas drawl revealing itself. She also loves the serenity, given that the neighborhood is on a peninsula. “There’s one way in and one way out, so that keeps things on the quieter side and still quaint,” says Brock. “And I love that.”

The Sakonnet River Bridge connects Common Fence Point to the mainland

Toni Chandler’s flower stand near Hussey Bridge in Wickford

HOME & STYLE

Home | Shop | Family Fun | Rhody Roadtrip

Comfort and durability informed furnishing choices, like the slipcovered couch and natural fiber rug

Fresh Start

A cottage is redesigned with an eye on hospitality for use as a summer rental

By Erin McGinn

When Ellen Kelly, artist and co-owner of Newport-based luxury stationery design house Champagne and Ink, and her husband Bill Kelly decided to embark on turning the first level of their Middletown property into a short-term rental, they thought no further than the island they call home for inspiration. “The joy for me was creating a space that feels welcoming,” begins Ellen. “I wanted to reflect the ease of a summer vacation – when you can sit and relax and feel the breeze and the warm sun.” After the bulk of the remodel was complete, a chance meeting led the pair to Kelly Rosadino of Two Twenty Interiors, an interior designer in Newport who specializes in helping short-term rental owners rework their spaces.

HOME & STYLE

“I knew a couple of things about how I wanted the space to be, but I didn’t know how to go about executing it. That’s where Kelly came in and executed everything to perfection. She took haphazard ideas and a few pieces we already had and pulled everything together in such a cohesive way,” says Ellen. “She shared so much information with me about the rental aspect of the project as well, not just the interior design side, but also knowing what guests are looking for. I found that to be as valuable as her interior design abilities.” Rosadino echoes Ellen’s feelings about the collaboration, “We

quickly aligned on a budget and shared vision: creating an atmosphere that would feel intentionally effortless and relaxed. The kind of experience where guests immediately want to kick off their shoes and settle in.”

Serene and stylish were the guiding principles in furnishing the home. “I wanted to keep in mind as we were working through the space that nothing was overdone,” Ellen explains. Rosadino adds, “In designing the bedrooms, we chose full-length mirrors, an iron and ironing board, closet hangers, and a luggage rack in each room. Simple essentials that are often overlooked

A pair of swivel chairs are perfect for being part of the conversation or turning around to look outside

when styling a rental make a big difference in regard to the overall experience.”

Crisp whites and classic deep blues used throughout are a constant reminder of being on Aquidneck Island, but unique pieces like the bright green velvet chairs, the long oak dining table, and even the entryway with its nooks for pet supplies (furry friends are welcome here) are thoughtful and elevated. “We pulled colors from the ever-changing ocean tide, which is why you’ll see various shades of blue used throughout,” says Rosadino. “The home just has such a fun and light energy that you can sense and feel.”

Get Rhody Style

Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State

White-hot Tip

Thinking of starting a rental of your own? “It’s been proven that pristine white linens signal to guests that the bedding is thoroughly cleaned between stays, and therefore they are more incentivized to book your rental over another listing,” says Rosadino.

Reno Respite

“I think we’re proud of all these little things people don’t even see, but if I had to pick a room, I might be most proud of the bathroom. I’m just really happy with how it came together,” says Ellen of the results.

Sizzling Sisal

“When it came to the bedrooms, we opted for jute and sisal area rugs to withstand the suitcases and traction,” notes Rosadino. Learn more about her work at TwoTwentyInteriors.com

Local Love

Products from Rhody brands and goods from nearby small businesses are well represented in The Gilded Gull, and include Coastal Ave Design, E. Frances Paper, Erin McGinn Photography, Little Chateau, Newport Sea Salt, Shore Soap Co., and Young Designs Floral Studio. Learn more about this “guest favorite” at airbnb.com: The Gilded Gull; @thegildedgull

A range of textures keep a neutral palette interesting and inviting

Photography by Erin McGinn, courtesy of The Gilded Gull

Dark cabinets, flooring, and countertops lend sophistication while being forgiving of scuffs

In Season

Maximizing style and comfort in the summer sun

By Britt Machado

What’s better than spending a gorgeous day outside? We’ve curated favorites from across the state to add comfort and color to your outdoor adventures, whether that means glamping, beaching, or attending any of the many amazing music festivals. For starters, how about a game for keeping you entertained (no charger required), and a canopy to keep things shady. Day got away from you? No problem when you have a solar-powered light in your kit. When your accessories are as fashionable

