Costantino’s Venda Bar & ristorante
D e Pa s q u a l e P l a z a 275 Atwells Avenue | FederAl Hill | Providence 528-1100 | costAntinosristorAnte.com
CUSTOM COLOR PA I N T M I X I N G
Now mixing at these nearby locations. WARWICK, RI 1109 Warwick Ave. WARWICK, RI 2574 West Shore Rd., Rt. 117 EAST GREENWICH, RI 5600 Post Rd. COVENTRY, RI 495 Tiogue Ave. PROVIDENCE, RI 66 Branch Ave. at Exit 24 RT. 95 EAST PROV.-SEEKONK Taunton Ave., Route 44
GREENVILLE, RI Route 44 and 5 CRANSTON, RI 148 Atwood Ave. WESTERLY, RI 248 Post Rd. PAWTUCKET-SEEKONK Central Ave., Bakers Corner N. ATTLEBORO, MA 110 East Washington St.
MANSFIELD, MA 65 Copeland Drive TAUNTON-RAYNHAM, MA Route 44 WAKEFIELD, RI 688 Kingstown Rd. BRISTOL, RI 655 Metacom Ave. MIDDLETOWN, RI 1400 West Main Rd.
www.hellobennys.com
FALL RIVER, MA Rhode Island Ave. FAIRHAVEN, MA Route 6 S. DARTMOUTH, MA 698 Dartmouth St. PLYMOUTH, MA 179 Court St. WAREHAM, MA Route 6-28
DENNISPORT, MA Route 28 GROTON, CT 60 Plaza Ct. WATERFORD, CT Route 1A Shopping Center OLD SAYBROOK, CT 1654 Boston Post Rd. NORWICHTOWN, CT 33-35 New London Turnpike KILLINGLY, CT 543 Wauregan Rd.
Contents Hey Rhody Outdoor Guide 2015
57
Landscape architecture on Poppasquash Point in Bristol
Photography (L) by Tiffany Medrano, (R) by Capt. Dom Petrarca/Coastal Charters Sportfishing
Calendar of Events
74
Get in on the action this season with Coastal Charters Sportfishing
Creating an At Home Garden Oasis
9 Festivals
57 Enviable RI Gardens
12 Active Events
63 Local Gardening Experts
15 Get Back to Nature
64 Container Gardening for Beginners
18 Foodie Events
67 Backyard Farming 68 Summer-ready Backyards
The Great Rhode Island Outdoors 23 Hiking 26 Campgrounds
Last Look 74 Chart a Course for Summer Fun
29 Bike Trails 32 Beaches 35 Water Sports
Sponsored Content
43 Natural Encounters
38 Dream Homes
47 Scenic Parks
44 Golf Courses
51 Wild Animals
76 Resource Directory
Outdoor Guide 2015 |
5
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR The Great Wide Open
Distinct Quality Since 1946
Dwarf • Rare • Unusual Plants • Plus all the favorites
The finest in landscape design/build 60 Knight Street, Warwick • 739-3738 • www.andyslandscapenursery.com
You probably spent some time during this endless winter wondering what, exactly, could possibly be the reason you choose (choose!) to live in a place that dumps that much snow in a two month period. You might have even spent some time defending that choice to friends who live in warmer climates. But then, the calendar page turned. And so did the weather. All of a sudden we’re living in the gorgeous scenery that we were dreaming about to get us through the cold. Don’t waste a minute of it. Our Hey Rhody Outdoor Guide is dedicated to showcasing the best that Rhode Island has to offer for scenery, outdoor spaces, water sports, adventures, fun events and more. In short, a lot. With a little luck, the good weather will last until fall, but don’t take the chance: get out there now and explore.
Now Accepting Residents
Hey Rhody! Outdoor Guide
A NEW CONCEPT ALZHEIMER’S/MEMORY CARE ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCE
Call today to sChedule a personal tour 401.944.2450 49 old pocasset road, Johnston • briarcliffegardens.com
Learn to Sail in Wickford June 22 - August 14
NEW! A 2 week & Full day option Youth 8-18 and Adult Beginner to Racing Classes Grants available too!
1070 Main St., Suite 302, Pawtucket RI 02860 For advertising rates call: 401-305-3391 www.heyrhody.com Publishers Barry Fain Richard Fleischer John Howell
Media Director Jeanette St. Pierre
Creative Director Julie Tremaine
Managing Editor Grace Lentini
Digital Editor Tony Pacitti
Editor Elyena de Goguel
Art Director Meghan H. Follett
Advertising Design Director Layheang Meas
Assistant Art Director Veatsna Sok
Graphic Designer Caitlin Musso
Account Managers Shelley Cavoli Louann DiMuccio-Darwich Ann Gallagher Kristine Mangan
Elizabeth Riel Dan Schwartz Kimberly Tingle Stephanie Oster Wilmarth
Writers Charlotte Abotsi Bob Curley Claire Flanagan
Wickford Sailing Association
wickfordsailing.org • 294-2525
Trinity
Brewhouse rewery Providence’s largest b
serving award-winning beer and tasty pub-inspired entrees
! Summer Fun
Celebrating
20 years
rotating selection of fresh brews
Gluten Free & Vegetarian Menu Options 186 Fountain street, Providence 401.453.2337 • www.trinitybrewhouse.com 6
| Outdoor Guide 2015
Jordan LaRose Grace Lentini Ali McGowan
Andrea McHugh Nicolas Staab Julie Tremaine
Cover Photography Michael Cevoli Contributing Photographers Hilary Block Michael Cevoli Force 4 Photography
James Jones Grace Lentini Tiffany Medrano
Melissa Stimpson
Interns Ashlyn Mooney, Morgan Pekera, Cissy Yu Presented by Providence Media, publishers of The Bay, East Side Monthly, Providence Monthly and So Rhode Island Copyright ©2015 by Providence Media, All rights reserved. We welcome all contributions, but we assume no responsibility for unsolicited material. No portion of this publication can be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written permission.
rhodeislandbaycruises.com
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
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Gift Baskets Gift Store Floral
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| Outdoor Guide 2015
Le’s Isle Rose 1000 Division Street East Greenwich RI, 02818 401-885-8390
www.DavesGiftBaskets.com
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Family Fun
Fun for the Whole Family Enjoy the summer at these outdoor events All Summer
SUNDAYS: Calling all vintage shoppers and retro lovers! Every Sunday, you can dig for your very own treasure at the Providence Flea! Visit this fun, funky and urban flea market and bask in all the reusable, recycled, and re-purposed items. Complete with local musicians and food trucks, this is the summer market you want to be at! Providence River Greenway, across from 345 South Water Street, Providence. 401-4847783, providenceflea.com WeekeNDS: Outdoor markets are cool, but pop-up markets are cooler. Head over to the Field of Artisans market that will be popping up all over South Kingstown’s beaches and parks. Scope out unique, handmade pieces from emerging artists, photographers, designers, musicians and more. Various locations, South Kingstown. fieldofartisans.com
May
MAY 30-31: Spend a day watching aircraft perform the finest aerial displays at the Annual Rhode Island Air Show. Enjoy a fun-filled event complete with activities for the whole family. 210 Airport Street, North Kingstown. riairshow.org
June
JUNe 6: The Hope Street Block Party is back and better than ever. Let portable climbing walls, live children’s music and pie eating contests occupy your little ones as you enjoy tunes from five native headliners and brews from six local breweries in the beer garden. 12-6pm. Hope Street, Providence. 401432-7995, hopestreetprov.com JUNe 9-14: Head over to Block Island to enjoy five days of the Block Island Music Festival, which features music by some of the best musicians in the northeast. Captain Nick’s Rock n’ Roll Bar, 34 Ocean Avenue, Block Island. blockislandmusic.com JUNe 11-14: FirstWorks presents the Providence International Arts Festival,
a celebration of world-class performing arts, sculpture, music, food and spectacle to connect the city’s talent with artists and performers from around the world. A complete takeover of Kennedy Plaza, this celebration of civic dialogue, educational workshops and community play will transform Providence. 270 Westminster Street, Providence. 401421-4278, first-works.org JUNe 13: Experience Rhode Island’s free, not-for-profit outdoor improv runway show that welcomes the styles of developing designers, photographers, makeup artists and beyond at Crosswalk Catwalk 2015. Fashion shows begin promptly at 2pm on Thayer Street. Providence. crosswalkcatwalk.com JUNe 13: Celebrate Scottish heritage at the Rhode Island Scottish Highland Festival. The festival is filled with food, music, games of strength and skill (like the caber toss, where people throw entire tree trunks) and entertainment under the warm sun. 78 Richmond Townhouse Road, Richmond. facebook. com/riscot JUNe 14: Revel in world-class fine art by artists in the East Bay area who demonstrate innovation and originality at Barrington’s first ever Art Festival. The event will take place from 10am to 5pm at the historic Town Hall. 283 County Road, Barrington. 401-2471900, barrington.ri.gov. JUNe 27-28: The 33rd annual Narragansett Art Festival features over 100 artists exhibiting paintings, drawings, photography and plenty more forms of fine art. 35 Ocean Road, Narragansett. wakefieldrotary.com
July
JUlY 3: Join the Jamestown Arts Center for its 5th Annual Summer Soiree + exhibit Preview of Burning Down the House, curated by Yellow Peril Gallery in conjunction with the Providence Biennial from 6-9pm. Tickets available online. 18 Valley Street, Jamestown. 401-560-0979, jamestownartcenter.org
South County Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place July 17-19 at the URI athletic fields
July 17-19: The South County Hot Air Balloon Festival will be better than ever this year. The three-day event will include live music, the RI State BBQ Championships, a Corvette show and fireworks. Oh, and a ton of balloons! 500 Plains Road, Kingstown. southcountyballoonfest.com JUlY 8-AUgUSt 9: Every Wednesday you can revel in the warm weather while listening to the finest tunes on the beach. Get your groove on at Tunes on the Dunes’ Blues on the Beach summer concert series. Westerly Town Beach, 365 Atlantic Avenue, Westerly. 401-322-0110, tunesonthedunesri.com JUlY 7-AUgUSt 11: Enjoy a range of live concerts while shopping at The Crossing at Smithfield every Tuesday from 6-8pm including The Marshall’s, Nancy Carr Jazz Trio, One Foot In, Jesse Liam and the Northeast Groove. 371 Putnam Pike, Smithfield. 617-2328900, crossingsatsmithfield.com JUlY 10-26: The Newport Music Festival kicks off its 47th season with unique chamber music programs featuring world-class artists and special events in the summer cottages of Newport. 850 Aquidneck Avenue, Newport. 401-846-1133, newportmusic.org JUlY 11-12: Peruse the works of local artisans and vendors at the 53rd Annual Wickford Art Festival. Eclectic shops and a range of art mediums are to be expected at one of New
England’s longest running outdoor festivals. Wickford Village, Brown Street, North Kingstown. northkingstown.com JUlY 13-27: Soak in the sun and enjoy live music at the 2nd Annual Music on the Beach Summer Concert Series. Celebrate the summer with food, drinks and great music. 79 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett. 401-7882573. northbeachclubhouse.com JUlY 16: Guitarist, author and twotime Grammy winner Bill Harley brings a night of songs, stories and laughs to the South County Museum. Picnics welcome before the free show at 6:30, donations greatly appreciated. 115 Strathmore Street, Narragansett. 401-783-5400, southcountymuseum.org JUlY 16-19: Experience Japanese art and culture at Newport’s Black Ships Festival. Celebrating its 31st Anniversary, the Japan-America Society and Black Ships Festival of Rhode Island bring Japanese arts and crafts including origami, martial arts and an authentic tea ceremony to the public. 28 Pelham Street, Newport. 401-8477666, blackshipsfestival.com Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Family Fun
Get a mooooove on to the Washinton County Fair
AUgUSt 12-16: One of Rhode Island’s largest agricultural events returns with the 49th Annual Washington County Fair. This five-day long event includes daily concerts, special acts and events, tractor and horse pulls and much more. Keep your eyes peeled for new traditions, including New England’s largest traveling roller coaster! 78 Richmond Townhouse Road, Richmond. washingtoncountyfair-ri.com
JUlY 25: The Blessing of the Fleet is an extravagantly colorful event that features hundreds of decorated vessels that line up to parade for hundreds of spectators. Bring the whole family for a unique parade that takes place on the water. Port of Galilee, Narragansett. narragansettlionsclub.com
Bar & Grille Open
Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials
Fresh Seafood, Burgers, Fish & Chips
Sit On Our Wraparound Deck Sipping Your Favorite Cocktail
JUlY 31-AUgUSt 2: The Newport Jazz Festival will feature an extraordinary plethora of jazz artists such as Chris Botti, Cécile McLorin Salvant and a special tribute to Billie Holiday by Cassandra Wilson. Fort Adams State Park, 84 Fort Adams Drive, Newport. 401848-5055, newportjazzfest.org
Offering Take Out. View Our Menu Online Or On Our Facebook Page
Laugh-a-L
t Comedy CLub
CALLiNG ALL STAND-UP COMEDiANS & iMPrOv TrOUPES! OPEN MiC - every Mon and Wed 6:00-7:30 PM Doors Open 5:00 p.m. for sign-ups
Impress our Judges! earn a spot in Saturday Showcase featuring well-known comedians!
August
$10 Minimum Food or Beverage Saturday Showcase Ticket Price $ 15 Reservations accepted for open Mic for guaranteed performance. Email: openmic@laughalotcomedyclub.com
Call To Schedule A Personalized Tour For Any Special Event. Beautiful Facility To Hold A Corporate Golf Outing, Meeting Or Training Sessions.
Book Your Holiday Parties Now
18 hole public golf
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AUgUSt 4-9: Help discover and empower filmmakers at the annual Rhode Island International Film Festival. This six-day-long event reveals new cinematic talent and even serves as a qualifying event for the Academy Awards. Various locations dependent on day. film-festival.org CMYK / .eps
With Practice Facility & Driving Range. Call for T-Times
309 Laurel Lane, West Kingston Special Events & Proshop: 401-783-3844 Take out: 401-783-9260 • Comedy Club: 401-783-4126 www.laurellanecountryclub.com 10
| Outdoor Guide 2015
AUgUSt 7 & 28: What’s a better way to enjoy a summer night than watching a movie on the beach? Grab a blanket and a picnic basket full of popcorn and head to Wickford town
Beach for a movie. Finding Nemo will screen on August 7 and Despicable Me on August 28. facebook.com/pages/ North-Kingstown-Town-Beach AUgUSt 8: Watch the Pawcatuck River light up as 37 floating bonfires set sail at River glow. Enjoy live music, food booths, children’s activities, shopping specials and much more. Downtown Westerly-Pawcatuck. 401596-7761, westerlychamber.org. AUgUSt 29-30: The Newport Art Festival celebrates art on Newport’s scenic history waterfront. Gaze at locally crafted works of art from over 100 artists while enjoying food from local vendors and listening to live music. Outside of The Landing Restaurant, 30 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport. 401-2079729, festivalfete.com
September
SePteMBeR 4-6: The Rhythm and Roots Festival will have 92 sets on 5 different stages. If you are a music fan, you’ll want to be here as artists from all over the country bring a variety of genres to the stage. Attend for a day or camp out all weekend! Ninigret Park, Charlestown. rhythmandroots.com SePteMBeR 5-6: The east greenwich Art Festival will feature an extravaganza of incredible art featuring over 150 American art and craft artists. Gawk and gaze at jewelry, paintings, sculptures and much more! New England Tech, 1408 Division Road, East Greenwich. 401-207-9729, festivalfete.com
Photography by HIlary Block
JUlY 22-AUgUSt 2: Entertain yourself by watching and listening to up and coming artists play alongside established classical musicians during the kingston Chamber Music Festival. University of Rhode Island, 105 Upper College Road, Kingston. 401-874-2106, kingstonchambermusic.org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
July 4
Feeling Patriotic Celebrate Independence Day all over Rhode Island
July 4 Fireworks Display at India Point Park in Providence
Without a doubt, July 4th is the summer holiday. It’s a day bustling with cookouts and fireworks, but also a day for reflection as we celebrate the history of our nation. Whether you celebrate by getting your patriotic party on, or just like to gaze at the fireworks, there is an event for you.
Sam! It’s truly a spectacle event, so bring your lawn chair and spray on the sunscreen, and enjoy the floats, bands, and others as make their way across the island. The parade will start at New Harbor and end at Old Harbor. Various locations. blockislandchamber.com
Bristol
For a unique July 4th experience, the South Country Museum’s Fourth of July Rhode Island Red Chick Hatch gives visitors a chance to see and hold day-old baby chicks while enjoying live old-time acoustic music from the South County Strummers. 15 Strathmore Street, Narragansett. 401783-5400, southcountymuseum.org
Photo: Michael Christofaro
The oldest Independence Day parade in the country is arguably one of its best. The Bristol July 4 Parade is a Rhode Island tradition unlike any other, with celebrations happening throughout June and July, including a concert series, a Miss Fourth of July Pageant and an Independence Day Ball. The parade itself steps off at 10:30am at the corner of Chestnut and Hope Streets. july4thbristolri.com Want to celebrate the Bristol 4th of July Parade with great seats and excellent food? Linden Place will be having its Annual Parade Picnic offering breakfast and lunch. You can also tour the mansion, stroll through the gardens, and have a seat right in front of the parade action. $55-$80. 500 Hope Street, Bristol. 401-2530390, lindenplace.org
Block Island Gather the family and head to the scenic Block Island for the Annual Block Island 4th of July Parade. The parade kicks off at 11am at the Legion Hall and features Don Littlefield, the owner of Belle Isle B&B, will be dressed up as Uncle
Narragansett
Providence What’s better than celebrating The 4th in the capital city? Lay out a blanket and cuddle close at India Point Park’s Annual July 4 Fireworks Display. Gaze at the night sky and prepare to be blown away by the city’s best fireworks show. India Point Park, Gano Street, Providence. 401-785-9450
Glocester Looking for a laugh this Independence Day? Then head to to the famous Ancient & Horribles Parade. This hilarious event will have you holding your stomach and doubling over. Join Glocester locals as the spoof Rhode Island and national politics in this giggle-inducing mock Fourth of July Parade. glocesterri.org -Charlotte Abotsi
Take A Kid Fishing
It's a great feeling
Mondays & Wednesdays are Family Days
July-August 1/2 DAy tRIPs
SAVE $50*
8:30am-12:30pm | 1:00pm-5:00pm
$40 Adults $25 Child Trips are Daily
NIte stRIPeRs
Sunday Sunset Special
Wed., Fri. & Sat. 7pm-1am
1pM to 8pM (Why fight the beach traffic home)
Seven B’S v
*2 adults/2 children (12 yrs. and under)
sailing from the Port of galilee
(401) 789-9250
$5.00 off per person
Celebrating Our 50th Anniversary
10Th annual
Cowboy
Rendezvous ocTober 9-12
New England's Own Weekend Of The West!
TickeTs on sale now trail Rides, competition Events & more!
columbus day Weekend in Western Rhode island
Stepping Stone Ranch 201 EscohEag hill Road, WEst gREEnWich | 397-3725 | stEppingstonERanch.com
Outdoor Guide 2015 |
11
kingston chamber music festival
nineteen extraordinary artists include:
stewart goodyear
seven concerts E july 22–august 2
our 27th season | at the university of rhode island natalie zhu, artistic director
world class chamber music in our beautiful backyard
bella hristova
benito meza
juliette kang
harrison hollingsworth
hanchien lee
for concert details or to purchase tickets: online E kingstonchambermusic.org by phone E 401-874-2106 (beginning May 4)
jason vieaux
thank you to our 2015 concert sponsors
tranquility, narrow river, narragansett, ri Š bill krul, 2000
raman ramakrishnan
CALENDAR
Fun and Fit Events
Get Moving Spend the day being active and having fun
May
MAY 28: Tour Providence from a whole new perspective: by boat! Gawk at the capital city’s architecture and soak in its history as you cruise with the Providence River Boat Company. 575 South Water Street, Providence. 401-440-6920, providenceriverboat.com
June
FRIDAYS: On Fridays you can embark on a scenic sunset voyage along the Narragansett Bay for a Sunset Cruise. Sightsee the picturesque landscape while relaxing for a ride on the water. 1347 Roger Williams Way, North Kingstown. 401-295-4040, rhodeislandbaycruises.com JUNe 4-AUgUSt 1: Don your baseball hat and support the Ocean State Waves while they defend their home turf this season. Old Mountain Field, 875 Kingstown Road, South Kingstown. oceanstatewaves.com JUNe 7: Lace up those running shoes and get moving for the Back Road Ramble 5k. Bring the family for a funfilled event at Camp Watchaug following the race. 160 Prosser Trail, Charlestown. oceancommunityymca.org JUNe 10: Show off your golfing skills at the 26th annual east greenwich Chamber of Commerce golf tournament. Richmond Country Club, 74 Sandy Bottom Road, Richmond. 401-885-0020, eastgreenwichchamber.com JUNe 10-AUgUSt 12: Every Wednesday you and the whole family can participate in the tom McCoy Summer Fun Run Series. There will be a children’s run, followed by a one-mile run and a 5K. Pleasant View Inn, 65 Atlantic Avenue, Westerly. 401-4471879, westerlytrackclub.org JUNe 13: Breathe in, breathe out, and prepare to stretch those legs and get
walking for a great cause at the lung Force Walk, a walk to raise awareness about lung diseases, asthma and pollution. Warwick City Park, 185 Asylum Road, Warwick. lung.org JUNe 17: Support the Mystic Aquarium’s marine life, ocean conservation efforts and educational programming while showing off your best Tiger Woods skills at the 4th Annual golf Classic. Enjoy 18 holes of golf, lunch, cocktails and dinner. Misquamicut Club, 60 Ocean View Highway, Watch Hill. 860-572-5955, mysticaquarium.org JUNe 21-28: Bask in the beauty of sailboat racing by attending or participating in the 50th anniversary of Block Island Race Week. Block Island Boat Basin. 401-466-2631, blockislandraceweek.com JUNe 23-JUlY 5: Support local and international sailors in this oneof-a kind sailing race that will take competitors from Newport to England at the 2015 transatlantic Race. transatlanticrace.com JUNe 27: Interested in taking up kayaking? Before you pick up a paddle, learn how to use one and a bunch of other kayaking tips and tricks in this Introduction to kayaking course by the Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Association. 203 Arcadia Road, Hope Valley. 401-539-9017, wpwa.org
July
JUlY 1-29: Two left feet? No partner? No problem! Waltz through the season with Ballroom Dance lessons every Wednesday night at the Towers. Various skill levels welcome! Multiple classes starting at 6:00pm. 35 Ocean Road, Narragansett. 401-7822597, thetowersri.com JUlY 11: Watch, or join, 500 swimmers and nearly 200 kayakers as they traverse 1.7 miles across Narragansett
Summer Tour Weekend at Kenyon’s Grist Mill in West Kingston
July 18-19: Embark on a tour of the historic Kenyon’s Grist Mill, sample free johnnycakes and local coffee, then kayak along the scenic Queen’s River with equipment provided at the mill’s Summer tour Weekend and kayaking event. Kenyon’s Grist Mill, 21 Glen Rock Road, West Kingston. 401-783-4054, kenyonsgristmill.com Bay to raise money and awareness for the Save The Bay Foundation. The 39th Annual Citizens Bank Save the Bay Swim will offer critical fundraising support to protect and restore the Narragansett Bay region. Newport Naval Base, 690 Peary Street, Newport. savebay.org/theswim JUlY 11-17: Fresh out of Wimbledon, the ATP World Tour tennis pros head to Newport to compete in the Hall of Fame tennis Championships. Watch the only professional tennis tournament played on grass courts in America. International Tennis Hall of Fame, 194 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. 401-849-3990, halloffametennischampionships.com JUlY 16-18: You don’t want to miss the excitement of New England’s largest offshore sport fishing event this season. Witness the 29th Annual Monster Shark tournament in Newport where several state and IGFA All Tackle World Records have been set. 10 Spring Wharf, Newport. 518-6432405, newportchamber.com
JUlY 18: East Greenwich Free Library and the Main Street Association have combined forces to conduct a Historical Walking tour of east greenwich. Join East Greenwich town historian Bruce MacGunnigle at 10am for a scenic and informative walking tour of East Greenwich. 82 Peirce Street, East Greenwich. 401-884-9511, eastgreenwichri.com JUlY 18: Are you a skilled runner looking for a challenge? Then sprint over to the Run with the Beavers trail Race. This 5- and 10-mile race takes place on the vast terrain of the Casmir Pulaski Memorial State Park. While running, you might even spot a beaver by Peck Pond. Casmir Pulaski Memorial State Park, 151 Pulaski Road, Chepachet. better-pace.com JUlY 19: The Narragansett Bay Half Marathon and 5k is the perfect race for experienced and beginner runners. Run along the bike path and experience the beautiful views of Narragansett Bay as you cross the finish line. Outdoor Guide 2015 |
13
celebrating 40 years of skin care excellence
ELIZABETH G R A D Y
SEttinG thE ExamplE SincE 1975
CALENDAR
Fun and Fit Events
Block Island Triathalon
ExpEriEncE your Skin'S SummEr Glow Call now for our specials on custom spray tanning, Brazilian waxing, massage, and summer skin care.
In Dartmouth at 127 Faunce Corner Road, 508-994-1100 In Seekonk at 20 Commerce Way, 508-336-7710
Our Garden Center And Farmer’s Market Are OPEN For The Season!
Let’s Kick Off Gardening Season Together! Choose from a Variety of Confreda Select Fruit and Vegetable Plants for the Garden Gardening supplies, fertilizer, compost Bright and beautiful annuals, perennials, tropicals and hanging baskets for all your needs
Need Help? Ask one of our gardening experts. Open 7 Days a Week 2150 Scituate Ave • Hope (Western Cranston) RI 401-827-5000 • www.confredas.com
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| Outdoor Guide 2015
AUgUSt 1: If you’re an extreme athlete, or if you just enjoy a recreational challenge, the 32nd annual Block Island triathlon is for you. The race begins with a ¼-mile swim, followed by a 12-mile bike, ending with a 4-mile race on Block Island’s beaches. Fred Benson Town Beach, 7 Corn Neck Road, Block Island. 401-466-3223, blockislandchamber.com
Pierce Memorial Stadium, 201 Mercer Street, East Providence. rifitmag.com JUlY 24: Join over 3,900 runners, walkers and wheelchair entrants as they compete on a scenic and historic 10-mile Road Race through Narragansett. Racers flock from all over New England, across the country and around the world to this special race, which is hailed as one of the top three races of distance in New England. Narragansett Pier School, 235 S Pier Road, Narragansett. narragansettlionsclub.com JUlY 25: Experience four miles of oceanfront trails, 20+ obstacles, sea, live music and an old fashioned New England Clam Bake at the first annual trident Race from 8am to 4pm. Partial proceeds benefit Bristol Parks & Recreation Community Center. Pre-registration required. Colt State Park, RI-114, Bristol. tridentrace.com JUlY 25-26: The FIM trial World Championship is a thrilling international motorcycle competiton that is taking place in this great state for its 7th round. Cheer on riders as they show off their skills in this one-of-a kind event. Stepping Stone Ranch, 201 Escoheag Road, West Greenwich. 401-397-3725, trial4fun.com
JUlY 26: Are you the ultimate runner, swimmer and biker? If so, the Crabman Sprint triathlon is for you! The course begins with a ¼ mile swim, followed by an 11-mile bike race and finishes off with a 5K. South Kingstown Town Beach, 719 Matunuck Beach Road, South Kingstown. 401-741-0831, trimomprod.com
August
AUgUSt 10: Help the Preservation Society protect, preserve and present one of the nation’s most endangered properties at Newport Mansions summer golf Outing. Tee prizes, lunch, dinner, cocktails, awards and silent auctions follow a round of golf at one of the country’s leading courses. 324 Mitchells Lane, Middletown. newportnational.com AUgUSt 22: Join the road to wellness at the 1st Annual latino Public Radio Run/Walk & Health Fair’s 5k. This non-profit organization helps to inform, educate and entertain the public with health and wellness information to initiate more positive and balanced lifestyles. Enjoy prizes, awards, face painting and music at this pet and family-friendly event. Roger Williams Park, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. rwpzoo.org
Fine Clothiers
Now opeN iN Newport
200 South Main Street • Providence • 401.453.0025
142 Bellevue avenue • newPort • 401.619.5750
www.marcalleninc.com • theclubchair.com
2015
CALENDAR
4th A n n u a l S e a s o n
Nature Events
The Natural World Ways to learn, explore and have fun with nature All Summer
Gallery & Open Studio Event 5:30-8:30
June 25
Gallery & Open Studio Event 5:30-8:30
July 30
Gallery & Open Studio Event 5:30-8:30
August 27
Gallery & Open Studio Event 5:30-8:30
September 24
Gallery & Open Studio Event 5:30-8:30
October 22
Closing Celebration! New! Year-Round Educational Seminars & Workshops See website for Event Details
ArtNightBristolWarren.org
Rep. Jan Malik Sen. Wally Felag
...Walk, Bike, Drive or Take the Art Night Guided Trolley Tour!
June
JUNe 2: Appreciate the magic and wonder of nature as you watch horseshoe crabs coast along sandy shallows using moonlight and headlamps at the Horseshoe Crab Spawning Adventure. 25 Spray Rock Road, Westerly. 888-813-7862, weekapauginnevents.com JUNe 4, 11 & 18: Children ages 18 to 36 months can partake in hands-on crafts, songs and stories pertaining to nature at li’l Peeps from 9:4510:45am. 1401 Hope Street, Bristol. 401-245-7500, asri.org. JUNe 5-7: Embark on a two-day, 44mile journey that celebrates life while raising money for the Gloria Gemma Foundation at gloriDays. Walk by day, sleep under the stars in pink tents by night. Bristol. gloridays.kintera.org JUNe 6: Show off your paddling experience at the six-mile great Swamp Paddle. Paddle through rushing waters from downtown Westerly to Pawcatuck. Take in the scenery of the river while participating in this rigorous race. 203 Arcadia Road, Hope Valley. 401-539-9017, wpwa.org JUNe 16: Get your feet wet while you go for a long walk on the beach, in search of horseshoe crabs. Discover and learn about horseshoe crabs with the whole family at the Family Horseshoe Crab Walk. Napatree Point, Westerly. 860-572-5955, mysticaquarium.org JUNe 19-21: Celebrate the art and beauty of flowers at the Preservation
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Get close to the animals at Roger Williams Park Zoo with a camel ride
DAIlY: Experience the extraordinary two-humped creatures by partaking in the Camel Rides at Roger Williams Park Zoo. Ride them in a safe environment with experts to lead you around a track. Roger Williams Park, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 401-785-3510, rwpzoo.org
Society’s Annual Newport Flower Show. Colorful floral designs, garden displays, horticulture exhibits and a champagne and jazz brunch are just a few of this weekend’s highlights. Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Avenue, Newport. newportmansions.org
Butterfly exhibit, an extravagant event where over 700 exotic butterflies will be on exhibit for the public. Bring a camera for fabulous photo opportunities. Pleasant Acres Nursery, 130 Franklin Street, Westerly. 401-5967761, westerlychamber.org
JUNe 20: Spend the day touring over 35 gardens including the herb and kitchen gardens at Prescott Farm. Tour alongside Master Gardeners who provide gardening insight and knowledge while sampling authentic Rhode Island Johnnycakes. Prescott Farm, 2009 West Main Road, Middletown. 401-849-7300, newportrestoration.org
JUlY 18: A day designed to raise awareness towards ocean and sun safety, the fifth annual Waterman eco Challenge, is a family fun event filled with open paddle races, interactive lifesaving and sun awareness activities. Narragansett Town Beach, 39 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett. 401789-1044, narragansett.gov
JUNe 21: Witness Bird Banding where experts capture, band, measure and release songbirds to study their movements. 1401 Hope Street, Bristol. 401245-7500, asri.org
August
JUNe 23: Delve into the art of fly fishing with the Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Association at the learn to Fly Fish class. 203 Arcadia Road, 401-539-9017, wpwa.org
July
JUlY 10-12: Gaze at beautiful winged wonders at the Wings & Wishes
AUgUSt 12-13: There is no better place than the Frosty Drew Observatory to view the Perseid Meteor Shower. Join astronomers and star-gazers to watch 60 meteors blaze across the sky every hour. Frosty Drew Observatory, 61 Park Lane, Charlestown. 401-364-9508, frostydrew.org AUgUSt 16: Witness Bird Banding where experts capture, band, measure and release songbirds to study their movements. 1401 Hope Street, Bristol. 401-245-7500, asri.org
Photo courtesy of Roger Williams Park Zoo
May 28
DAIlY: Butterflies in Bloom is back at the Roger Williams Park Zoo for its final season. Step inside the zoo’s dazzling greenhouse and view hundreds of free-flying butterflies. Visit the exhibit for a fun and visual experience for the entire family. Roger Williams Park, 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 401-7853510, rwpzoo.org
HIP OR KNEE PAIN SLOWING YOU DOWN? Take the next step: MAKOplasty® • MAKOplasty Total Hip Replacement and Knee Resurfacing • Surgeon-controlled robotic arm system offers new level of precision to restore your mobility and active lifestyle • Most experienced MAKOplasty surgeons in the U.S. – over 3,000 procedures For a consultation with a physician at South County Orthopedics, call 401 789-1422.
A partnership of South County Hospital, South County Orthopedics, and VNS Home Health Services www.schospital.com/orthopedics ~ www.scortho.com
Want to know more? For information on free evening presentations in your area, please call 401 788-1173.
R E M SUM KS OFF KiC
fun music refreshing drinks all ages shows are free!
DY IN GREATER KENNE
Season Kickoff Thursday July 9th
4:30-7:30pm - Burnside Park BURNSIDE MUSIC AND BEER GARDEN Food Trucks + Family Fun!
PLAZA
Thursdays on the Plaza! July 2 - September 10 10:30am-12:30pm Kidoinfo Storytime + Art in the Park: The Great Green Room! World of Margaret Wise Brown
Downtown Tuesdays! July 7 - October 27
11:30am-1:30pm PVD Food Trucks @ Kennedy Plaza
3-6pm Downtown Farmers Market with Farm Fresh RI
4:30-7:30pm Burnside Music Series + Trinity Beer Garden
3-6pm Kidoinfo Play in the Park Family Friendly activities and Playspace at the Imagination Center!
And visit the PVD Food Trucks @ Kennedy Plaza daily! Look for more information on the Imagination Center schedule including Open Air Family Reading Room, Imagination Playground, Game Days, and more on www.kennedyplaza.org or www.faceboook/GreaterKennedyPlaza Brought to you by the Downtown Providence Parks Conservancy
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2150 Scituate Avenue Hope (Western Cranston) RI (401) 827-5000 www.confredas.com Text Confreda to 22828 for the latest news on our events and promotions Confreda Greenhouses & Farms Calendar of Events – 2015 May 2015 Saturday, May 2, 2015 Perennial Workshop Saturday, May 16, 2015 Herb Garden Workshop June 2015 Saturday, June 13, 2015 Italian Cooking Class Wednesday, June 24, 2015 Fairy Garden Workshop July 2015 Saturday, July 11, 2015 Hydrangea Workshop TBA – Mid-July – Ladies’ Night (Watch our Facebook Page and our Web Site) August 2015 Saturday & Sunday, August 15 & 16, 2015 Art & Craft Fair Saturday, August 22, 2015 Neighborhood Barbeque September 2015 Saturday & Sunday, September 12 & 13, 2015 Art & Craft Fair Saturday, September 19, 2015 Scarecrow Workshop
In Good Taste Add these delicious to-do’s to your list this summer All Summer Long
tHURSDAYS: Every Thursday through October, Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard hosts a different artist for their Summer Concert Series from 6-8pm. Enjoy the scenery, local wine and entrees from Cafe on the Green. 162 West Main Road, Little Compton. 401635-8486, sakonnetwine.com tHURSDAYS: Every Thursday, enjoy a family-style Clambake and delicious s’mores under the evening summer stars. Weekapaug Inn, 25 Spray Rock, Road, Westerly. 888-813-7862, weekapauginnevents.com SAtURDAYS: Located along the Sakonnet River in Portsmouth, greenvale Vineyards hosts jazz concerts every Saturday through August. Tour the vineyards, learn about estate grown wines and bring a picnic basket to enjoy one of the concerts. 582 Wapping Road, Portsmouth. 401-8473777, greenvale.com
June
JUNe 3: Join Chef Karsten Hart of Castle Hill Inn as he prepares a grand meal for a Farm and Wine Dinner at the Ocean House. Chef Hart will cook using delicious ingredients from a local farm and fine wine from Paul Hobbs Winery. 1 Bluff Avenue, Watch Hill. 401584-7000, oceanhouseevents.com
An oyster tasting event at the BeachHead during the Taste of Block Island
MAY 29-31: Get familiar with beautiful Block Island at the 7th annual taste of Block Island. Over the course of three days, choose from over 40 events from wine tasting, to night sky viewing, to horseback riding. Multiple locations. blockislandchamber.com
JUNe 6: Bring an empty stomach and get ready for some serious eats at the Providence/Boston Food truck Showdown. Join the food truck craze and enjoy a variety of foods at this one of a kind food festival. India Point Park, Gano Street, Providence. foodtruckfestivalsofne.com JUNe 14-19: Dine at Block Island’s finest restaurants and enjoy threecourse prix-fixe meals and specials at exceptional prices during Block Island Restaurant Week. Various locations. blockislandchamber.com JUNe 20: Nothing says summer like
October 2015 Saturday, October 24, 2015 Scarecrow Competition Judging
December 2015 Saturday & Sunday, December 5 & 6, 2015 Christmas Bazaar
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JUlY 12-25: Get a taste of Providence’s robust culinary scene for less at Providence RestaurantWeeks. Enjoy three courses for $12.95 for lunch or $29.95 for dinner. Menus and full restaurant listings are available on the website. goprovidence.com
AUgUSt 3: Tantalize your tastebuds with a tasting menu like no other. Gracie’s Executive Chef Matthew Varga and Pastry Chef Melissa Denmark work with Chef Neath Pal in their Star Chef Series to present an eclectic French-Asian fare. 194 Washington Street, Providence. 401272-7811, graciesprovidence.com
November 2015 Saturday & Sunday, November 14 and 15, 2015 Art and Craft Fair
Sunday, December 13, 2015 Gingerbread House Competition Judging
July
August
Saturday, October 31, 2015 Halloween Costume Competition
Saturday, December 12, 2015 Gingerbread House Workshop
fresh strawberries. Take part in the celebration of summer and strawberries at the Smith’s Castle Strawberry Festival. 55 Richard Smith Drive, North Kingstown. 401-2943521, smithcastle.org
A Farm Fresh farmer’s market at Lippitt Park in Providence
DAIlY: Rhode Island is a locavore state, and Farm Fresh Rhode Island makes it easy to connect directly with local growers. In season, farmer’s markets happen daily throughout the state. Check farmfreshri.org for the days and locations most convenient for you. farmfreshri.org
AUgUSt 7-9: Fish! Lobster! Shrimp! Indulge in the ocean’s tastiest foods at the 31st annual Charlestown Seafood Festival. Bring an empty stomach and prepare to stuff yourself to the gills. Ninigret Park, Charlestown. 401-364-3878, charlestownrichamber.com
Photography (Top) Force4Photography
Farmer’s Market • Garden Center Gourmet Prepared Foods Bakery • Cafe • Deli
Foodie Events
! e r a u q S d n Wayla
facebook.com/waylandsquare
Shop Books on the Square Clad In Women’s Clothing Comina Dorothy Williams F Bianco
Dine
J. McLaughlin Milan Fine Clothiers Mrs. Robinson Fine Lingerie The Olive Tap
Haruki L’Artisan Cafe McBride’s Pub The Salted Slate
On the beautiful East Side of Providence C o m p l i m e n ta r y p a r k i n g
SUMMER CAMPS Go to HeyRhody.com for our camp directory
Rocky Hill School Fun cooking with a Chef! Traditional Day, Specialty & Academic Camps (ages 3-13) Specialty Camps (ages 13+)
June, July, August | Full & Half Days East Greenwich, RI
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www.rockyhill.org/sea
Kids 8-15 Cooking Fitness/Yoga Communication Skills Play Team Pressure Cooker™ 45 MIN. TO CREATE A WINNING DISH!