Inflatable Solar Lantern

The Sporting Shoppe at The Preserve Richmond | TheSportingShoppe.com

Hip Pack

Ure Outfitters

Hope Valley | UREOutfitters.com

Shibumi Shade

Downcity Outfitters

Pawtucket | DowncityOutfitters.com

Folding Chair

Salk’s Ace Hardware and Marine

North Kingstown, Pawtucket, Wakefield, and Warwick, RI; Seekonk, MA

SalksHardware.com

Family Fun for Days (and Nights)

A season of flying kites, stomping divots, and picking blueberries awaits

By Jane Govednik

With school behind us and back-to-school still far enough away that we’re not thinking about it yet, July is truly the sweet spot of summer. If you’re looking to fill your calendar with memory-making family fun, here are 10 uniquely Rhody favorites to check out.

PICK-YOUR-OWN BLUEBERRIES

July is peak blueberry season in Rhode Island so head out to places like Rocky Point Farm (Warwick), Smith’s Berry Farm (Saunderstown), or Sweet Berry Farm (Middletown) and spend a few hours filling buckets together. Bonus: kids somehow become much more enthusiastic about fruit when they pick it themselves. Find more PYO produce and locations at RIFB.org

ADVENTURELAND FAMILY FUN PARK

Adventureland brings all the summer nostalgia with mini golf, bumper boats, arcade games, and go-karts. It’s oldschool fun that feels exactly the same as you remember, except now you get to watch your own kids experience it. Seriously, when was the last time you went to an arcade where the games still take quarters? Narragansett

BRISTOL FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION

The Bristol celebration is much more than just the parade (but that’s really fun, too!). The days leading up to July 4 include concerts at Independence Park (pregamed by reading sessions with Mrs. Katz and Her Hats Storytime), a carnival at Bristol Town Common, and fireworks over Bristol Harbor (July 3). It’s one of Rhode Island’s classic summer traditions for a reason. Bristol

Photos courtesy of Jane Govednik

Sweet Berry Farm

Bristol Carnival

DRIVE-IN MOVIES

There’s something about piling everyone into the car with blankets and snacks that feels like stepping back to a simpler time. Both the Rustic Tri-View Drive-In and the Misquamicut Drive-In provide an experience kids will remember long after the credits roll. Arrive early, let the gang stretch their legs before the movie starts, and settle in for a classic summer night under the stars. North Smithfield, Westerly

NEWPORT POLO

Whether you’re a polo expert or have absolutely no idea what’s happening on the field (same), it’s really about the atmosphere. Think lawn picnics, fun hats, and divot stomping. Matches take place on Saturdays at Glen Farm, with food trucks and vendors on site offering something for everyone. For lawn seating, children 15 and under are free. Portsmouth

A BUG’S WORLD EXHIBIT AT ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO

If your kids are fascinated by creepy crawlies, Roger Williams Park Zoo’s larger-than-life exhibit lets visitors get up close to giant insects and discover the interesting world of bugs. Plus, you can make a full day out of exploring the rest of the park afterward. Carousel Village, a quarter-mile from the Zoo, is where you’ll find the historic carousel, open late during Food Truck Friday season. Providence

PAIR A PLAYGROUND WITH A LIBRARY STOP

Some of our favorite family outings are the simple ones. Libraries like Cumberland Public Library, Exeter Public Library, Louttit Library

(West Greenwich), Barrington Public Library, and Jamestown Philomenian Library have playgrounds nearby, making it easy to combine outdoor play with browsing for books. With an Ocean State Libraries card, you can borrow and return to any member library in the state.