At Temple Beth El 70 Orchard Ave, Providence, Fit2Cook4Kids.org | 401-294-6800 r Summmep J-Ca
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June 22 - August 21 For children ages 2 - 15
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Learn more about Summer J-Camp at jewishallianceri.org
A welcoming place for all!
What makes J-Camp different? • Lunch and snacks provided daily • Swim lessons for all campers • Weekly field trips & special visitors • Lots of outdoor play • Activities including art, cooking, sports, science & nature, acting, travel and more!
Dwares Rhode Island
401 Elmgrove Avenue | Providence, RI 02906 | 401.421.4111
SUMMER AT LA SALLE
Learn To Sail! In Providence
June 29-July 2 • July 13-17 • July 20-24 • July 27-31
Youth Summer Sailing Camp Adult Evening Lessons Too! NEW - Kayaks!
Innovative and fun camps designed for upcoming 5th-8th graders! For more information contact Tom Haynes, Director of Camps 401-351-7750 ext. 183 www.lasalle-academy.org/summercamps
Learn more: 401.454.SAIL (7245) • www.communityboating.com
» hikes « Bikes » water sports « camping » Beaches « scenic parks » getting in touch with nature «
Outdoor Adventures
Photography by James Jones
Explore the Great Rhode Island Outdoors all season long
Community Boating Center in Providence
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Think sailing is a rich man’s sport? Think again. Providence’s Community Boating Center teaches kids and adults how to enjoy the water – like sailing and kayaking – at prices that are accessible to everyone. But that’s just one way to experience Rhode Island’s 400 miles of coastline. Read on for more ways to hike, bike, sail, swim and surf the state this season. Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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PROVIDENCE
SOU TH
Ballet | Tap | Jazz | Modern Classes and Summer Camps for Children and Adults in Providence & South County
Colors
Bright Patio to Poolside Home décor | UpHolstery
500 Main Street East Greenwich, RI 194 Oxford Street Providence, RI 401-861-4842 www.providenceballet.org Eva Marie Pacheco
®
Director
FABRIC CREATIONS FOR LIFE AND HOME
quality teaching in a nurturing environment
R o g e r W i l l i a m s Pa r k zo o Always AN Adventure
Enjoy our seasonal offerings! • Flutterby: Butterflies in Bloom - final season! • • Camel Rides • • Rock Wall • • Daily Giraffe Feedings • • Seal Encounters (pre-register online) • ZOO HOURS: 10 am - 5 pm (last admission 4:30pm) Explore the possibilities at rwpzoo.org
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804 Hope Street, Providence • 401-432-7995 • kreatelier.com
OutdOOr Adventures
Hiking
Hike the State Exploring Rhode Island’s natural beauty on foot There’s no better way to celebrate the season than to hike through our gorgeous scenery. No matter where you live, there’s a trail close by that is just begging you to take a walk on it.
Easy Hikes
Photography by Grace Lentini
Arcadia Management Area is the state’s largest recreational area, topping off at 14,000 protected acres. Located across Exeter, Richmond, Hopkinton and West Greenwich, you will find lots of even terrain, some slightly elevated trails, forested trails and opportunities to walk along streams, ponds, old stone walls, meadows and historic foundations. The 1.5-mile loop around Breakheart Pond is an easy hike and great way to get introduced to Arcadia Management Area. You can either stick to the main trail or venture off on to one of the many trails that connect to it. Whichever you choose, you’ll have beautiful views of the pond. Take Frosty Hollow Road to Hicks Trail, Exeter. 401-539-1052, riparks.com Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge has 787 acres of federally protected coastal habitat. It’s an
ideal place to go birding and see lots of native wildlife such as whitetailed deer, red-tailed hawks, snapping turtles and nesting ospreys, to name a few. There are multiple trails to choose from, so you can hike anywhere from .5 to 4 miles depending on your capabilities. Take our word for it: the Farm Field Loop Trail to the Osprey Point Trail has the best view of Trustom Pond. And, because this is a coastal pond, you’ll have stellar views of the Atlantic and even Block Island on a clear day. 1040 Matunuck School House Road, South Kingstown. 401-364-9124, fws.gov Are you citybound? No problem. Head to Lincoln Woods for the loop around Olney Pond. This paved trail is great for beginners, moms with strollers and those who want to run in nature. The just-over 3-mile trail has great views of the pond, some elevation to get your heart racing
Lincoln Woods is an escape close to Providence
Trustom Pond in South Kingstown
and connecting non-paved trails that lead further into the 627 protected acres. 2 Manchester Print Works Road, Lincoln. 401-723-7892, riparks.com The Nature Conservancy’s Tillinghast Pond Management Area has 2,054 acres of protected land across West Greenwich. Along with pristine habitat comes an array of hiking options. Four connected loop trails give you the choice of a short hike or one up to 10-miles. The 2.3-mile Pond Loop offers easy, flat terrain around Tillinghast Pond. There’s even an observation platform located roughly halfway around the pond to give you easy access to wildlife viewing or a serene rest. Plain Road, West Greenwich. 401-529-1072, nature.org Who says that you can’t have a nature retreat in the city? The Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy in Providence proves that you can. Its 88 preserved acres contains the highest hill in Providence (at a staggering 296 feet above sea level), is the largest forested area in Providence and provides breathtaking views of the city from its hilltop meadow. Throughout its various trails you’ll find historic stone walls, brooks, geologic formations and woodland wildlife such as turkeys, deer and birds. Take the 1.5-
mile Pinnacle Trail for the gorgeous city view. 675 Plainfield Street, Providence. 401-383-4711, nhill.org A must hike is Great Swamp Management Area where you’ll see everything from nesting ospreys to dragonflies and American woodcocks. The 3,349 state-protected acres are chock full of habitats including a large wetland, forested parcels and wide open fields. Hike the 4-mile large loop to get a glimpse of all these habitats and the wildlife that live in them. Just make sure to wear adequate amounts of orange during hunting season. 277 Great Neck Road, South Kingstown. 401-789-0281, dem.ri.gov A hidden gem in Middletown is Sachuest National Wildlife Refuge. The 242 federally protected acres provide excellent habitat for migratory birds and stunning ocean views no matter the time of year. The 1.4mile Flint Point Loop is complete with two observation platforms: one that looks onto Third Beach and the other that looks onto a rock formation where snowy owls are seen from the fall through spring. 769 Sachuest Point Road, Middletown. 401847-5511, fws.gov Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge in Smithfield is a great hike. Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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OutdOOr Adventures
Experience. Integrity. Results.
Hiking
The 120-acre refuge is home to the Audubon Society of RI’s headquarters. Stop by the visitor’s center, grab a map and hike the 2.9-mile loop that makes up the entirety of the refuge. You’ll pass over a brook near a pond and through pine stands. There are also plenty of stone walls that add to this quiet retreat. 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield. 401-949-5454, asri.org Another gem is Snake Den State Park in Johnston. Check out the northern part of this 1,000 acre undeveloped parcel where you’ll find beautiful rock formations and an overlook boasting beautiful forested views into Johnston and Scituate. The just over 2-mile loop gives you a serene escape into a mostly wooded reserve that abuts Dame Farm. Small parking lot on Brown Avenue, Johnston. 401-222-2632, dem.ri.gov Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown
Call Gerri Schiffman (401) 474-3733 #1 Agent at Residential Properties Ltd. Since 1996
(401) 474-3733 gerri@residentialproperties.com
gerrischiffman.com residentialproperties.com
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Napatree Point extends 1.5 miles into the ocean from Watch Hill. This stunning 60-acre peninsula is not only a great beach excursion but also an excellent place to see a ton of wildlife. The polarizing piping plovers nest here in the summer, as well as the occasional American oystercatcher and spotted sandpiper. Napatree also hosts a nesting osprey pair and is a fantastic place to view migratory bird species in all seasons. Definitely bring a pair of binoculars to enjoy these species from a distance. Park on Bay Street, Westerly. 401-315-5399, thewatchhillconservancy.org For another challenging yet beautiful seaside hike, head down to Charlestown to East Beach/ Ninigret Conservation Area. This barrier beach is three miles long, one way, and is truly a protected oasis. The parking area is small, and requires a parking fee during the summer season, so get there early. Once you get there you’ll have unparallelled views of the ocean with the ability to see Block Island on a clear day. Watch out for the occasional seal that rests on the beach, and give it plenty of distance. End of East Beach Road, Charlestown. 401-322-8910, riparks.com If you don’t get out to Tiverton much, now is the time. Weetamoo Woods has 750 protected acres that includes a coastal forest, wetlands and 12 acres of grasslands,
which is home to a number of birds of prey and nesting birds in the summer. The preserve has very well marked trails that will take you on a 7-mile journey. Of course there are smaller loops, but why not just take the day and explore this hidden gem. The Pardon Gray Preserve is also attached to Weetamoo Woods, another 230 acres of land with wellmarked trails. East Road, Tiverton. 401-625-1300, tivertonlandtrust.org
Challenging Hikes Our state doesn’t have elevation above 1,000 feet, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any “strenous” hiking trails. Take Long Pond Woods for example. The jointly-owned 268 acres consist of the Red and Yellow Trail that snake around the pond. The beauty of this hike is in the contrast of habitats: lush forested valleys surround rugged bedrock ridges. Once atop the ridge, expansive views of the ponds and the surrounding landscape abound. There are lots of ups and downs on this hike, but each view is worth every step. North Road, Rockville. 401949-5454, asri.org Another challenging hike is Fort Barton in Tiverton. The 83 acres start off with a steep hike from the parking area, followed by a tremendous view of the Sakonnet River atop a lookout tower. Continue along the 3-mile red trail for plenty of ups and
downs, wood bridges over streams and chances to see lots of wildlife. Intersection of Lawton Avenue and Highland Road, Tiverton. 625-6710, tiverton.ri.gov Care for an ocean view with your hike? Head to Norman Bird Sanctuary. Their 7 miles of trails on 325 acres covers everything from steep cliffs, vernal pools (where amphibians lay their eggs), stone walls, geologic formations, pond views and wildlife sightings. Hike along the Red Fox Trail to the Nelson Pond Trail for excellent birding and photographic opportunities. You’ll also get to view Hanging Rock, the highest point in the sanctuary, at a whopping 70 feet. 583 Third Beach Road, Middletown. 401-8462577, normanbirdsanctuary.org -Grace Lentini
hey Rhody! Need help spotting wildlife along the trail? The U.S Fish and Wildlife Service has wildlife exhibits and volunteers at Sachuest National Wildlife Refuge and Kettle Pond Visitor Center where you can learn about the birds, amphibians, mammals and more that make these refuges their home. fws.gov/refuge/Ninigret/ About_the_Complex/
Photography: (Top) Joe Cascio
Moderate Hikes
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OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Camping Guide
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Pitch Your Tent in Little Rhody Ashaway holly tree campground 109 Ashaway Road 401-596-2766
Showers
Ice and propane filling station
Basketball and bocce courts, game room. Free tennis courts and jungle gym 1 mile away. Close to Mystic Village, Westerly and Watch Hill
Camp store with snacks, coffee, firewood, ice and RV supplies, laundry facility, WiFi, propane filling station and dump station
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Athletic field, bocce, volleyball, basketball, bicycle rentals, tennis court, billiard tables, table tennis, family foot golf, pickleball, playground and rec hall
Camp store carries variety of necessities and souvenirs
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Canoe rentals, biking trails and hiking trails
Limited
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Beach combing and bird watching onsite. Less than 1 mile from bait and tackle store and 2 miles from restaurants
Comfort station
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Bike riding, canoeing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseshoes and bird watching
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Boating, fishing and swimming along nearby coastline and South County beaches
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Wading pool, swimming pool and adult-only whirlpool. Close proximity to Misquamicut and Charlestown beaches
Restrooms and showers
Burlingame state Park 1 Burlingame Park Road 401-322-7337
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Swimming beach and nearby DEM boat launch for boating and fishing
Restrooms and showers
charlestown Breachway campground Charlestown Beach Road 401-364-7000
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Boating and fishing onsite. Swimming at Charlestown Beach
Restrooms
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Bodwish Reservoir for swimming and canoeing, boat launch
Water spigots for drinking, outhouses pit toilets
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Miles of waterfront include sandy beaches, 300-acre lake and 30-acre pond for swimming and fishing
Modern bath houses and coin showers
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Swimming pool and 2-acre spring-fed pond for fishing, canoeing and rafting
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Bradford ashaway Rv Resort 235 Ashaway Road 401-377-8100
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Charlestown
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Chepachet George washington state campground 2185 Putnam Pike 401-568-6700 Bodwish lake camping area 40 Safari Trail 401-568-8890
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Camp store, snack bar, 1 camper, firewood and ice avail1 extra able, dumping station, paid car WiFi and optional cable
Restrooms and showers
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Dining hall, camp store, ice and firewood available, laundry, WiFi, cable and dump station
Playground, rec hall, basketball court, volleyball, horseshoe pits. Adjacent to 500-acre wildlife refuge Parker Woodland. Minutes from golf courses
On-site ponds for swimming and fishing
Restrooms and showers
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Camp store, lending library, ice and wood available, coin laundry, dumping station and firepits
2 rec halls, horseshoes, volleyball, basketball courts, 2 softball diamonds and a playground. Adjacent to public golf course
Swimming beach and nearby DEM boat launch for boating and fishing
Restrooms and showers
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Tennis and basketball courts, volleyball, hay rides, playgrounds, hiking trails, group fire area, horseshoes, ping-pong, pony rides and pie-eating contests
Coventry hickory Ridge campground 584 Victory Highway 401-397-7474
Foster Ginny B campground 7 Harrington Road 401-397-7982
Hope Valley whispering Pines campground 41 Saw Mill Road 401-539-7011
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Camp store with groceries, firewood, ice and RV supplies, laundry, WiFi, propane and dump station
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Volleyball, bocce, rec hall and arcade, playground, athletic field, horseshoes, paddle boats, mini golf and a dog park
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Middletown second Beach family campground 474 Sachuest Point Road 401-846-6273
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Meadowlark Rv campground 132 Prospect Avenue 401-846-9455
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Immediate access to salt water beach
Restrooms and showers
Water and 1 mile from the beach, 2.5 miles sewer hook ups from downtown Newport
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Picnic area
Baseball field, horseshoe pits, hiking trails and playgrounds
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Laundry, bait and tackle available, picnic area and WiFi
Close to Newport visitor’s center
Narragansett fishermen’s Memorial state campground 1011 Point Judith Road 401-789-8374
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Close proximity to Scarborough, Roger Wheeler and Salty Brine Beaches
Restrooms and showers
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Comfort station, ranger station and playground. Restaurants nearby
camp Ponagansett 100 Rustic Hill Road 401-647-7377
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Swimming pool
Restrooms and showers
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Outdoor grill and picnic area
Baseball field, rec hall and tennis court
holiday acres family campground 591 Snake Hill Road 401-934-0780
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Coomers Reservoir for swimming, fishing and boating
Restrooms and showers
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Camp store with camping and RV supplies, snacks, fishing tackle, firewood and propane
Horseshoe pits, pool tables and darts. Bicycles and skateboards allowed
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Echo (Reservoir) Lake for swimming, fishing and canoeing, boat launch
Restrooms and showers
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Camp store, marine supplies, wood and ice available and dump stations
Baseball field, horseshoe pits, hiking trails and playgrounds
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Fishing off coast of Aquidneck Island. 5 miles from historic Newport and Sandy Point Beach
Restrooms and showers
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Comfort station, camp store, picnic tables, ice and firewood available, dump station
Volleyball, basketball, playground, fishing, horseshoes, hiking trails. Close to stores, restaurants and train station
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Fishing, swimming and kayaking at on-site pond. 15 minutes from East Matunuck Beach
Restrooms and coin operated showers
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Camp store, food and ice available, dump station, fire pits and picnic tables
Pavilion and play area. Nearby fishing, kayaking, canoeing and hiking
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Swimming pool, fishing and boating allowed at Breakheart Pond
Restrooms and coin operated showers
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Camp store with food, ice and propane available, laundry, dump station and WiFi
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Hiking trails, horseback riding, kids play area and basketball area, game room, horseshoes and volleyball, bicycles permitted
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Pool and hydro-fury water slide
Restrooms
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Snack bar, laundry, WiFi, propane and dump station
6
Playground, mini golf, basketball and horseshoes, bicycle and scooter riding allowed
~
2 swimming pools and fishing pond. 3 miles from Misquamicut Beach
Restrooms and showers
~
General store with ice, firewood, propane and RV supplies, laundry and cable
6
Basketball and tennis courts on-site, clam digging and beachcombing nearby
North Scituate
Pascoag echo lake campground 180 Moroney Road 401-568-7109
Portsmouth Melville Ponds 181 Bradford Avenue 401-682-2424
Wakefield worden Pond family campground 416A Wordens Pond Road 401-789-9113
West Greenwich oak embers campground 219 Escoheag Hill Road 401-397-4042
West Kingston wawaloam campground 510 Gardiner Road 401-294-3039
Westerly timber creek Rv Resort 118 Dunns Corner Road 401-322-1877
9 hole “pitch-n-put,” tennis and basketball courts, playground, baseball field, horseshoes and karaoke
Outdoor Guide 2015 |
27
Looking for that perfect spot to relax after work?