RAIL EXPLORERS

Take a ride on pedal-powered rail bikes along Narragansett Bay for one of our state’s more unique family outings. The route offers water views and a different way to experience the beauty of the area, and kids think the novelty of riding on railroad tracks is pretty cool. Children must be accompanied by a rider at least 16 years of age to operate the brakes. Portsmouth

RHODE ISLAND FC GAME

Spend a summer evening cheering on Rhode Island FC at Centreville Bank Stadium. Even if you’re not a huge soccer family, live sports are always fun with kids, and the game-day atmosphere makes for a memorable night out. And if you do have a young fan, check out the TerRIFC Kids Club presented by the Providence Children’s Museum and Community Libraries of Providence, it’s free with fun perks. Pawtucket

THE NEWPORT KITE FESTIVAL

On July 11 and 12, head to Brenton Point State Park for the Newport Kite Festival, two days of looking up to marvel at colorful kites filling the sky, plus activities, music, performances, and food trucks. The expansive lawn on Ocean Drive is the perfect location for kite flying, thanks to breezes from the Narragansett Bay at its juncture with the Atlantic, so keep a kite in the trunk!

Mystic Knotwork

Adventureland carousel

Rhody Roadtrips

One tank getaways across New England

By Elyse Major

There is nothing better than an Ocean State summer, jam-packed with things to do and places to eat, drink, and stay at nearly every exit. Of course, with looser schedules, it’s the perfect time for hitting the open road, but with gas prices outrageously high, keeping it within New England is a best bet for maximizing funds for fun!

Using the Rhode Island State House as your starting point, here are places worth filling the tank for, sure to be enjoyed by all ages.

New Hampshire

CANOBIE LAKE PARK: 1 HOUR, 30 MINUTES

Why travel to Hershey Park when Canobie Lake Park is close enough for a day trip? For thrill-seekers, there are myriad rides, and for those missing wooden coasters (remember Rocky Point and Lincoln Park, Fall River?), they’ve got the Yankee Cannonball (circa 1936). For antique carousel enthusiasts, there’s a 1902 Looff/Dentzel with a Wurlitzer-style organ, and for those who seek serenity while others ride the rides, enjoy a 20-minute scenic journey aboard the Blue Heron Lake Cruise. Tasty hand-held foods and treats like fried dough, lemonade, and ice cream complete the day. Canobie.com

Connecticut

HILTON MYSTIC: 50 MINUTES

At less than an hour away from most points in Rhode Island, it might seem unnecessary to book a room, but Hilton Mystic’s proximity to both Mystic Village and Mystic Aquarium across the street, scrumptious dining at onsite restaurant The IRONS, and ongoing activities (crafts, character meet-and-greets, concerts), deem it worthwhile. Overnight accommodations make it possible to take the kids to the “dive-in” movie at the indoor pool before bathtime, or enjoy sitting by the fire pits in the courtyard after finishing your iron cookie skillet chocolate chip cookie. Hilton.com

Trip Tips

AAA: The auto association has an online gas calculator to help drivers plan fuel cost based on miles, MPG, and gallons needed. GasPrices.AAA.com

GAS BUDDY: Along with a range of tools, this top-rated app helps users find the best gas prices quickly. GasBuddy.com

VISIT NEW ENGLAND: Since 1996, this family-run website has been a go-to for finding everything from lodgings to points-of-interest and more. Useful for turning pit stops into detour destinations.

Poland Spring Resort Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club

Massachusetts

OCEAN EDGE RESORT AND GOLF CLUB: 1 HOUR, 40 MINUTES

When people think of Cape Cod, it’s often towns like Hyannis, Chatham, and Provincetown that come to mind, but Brewster is filled with charm, and the aptly named Ocean Edge puts you right there. Aside from many amenities and activities (wellness retreats like floating sound baths), the property offers easy access –and bike rentals – to traverse the Cape Cod Rail Trail: 25 paved miles through six towns. There are also kayak and SUP board rentals, golfing at a Nicklaus Design course, a spa, and onsite dining. Don’t miss The Beach Bar overlooking the Brewster Flats. Nearby, the main road is lined with independent shops like Brewster Bookstore, and art galleries. OceanEdge.com

Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is 125 square miles in total and has six towns: Aquinnah (formerly known as Gay Head), Chilmark, Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, West Tisbury, and Oak

Bluffs. To get there, you’ll need to take a boat or plane. From Quonset, the Vineyard Fast Ferry takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. Other ferry options that depart from MA include Falmouth, Hyannis, New Bedford, and Woods Hole. Skip bringing the car and get a Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) bus pass instead. If you want to plan your visit around an event, be sure to visit MVY.com and book any recommended reservations in advance.