#AQUAPROVIDENCE Open to the public for cocktails & dining in a hip, relaxing atmosphere AQUA | Providence’s only poolside lounge | Located in the Providence Marriott Downtown One Orms Street ~ Providence | 401.272.2400| aquaprovidence.com Free & easy parking Daycation One Day Pool Passes available Monday– Thursday starting in June
OutdOOr Adventures
Biking
Rhody Roads A guide to the Ocean State’s many bike paths
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Lonsdale Old Village (1834),? ( CUMBERLAND HILL ! ¼Lonsdale New Vil8 A Ø lage (1860), Ashton (1867), and Berkeley (1871). MANVILLE ( ! A Ò Rawson CUMBERLAND A 7I • Staring up at the towering span of the Ashton Pond A á Viaduct Bridge as you ride on the path below. NORTH Í ? SMITHFIELD ABBOTT RUN ! • The occasional thrill of a Providence and 6 ( ( ! 11 ! ( ! A Ò & b Worcester Railroad freight train passing on A I ALBION 5 !10 Woonsocket A Û this still-important transportation corridor. A ã Reservoir !9 A è • A stop at the Captain Wilbur Kelly House in A4 ! ®! Monastery Af I _I (I & A b A( ASHTON I A Û Lincoln, a former mill owner’s home that now QUINVILLE ! A á BERKELEY ( ! serves as a visitor center and transportation LIME ROCK ( ! museum. 3 Bike A Ø A Û wa • Glimpses of the 1828-48 Blackstone Canal y A ñ ¼ ? ¾ ? paralleling the river. LINCOLN 2 A Valley I ( ! Woon A( ! I • Crossing the Pratt Dam over the Blackstone River. ( Falls LONSDALE ! asqua 1 A â tucket !8 A â Reser. • A pedal through a peaceful meadow that was Lincoln Woods SMITHFIELD Scott Reservation Pond A á 0 once the Lonsdale Drive-In Theater. Valley Falls ¼ ? Georgiaville SAYLESVILLE Pond Olney Pond ( ! ! • A boardwalk over a section of the Lonsdale Pond CENTRAL FALLS ( ! ( ! ( ! Marsh, the largest in Rhode Island. A ã ! A Ò • The Valley Falls Heritage Park, built on the ( ! ( ! ruins of the Valley Falls Company A mill. great stop for ice cream at the path-side Dari! ! Û A I ! (signs to connect NORTH Want to keep riding? Follow the street! Bee. (The Crescent Park Carousel is a short A I ( ! PROVIDENCE ! Â ? u detour I ¾ ? to the East Bay Bike Path via Blackstone Boulevard. down Bullock’s Point Avenue.) ( ! • Haines Memorial Park, where riders can take a brief beach break before continuing ! on into East Bay Bike Path Barrington. Rhode Island’s oldest bike path runs 14.5 miles • Barrington’s Brickyard Pond, a flooded forfrom India Point Park in Providence to Indepenmer clay pit that’s now a popular fishing spot. dence Park in Bristol, hewing close to the banks • The bridges connecting Barrington and Warof the Providence River and the east coast of Narren, near Massasoit’s Sowams camp where ragansett Bay most of the way. The northernmost Rhode Island founder Roger Williams sought section of the bike path will reopen in June, and sanctuary with the Wampanoag tribe while bike path users will enjoy a beautiful new linear fleeing from Massachusetts in 1636. park as they cross over the Providence River in • Historic downtown Warren, where the path downtown Providence. slips behind historic Main Street with its shops Riding north to south, other highlights include: and restaurants. • A steep plunge down historic Fort Hill, the • Bristol, where bikers cross over the marsh site of military battlements during the Ameriboardwalk at the Audubon Society of Rhode can Revolution and the War of 1812. Island’s Environmental Education Center be• A breezy ride across a narrow causeway folfore entering Colt State Park, a popular detour lowing the right-of-way of the former Proviwith biking paths of its own. dence and Bristol Railroad, ending at the enThe end of the East Bay Bike Path is in Bristol’s trance to the beautiful and historic Squantum Independence Park, where you can reward yourAssociation with its white Colonial Revival self with clam cakes at Quito’s or grab a cold one mansion overlooking the river. at Aidan’s. More adventurous riders can catch the • Riverside, once the home of the beloved ferry to Prudence Island, a mostly undeveloped Crescent Point amusement park and still a sliver of old New England in Narragansett Bay. RO CK
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The mighty Blackstone River helped power the birth of the American Industrial Revolution, and remnants of this great economic upheaval are all around you as you travel the 12 miles of the Blackstone River Bikeway. Once a wasteland, the river gets cleaner with each passing year, with nowsilent mills converted to condos, and canoes and kayaks plying the waters where canal boats once brought goods to market. A cruise down the Blackstone Bikeway from Woonsocket to Cumberland will be rewarded with: • Passing through the four mill villages built by the Londsale Company in the 19th century:
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| Outdoor Guide 2015
NARRAGANSETT Warren Bike Path S. FERRY ROAD This Rone-mile bike path is built on an ID TO WN U.R.I. old segment of the OCEANOGRAPHY abandoned WarCAMPUS ren-Fall River Railroad spur and ends at the pretty Meadows park The path will Wesquage be much more user-friendly if the town Pd. follows through on plans to connect it to the nearby East Bay Bike Path; T OR RY R D. meanwhile, you can use city streets to bike from one path to the other.
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IT ONLY TAKES
LYME DISEASE GETS YOU WHEN YOU’RE NOT LOOKING. PREVENT LYME DISEASE: REPEL TICKS.
• 20% DEET on skin • Permethrin on clothing
CHECK FOR TICKS IN THE SHOWER. REMOVE TICKS RIGHT AWAY.
health.ri.gov/Lyme
Lyme_HeyRhody
4/8/2015 12:01:34 PM
Outdoor Guide 2015 |
31
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Beach Guide
Fun in the Sun (and Sand!) BEACHES BY TOWN
ADMISSION FEE
PAY TO PARK
RESTROOMS
SNACK BAR
lIFEguARD ON DuTY
EXTRAS
Block Island
Ballard’s Beach 42 Water Street 401-466-2231
Cocktails available on the beach. Popular with young singles.
f
Charlestown Breachway State Beach Charlestown Breachway 401-364-7000
f
Charlestown Town Beach 557 Charlestown Beach Road 401-364-1222
Highly favored by young singles, sunworshippers and surfers.
Special camping is offered in two areas of East Beach. 4x4 vehicles & shell fishing are also allowed with valid license and registration.
Fred Benson Town Beach 7 Corn Neck Road 401-466-7717
Known to the locals as Crescent Beach, this sandy strip offers equipment rentals and is good for families.
Charlestown
East Beach East Beach Road 401-322-0450
Free, but parking is limited
Also a camping area for RVs, as well as a fishing spot.
Jamestown Mackerel Cove/Jamestown Town Beach Beavertail Road 401-423-7260
Shallow water makes this a popular beach for families with young children.
Newport Easton’s First Beach 175 Memorial Boulevard 401-845-5810 gooseberry Beach 123 Ocean Avenue 401-847-3958 Fort Adams Beach 84 Fort Adams Drive 401-847-2400
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| Outdoor Guide 2015
Yes, but metered street parking is also available
f
Beach chairs, boogie boards and umbrellas are available for daily rentals. The nearby skatepark, playground and carousel are great for kids.
f
Beach volleyball, live music and an outdoor bar make this an appealing spot for the college-aged crowd.
f
Calm tides and a roped off swimming area are ideal for young children. Beware of rocky shores! Water shoes are recommended.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
BEACHES BY TOWN
ADMISSION FEE
PAY TO PARK
RESTROOMS
Beach Guide
SNACK BAR
lIFEguARD ON DuTY
EXTRAS
Middletown Sachuest Beach (2nd Beach) 474 Sachuest Point Road 401-847-1993
f
Purgatory Chasm, cut into the rocks by millions of years of erosion, sits at the western end of the beach.
Third Beach Third Beach Road 401-846-2119
A nice breeze provides the perfect conditions for windsurfing.
Atlantic Beach 55 Purgatory Road 401-847-2750
The adjacent Atlantic Beach Club provides a public restaurant and a beautiful venue for private events.
Narragansett Captain Roger Wheeler State Beach 100 Sand Hill Cove Road 401-789-3563
f
Protection from the breakwater makes this a great beach for children.
Narragansett Town Beach 39 Boston Neck Road 401-783-6430
f
Frequented by younger beach-goers and
Salty Brine Beach 254 Great Road 401-667-6200
Scarborough Beach 970 Ocean Road 401-782-2324
surfers. Breakwater protection makes for gentle surf and no undertow. Popular with teens.
f
The north side is packed with teens and singles, with families favoring the south.
North/South Kingstown North Kingstown Town Beach Beach Street, North Kingstown 401-294-3331 East Matunuck 950 Succotash Road, South Kingstown 401-789-8374 South Kingstown Town Beach Matunuck Beach Road South Kingstown 401-789-9301
f
Long and narrow with good shade and picnic areas. Perfect for a beach stroll or picnic in the grass.
f
Popular with young singles. Great picnic area with lots of tables. Popular with young and old alike. Pavilion hosts events and concerts. Short walk to nearby beach bars along Matunuck Beach Road.
Westerly/Watch Hill Misquamicut State Beach 257 Atlantic Avenue 401-596-9097 Watch Hill Beach 153 Bay Street 401-348-6007
f
Runs along a strip of hotels, restaurants and bars on Atlantic Avenue.
Clean and good for families. Close to famed Flying Horse Carousel.
Outdoor Guide 2015 |
33
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256 Great Island road, narraGansett, rI 401-783-3152 • champlIns.com
OutdOOr Adventures
Water Sports
dive Right in Enjoy the water as much as possible this season They don’t call us the Ocean State for nothing. Rhode Island has a whopping 400 miles of coastline – and that’s not even counting all the access to water through rivers and lakes. Make a splash this summer by trying some new water sports. Your tan (and your newly defined muscles) will thank you.
Photography: (Top) Courtesy of Peter Pan Surfing Academy, (Bottom) Courtesy of Kayak Centre
Boating and Sailing Sailing has come far from its humble roots and is now seen as a rich man’s sport. Providence’s volunteer-led Community Boating Center works to change that image one sailor at a time by offering affordable sailing lessons to children and adults. Membership (just $25 for kids ages 8-15, $195 for adults) includes free use of the center’s fleet of 60 boats; group recreational sailing; paddling and kayak outings; as well as basic boating instruction. 109 India Street, Providence. 401-4547245, communityboating.com Located at the historic Edgewood Yacht Club in Cranston, the Edgewood Sailing School offers a boatload of educational programs for children and adults who want to learn to sail, or become better sailors. Kids as young as 7 can sign up for beginner instruction conducted in partnership with Save the Bay, while older
kids can learn to sail and race the ubiqitous Optimist pram. Adults can learn to sail and tie nautical knots, navigate at night and race Sunfish; special womens-only classes are also offered. 3 Shaw Avenue, Cranston. 401-785-3317, edgewoodsailing.org
Surfing and Standup Paddleboarding Local surfing legend Peter Pan will tell you that surfing the East Coast is oceans away from learning the sport in the warm waters of California and Hawaii. Wetsuit weather is more the norm than the exception, and usually the best surfing happens when the weather is at its worst. The Peter Pan Surfing Academy can get you on your way to hanging ten with lessons that start at $45 for groups, $65 for oneon-one instruction. For a more immersive experience, sign up for Surf
Kayak Centre in Wickford
Peter Pan Surfing Academy in Narragansett
Camp, offered during the summer for adults and kids. Want to see what’s up with SUP (standup paddleboarding)? The academy’s Standup Paddle Board Crash Course will get you from flat-water cruising to challenging the waves in just two days. 74 Narragansett Avenue, Narragansett. 401-5750003, peterpansurfing.com Standup paddleboarding is deceptively challenging: You’ll be standing on your big, wide SUP in minutes, unlike the longer learning curve for surfing, but while minimal skills are required to stay upright on calm, flat water, you’ll need great balance and a pretty good core to master the waves. The East Bay’s Trifitlab offers SUP rentals starting at $75 per day: look for them at Barrington Beach or in their Warren shop. 337 Water Street, Warren. 401-289-2850, ttbikefit.com Paddling and tacos – who can argue with that? Take a half-day SUP lesson with Jamestown Outdoors and your reward will be lunch at Tallulah’s Tacos, whose seasonal shack is conveniently located at Jamestown’s Dutch Harbor. Once you get the hang of the sport, you can join one of their $40 sunset SUP tours, offered every Thursday in the summer. Private lessons are also available. 34
Narragansett Avenue, Jamestown. 401924-2885, jamestownoutdoors.com Just like the name says, Paddle Surf RI offers SUP and surfing lessons on some of Rhode Island’s best beaches, including Misquamicut, Weekapaug and Watch Hill. Check out their hourlong SUP tours, which include basic instruction and a guided-flat water paddle. 95 Watch Hill Road, Westerly. 401-741-5661, paddlesurfri.com Rob Jones, owner of Wakefield’s Drift Surf Shop, personally leads classes on surfing and SUP at Narragansett Town Beach, by the Point Judith Lighthouse, or “wherever the waves are.” 540 Kingstown Road, Wakefield. 401932-6919, driftsurfshop.com
kayaking With its location on the sheltered waters of Wickford Cove and unmatched expertise in paddle sports, the Kayak Centre is the ideal place to learn to kayak or standup paddleboard. Classes range from the basics of paddling and steering to advanced instruction in surf play and whitewater skills. The Kayak Center’s vast tour offerings include gentle adventures like a sunset paddle around Wickford Harbor or Ninigret Pond and more challenging excursions along the Outdoor Guide 2015 |
35
OutdOOr Adventures
Water Sports
TM
ALL.
Parasailing gets you the best views of Block Island
SUMMER. E FAMOUS TH TM
SINCE 1890 S 0
SUMMER S UMME UMM ER ALE LE
BIRTH DEFECTS. (2) CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES IMPAIRS YOUR ABILITY TO DRIVE A CAR OR OPERATE MACHINERY, AND MAY CAUSE HEALTH PROBLEMS.
GOVERNMENT WARNING: (1) ACCORDING TO THE SURGEON
GENERAL, WOMEN SHOULD NOT DRINK ALCOHOLIC MUST BE 21 OR OLDER TO ENJOY. PLEASE DRINK BEVERAGES DURING PREGNANCY BECAUSE OF THE RISK OFRESPONSIBLY
ALC. 4.2 4 % BY VOL. OL. 16 FL. OZ. (473 mL) mL
LONG. MA
DE ON HONOR
RECYCLABLE ALUMINUM
36
The upper Pawcatuck paddle (which also can be combined with a journey on the Charles River) is a peaceful passage through Richmond that’s also available as a brief excursion or an all-day adventure. 21 Glen Rock Road, West Kingston. 401-783-4054, queensriverkayaks.com
and blue sharks weighing up to 350 pounds. Of course, you’ll be safely enclosed in a 5 foot wide, 6 foot long, 7 foot high aluminum cage, so no worries, right? Prices start at $250 per person, with group discounts available. 2 Congdon Drive, Wakefield. 401-782-4040, snappacharters.com
Parasailing
kiteboarding
Looking for a taste of skydiving minus the fear of imminent death? Parasailing off Block Island is an exhilarating experience where you’ll soar hundreds of feet in the air –tandem or solo – while enjoying the sensory overload of the sea, sky and the Rhode Island coastline from an eagle-eye view. For as little as $75 at Block Island Parasailing you’ll be securely strapped into a parasail, while the captain of your speedboat will gun his engine, and up and away you’ll go (be sure to ask to have your toes dipped in the water before they reel you back in). blockislandparasail.com
Kiteboarding is one of the most dramatic watersports you’ll see; it’s a combination of surfing and paragliding that will have you making high-speed runs across the water, carving up waves, and flying through the air. But, not all at once: this is a sport that requires some serious training to minimize risk and maximize enjoyment. The Rhode Island Kiteboarding School in Riverside can get you started with lessons and equipment. Narragansett Terrace, Riverside. 401-578-8968, rhodeislandkiteboardingschool.com –Bob Curley
TM
PR E
S ENTS
NARRAGANSETT BREWING COMPANY, ROCHESTER, NY Write or visit us at 60 Ship Street Providence, RI 02903
coastline of Newport and Jamestown and an up-close-and-personal encounter with the seals of Narragansett Bay. 9 Phillips Street, Wickford. 401-295-4400, kayakcentre.com Rhode Island’s rivers get a lot less attention than the bay and ocean, but a kayak trip down one of these quiet waterways can be an introduction to woodlands, waterways and rural landscapes seldom seen by outsiders. Queen’s River Kayaks offers guided tours of three South County rivers: the Queen’s River, Wood River and Pawcatuck River. Putting in at Kenyon’s Grist Mill in Usquepaugh, the Queen’s River trip is an easy, two-hour paddle up and back Rhode Island’s most pristine river. The excursion on the upper Wood River follows an often-narrow course through the Arcadia Management Area and is offered in half- (3mile) or full- (5.5-mile) trip options.
SHANDY SH DY DY BEER D ON MERIT SOL
BEER WITH NATURAL LEMON FLAVOR
ALC. 4.7% 4.7 % BY VOL. · ONE PINT · 16 FL. F . OZ. (473 mL)
| Outdoor Guide 2015
Shark Cage diving With all due respect to your favorite Caribbean resort, the “swim with the sharks” they tout ain’t nothing compared to what Snappa Charters of Wakefield offers: a real-life, Jawsinspired shark-cage dive off of Block Island. No sand sharks here: your new “chums” may include 20-foot makos (noted for their aggressive nature)
hey Rhody! Love sailing but hate how expensive boat maintenance is? The Freedom Boat Club gives you access to boats when you want it, but not when you don’t – like when it’s time to winterize them. freedomboatclub.com
! s e t u in M 0 3 Only udith, t. P m J ro f s e ur rt pa e Daily d er Ne wport & Fall R iv
BLOCK ISLAND FERRY.COM 866.783.7996 TOLL FREE
Welcome to Block Island. We Saved You A Seat.
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Spring and Fall Packages Available at www.blockislandinfo.com
Outdoor Guide 2015 |
37
SPONSORED CONTENT SECTION
Living
the
Dream Be the envy of all your neighbors with a gorgeous outdoor space
A sampling of the dream spaces Davitt Design Build has created in Rhode Island. See their profile on page 39.