Maine

POLAND SPRING RESORT: 3 HOURS

To comprehend the scope of Poland Spring Resort, imagine five Magic Kingdoms, but this is Maine so instead of a monorail and castle, there are views of the White Mountains. Across 500 lush acres, guests staying at one of the three inns or 12 private cottages can spend their days at the Donald Ross 18hole championship golf course, hiking, playing pickleball, tennis, disc golf, or mini golf, or swimming in the outdoor pool. For quiet afternoons, wander the historic 1893 Maine

State Building and the 1906 Poland Spring Bottling Museum, or browse the pro shop and gift shop. Dining options include a chef-made all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, meals at Mel’s Hilltop, and an ice cream shop. Watch for special events and concerts at the gazebo. PolandSpringResort.com

Vermont

HOTEL VERMONT: 4 HOURS, 30 MINUTES

If you’re looking to experience the Green Mountain State, Hotel Vermont has assembled packages to help travelers do just that. The Vermont Parks Forever package hosts guests in one of three Vermont State Park-inspired rooms, and amenities include access to complimentary state park passes for each person on your reservation, and a locally made s’mores kit. This July, Hotel Vermont will host their second annual Cherry Street Social on July 9, a one-day celebration of all the small businesses on Cherry Street, culminating in a fun party on Hotel Vermont’s Brick Terrace with food and music. HotelVT.com

Hotel Vermont

FOOD & DRINK

In the Kitchen | Experience | Real Foods | Round Up

by Erin McGinn

Sandwich Generation

Inspired creations take specialty ice cream makers from pedals to parlor to pint

By Erin McGinn

Dave Cass and Giovanni Salvador want you to play with your food, especially their fanciful ice cream sandwiches. What started as a fun idea to turn a vintage tricycle into a farmers market side-hustle serving up delightful ice cream flavors tucked between two equally fun cookies, brownies, macarons, or other sandwichable forms, has turned into a full-scale brick-and-mortar operation. Of course, the trike still makes appearances at events and wedding gigs, but having the West Side brick storefront, filled with beautiful plants, bright light, and chalkboard drawings, brings a grown-up polish to the nostalgic offerings.

Photography

Gio Salvadore, Courtney Cagle, Janica Salvadore, Jhariel Estrella, and Dave Cass

Salvador brings a culinary background to the table, having worked in restaurants from Fisher’s Island, NY, to Providence, while Cass’ experience includes 18 years as an educator, a previous pedicab business, and a love of tricycles. In January of 2019, the pair decided that their small-scale operation on three wheels deserved

a more formal home. “The location couldn’t be any better because we made a deliberate choice to not open a scoop shop; we doubled down on our focus to innovate on ice cream novelties,” says Cass. And innovate they do.

The West Side isn’t just home to the shop, it’s home to the team. “I think people in Providence

are generally very open and are willing to try something new, so it has been so fun to create flavors for the community,” says Salvador. “A lot of us also live in the neighborhood and I think that the relationships go beyond the shop. It’s always nice to see our patio being used during warmer months as a gathering space.”

Tricycle treats are available year-round

Photography by Erin McGinn

FOOD & DRINK

STAFF PICKS FOR COOL LICKS

The creative team behind Tricycle share current faves

COURTNEY CAGLE:

“My favorite thing on the menu is our ube because it’s different from all the other ones we make. I’m generally not a fan of coconut or white chocolate, but with the ube, it’s so good! I actually have been thinking about it all week.”

DAVE CASS:

“My favorite is the Callebaut chocolate ice cream on salty pretzel shortbread cookies. Sometimes I come to the shop late at night after we close up and grab one. It’s one of the best parts of owning an ice cream business.”

JHARIEL ESTRELLA:

“It’s hard because I like them all equally, but I really like our passionfruit mimosas and our cookie compost.”

GIOVANNI SALVADORE:

“My favorite thing is our chocolate cone. It has a caramel center and a crunch bar coating. Aggressive on the chocolate but super delicious!”

JANICA SALVADORE:

“I love the passionfruit sandwich with a mixed-berry core on the toasted coconut cookies! It’s tangy and sweet at the same time, and I love the crunch of the toasted coconut cookies with it.”