Living THE DREAM
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Davitt Design BuilD 4 Frank Avenue, West Kingston • 401-792-9799 www.davittdesignbuild.com
The Davitt Team believes that building your dream house shouldn’t be a nightmare. We’ve all heard the horror stories associated with construction, from exceeding original budgets to being months behind in the schedule. For over 30 years, Davitt Design Build has not only designed, built, renovated and restored distinguished homes across Southern New England, but they’ve also led a revolutionary process. “We got into design build because the traditional way, where architects and builders don’t work side by side, just wasn’t working for us,” he explains. “The processes didn’t flow, the relationships within our team and with the clients were strained, and quite frankly it wasn’t fun.” That’s right, Matt wants the design and construction of your house to as enjoyable as possible. “Building a house is indeed a life’s dream. Our philosophy is that every step should be a pleasure.” The top-notch Davitt team includes architects, builders, finishers and a resident interior designer. They also work side by side with landscape architects to ensure the continuum of living style from indoors to outdoors is achieved. The first step for the Davitt team is to determine the budget with the client and list out all of the desired amenities. Through value engineering, they strive to deliver the aesthetic the homeowner desires without impacting the set budget. From there, it’s literally an open book. “We’ll produce a 60 page project overview for the client,” Matt says. Completely detailed with an accurate timeline, it will include a line item for every single task, from cabinets to door stops.. This open plan keeps
the homeowner informed and engaged, and removes any ambiguity about where the money is actually going. There are hundreds of decisions that the homeowner needs to make throughout the process, and Davitt strives to make it fun rather than overwhelming. “We take baby steps,” Matt says, pointing out that a project manager prioritizes the decision making, and breaks it down so that just a handful are made each week. Weekly meetings between the project manager and the homeowners – which can take place face-to-face, over email, or even over the web – are an efficient way to keep the communication and collaboration flowing. “We had a client living in England who didn’t enter her 9,000 square foot home until the paint was on the walls,” Matt says. “We sent video updates so that they could still get a feel for what was happening.” That sort of trust between the client and Davitt speaks volumes about the type of relationships they foster, and why the company boasts that 80% of their business comes from referrals. “Our clients are our best advertising,” Matt says. Davitt’s extensive portfolio of homes includes everything from West Coast contemporary to their signature Nantucket shingle style, and their specialty is coastal building. “We follow the water,” Matt says, explaining that his company’s environmental knowledge is unmatched in the region. “We understand the elements, from the rain that goes sideways, to the salt in the air, to the way the high winds blow.” Building along the coast requires getting through the red tape, like
coastal permits, town variances and approvals. That’s why Davitt works alongside coastal towns, such as Westerly and Narragansett, and local environmental groups like the Coastal Resource Management Council. They are also Green Certified, and use everything from geothermal systems to solar and wind in homes. “We can build as green as you want,” Matt says, pointing out that the company believes in and encourages use of green materials when possible. By building high-quality homes with their uniquely collaborative process, Davitt Design Build has also built an exceptional reputation. “Our job isn’t done until the homeowner is living happily in their home,” Matt says.
Living THE DREAM
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
PAm mARCINIAK AND BRIAN ALmEIDA, OWNERS 3415 mendon Road, Cumberland • 401-658-4547 www.tranquilwatergardens.com There are yards, and then there are yards the kind you see in magazines, that seem too beautiful to be real. A backyard oasis, complete with a fountain or a koi pond, is the kind of thing people fantasize about, but having one is more attainable than you think. You can dream about your fantasy outdoor space - or you can make it a reality. Tranquil Water Gardens Inc. is New England’s leading pond supply store, and is that rare resource that not only inspires you to think big (and beautiful) about what you can achieve in your yard, but helps you create it. “Tranquil Water Gardens (TWG) has been creating beautiful backyard oases for more than 20 years,” says co-owner Brian Almeida. “As a full service water gardening company, we offer the latest in pond supplies, Japanese koi, aquatic plants and pumps.” The company, located in Cumberland, has a Pond Shop that sells all of the supplies you need to create and maintain backyard ponds and other water features - including an extensive selection of koi fish, and the items you need to care for them. But if you’d rather leave the big, creative ideas to the experts, TWG also designs garden landscapes, installs them, and maintains them once they’re finished. “Our award winning construction and maintenance team is experienced with all types of koi ponds, pondless waterfalls, fountains and lake management,” Brian says. “Because we treat our creations like piece of artworks, each project is unique and takes on its owners own character,” Brian explains. “When we arrive for on-site consultations, we listen and observe for a while before we even give any advice
Tranquil Water’s display garden at the 2014 Rhode Island Spring Garden and Flower Show, which won first place
or ideas.” The creative team includes Brian - “ever since I was a child, I always dreamed of creating artwork for people,” he says, “and now I finally have the chance to take off with them” - and also store manager Ashley Demers. “Ashley is on hand at our retail location Wednesday through Sunday to help the do-it-yourselfer create their own back yard oasis,” co-owner Pam Marciniak explains. “She is knowledgeable on all aspects of water gardening, imported koi and design.” The proof of Tranquil Water’s talent and creativity is in their work (which you can peruse for yourself at www.tranquilwatergardens.com/gallery.htm). The center has also won extensive accolades: they’ve taken home the People’s Choice Award at the Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show twice, and another two awards from the judges for Best Exhibitor at the show. They’ve also won several awards through smaller venues, and have been doing so since the late 1990s. But, it’s not all about being experts. For Tranquil Water, it’s about teaching people to become experts. The store hosts weekly seminars and instore demonstrations so that you can see your ideas through to becoming actual projects. TWG is also actively involved in the community, donating time and ponds to worthy causes like the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation’s Garden of Hope, the Make a Wish Foundation and St. Joseph’s Church in Cumberland. They support Roger Williams Park Zoo, contributing to the habitats of the bald eagles, as well as the Jack O’Lantern Spectacular and the Dinosaurs exhibit. Ponds in Schools is an educational initiative where Tranquil Water Gardens experts
help local students build and maintain pond habitats as a learning experience. “Whether we design and build your dream pond or whether we help you do it yourself,” Brian explains, “Tranquil Water Gardens is here to make your project an enjoyable experience.” As their motto explains: “It’s not just a pond, it’s a lifestyle.”
Are You Ready To build Your Dream Home?
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stainless Refrigerators • Ranges • washers & dryers built-in Refrigeration • cooktops & wall Ovens • dishwashers 416 Roosevelt avenue, central falls • 401.723.0500 www.kitchenguys.com Outdoor Guide 2015 |
41
Living THE DREAM
SPECIAL SPECIAL ADVERTISING ADVERTISING SECTION SECTION
sweenor BuilDers Jeff Sweenor, owner 12 High Street, Wakefield • 401-789-4341 www.sweenorbuilders.com
Jeff Sweenor of Sweenor Builders now creates gorgeous houses in South County, from family homes in neighborhood development to high-end seaside vacation cottages. But when he started in 1989, it was a different story. “I didn’t know anything,” he says. “I decided that I wanted to build my own house, so I hired a friend to help me with that. I enjoyed that so much that I stuck with it.” His family is in the candy business - if the name sounds familiar, it’s because his brother Brian and sister Lisa run Sweenor Chocolates. “That was my destiny up until that point,” Jeff says, “but I decided that I really liked building.” Jeff has since traded up from that very first Sweenor Builders house, and the company has grown in a similar way. “Lately I’ve been geared towards the coastal communities,” he explains. “I’ve invested a lot in Narragansett and South Kingstown,” both in building new houses and replacing run-down existing ones in established neighborhoods. He recently completed four vacation properties on Caswell Street in Narragansett. Caswell Cottages was a collaboration between Kristen Martone of Graceke Designs, who did the interior design, and Sweenor Builders, which built them. “I like to put really good ingredients into the house. I err towards stronger, better, more attractive, more creative – and I try to put my personal touch on each one,” Jeff says. Against the advice of some, he made them “really high end” and risked not being able to sell them. “If I made a mistake, I made a mistake times four,” Jeff says. But, “the first buyer came in and recognized the quality. I sold all four of them be-
fore they were completed. It’s out of town buyers, but we broaden the tax base about 20 fold,” he says. “It doesn’t put a lot of burden on the town services because those folks are only here on the weekends and during the summer. That’s the kind of project I like: there’s challenge, and there’s a lot of potential.” It’s also important to Jeff to create community homes. He’s working on a development at East Matunuck Farms, hedging his bets on the real estate boom that’s happening all over the Northeast. “Although we might be the last one,” Jeff says, “it’s going to get to us.” For those homes, and many of his other projects, the future homeowners get a big say in how they want their new house to look and feel. For Jeff, a winner of the Houzz Best of 2015 Award (www.houzz. com/pro/jeff_sweenor), it’s all about creating the perfect home. “Most of the process is understanding how people live,” he explains. “Everybody has a different lifestyle,” but everyone has one thing in common: the kitchen is the centerpiece of the home, and is where the design starts. “Once you get the functional part of the house down – the layout, the size – then you can put your personal touches on it,” Jeff explains. “You pull together this collage and you try to incorporate it into the design, which is counterbalanced by what the budget is.” In addition to building homes, Jeff also contributes to building community. He started the Ocean State Waves summer collegiate baseball team in South Kingstown. “I’ve always enjoyed coaching,” he says. “I started when my son was seven. The Ocean State Waves is a huge community, and people just love it. I passed the baton off to Matt Finlayson, the team’s GM, but I still take pride in the fact that I got it going.” He’s also the president of the URI Crew Team Alumni Association, which supports the club team at the school. “Rowing on the crew team at URI shaped a big part of my life,” says Jeff, whose team won a national championship in 1984, and who rowed in the 1987 Pan-American games. “Teamwork and perseverance shape a big part of who I am today.”
OutdOOr Adventures
Explore Nature
Natural Wonders Get in touch with nature with these wild experiences tweet All About it
the Final Frontier
The Norman Bird Sanctuary offers novice birdwatchers a chance to observe native species in their natural habitat. The sanctuary has seven miles of trails on over 325 acres, offering resources for solo birders and guided walks for those who prefer to stay with the flock. The 19th century Barn Museum offers glimpses into Aquidneck Island’s ecosystems and history. 583 3rd Beach Road, Middletown. 401846-2577, normanbirdsanctuary.org
Exploring the skies across RI If you’re a connoisseur of the cosmos, you probably already know that it can be difficult to find a local observatory to point your eyes in the right direction. What you might not know is that there are four awesome observatories right here in Rhode Island that serve the public free of charge on clear nights of the week.
Photography: (Top) courtesy of Roger Williams Park Zoo, (Bottom) courtesy of Audobon Society of Rhode Island
Get in touch with Nature The Audubon Society of Rhode Island has an extensive network of nature preserves and hiking/observation trails throughout the state, but their showpiece is undoubtedly the Environmental Education Center in Bristol. Part natural history museum, part aquarium, the center is located inside the McIntosh Wildlife Refuge along the East Bay Bike Path. Explore the inside of a 33-foot whale, plunge into tidal touch tank and explore the salt marsh trails throughout the property. 1401 Hope Street, Bristol. 401-949-5454, asri.org
Walk With the Animals Okay, yes, it’s a given that you can see wild animals at Providence’s
Feed the giraffes at the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence
Roger Williams Park Zoo. What you might not know, though, is exactly how closely you can see them. The Zoo offers unique, unforgettable animal experiences on a limited basis, like camel rides and feeding the giraffes and the harbor seals. The Alex and Ani Farmyard has a petting zoo where kids (or, guys, girls on first dates who will be wildly impressed) can pet mini Nubian goats. 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 401-785-3510, rwpzoo.org
dive into the Ocean deep If you find yourself at the beach and in need of a little break from the sun’s rays, dive into the Save the Bay Exploration Center & Aquarium. Located in the rotunda at Easton’s Beach (also known as First Beach) in Newport, the center houses over 150 species native to Narragansett Bay. You can even get up close (maybe a little too close) to bamboo sharks in the touch tank. Easton’s Beach Rotunda, 175 Memorial Boulevard, Newport. 401-324-6020, savebay.org
Explore the Urban Jungle
Experience wildlife first hand at the Audubon Environmental Education Center in Bristol
Given the expanses of gorgeous open space throughout the state, you might be surprised to learn that the biggest botanical garden in Rhode Island – nay, in all of New England – is inside the Capital City’s limits. The Roger Williams Park Botanical Center is home to 150 plant species from around the world, inside two greenhouses totaling nearly 12,000 square feet. Outside, peruse the Perennial Garden, Pine & Hosta Dell, the Winter Garden, Wooded Hillside Garden, Overlook Terrace and the Rose Maze. 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 785-9450, providenceri.com/botanical-center -Julie Tremaine
Brown’s Ladd Observatory is perhaps the most venerated of the bunch – it’s been open since 1893 and is currently curated by Associate Dean David Targan. Head to the East Side on Tuesday nights at 8pm to start your week of astronomy. 210 Doyle Avenue, Providence. 401-863-2323, brown.edu/Departments/Physics/Ladd/ For another educationally rooted approach to sky watching, visit the Margaret M. Jacoby Observatory on CCRI’s Knight Campus in Warwick for Wednesday’s Public Open Nights beginning at 7:30pm. 400 East Avenue, Warwick. 401-825-1000, ccri.edu/physics/observatory.html For those looking for a more coastal location to observe the heavenly bodies, the Frosty Drew Observatory and Sky Theatre is open on Friday nights at dusk. Located in Charlestown’s Ninigret Park, this observatory is renowned for its late observing hours. 61 Park Lane, Charlestown. 401-364-9508, frostydrew.org To end off a meteoric week of searching the sky, drop by the rustic Seagrave Memorial Observatory in North Scituate. Starting at 8pm on Saturdays, join the Skyscrapers Inc. for a final look at the week’s firmament. 47 Peeptoad Road, Scituate. theskyscrapers.org –Jordan LaRose
Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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RA N G E D RI V IN G
SH O P PR O
D RO PIN S
G RE EN RE N TA LS
PU TT IN G
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LF O G
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IN IN G TE
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Golf Course Directory
Exeter Country Club 320 Ten Rod Road, Exeter 401-295-8212 exetercc.com
$20 and above
18
6,921
Yes
Yes, with fee
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Laurel Lane Country Club 309 Laurel Lane, West Kingston 401-783-3844 laurellanecountryclub.com
$20 and above
18
6,250
Yes
Yes, with fee
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
$50 and above
18
7,400
Yes
Yes, with fee
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Meadow Brook 163 Kingstown Road, Richmond 401-539-8491 meadowbrookgolfri.com
44
| Outdoor Guide 2015
Exeter Country Club
Monday-Friday $35 to walk/$18 cart rate 18 holes/carts $53 per person
WoMen’s senior tees (yelloW) USGA rating 72.7/122 front nine 37.1/124 back nine 35.6/119
Men’s senior tees (yelloW) USGA rating 69.7/122 front nine 34.2/116 back nine 32.7/105
early bird senior special $45 includes 50% OFF LUNCH Mon-Fri
outing special: Monday-thursday $75 All inclusive: Golf, cart, range balls, scoring, meal of choice call the pro shop to book your special event or golF outing and ask about our daily specials!
Exeter Country Club has been one of RI’s favorite places to play for 45 years! The championship Cornish design challenges golfers of all levels and remains user friendly with wide open fairways and large greens.
come inside the clubhouse and check out our new pub style menu & signature club sandwiches and salads. We now have several craft beers to choose from!
320 Ten Rod Road, (Rt 102) Exeter • Exetercc.Com • Golf Shop/Tee Times (401) 295-8212 • Clubhouse/Restaurant (401) 295-1178
Our reputation speaks for itself. “Meadow Brook is a pleasant layout with impeccable greens, competently designed and priced in a market looking for value.” - Golfweek
163 Kingstown Road, Richmond, RI • 401-539-8491 • meadowbrookgolfri.com Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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OutdOOr Adventures
Scenic Parks
Sunday in the Park Spend a leisurely afternoon at one of the state’s beautiful green spaces The sun is shining, the kids have the day off and
Bevertail State Park in Jamestown
it’s time to get out of the house. What better way to spend the day than getting out into nature? Or maybe you’re looking for a serene, quiet location for a date or to read a book. Whatever your motivation or location, we’ve got the perfect spot for you.
East Bay If you haven’t been to Colt State Park in Bristol in a while, now’s the time. Between the four miles of biking trails, ten large playfields, a historical museum, six picnic groves containing 400+ picnic tables and its stunning open air Chapel-By-The-Sea with bay views, this park covers all of your relaxing outdoor needs. Route 114, Bristol. 401-253-7482, riparks.com
Newport County
Photography: (Top) Timothy Valentine
At Fort Adams State Park, you can take a dip in the ocean (there are lifeguards on duty), bring the fishing poles or SCUBA gear, rent a boat from Sail Newport or roll out the soccer ball for a quick family game. And, of course, bring some snacks for a scenic picnic. There are also annual summer concerts like the Newport Jazz and Folk Festival. Or you can also get a tour of the fort from June
through October from its enthusiastic volunteers and staff. 84 Fort Adams Drive, Newport. 401-847-2400, fortadams.org Just across the water from Fort Adams is Fort Wetherill in Jamestown. This is another fantastic location for SCUBA diving and planned outings. All outings including diving, picnics, group activities and weddings must contact the office at Goddard State Park for scheduling arrangements. The fort is also a great spot for light hiking, fishing and boating. And don’t forget to explore the abandoned fort itself. Fort Wetherill Road, Jamestown. Fort Wetherill: 401-423-1771, Goddard State Park: 401-884-2010, riparks.com Looking for a pondside retreat? Charlestown’s Burlingame Conservation Area picnic area has 50 fireplaces, restrooms, drinking water, a swimming beach with seasonal lifeguards and a nearby DEM boat launch for boating and
Crescent Park in Riverside
fishing. Aditionally, this is a great location for camping. There are sites available by Wachaug Pond or farther into the woods, depending on your preference. Route 1, Charlestown. 401-322-7337, riparks.com Beavertail State Park in Jamestown is a feast for the senses, and truly is a quintessential oceanside retreat. First off, there’s the lighthouse perched just behind the rocky outcrop that is Beavertail Point. The point is surrounded by the Bay on three sides which provides stellar water views. There is also a marine education facility complete with programs that range from exploring tide pools, sightseeing, fishing, hiking and a naturalist program. There’s even an Aquarium at Beavertail that schedules group activities. But feel free to carefully explore the rocky outcrops for yourself and discover tide pools teeming with marine life. Beavertail Road, Jamestown. 401-423-9941, riparks.com Sometimes the ocean just calls to you. We get it. Brenton Point State Park in Newport provides breathtaking water views, as this is where Narragansett Bay meets the Atlantic. Bring a picnic basket and find a nice spot to plop down and breathe in the salty air. This park is unique in that it is surrounded by Newport mansions, a site worth seeing as you drive to and from the park. Open from sunrise to sunset, you’ll want to have the day to explore the hiking trails or cast a line and see what bites. Ocean Drive, Newport. 401-847-2400, riparks.com
Providence County Haines Memorial State Park in East Providence overlooks Narragansett Bay, has a handicap accessible boat ramp, seasonal farmer’s market, restrooms and game fields which are available for rent. There are also 33 picnic sites, each with a fireplace and table that are first come first serve. Route 103, East Providence. 401-253-7482, riparks.com What was once a not-so-nice area has been transformed into a family friendly and safe park. India Point Park in Providence has flourished since its renovations. Now there are walking/running paths that can also be biked on, picnic areas, fields available for frisbee, soccer or football and access for boating. Best part, there are no reservations needed. Sunsets are pretty gorgeous here as well, just saying. Gano Street, Providence. friendsofindiapointpark.org At Pulaski Memorial State Park and Recreation Area in Chepachet, there’s ample opportunity for fishing, picnicking, hiking ten miles of groomed trails, game fields and swimming in the 13acre Peck Pond in the summer. 151 Pulaski Road, Chepachet. 401-568-2085, riparks.com Riding the historic carousel at Crescent Park in Riverside is one of those fond memories every Rhode Islander has. You try to get onto a horse on the outside of the carousel so that you can grab one of those rings. When you do, Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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KitChen Cabinet
OutdOOr Adventures
Scenic Parks
refinishinG
John H. Chaffee Nature Preserve in Narragansett
General PaintinG ComPany Over 35 years experience
Call Anthony for a free consultation 401-480-2366
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South County The John H. Chaffee Nature Preserve in Narragansett is truly a pristine area. There are plenty of shallow
Lincoln Woods
areas to fly fish, gorgeous scenery to hike and trails for horseback riding and bicycles. Feel free to bring the pup, but dogs must be leashed at all times. Boston Neck Road between Hamilton Allenton Road and Route 138, Narragansett. 401-884-2010, riparks.com Browning Mill Pond in Hopkinton offers a serene escape into the woods. While there are plenty of hiking and biking trails, the pond itself is a great resource for canoeing, kayaking and fishing. On one side of the pond you’ll find a picnic area as well as a pavillion for larger group gatherings. Feel free to bring the horses too – they are welcome on the trails. Tefft Hill Trail and Arcadia Road, Richmond. 401-539-2356, exploreri.org If you’re in Narragansett and are looking for a little outdoor retreat, Fishermen’s Memorial State Park and Campground has you covered. There’s plenty of space for
picnicking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, tennis and swimming. If you’re coming here to stay short term, think of it as your seaside village home away from home. Another perk is that this park is just one mile away from the Block Island Ferry dock. 1011 Point Judith Road, Narragansett. 401-789-8374, riparks.com -Grace Lentini
hey Rhody! Looking for a more adventurous way to explore Rhode Island’s green spaces? Whip out that smart phone and start Geocaching (a GPS-based treasure hunt game that guides you to items other players have hidden throughout the state). Log on and search for treasure in parks near you. geocaching.com
Photography: (Bottom) Grace Lentini
Painting, Staining, Clear Coating
that moment is permanently imprinted in your memory. But there’s more to Crescent Park than that magical carousel. There’s plenty of open space overlooking the bay that’s great for picnics or an impromptu game of catch. After all that fun you’ll have worked up an appetite. Head over to Blount Clam Shack to get your fill of clam cakes and chowder or whatever other seafood snack tickles your fancy. 700 Bullocks Point Avenue, Riverside. 401-433-2828, eastprovidence.com Roger Williams Park in Providence really is an oasis in the city. Take the family, go for a walk or sit by a pond and enjoy everything that this park has to offer. Aside from the spectacular zoo, there’s also a playground for the kids (or big kids), a rose garden, the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, the Botanical Center, the casino, the Carousel Village, the Temple to Music, Todd Morsilli tennis courts and Tim O’Neil baseball fields. 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence. 401-785-3510, rwpzoo.org Another retreat just outside Providence is Lincoln Woods State Park. There really is something for the whole family here: swimming in the freshwater beach (with a lifeguard on duty), trout fishing, playing ball, kayaking (Eastern Mountain Sports kayaking school), canoeing, hiking, jogging and horseback riding. 2 Manchester Print Works Road, Lincoln. 401-723-7892, riparks.com
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OutdOOr Adventures
Animal Sanctuaries
Walk on the Wild Side Animal sanctuaries in Rhode Island offer homes to unusual pets Rhode Island’s many animal shelters do a fantas-
Feathered friends from Foster Parrots in Hope Valley
tic job of rescuing dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets and other household pets and placing them in loving homes. But there are other local organizations that care for and preserve very different types of animals – ones that you’re not likely to find in your typical shelter. You might be surprised to know that there are established sanctuaries, conservation lands and rehabilitation facilities for species that are wild, exotic or rare heritage livestock breeds in Rhode Island. If you want to get up close and personal with hawks, llamas, parrots, sheep, tortoises, goats, possums and other animals you probably don’t encounter every day, these are the spots you should flock to.