Salvador points to his childhood in the Philippines and the ingredients found there as a major inspiration for the menu but notes that ideas are everywhere, and it’s always a collaborative environment for the Tricycle team. “Our crew consumes a lot of media through books, films, podcasts, and music, and our ideas about new flavors often evolve organically from that,” he explains. “We might ask ourselves, ‘What would this character eat? This painting looks like a marbling of ice cream. Can we recreate it? With what flavors?’” Another

consideration when making the classic handhelds is the consistency; filling and the integrity of the ingredients is key so that everything isn’t squishing out the sides or becoming impossible to hold. Enter the pint: Containers allow the team to explore more unique ingredients that don’t need to be constrained to a vessel. And as evidenced by the “sold out” signs on combinations like blackberry lemon pie and Biscoff speculoos cookie butter ice cream, the grab and go 16-ounce containers are a hit. Tricycle Ice Cream, 70 Battey Street; Instagram: @tricycles.ri

by Erin

Photography

McGinn

Salvadore and Estrella assembling ice cream sandwiches

Fresh Approach

A new concept at Weekapaug offers diners autonomy and discovery

By Elyse Major

My favorite places in Rhode Island are the ones that started as surprises: you turn a corner and are suddenly met with something wonderful and unexpected. This is how a jaunt exploring Misquamicut’s beachy Atlantic Avenue led me to the rugged Weekapaug Breachway, and a couple of turns later, to the Weekapaug Inn, a cedar-shingled resort nestled in flora with a sweeping back lawn that leads to the Quonochontaug salt pond. During the warmer months, you are likely to see the inn’s Quonnie Queen glide by, an electric motor yacht with a jaunty green scalloped canopy. That’s the property in a nutshell – playfully luxe meets LL Bean.

I’m a daytripper with a reservation to experience a newly launched concept at The Restaurant, Weekapaug’s indoor dining room. Like the place as a whole, the space is a mix of elegant (linen napkins, warm lighting) and casual (natural fibers, plump pillows on chairs). In addition to new dishes, the menu now offers patrons a singular fluid menu: what they want, where they want it. General Manager Dan Abrashoff tells me, “Some people want a burger in The Restaurant, and some of our guests want fine dining on the deck. Now it’s the same menu.”

But that’s not all that’s changed. As I peruse the listings on branded parchment fastened to a wooden clipboard, a modern format is revealed. There are five sections, sans headers, starting with raw bar options, first courses, handmade pastas, vegetables, and entrées, all engineered by Executive Chef Gerardo Viejo, a Johnson & Wales University alum. Even with myriad choices in recognizable categories, ordering isn’t easy, only because everything sounds oh-so hyper-seasonal and delicious. As my eyes dart from the list to my window’s view of lush green grass and bright blue skies, Viejo stops by. He exudes a palpable joy as he explains his enthusiasm for introducing diners to lesser-known species and sustainable

ingredients, while incorporating harvests –including clippings from the Chef’s Garden just steps away – into sources and dishes.

My dinner begins with hunks of naturally leavened bread from Nana’s Westerly (one of many local nods), served on a wood slab alongside a dainty filled butter bell topped with sea salt, and my spirit-free cranberry bog cocktail – a refreshing drink made fanciful with cranberries skewered on a bamboo pick. Ready to order, I landed on seabass carpaccio for my first course, and blistered green beans and black sea bass cured with kombu (an edible kelp) for my main course. Viejo assures I’ve made excellent choices. “We wanted to create a format that gives guests the freedom to explore the menu in their own way while showcasing the precision, seasonality, and coastal character that inspire our kitchen every day,” he says.

The sea bass carpaccio is an inventive flat-lay

Must-Try Items

BLISTERED GREEN BEANS ($12):

Green beans cooked with a light char and dressed in a soy glaze with hints of cilantro; topped with a heap of garlic chips.

KOMBU CURED BLACK SEA BASS

($48): A tender and tasty seafood dish, accompanied by a side of glazed carrots (miso nage) with charred Mandarin relish.

STRAWBERRY LYCHEE N’ CREAM ($14):

A tasty seasonal dessert made with strawberries, lychee, chantilly, and lemon almond crumble.

Cuisine: Ingredient-driven farm-to-table fine dining.

Atmosphere: Cozy, elegant, and coastal.