Photography: (Top) Melissa Stimpson
Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of Rhode island The increasingly warm weather calls us to venture out and enjoy the fresh air and stunning natural beauty of the Ocean State. If you are out hiking in the woods or walking near the ocean and happen to find an injured wild animal, however, it is important to know that you should not try to bring it to a local domestic animal shelter. Instead, you should call the Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of Rhode Island (WRARI), a nonprofit which oversees and operates the Wildlife Clinic of RI – the only wildlife medical/rehabilitation facility in the state. Since 1993, the clinic has served as the first step in a process where injured or orphaned wild animals are brought, evaluated, rehabilitated and later placed in various sanctuaries and conservatories in the area, depending on the species and type of injury. The Wildlife Clinic is made up of a group of both volunteer and staff veterinarians and rehabilitators who annually take in 3,2003,500 birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals. That number is increasing each year.
“We are not an animal removal service, and we will not trap and relocate animals, as that is illegal in Rhode Island,” says Director of Operations Arianna L. Mouradjian, Esq. “We do, however, try to alleviate human/wildlife conflict through public education, and will work with people needing assistance with wildlife issues. Each animal is provided the care it needs for the purpose of eventual release back to the wild,” Arianna explains. WRARI hosts numerous educational and fundraising events at various locations throughout the year, including a spring “Baby Shower,” Earth Day at Roger Williams Zoo, a Pet Expo at the Convention Center, Environmental Awareness Day at Narragansett Beach, Raptor Weekend at the Audubon Center in Bristol, a winter buffet dinner and silent auction, and more. Wildlife Rehabilitators of RI. 240 Shermantown Road, Saunderstown. 401-294-6363, riwildliferehab.org ANIMAL FRIENDS Wild birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals
Born to be Wild Born to Be Wild (BTBW) is the only licensed rehabilitation center specializing in birds of prey, also known as raptors. The non-profit center was founded in 1998 and incorporated in 2000. Its four acres in the town of Bradford house about 65 raptors and two dozen other species of birds and mammals every year, providing food and medical care for them with the
ultimate goal of releasing them back into the wild. “Most birds of prey at the sanctuary have been hit by cars; others fly into manmade obstacles like wires, buildings and windows,” says Vivian Maxson, President of BTBW. “As the number of injured raptors increases every year, a challenge for all nature shelters along the East Coast is providing enough food to feed them. They require a whole animal diet – mainly mice and rats, and we’ve always had a donation of laboratory mice, however a major laboratory is closing here in New England, which has affected many raptor centers. If another source is not found, the cost of purchasing the mice is going to lower the number of patients we are able to take in.” BTBW gives private guided tours of the sanctuary by appointment only for the price of a donation to the birds’ care, and also offers off-site educational programs for audiences of all sizes. Born to Be Wild. Westerly. 401377-8489, hawkri.org ANIMAL FRIENDS Birds of prey (aka raptors)
Foster Parrots If you stop to think about birds that you commonly see in New England, parrots probably aren’t the first species that comes to mind – which is why it may be surprising to learn that there is a local organization that houses more than 450 of these intelligent, beautiful, brightly-colored tropical fowl. Often, individuals choose to adopt parrots as pets without realizing that even pet shop parrots are still wild animals. The larger a parrot is, the longer its average lifespan – some live to be as old as many humans! A pet parrot should be viewed as a lifetime commitment, but owners do not always take this into consideration before adopting them, and later decide they no longer wish to take care of them – which is why Marc Johnson decided to found Foster Parrots and the New England Exotic Wildlife Sanctuary. Foster Parrots was established in 2007 with 15 acres in Hope Valley dedicated to “retired” and wild parrots, as well as a few other exotic pets without homes. Right now, the sanctuary is also home to a Patagonian cavy, two rabbits, a large female iguana, eleven aquatic turtles and eight large African Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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OutdOOr Adventures Animal Sanctuaries
Swiss Village Farm in Newport
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We’re Celebrating Over 29 Years in Business! Cheers! 1986-2015 284 Wickenden Street, Providence, RI • 401-351-1775 Order online at citygardensflowershop.com
Where History Comes to Life Open year-rOund Tuesday - Sunday, 10am - 4pm
1 Colt drive, Bristol, rI www.coggeshallfarm.org 401-253-9062 52
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spurred tortoises. “As America’s third most popular pet, parrots are the flagship or representative species for wildlife whose suffering in captivity cannot continue to be ignored,” says Foster Parrots Executive Director Karen Windsor. “Foster Parrots’ humane education message is broad and inclusive, asking us to re-examine our trans-species relationships and our responsibilities toward the animals with which we share our homes and our planet.” Foster Parrots offers guided educational tours on an appointment basis, and there are adoption opportunities for those committed and qualified. Foster Parrots also offers “virtual adoption,” where you can sponsor a parrot at the sanctuary financially, providing care without all of the work. Volunteers are welcome as well. Foster Parrots. 781-878-3733, fosterparrots.com ANIMAL FRIENDS “Retired” and wild parrots, and other exotic pets without homes
Swiss Village Farm Swiss Village Farm (SVF) in Newport is a special breed of organization even among non-traditional animal conservation groups, fostering a unique mission and purpose. Although Swiss Village Farm’s animals are not technically “wild,” they also aren’t the types of animals typically found in someone’s home. With the motto, “A Bridge to the Future for Heritage Breeds,” SVF’s
non-profit operating foundation is dedicated to preserving lineages of endangered heritage livestock species through the cryopreservation of germplasm. Fourteen buildings house SVF’s offices, laboratories, infirmary, a conference room, and workshops, where on-site staff works with veterinarians from the Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine to collect genetic materials, which are then used to breed the next generation of these rare animals and preserve biodiversity. The organization works with various breeders. Some animals are “on loan,” while others are purchased outright. The ultimate goal is to return the animals back to breeding populations. Visitors are allowed to tour SVF just one day each year. This year’s date will be Saturday, June 13 from 9am3pm. This free public event offers a rare peek into the labs and facilities, the chance to meet veterinarians and scientists, as well as live cryogenics and sheep shearing demonstrations. If you can’t make it to Visitors Day, taking a scenic drive near Fort Adams Park will usually afford some great animal watching as llamas, sheep, goats, ponies, and cows graze on Newport’s green, hilly pastures. SVF is also currently holding a lecture series to raise awareness about local farming systems, sustainable agriculture, and conservation. Swiss Village Farm, Harrison Avenue, Newport. 401-848-7229, svffoundation.org -Amanda M. Grosvenor
Photo courtesy of Swiss Village Farm
Fences | Pergolas | outdoor showers
Waterfront Dining Get a real taste for the Ocean State at these hot spots
The andrea seaside resTauranT 89 Atlantic Ave, Misquamicut Beach, RI 401.348.8788 • andreabeachbar.com outside seating • entertainment Weddings/events
Cap’n JaCks
The CoasT Guard house
Finn’s harBorside
706 Succotash Rd, South Kingstown, RI 401.789.4556 capnjacksrestaurant.com
40 Ocean Rd, Narragansett, RI 401.789.0700 thecoastguardhouse.com
38 Water St, East Greenwich, RI 401.884.6363 finnsharborside.com
Full bar • raw Bar • Great desserts
Lunch • dinner • sunday Brunch
Live Music on Weekends • outdoor seating • Free Customer docking at Marina
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250 Sand Hill Cove Rd, Port of Galilee, RI 401.783.2306 georgesofgalilee.com
1230 Ocean Rd, Narragansett, RI (401) 789-6159 hammerheadgrillri.com
629 Succotash Rd, South Kingstown, RI 401.783.4202 rhodyoysters.com
28 Water St, East Greenwich, RI (401) 398-7774 nautikari.com
al Fresco dining • Take out Window award Winning Food
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1 Beach St, Narragansett, RI 401.792.3999 oceansideatthepier.com
865 Boston Neck Rd,Narragansett, RI 401.789.8153 twinwillowsnarragansett.com
16 West Main St, Wickford, RI 401.294.5771 tavernbytheseari.com
seafood • outside Bar • Live entertainment
indoor/outdoor bar deck seating • Full Menu
overlooking Wickford harbor • outdoor seating & Bar • Fresh Local seafood
15 Bridge Street, Providence, RI 401.588.5158 thewhiskeyrepublic.com Live Music • Full Bar • outdoor seating
» GardeninG experts « Urban aGricUltUre » backyard UpGrades « container GardeninG » learninG to Grow « Farm school »
Home Gardening
Photography by Grace Lentini
Creating your own backyard oasis at home
A dream garden in Bristol
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When Jackie Savoie and Dennis McCool married and moved in together on Poppasquash Point in Bristol, everything was perfect: except the gardens. The couple enlisted Sophath Toun of Soto Design to make Jackie’s dream garden – including a colorful perennial garden overlooking Narragansett Bay, and vegetable and herb gardens – a reality. Now, they’re raising bees and are a part of Blithewold Mansion’s Intimate Garden Tour Series. Turn the page to read more Rhode Island garden profiles. Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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GARDENING
Profile
John Manchester of Manchester Landscaping turned his South Kingstown home into the ultimate showroom
From the Ground Up A landscape architect turns his South Kingstown yard into a living portfolio
Photography by Grace Lentini
For John Manchester,
it’s what’s on the outside that counts. It only makes sense that the professional landscape architect and his family were drawn to a bucolic property on which to build their home. At the helm of Manchester Landscaping for decades, it’s no surprise that when an acre and a quarter of Stewart Nursery’s land in South Kingstown became available, John and his wife jumped at the chance to build their family home. A gargantuan pair of 15-foot rhododendrons John admits he was drawn to proved a good omen for the
Manchesters. After all, he’s a member and past president of the Rhode Island Nursery and Landscape Association. The Manchesters say they were drawn to this area in South County because it was quiet enough for secluded living but convenient to town. John has made the grounds surrounding the family’s charming home a testament to his passion for landscape design. Describing his outdoor space as “different and unique” since it encompasses gardens, a variety of horticultural elements, hardscapes, softscapes and woodlands, John says the overall
design scheme ironically breaks his single most important rule regarding landscape design: he didn’t have a plan. “I always tell my customers, ‘have a plan before you stick a shovel in the ground.’ I broke that right off the bat. A stone garage I built took two years of my spare time. From there I created a walk out because the property slopes so much,” he reveals. “Then I built a partition and gardens off of that, and another garage. It kind of created the bones of a walled-in backyard, so I connected it all, adding a sunken walled-in courtyard.” It’s been an evolution of 15
years, but despite not listening to his own advice, it all comes together cohesively for an enviable outdoor paradise. When homeowners simply can’t wrap their head around a new design, John, a Rhode Island Certified Horticulturalist, welcomes them to see his property. “It’s a great way to show clients the different paving and stonework that I do,” he explains. “People can come to my house and look at a lot of things within the landscape as opposed to in a nursery or garden center. It points them in the right direction.” -Andrea McHugh Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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Find some hidden gems with books on all that Rhode Island has to offer. Explore RI in style with Vera Bradley's new Summer patterns.
GARDENING
Profile
© 2015 Vera Bradley Designs, Inc.
Barking Dog Farm is a small working farm on the West Side of Providence
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When newlyweds Michael and Jen Gazdacko were deciding what to do with the lot they own next to their house in the Armory District on the West Side of Providence, “livestock” wasn’t their first thought. But one trip to bee school and two successful growing seasons later, the couple has a small working city farm they call
Barking Dog Farm. Yellow Lab puppy Sophia “isn’t the barking dog,” Jen says. “She’s the quiet one. Teddy, a silky terrier, is the barking one.” They’re in their third growing season, cultivating extensive vegetable beds, including a Thai garden inspired by their honeymoon in Thailand. Barking Dog is also home to six chickens –
Scituate (a Rhode Island Red), Pot Pie, Kentucky, Jailbird, Big Mama and Little Mama – and about 30,000 bees. “We’ve always wanted bees,” Jen explains. “It’s really good for our neighbors who have gardens, because they pollinate. We get a lot of credit for any bees on the West Side – I think the gardens are doing better because of them.” –Julie Tremaine
Photography (Bottom) by Melissa Stimpson, (Top) by Cat Laine
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Celebrate the Summer of 55 it’s our birthday! Lang’s Bowlarama is proudly celebrating 55 years as a Cranston, Rhode Island Icon! We’ve got a bunch of fun events lined up for the celebration! Sun 5/17 @8pm: Mad Men “End of an Era” Party! Sun 6/28 @11am: 1st Annual Ed Lang Memorial Scholarship Fund Tournament! Sat 8/8 @10am: Car Show to Benefit RI Food Bank! Fri-Sat Oct 2-3: 55th Anniversary Weekend Extravaganza! For more info on all of our Anniversary events visit
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GARDENING
Profile
Warren’s Elaine Felag uses her creative color sense at work and in her garden
There’s No Place Like Home “You can’t miss it. I have a zebra door and peace sign driveway,” says Elaine Felag as if she’s describing the most normal thing in the world. As the owner of Feminine Fancies boutique in Barrington, Elaine’s penchant for vibrant and whimsical design is unmistakable. She abides by the same philosophy in her garden, on the Bristol-Warren border. If you enter on the side of the peace sign driveway, covered in 50 or so darling designs, 60
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you tuck under an arbor punctuated by two bedecked mannequin heads atop the pillars. “Nobody in Rhode Island has a garden like this,” she says. “It’s like a Hollywood set.” Underneath the arbor begins the yellow brick road, which Elaine’s husband Walter installed to complement the garden’s Wizard of Oz theme, which is accented by life-size characters from the film hand-carved by Cranston-
based chainsaw artist Michael Higgins. The sculptures surprisingly blend in with the gardens, replete with decadesold trees, mature hydrangeas, clematis climbing up tree trunks and flora and fauna in every corner. “It’s funky fun,” describes Elaine. “I have things hanging out of my trees. I spray paint my trees and my bushes with plant-safe spray paint. On the lawn are stenciled stars with glitter. I’m not your traditional
gardener.” One second you’re staring at a tree adorned with glittery tiaras and the next you spot a weathered car door tucked deep into the foliage with winding vines growing over it. “I always loved digging in dirt,” Elaine says. “I hate cooking, but I can dig a mean ditch,” says Elaine about cultivating a place uniquely hers.“ All I do is click my heels and there’s no place like home.” -Andrea McHugh
Photography by Michael Cevoli
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GARDENING
Green Thumbs
Digging Deep Turn to local experts to bring your gardening game to the next level Learn from the Pros
Photo courtesy of URI Master Gardeners
When you’ve decided you’re ready to take your green game up a notch, get your masters: the URI Master Gardeners, that is. The group of over 600 experienced green thumbs is an educational and environmental resource for the state. The Master Gardeners’ website has everything from a Rhode Island seed calendar, telling you when to start planting, to a hotline number, manned every day between March and October, for you to call and get advice. The group has annual events like garden tours, and hosts plant sales every season at East Farm, their outpost in Kingston. It takes 14 weeks of training and hundreds of hours in the garden to become a Master Gardener, studying everything from plant nutrition to gardening for wildlife and organic methods. Once you’re in, there’s a requisite amount of volunteer work: gardeners help maintain green space around the state, and regularly speak in schools and at garden clubs. They’ve even put out a cookbook: From Rhode Island Gardens to Your Table, featuring locavore recipes and wines. urimastergardeners.org
Keep it All in the Family The Farmer’s Daughter in South Kingstown is a beautiful place to visit, even if you aren’t planning a major garden overhaul. The nursery and garden store has greenhouses and artful plant displays as far as the eye can see. They also have The Garden of Wings Butterfly Pavilion, where you can explore a Monarch butterfly habitat, which opens for the season on June 27. The Farmer’s
hey Rhody! Want to learn more? Check out The Rhode Island Gardener’s Companion: An Insider’s Guide to Gardening in the Ocean State by Portsmouth’s Barbara Gee. barbaragee.com
URI Master Gardeners plant sale at URI’s East Farm
Daughter also has frequent events – for Easter, there was an egg hunt and an appearance by the bunny himself – and offers extensive classes at varying levels of expertise. In June alone, there are classes in Succulent Sphere Hanging Baskets (June 3), Gourmet Mushroom Hunting (June 3), Hanging Tear Drop Planters (June 5), Savvy Succulent Containers (June 6), a Butterfly Container class (June 10) and a Garden to Grille class (June 24). 726 Moorsefield Road, South Kingstown. 401-792-1340, thefarmersdaughterri.com
Go Green, Really Green Growing is one thing – growing safely and sustainably is entirely another. The Northeast Organic Farming Association of Rhode Island is a collaboration between farmers, consumers, gardeners and environmentalists to promote best organic growing practices. The group offers regular educational workshops, called CRAFT (Collaborative Regional Alliance for Farmer Training), which are free to the public. On June 23, join John Kenny from Big Train Farm for “Raise Better Vegetables with Chickens in Crop Rotations.” 401-523-2653, nofari.org
Become an Urban Agriculturalist The South Side Community Land
Trust does a lot to cultivate green space in Providence, overseeing 13 community gardens, as well as two for-profit farms that fund the trust by selling food at city farmer’s markets. Their mission, though, is to educate as many people about healthy eating and growing as possible. They offer regular Plant Providence workshops, which are affordable and accessible to everyone (because let’s face it, gardening can be an expensive hobby). They also have children’s educational initiatives at City Farm, which brings 200 kids per summer to the farm to teach them how to raise plants. southsideclt.org
Cultivate Your Garden Network Think gardening is something you do in just your own yard? Think again. The Rhode Island Federation of Garden Clubs is an umbrella organization for all of the Ocean State’s garden clubs – and there are a lot. Their focus is on education, civic design and promoting the love of gardening. They’re also a regular presence at the Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show. There’s no better way to hone your skills than to learn from the experts in your community – so get involved, and get growing. rigardenclubs.org -Julie Tremaine
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GARDENING
Beginner Growing
Container Gardening 101 Never gardened before? Here’s how to start If you’ve always been curious about gardening, this is the year you earn your green thumb. Being responsible for plant life may seem overwhelming, but with a little know-how and a bit of luck, you can watch the fruits of your labor grow all summer long. No matter how much (or little) space you have to work with, there’s a container solution that can add a little life to any area. Step 2: To Seed or to Plant?
Are you more of an “eat what you grow” or a “look at the pretty flowers” kind of person? If you’re in the market for plants you can eat, there are plenty of herbs and vegetables that can work for you. It’s best to choose plants with shallow, hearty roots. Good herbs for outdoor containers are chives, basil, parsley, cilantro, thyme and rosemary. Once these herbs become established, they can be happily added to tons of recipes. If you are looking for something a little more substantial to consume, then micro greens, spinach, tomatoes, arugula, strawberries and radishes are some great options. However, if you’re just looking to brighten up an area with some color, consider flowers that stem from bulbs: tulips, lily of the valley, buttercups and hyacinths are a few options. These types of flowers are perennials and return year after year for continued enjoyment. Annuals, another great option for flowers, only last for one season, but are thoroughly enjoyable all season long. Petunias, gardenias, impatiens, verbenas, begonias and lobelias are good flowering options.
Choose to start from seed or starter plants. Herbs and flowers can both be started from seed. Although this is a cheaper option, it takes more work and patience. Seeds also need to be started by late spring so that you can eat them before it gets too hot or too cold later in the season. Micro greens, spinach, arugula and any leafy greens should be planted in late spring because they are sensitive to the hot mid-summer sun. Herbs are more hearty and will withstand the heat. Seeds are available at Benny’s locations statewide. hellobennys.com Starter plants are a great option for those who want healthy and strong plants now. Most garden supply centers carry a wide variety of herbs and vegetables that they have grown from seed and are perfectly happy to be planted in your container. The hard work and patience it takes to grow something from seed has been done for you, and now all there is to do is give these starter plants a new home. Check out local gardening centers such as Confreda Greenhouses and Farms for starter plants. 2150 Scituate Avenue, Hope. 401-827-5000, confredas.com
hey Rhody! Confreda Farms in Hope offers frequent lessons in gardening, like a Fairy Garden Workshop on June 24. confredas.com
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Step 3: Choose Your Container Wisely Pick your container. Think about where you have the room to place some containers and consider the shapes and sizes of the plants you need to grow them in. Take, for example, micro greens. In order to grow enough of these to make a salad, you will need a long window box planter. These can easily be
For small vegetable gardens, a straw bale is an eco-friendly growing container
placed along porches, walkways, fences or any place that gets plenty of sunlight. Herbs on the other hand will be perfectly happy in smaller pots, which is nice if you’d like a couple of pretty planters scattered about. Smaller annuals and perennials work very nicely in small pots as well, or grouped together in a larger one. A wide variety of containers can be found at Ocean State Job Lot and local garden centers. oceanstatejoblot.com
Step 4: Construct Your Garden Now it’s time to get some soil and plant food. Lucky for you there are potting mixes available for every plant you have. Now is also a good time to consider plant food. As your plants continue to grow, they will need more than just water, they will need nutrients, just like us. Plant foods differ in amount of nutrients and how often they are required to be added to plants, read the labels for specific directions. So, now you have you’re plants, their containers and soil. Let’s get these bad boys in their containers. Fill up the pot roughly half to three quarters of the way with the appropriate potting soil. Arrange the plants throughout the planter with some space between them. This will give plants the ability to grow outward and give their roots plenty of room to spread out.
Once the plants are in place, fill up the remaining space with the potting soil. Make sure not to pack the soil too densely. If the soil is too dense, drainage could be compromised, which causes root rot. Now it’s time to water your newly planted plants. Give them a good watering. This will sort of glue the plants to the soil, and cause them to establish themselves in their new home. Each plant has different watering needs. The best way to figure out how often a plant should be watered is to stick your finger into the soil about an inch down. If the soil is dry, it’s time to water again. Some plants need to be watered every couple of days, while others only require weekly waterings. So there you have it. The once daunting task of adding a little life to your outdoor space isn’t so scary after all. With a litle care and commitment, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor all year long. -Grace Lentini
Photos: Jessica Grejdus
Step 1: Pick Your Plants
The warm weather is approaching, and there’s something for everyone at Warwick Mall! Shop spring and summer trends, browse patio furniture at Jordan’s and Target, or have a bite and relax by the fire pit at Not Your Average Joe’s. warwickmall.com
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GARDENING
Outdoor Greenery
Two (Green) Thumbs Up Make your outdoor space spring forward with these expert tips It wasn’t New England’s first harsh winter and it
The Umbrella Factory Gardens in Charlestown
won’t be its last. Area professionals weigh in on how to evaluate the condition of your trees and plants and offer new suggestions to spruce up your container gardens, window boxes and surrounding landscape in the months ahead. The good news: New England survived the snowiest five-week stretch on record. The bad news: the unenviable milestone wasn’t reached without repercussions. But if you’re looking out on your lawn or patio and wondering if your trees, plants and containers will ever be lush again, there’s hope. “I’m sure people lost a lot of stuff,” says horticulturist Patrick Shellman of the Fantastic Umbrella Factory Gardens in Charlestown. “A lot of things aren’t even up yet and should be.” Fortunately for Patrick, the bulk of his concentration is on container plants – many tropical varieties plus perennials like ferns and bromeliads, grown in cozy greenhouses. Though Patrick’s plants are as colorful as they are plentiful, they are also tailored to the less-than-stellar green thumbs. “I’ve weeded out all the hard stuff,” says Patrick with a laugh. “Everything I grow is easy to maintain.” Patrick says he’s been gardening and growing since childhood, and has been at the lauded Umbrella Factory Gardens for 36 years, arriving not long after
T.F. Morra Tree Care experts can help you maintain your trees
Robert Bankel established the Umbrella Factory on his own farmland. Today, head-turning decorative plants, like the banana plant with its signature large palm leaves are just one of Patrick’s suggestions for trees that are both striking and versatile. Banana plants are a prime example of a plant that does well outside in the summer months and if positioned in a sunny spot in the winter, can survive and thrive. “I sell a lot of them every year. I grow a red leaf one that grows so big,” he says. Another one of Patrick’s favorites is the papyrus plant, a tall aquatic plant with a distinctive, whimsical look. “They have a big pom pom head on them and they’re great,” he says. Both of these do require frequent watering, but not much more. To inspire visitors to create inspiring, colorful containers in and around their homes and yards, Patrick crafts oversized display arrangements in containers and hanging baskets, and he’s always willing to dole out advice. “I put on a big display; big containers and huge hanging baskets just for people to look at and try to do,” he says. But not everyone is as confident in their own gardening skills, so one day, a customer brought Patrick a container and wanted the skilled horticulturist to work his magic in the provided pot. Soon, “bring-your-own-containers” became common practice at the Umbrella Factory Gardens. “People bring me hundreds and hundreds of containers and I make up things that work well together depending on the sun they get,” he says. Patrick’s also keenly aware of how big each plant will grow, how much space it will need in the container to thrive, and what invasive plants to avoid. “I like coleus but when
you try to put them in a nice container... they tend to take over. I recommend they go in a pot by themselves,” he explains. Though customers are welcome to bring their own containers, most are equally enchanted with the containers the Fantastic Umbrella Factory Gardens has on site for sale. Patrick says they sell about 6.5 tons of pottery there annually. 420 Old Post Road, Charlestown. 401-364-6616
While plants have a lot of do-ityourself options, trees are a different story. “Someone inexperienced in the field of arboriculture can do a great deal of damage, often irreversible, to a valuable tree or plant in a very short period of time,” explains Tom Morra of T.F. Morra Tree Care. “Anything that involves working off of the ground should be left to a trained professional arborist.” Morra’s company holds an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification and has been declared a Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP) by the Tree Care Industry Association. Though voluntary, these credentials show consumers an arborist’s level of professionalism and commitment to the craft. Tom says now is the time to take a look at your trees and see how they managed our coldest season. “Mature deciduous trees fared pretty well… Evergreen trees, however, suffered
significant winter injury from severe and extended cold periods, and smaller, delicate plants definitely took a beating from all of the snow,” he explains. Signs of winter injury include yellowing or browning foliage, sometimes resulting in dieback. For smaller plants, he says, inspect trunks and branches for cracking or bent/broken stems. Sometimes bent or broken branches can be cabled or otherwise anchored back in place, but more often they need to be pruned out. “As far as winter injury, a good dose of foliar fertilizer can really help green them back up in the spring. I also recommend starting a spray program with antitranspirant in the fall,” he says, so you can give a layer of protection going into the colder months. If you’re looking to add more trees to your landscape, Tom suggests sticking with native species as well as trees that are locally grown since they are intrinsically adapted to our climate. “It’s always a good idea to consult with a knowledgeable arborist about species selection for a particular situation and to make a good selection for the long term health of the tree as well as the rest of your landscape,” he adds. “When managed properly, the trees and plants in your landscape can contribute significantly to property value while providing shade, beauty and all of nature’s benefits at the same time.” 401-331-8527, tfmorra.com -Andrea McHugh Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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GARDENING
Learn to Farm
Anywhere Farming A beginner’s guide to gardening, keeping bees and raising chickens If you’ve ever had fantasies of making your own little house on the prairie but don’t think you have the space for it, think again. There are creative ways to grow your own food, make your own honey and keep chickens in almost any yard.
So you have a little piece of land and have decided that you want to grow something besides grass and weeds on it. The first thing you need to do is pick a bright, sunny location and clear the area of any grass or weeds that are currently growing. Then you will want to loosen the soil down six or eight inches. Take a gardening hoe and churn up the soil in your predetermined location. Doing this will promote good root growth. Next, consider how many rows you would like to have. Use the small garden hoe to create the rows. This also gives plants a natural drainage area where water can collect when it rains or when the garden is watered. The rows only need to be dug a few inches into the soil. Once you’ve made your rows, it’s time to plant. If you’re creating a garden for food, consider the time of year and whether you want to use seeds or starter plants. Good plants to start from seed are lettuces, peas and herbs. Some good starter plants available at most garden centers are tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, eggplant and tomatillos. There are also many herbs available as starter plants.
hey Rhody! Love farm-fresh veggies, but don’t have time to grow them yourself? The Farm Fresh Veggie Box is a weekly subscription of straight-from-the-Rhode-Islandfarm edibles, without all of the work of going to the farms yourself. farmfresh.org
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Once you have chosen your seeds or plants or a combination there of, it’s time to get to planting. Give plants some space between one another. Think about how a plant will grow, it will need room to do that. Plant in the rows you’ve dug out. Once all the plants are nestled in, give them a good watering. This will help to “glue” the plants into the ground and help them to establish themselves into their new home. When watering your newly planted garden, opt for a good, deep watering once or twice a week as opposed to a light watering every day. Watering plants once or twice a week will promote deeper root growth, and it will save water. Gardens only need about one inch of water per week. Need a hands-on instructional class? In Providence, the South Side Community Land Trust offers gardening instruction (PlantProvidence.org). In Warren, visit the New Urban Farmers (NewUrbanFarmers.com).
Beekeeping for Beginners Bee-lieve it or not, there is a movement towards keeping your own bees, and with good reason. Keeping your own bees will increase your garden’s productivity, provide you with pounds of honey and help add to the declining bee population. But there are many things to consider when starting an apiary. First, check your local laws and do your research to make sure that you are allowed to own bees in your town. Additionally, owning bees isn’t like buying a cactus that you may or may not kill. Bees are living organisms that require care and have costs associated with them. Because of this, there are classes available at the University of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College offered by the
Chickens from Cluck! in Providence
RI Beekeepers Association to teach you everything there is to know about keeping bees. Beginner beekeeping classes begin every February. Everything a beginner beekeeper needs to know is covered throughout the course, like the honeybee life cycle, buying bees and equipment, choosing the best site for your apiary, where and how to buy bees, types of equipment you’ll need, how to put the hive together, getting the bees into said hive and nectar sources. During the course there will be demonstrations and equipment available for viewing. By the end of the course you will well on your way to your goal of beekeeping. ribeeker.org/bee-school
Raising Chickens Everyone knows that free range eggs taste the best. Happy chickens lay even happier eggs, and you can have them every morning if you’re in the market for some backyard chickens. Of course the first step is to check your local laws to see how many chickens you are allowed to have, if roosters are allowed or if you can have chickens at all. Once you’ve figured this out, talk to a professional – someone who can tell you everything you need to know about what it takes to keep chickens. Cluck! Urban Farm and Garden Supply in Providence is a wonderful resource for keeping chickens and
A healthy colony of bees
beyond. A quick perusal of their website (www.cluckri.com) and you will find out ways to start your flock, where to get hens, chicks or fertilized eggs and how to choose a breed. They even offer services such as coop consultations, which is a great way to determine where to keep your flock. Consultations take into account all aspects of your backyard. Drake Patten, the owner of Cluck!, will suggest the best management practices including setback, size and building strategies. She can also give you her advice for the best way to start your own flock. This practical overview covers how you want to start your flock – with chicks, pullets (a young hen) or egglaying hens – and which breeds are right for you. With a little know-how and great advice, you’ll be well on your way to farm fresh eggs straight from your backyard. –Grace Lentini
Phto (Top) courtesy of Cluck!, (Bottom) E&M Photography
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OUTDOOR GUIDE Appliances Gil’s Television & Appliances Gil’s TV & Appliances is a family-owned appliance and electronics store. They offer well-known brands, affordable prices, with a selection that suits any budget. 397 Metacom Ave., Bristol. 401-253-9789. gilsappliances.com Kitchen Guys Supplying new, refurbished and scratch and dent residential and commercial appliances for over 23 years. Wide selection and delivery services available. 416 Roosevelt Ave., Central Falls. 401-7230500, kitchenguys.com
Art & Framing
Russo Marine/Silver Spring Marina Russo Marine’s four acre full service facility at Silver Spring Marina is equipped to provide a location, service and care to boats with 100 slips, storage areas, and a maintenance facility equipped with a 35-ton boat lift. 362 Pond St., Wakefield. 401-783-0783, russomarine.com Seven B’s Eighty-foot Lydia yacht suited for fishing, whale watching, weddings, anniversaries and special events equipped with galley service for breakfast or lunch. 30 State St., Narragansett. 401789-9250, sevenbs.com Wickford Sailing Association The Wickford Sailing Association (WSA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the instruction of sailing to youth ages 8-18 and adults. Programs are available for beginners, intermediates and racers. 165 Pleasant St., North Kingstown. 401294-2525, wickfordsailing.org
Picture This Custom framing, antique maps, photography and art gallery. 158 Wickenden St., Providence. 401-273-7263; Quo Vadis Shopping Center 552 Kingstown Rd., Wakefield. 401-789-6200. picturethisgalleries.com
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Providence Picture Frame The biggest art and frame company In New England providing consultation, service and inspiration. 27 Dryden Lane, Providence. 401-4216196. providencepictureframe.com
Davitt Design Build Architects and builders work as a team to create uniquely styled new homes, renovations and restorations. 4 Frank Ave., West Kingston. 401-792-9799. davittdesignbuild.com
Automobile AutoWerks Honest, worry-free sales and service. Free pick-up and delivery. Custom vehicle purchasing and free expert advice. Providence. 401-474-1300, werkswell.com
Biking Dash Bicycle Full-service bicycle shop that sells, services, and rents various styles for novices and all-season riders alike. 267 Broadway, Providence. 401-453-3274, dashbicycle.com
Boating Community Boating Center Founded as a non-profit organization, CBC offers a variety of opportunities that allow the general public to experience the thrill of sailing in upper Narragansett Bay. 109 India St., Providence. 401-454-7245, communityboating.com
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Sweenor Builders Custom home building and remodeling since 1989. 12 High St., Wakefield. 401789-4341. sweenorbuilders.com
Camps Dwares JCC Traditional summer camp camaraderie with the convenience of being a day camp. Swim lessons and lunch provided to all campers. Ages 2-15, open to all. 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence. 401-421-4111, jewishallianceri.org Fit2cook4Kids A summer camp program of Food and Truth, a nonprofit organization with the mission to teach kids 8 - 15 to prepare healthy food with a chef, stay fit with yoga and communicate for success. Fit2cook4Kids.org. Food And Truth, Creators of www. Fit2cook4Kids.org LaSalle Academy Innovative and fun camps designed for upcoming 5th to 8th graders to dabble in music, theater, sports, and academics during morning or afternoon sessions.