Black sea bass gets dressed for dinner in carrot butter sauce

Weekapaug Inn’s Executive Chef Gerardo Viejo

clearly exemplifies Viejo’s mission to introduce diners to new tastes. The sea bass adventure continues when my entree arrives. My delightful server ceremoniously pours a golden carrot butter sauce over the fileted fish (head removed) and leaves the remainder for me in a small pitcher with a grilled half-lemon; the combination coalesces into one of the tastiest seafood dishes I’ve ever had. Delicate and sweet, buttery and fresh, it comes with a ramekin of miso carrot nage, which complemented both the fish and blistered green beans; wavy garlic chips piled high over the vegetables added bite to the tender meal.

I’m a simple gal when it comes to dessert and have been disappointed by sugary constructs posing as treats, but when Viejo described the strawberry lychee n’ cream created by Pastry Chef de Partie Erin Breton, I was sold. As pretty as it was scrumptious, it featured a trio of strawberry panna cotta rosebuds with strawberry lychee compote filling, dollops of chantilly, and lemonalmond crumble filling negative space, all on a bright green of lychee gel, embellished with small lychee candies shaped like daisies. Over the course of my courses, I felt worlds away. Beautiful surroundings, outstanding service, and new flavors enhancing old favorites. Discover for yourself!

The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn 25 Spray Rock Road, Westerly Dining Services: 401-637-7600 WeekapaugInn.com

Strawberry lychee n’ cream dessert

Dos and Don’ts for Eating Like a Real RI Housewife

From lattes to lore, we got you covered

By Bekah Berger and Elyse Major

Love it, hate it, or deny knowing anything about it, behind the drama of Bravo’s hit reality series The Real Housewives of Rhode Island , is the unfiltered beauty of the smallest state. To the uninitiated, the series follows Alicia Carmody, Rosie DiMare, Ashley Iaconetti, Liz McGraw, Rulla Nehme Pontarelli, Kelsey Swanson,

Jo-Ellen Tiberi and Dolores Catania (also from The Real Housewives of New Jersey ), as they sip champagne, eat pizza chips, and figure out their relationships, set against a backdrop of the beautiful Ocean State. Oh, and the food, Ma! Here are places featured on the show where you can enjoy a bite, a sip, and – not to be delulu, but – perhaps a RHORI sighting.

Audrey’s Coffee House and Lounge SOUTH KINGSTOWN

Day-to-night cafe owned by adorbs married couple Iaconetti and Jared Haibon, who met on The Bachelor

DO try their new latte menu featuring the Cookie Dough Latte and (as seen on TV) Ashley’s Turtle Latte.

DON’T forget to brush up on your Rhody lore for their Friday trivia nights. (And put some respect on Nibbles Woodaway’s name, please!)

Circe Prime Italian Steakhouse CRANSTON

Rustic-meets-elegant in this storied spot, most recently where Chapel Grille used to be.

DO ask for The Liz cocktail at the bar.

DON’T forget to tell the party you’re with that this is where “the bad boy school used to be.”

As seen on S1E5: A cocktail party / birthday party (for a cast member’s friend) catered by Fig & Fromage before they set sail on the Schooner Aurora

Fig and Fromage NARRAGANSETT

Caterer specializing in artful charcuterie, as seen aboard the Schooner Aurora.

DO be sure to include “crackahs” in any order to keep calm and happy.

DON’T leave your Gathering Box in the hot sun.

Matunuck Oyster Bar WAKEFIELD

Fine dining beneath a tent (during a rebuild), serving the freshest dishes.

DO try the oysters that Jo-Ellen’s husband Gary Tiberi recommends (wink wink).

DON’T get nervous if you have to drive on the highway for more than 15 minutes to get there.

Newport Polo PORTSMOUTH

A historic farm is the place for polo, peoplewatching, and a wide range of tailgating.

DO stop at Angelo’s Palace Pizza in Cumberland first.

DON’T forget to tell your posse how much you “love a horse.”

Newport Vineyards MIDDLETOWN

A 60-acre vineyard with tastings, tanks, merch, and dining.

DO make a reservation at their Farm and Barrel Bistro, and save room for the lemon tart.

DON’T let those wine flights turn into wine fights, especially if you’re dressed for the Ren-Faire – and to be fair, Ashley I wore her boho best because she thought they would be stomping grapes – which they did, but it didn’t make the episode!

Pizza Mamma CRANSTON

Everything you need to make a full meal with a delicious New York, Detroit, or Sicilian pie.

DO order off-menu pizza chips and sign up for their rewards program.

DON’T miss the uniforms, chandeliers, and overall vibe that the Pizza Mama herself is responsible for.

Sombra Eatery and Lounge EAST GREENWICH

Design-forward restaurant serving Mexican-inspired cuisine and cocktails.

Do try their delicious margaritas while taking in their insanely gorgeous decor.

DON’T be surprised if someone asks you if your partner really goes to “the gym” every morning.

The Real Housewives of Rhode Island cast

Book a sail about Schooner Aurora at NewportExperience.com

Savoring Rhody

Best bets for tasting your way around the state this month

By Patty J

July in Little Rhody means hydrangeas in full bloom, busy beaches, and something fun going on at most every turn. Whether you’re looking for coffee by the coast, a restaurant on the green, a charming bistro for a late supper, or one of the most famous buffets in the country, here are eight faves to get you started on the ultimate foodie summer!

Drift Cafe

The married team of Samantha and Rob DePaola have duplicated the vibe of their Newport cafe and opened a second location in Narragansett. Just as delightful, patrons of the Point Judith spot can now enjoy the same fresh and delicious smoothies, bowls, sandwiches and wraps, specialty coffee and tea drinks. Best of all, you can order breakfast all day! Narragansett & Newport

Ellie’s

Your favorite downtown Parisian eatery by day is now a French bistro at night. Ellie’s founder Ellen Gracyalny recently hosted a menu preview and I can’t say enough great things. On dinner service nights, dishes include L’Entrecôte steak with pomme frites, brook trout with pickled beets, asparagus and dill, and don’t sleep on the petits pains au lait, a yummy bread and butter plate. Providence

Higher Grounds Community Coffee House

Did you know there’s a Wyoming, Rhode Island? Well, there is, and it’s where you’ll find Keith Frost’s Higher Grounds, along Kingstown Road/Route 138. The cozy spot is wellknown for its wide variety of coffee drinks –including cold brew – incredible baked goods and sandwiches, and for giving back to local charities via their donation jar. Richmond

The Nordic

This all-you-can-eat restaurant overlooking the water is the stuff that a diner’s dreams are made of! Owned and operated by the Persson family, it’s a marriage of quantity and quality with buffet-style offerings including whole lobsters, filet mignon, baked stuffed shrimp, and a gourmet ice cream bar. Because it is such a wildly popular destination, reservations are strongly recommended. Charlestown

The Pantry Cafe & Provisions

Danielle Lavalle opened her chic cafe near the International Tennis Hall of Fame just a few months ago. Inside stylish surroundings, find lattes named for characters on HBO’s The Gilded Age , pastries, and light bites. Headed to the beach or boat? Call 401-236-2700 to pre-order their Beach Kit: a 12-inch baguette sandwich, hibiscus lime iced tea, two macarons, and kettle chips. Newport

The Nordic

Par and Tackle at Harbor Lights

The Pantry Cafe & Provisions

“Bonjour,” from Ellie’s

Par And Tackle at Harbor Lights

You don’t have to play golf to enjoy dining at Par and Tackle. Located next to the first tee of the public course at Harbor Lights, this open-air eatery serves up farm-to-fork classics like Mediterranean veggie wraps, grilled pizza, calamari, and clam chowder, backdropped by the lush green course and bright blue bay. There’s a full bar, big screen TVs, and a patio with a stone fireplace. Warwick

St. Charbel

The folks behind Purslane – namely, Matt Brown and Freida Sahady – have opened a new oyster and cocktail bar right next door, and it is divine with a standout menu. Open Wednesday through Sunday after 4pm, there’s a full bar as well as happy hour specials. As far as food, we’re talking small plates like Old Bay shrimp cocktail, local oysters, and three different kinds of caviar. Wakefield

Sorelle “Off the Lane”

Sorelle is the Italian word for sister, which makes perfect sense because this restaurant and bar on Main Street is the sister restaurant to Spaghetti Lane in Barrington. Both are owned by the wife-and-husband team of Mary Beth Kyden and Chef Michael St. Angelo, who have created a menu of shareables like zucchini flowers, salads, flatbreads, pasta, and offerings from land and sea. Warren

Sorelle “Off the Lane”

RHODY SNAPSHOTS

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