Resource Directory 612 Academy Ave., Providence. 401-3517750, lasalleacademy.org Moses Brown Summer Camps An exciting, fun-filled summer at Moses Brown Summer Camps provides educational and recreational opportunities for students ages 3-17, ranging from youth architecture programs to sports camps alike. 250 Lloyd Ave., Providence. 401831-7350, mosesbrown.org Rocky Hill School Traditional, specialty and academic camps for children ages 3 to 18 in both half and full-day programs run by experienced teachers, counselors, and counselors-in-training. Extended day options available. 30 Ives Rd., East Greenwich. 401-884-9070, rockyhill.org
Cleaning Paradise Cleaning & Restoration Offering a full service, 24-hour, oncall emergency disaster recovery program for issues like fire damage, mold and flooding. 170 Aquidneck Ave., Middletown. 401-849-6644, paradisedisasterrestoration.com SoftWash Solutions Residential and commercial exterior cleaning professionals. Cranston. 401396-7960
Closets Closets Etc. Custom closet designs for home and office since 1987. Locally and femalemajority owned, services include building and installation, and complimentary design. 866-642-1705, closetsetc.com
Community Resources The Providence Foundation Local organization seeking to revitalize downtown Providence and provide long-term economic and social benefits to Rhode Island citizens through city improvements. 30 Exchange Terrace, Providence. 401-5213248, provfoundation.com Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council Organization that encourages, supports, and promotes the restoration and preservation of the Woonasquatucket River as an economical, recreational, and cultural state asset. 27 Sims Ave., Providence. 401-861-9046, wrwc.org
Fabric & Upholstery artéé fabrics & home Fabrics, trims and accessories for window treatments, sofas and bedding. Consultation to installation services. 228 Main St., Pawtucket. 401-723-2400, arteefabricsandhome.com
Farms Confreda Greenhouses & Farms A family run operation since 1922, the Confreda family has worked to provide customers with high quality produce and planting material to spread the joy of family farming. 2150 Scituate Ave., Hope. 401-827-5000, confredas.com The Farmer’s Daughter The Farmer’s Daughter features an extensive array of unusual and rare flowers, and staff members eager to share their knowledge and expertise. 716 Mooresfield Rd., South Kingstown. 401-792-1340 Sunset Farm This scenic farmstead on Point Judith is both a producer of homegrown veggies and the location of the historic Kinney Bungalow, which is an elegant hosting location for weddings and other events. 505 Point Judith Rd., Narragansett. 401788-2573, kinneybungalow.com
Financial Services Baystate Financial One of New England’s oldest and largest privately owned financial services firms. 401 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence. 401432-8802, joshuagorra.com
Gardening Supplies Andy’s Landscape Nursery Quality landscape work and plant material with an emphasis on customer service since 1946. 60 Knight St., Warwick. 401739-3738, andyslandscapenursery.com Tranquil Water Gardens Tranquil Water Gardens provides a backyard pond building and supply service that creates backyard oases across New England from their centralized location. 3415 Mendon Rd., Cumberland. 401-6584547, tranquilwatergardens.com
Golf & Country Clubs Exeter Country Club A 6,291-yard public golf course
OUTDOOR GUIDE featuring clubhouse and restaurant access, private parties, catering services, and a fully stocked pro shop. 320 Ten Rod Rd., Exeter. 401-2958212, exetercc.com Laurel Lane Country Club Laurel Lane Country Club is an 18 hole, 6,128 yard public golf course equipped with multiple lounge and bar areas, a fine restaurant, and a pro shop. 309 Laurel Lane, West Kingston. 401-783-3844, laurellanecountryclub.com Meadow Brook Golf The longest public golf course in the state, Meadow Brook golf provides a par 72 course to challenge the seasoned golfer with the reward of a full bar and restaurant to relax in afterwards. 163 Kingstown Rd., Richmond. 401-539-8491, meadowbrookgolfri.com
Heating & Cooling Statewide Plumbing and Heating Prompt and professional service in all phases of commercial, industrial, and residential plumbing, heating, air-conditioning and drain cleaning, as well as total remodeling. 160 North View Ave., Cranston. 401-944-5752, statewideplumbinginc.com
Hobbies Wild Birds Unlimited Your source for fresh bird food, as well as locally made, high quality bird feeders, garden accents and unique gifts. Trader Joe’s Plaza, 1000 Bald Hill Rd., Warwick. 401-826-0606. wbu.com/warwick
Home Accessories & Decor Barrington Books Barrington Books offers vibrant community events, author appearances, and the very best in books, toys and gifts. 184 County Rd., Barrington. 401-245-7925, barringtonbooks.com
center is located right off Route 44 in Smithfield, and is home to stores such as Dave’s, Barnes and Noble, American Eagle and more, as well as restaurants like Chili’s and Panera. 371 Putnam Pike, Smithfield. crossingatsmithfield.com Homestyle Artful objects for life and home, including furniture, décor, tableware and art. 229 Westminster St., Providence. 401277-1159. homestyleri.com Le’s Isle Rose A large assortment of gifts, baskets and floral arrangements. 1000 Division St., East Greenwich. 401-8858390, lesislerose.com Stock Culinary Goods Kitchen tools, gadgets, gifts and resources for those who love to cook. Wedding registry of Rhode Island and New England crafted gifts. 756 Hope St., Providence. 401-521-0101. stockpvd.com Warwick Mall Completely renovated in 2010, the Warwick Mall features top retailers and restaurants, a restored carousel, bright concourses and much more. 400 Bald Hill Rd., Warwick. 401-7397500. warwickmall.com Zero Wampum Large retail boutique with a wide selection of beach inspired and nautical themed home decor and gifts. 161 Old Tower Hill Rd., Wakefield, 401-789-7172. zerowampum.com
Home Entertaining Johnson & Wales University A wide range of evening, weekend and online continuing education programs perfect for working professionals, career changers, degree completers or first-time students. 8 Abbott Park Place, Providence. 401-598-2300. academics.jwu.edu/chefs-choice/
Home Supplies
City Gardens Flower Shop Operating in Providence for over 29 years, City Gardens offers distinctive cut flowers and plants for all occasions. Online ordering and statewide delivery available. 284 Wickenden St., Providence. 401-351-1775, citygardensflowershop.com
Benny’s Locally owned and operated, this superstore carries housewares, bikes and sporting equipment, patio furniture and grills, paint mixing services and more. Multiple locations throughout Rhode Island and neighboring Massachusetts. hellobennys.com
The Crossing at Smithfield This popular shopping and dining
Sears Hometown Store Family owned and operated locally in
Resource Directory North Kingstown, Sears Hometown Store offers brand name appliances, power tools, lawn mowers and more. 6655 Post Road, North Kingstown. 401-885-1120. searshometownstores. com/locations/north-kingstown-ri
Interior Design Kreatelier Interior decorating services including window treatments, interior accents, upholstery, and locally made fabric creations, such as pillows, quilts and children’s products. 804 Hope St., Providence. 401-432-7995. kreatelier.com
Landscaping All-Scapes A full service company offering landscaping, hardscapes, tree service and pool and water needs. 354 South County Trail, Exeter. 401-294-3725. allscapesri.com Vision Landscaping Landscape construction, excavation, tree service and lawn care maintenance programs available for South County. 401-954-6464. visionlandscaping-ri.com
Local Adventures Block Island Ferry Year-round service to and from Block Island, with traditional and high-speed ferry options. 304 Great Island Rd., Narragansett. 401-7837996, blockislandferry.com Block Island Tourism Learn everything you need to for any upcoming visit to this beautiful, nearby island. 40 Center Rd., Block Island. 800383-BIRI(2474), blockislandinfo.com Coggeshall Farm Museum This living museum preserves a 1790s salt-marsh farm and is an educational resource of 18th century farm activity. 1 Colt Dr., Bristol. 401-253-9062. coggeshallfarm.org/ Rhode Island Bay Cruises Sightseeing and sunset cruises on Narragansett Bay sailing past lighthouses, Islands, waterfront mansions, under the Jamestown & Newport Bridges and through Newport Harbor. Complimentary dockside parking. 1347 Roger Williams Way, North Kingstown. 401-2954040, rhodeislandbaycruises.com
Roger Williams Park Zoo One of the oldest zoos in the country spanning 40 acres, featuring guided tours through eight exhibits, various educational and family programs, and volunteer opportunities. 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence. 401-785-3510, rwpzoo.org Stepping Stone Ranch Located in the backcountry of West Greenwich, Stepping Stone Ranch offers horse camps, riding lessons, horse boarding Home of the Cowboy Rendezvous, country weddings and more. 201 Escoheag Hill Rd., West Greenwich. 401397-3725, steppingstoneranch.com Vineyard Fast Ferry Save hours of travel time with the island’s most luxurious ferry service, and enjoy some breathtaking sights from the roomy sundeck. 1347 Roger Williams Way, North Kingstown. 401-295-4040, vineyardfastferry.com.
Local Food & Drink Annie B’s Honey Farm Annie B’s Farm works with local bees that have a reputation for gentleness and, above all, excellent honey. 15 Alaska St., Cumberland. 401-481-8293, anniebsfarm.com Dave’s Market Locally owned and operated since 1969, Dave’s Marketplace takes great pride in providing high quality meats, local seafood, produce and prepared foods with exceptional customer service. With nine locations throughout RI, Dave’s is just a short ride away. davesmarketplace.com, 401-885-1191. Narragansett Beer Hi Neighbor, have a ‘Gansett! Celebrating 125 years of brewing history, Narragansett has been crafting the finest classic lagers and ales since 1890. Available at restaurants and liquor stores throughout Rhode Island and beyond. narragansettbeer.com
Outdoor & Seasonal Dining The Andrea Seaside Restaurant Seasonal food, weekly specials and gorgeous oceanfront views since 1912. 89 Atlantic Ave., Westerly. 401-348-8788, andreabeachbar.com AQUA A poolside lounge at the Providence Marriott Downtown, AQUA is open to the public for handcrafted cocktails Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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OUTDOOR GUIDE and seasonal fusion cuisine. 1 Orms St., Providence. 401-272-2400, www. aquaprovidence.com Cap’n Jack’s Restaurant & Salt Marsh Pub Family owned and operated for over 40 years and located on the Succotash salt marsh, stop here for some classic New England eats. 706 Succotash Rd., South Kingstown. 401789-4557, capnjacksrestaurant.com Champlin’s Seafood Fresh lobster, clam cakes and more overlooking the Narragansett Bay. 256 Great Island Rd., Narragansett. 401-783-3152, champlins.com Coast Guard House Recently renovated following Hurricane Sandy, the Coast Guard House features iconic views, comfortable lounge and dining areas, and of course, high quality dining. 40 Ocean Rd., Narragansett. 401-789-0700, thecoastguardhouse.com Costantino’s Venda Bar & Ristorante Savor authentic Italian cuisine yearround at one of Costantino’s two dining floors, adorned with an Old World ambience and world-class cuisine. Soak up live music every night on Depasquale Plaza during warmer weather months. 265 Atwells Ave., Providence. 401-528-1100, costantinosristorante.com Finn’s Harborside Seated at the helm of Greenwich Cove, Finn’s Harborside is the destination for fresh seafood, live music and beautiful scenery. 38 Water St., East Greenwich. 401-884-6363, finnsharborside.com George’s of Galilee George’s has been serving up fresh seafood in Narragansett through two generations. They offer five different dining areas, live entertainment, a gift shop and waterfront views of Block Island Sound. 250 Sand Hill Cove Rd., Narragansett. 401-783-2306
treats, and alcohol selections providing indoor and outdoor seating, morning to night. 9 Wayland Ave., Providence. 401-331-4444, lartisan-café.com
offering porters, ales, and stouts plus late-night grub and growlers to go. 186 Fountain St., Providence. 401453-2337, trinitybrewhouse.com
Matunuck Oyster Bar With oysters plucked from their waterfront pond and produce harvested from an organic vegetable farm situated on Potter Road, the Matunuck Oyster Bar provides a unique waterfront dining experience. 629 Succotash Rd., South Kingstown. 401-7834202, rhodyoysters.com
Twin Willows Casual water-view dining with fresh lobsters and steamers served daily. 865 Boston Neck Rd., Narragansett. 401-789-8153, twinwillowsnarragansett.com
McBride’s Pub Irish-inspired, family owned pub equipped with classic appetizers, entrees and kids selections featuring patio seating and free parking. 161 Wayland Ave., Providence. 401-7513000, mcbrides-pub.com Nautika Restaurant & Bar Inspired by Rhode Island’s abundance of fresh seafood, family-owned and operated Nautika Restaurant and Bar provides a fusion between Italian and New American cuisines to East Greenwich’s waterfront. 28 Water Street, East Greenwich. 401-3987774, nautikari.com. Oceanside at the Pier Restaurant & Bar Founded by best friends with over 30 years of shared restaurant experience, Oceanside at the Pier provides fresh local seafood and cocktails overlooking Narragansett Beach. 1 Beach St., Narragansett. 401-7923999, oceansideatthepier.com The Salted Slate American food crafted with local and global producers offering weekend brunch and weekly lunch and dinner services. 186 Wayland Ave., Providence. 401-270-3737, saltedslate.com Tavern by the Sea Cocktails and seafood-themed delicacies await visitors at Tavern by the Sea, which offers a rustic setting complete with a waterfront deck. 16 West Main St., Wickford. 401-2945771, tavernbytheseari.com
Haruki Japanese dining with contemporary American edge in an upscale, minimalist setting featuring a la carte sushi selections and an abundant entrée menu. 172 Wayland Ave., Providence. 401223-0332; 1210 Oaklawn Ave, Cranston 401-463-8338, haruskisushi.com
Tortilla Flats An iconic Providence restaurant with a John Steinbeck-inspired location and design. Mexican and Southwestern comfort food, plus expansive bar offering signature margaritas. 355 Hope St., Providence. 401-751-6777, tortillaflatsri.com
L’Artisan Café & Bakery French and Middle Eastern-inspired café with handcrafted menu items,
Trinity Brewhouse An award-winning restaurant and brewpub in downtown Providence,
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Resource Directory
Whiskey Republic/Lola’s Side-by-side neighborhood nightlife staples The Whiskey Republic and Lola’s Tequila Bar host a buzzing crowd of locals any day of the week. 15 Bridge St., Providence. 401-5885158, thewhiskeyrepublic.com
Outdoor Entertainment Edaville Railroad A family amusement park featuring 20 rides, Thomas Land, a museum and much more. 5 Pine St., Carver, MA. 508-866-8190, edaville.com Rustic Drive-In The last-standing state drive-in in Rhode Island, this outdoor theater showcases double features AprilSeptember. 1195 Eddie Dowling Hwy., North Smithfield. 401-769-7601
Outdoor Home Supplies Aqua Pools New England based company that designs, services and installs highquality pools, spas and poolscapes. 53 Newberry Rd., East Windsor, CT. (888) 55POOLS (7-6657), aquapool.com Cedar Works Cedar Works designs, restores and installs custom structures made from the highest quality cedar. Jamestown. 401-419-6207, jeff@cedarworksri.com, cedarworksri.com New England Outdoor Products New England Outdoor Products has playset, doghouse, and custom shed necessities for the entire family, with additional landscaping services to make the most of your summer yard. 42 Winthrop St., Rehoboth, MA. 774565-0786, neoutdoorproducts.com Pat’s Power Equipment Serving the community for over 39 years, Pat’s Power Equipment is Rhode Island’s local authorized dealer for trusted power equipment brands including SnowEx, Briggs & Stratton and more. 3992 Old Post Rd., Charlestown. 401-364-6114, patspower.com
Painting & Supplies General Painting Co Painting and power washing services with 30 years of great customer service. Call for free estimates. Providence. 401-480-2366 Gorilla Painting & Gutter Innovative paint solutions and complete gutter service. 401-871-4500, gorillapaintandgutter.com
Pest Control AAA Pest Control AAA Pest Control has been serving Rhode Island for over 30 years, specializing in single episode extermination. 15 Coloniel Rd., Scituate. 401-714-2777
Real Estate Gerri Schiffman of Residential Properties Residential Properties #1 agent since 1996, Gerri Schiffman follows her motto “real estate with a passion,” assisting buyers and sellers in the housing market. 140 Wickenden St., Providence. 401-474-3733, gerrischiffman.com
Restoration Harrison Restoration, Inc. With over 30 years of experience, Harrison provides commercial and residential restoration specializing in brick, stone, historic preservation and masonry work for all projects. 401617-6376, www.harrisonri.com.
Tree Care T.F. Morra Tree Care, Inc. Hand pruning, tree preservation, hazard tree removal, tree evaluation and diagnosis, and shade and specimen tree planting. Organic pest management. 401-331-8527, tfmorra.com
Watersports Kayak Centre Equipped with over 130 kayak and standing paddleboard models to rent or buy, and offering tours and classes, the Kayak Centre is your go-to source for water sports necessities. 9 Phillips St., Waterside Wickford. 401364-8000, www.kayakcentre.com
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150 Super Sport Super 230 Sport Vantage 230 Vantage 285 Conquest 285 Conquest 370 Outrage 370 Outrage 150 Super150 Sport 230 Vantage 285 Conquest 370 Outrage Silver Spring Marine Silver Spring Marine Silver Spring Marine Call or Call stop-in today. or stop-in orCall stop-in today. today. 362 Pond Street, Wakefield, 362 Pond RIStreet, 02879 Wakefield, 362 Pond Street, Wakefield, RI 02879 RI 02879 Trades Trades Welcomed. Trades Welcomed. Phone: (401) 783-0783 Phone: (401) 783-0783 Welcomed. Phone: (401) 783-0783
www.russomarine.com www.russomarine.comFinancing Arranged Financing Arranged www.russomarine.com Financing Arranged
Classes start June 1 or september 8
take your passion for cooking from a hobby to a profession. At Johnson & Wales University, experience is the difference. In our weekend Culinary Arts program, you won’t just learn to be a great chef. We combine the craft and art of cooking with science and nutrition, along with experience tied to your field of interest – positioning you to pursue the growing range of food service careers locally, or anywhere around the world. Take a closer look at why we’re at the leading edge of Culinary Arts and Hospitality education. What you learn may surprise you. Baking & Pastry Arts Culinary Arts Hotel & Lodging Management Restaurant, Food & Beverage Management Travel-Tourism & Hospitality Management
look closer
learn more 401-598-2300
explore.jwu.edu/ceinfo2
admissions.jwu.edu/continuing-education
Johnson & Wales University admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin, among other categories.
Outdoor Guide 2015 |
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Gone Fishing Fishing for bluefin tuna and sharks in the Atlantic – fish weighing hundreds of pounds each – is about as close to big-game hunting as you’re likely to get in New England. Coastal Charters Sportfishing offers 30-hour runs out to the deepsea canyons led by Captain Dom Petrarca, who employs an energetic jigging and popping method of attracting “large pelagics” – in other words: damn big fish. The less adventurous can still get a thrill with an intimate bottom-fishing or inshore day trip in search of stripers, blues and fluke. 63 Ormerod Road, Portsmouth. 401-207-4095, coastalcharterssportfishing.com –Bob Curley
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Photo by Captain Dom Petrarca courtesy of Coastal Charters Sportfishing
Last Look
Highest Quality, Easiest Access For a List of Patient Service Center Locations: 401-793-4242
800-980-4244
LifespanLabs.org *RIH Ventures d.b.a. Lifespan Laboratories
Committed to the latest advances in medical imaging Tel: 401-444-7770
Fax: 401-444-7779
Imaging.Lifespan.org
A jaw-dropping celebration of firsts in the arts!
Experience a multi-stage extravaganza in the Creative Capital!
SATURDAY, JUNE 13 4PM S TA R T S
DOWNTOWN PROVIDENCE
Extraordinary music, art and spectacle including: AngĂŠlique Kidjo The Earth Harp EVE Sounds, Sculpture and Musical Wizardry
Extended events June 11-14 For full festival schedule, visit:
Public art from The Avenue Concept + local & international guest artists
www.pvdfestival.com www.first-works.org Mural by Natalia Rak (Poland)
Co-produced by FirstWorks and the City of Providence with lead support from:
FREE
Squonk Opera PNEUMATICA