Year-Round Outdoor Living
More homeowners are creating outdoor spaces that feel just as comfortable as the rooms inside. With covered areas, fireplaces, and thoughtful design, they become a natural place to gather and entertain throughout the year.
Spending time outdoors offers benefits in every season. With fresh air, natural light, and comfortable spaces for gathering, year-round outdoor spaces offer a peaceful escape while remaining connected to home.
Outdoor living has evolved beyond the basic patio, blending refined design with a strong connection to the environment. Warm materials, layered lighting, and all-season amenities bring elegance, sophistication, and comfort to every space.
Beyond South County
Food & Drink
Home & Style
193 IN THE KITCHEN: A restaurant and bar celebrates 80 years on Misquamicut Beach 198 RETURN: Lobstermaniacs rejoice over an East Greenwich eatery’s return 202 REAL FOODS: How and where to eat like a real one – housewife or not 206 ROUND-UP: Foodie-forward places to try right now
Feature
COVER: Paige Ellis, Zach Pona, and Jenna Kaplan
of Gansett Wraps. Photography by Nick DelGiudice.
41 RHODY BEER, WINE & SPIRITS TRAIL
Photo by Tandem, courtesy of South County Tourism
Cut To Order Cheese Shop That Has A Small, But Well-Curated Selection Of Mostly International Wines And Local Craft Beers
• Offering a variety of after-hours classes (Cookie Decorating, Art, Paint Nights, Calligraphy, Bonsai Bar, Floral & Wreath Classes)
• Wine & Cheese Monthly Subscription Club
Dinghy Delivery Boxes To Boats In Wickford Harbor On Weekends In The Summer
697 Quaker Lane, West Warwick • 401-321-3022 CocktailHourEssentials.com
New Stained Glass Classes
PUBLISHERS
Barry Fain
Richard Fleischer
John Howell
EDITOR IN CHIEF Elyse Major Elyse@HeyRhody.com
ADVERTISING DESIGN DIRECTOR Layheang Meas
GENERAL MANAGER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Nick DelGiudice Nick@HeyRhody.com
MANAGING EDITOR Ken Abrams Ken@HeyRhody.com
SENIOR DESIGNER Taylor Buttie
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Riana Ouellette
DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Jenna Kaplan Jenna@HeyRhody.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
EDITOR Ann Martini Martini@HeyRhody.com
SENIOR EDITORIAL DESIGNER Abigail Burnham
Theresa S. Carrington South County & East Bay Theresa@HeyRhody.com
Shelley Cavoli Central RI & New Business Shelley@HeyRhody.com
Louann DiMuccio-Darwich East Bay, Providence, & MA Louann@HeyRhody.com
Ann Gallagher South County Ann@HeyRhody.com
Chris Revill Providence Chris@HeyRhody.com
Interested in advertising? Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Vinny Ballirano
Savannah Barkley
Ian Barnard
AJ Bothum
Mark Dieterich
Jeff DiMeo
Karen Kalunian
Abbie Lahmers
Erin McGinn
Read McKendree
N. Millard
Donna Norman Anat Sagi Tandem Rhonda Woloohojian David Wright
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bekah Berger
Thom Cahir
Jane Govednik
Emily Homonoff
Patty Jeffrey
Karen Kalunian
Anna Lofgren
Britt Machado Erin McGinn David Wright
Interested in writing?
Email Editorial@HeyRhody.com
INTERNS
Janibell Martinez Paige Martins
Interested in an internship? Email Elyse@HeyRhody.com
Blackstone River Glass Center
Classes, Parties, Event Space Glassblowing, Fusing, Stained Glass & Flameworking
Located in Valley Falls, RI BlackstoneRiverGlass.com
Distribution Services Special Delivery Subscribe Today! HeyRhody.com/MailToYou
Looking for copies?
Visit our offices at Beacon Communications: 1944 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, Mon-Fri, 9-5pm
Presented by Hey Rhody Media Co. (Formerly Providence Media), publishers of Providence Monthly, The Bay, and Hey Rhody
1944 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI 02889 401-305-3391 • Mail@HeyRhody.com HeyRhody.com
Copyright ©2026 by Hey Rhody Media Co. All rights reserved.
Proud member of the Rhode Island Press Association
PRINTED IN USA
THE SCOOP
Outdoors | Rhody Pets | Ocean State Media | Festivals | Event | Calendar | Rhody Gem
The Salt Pond Coaltion protects local waters for native species, fishing, and recreation
Guardians of the Salt Ponds
How a local environmental group protects, educates, and advocates for a critical resource
By Anna Lofgren
When it comes to the beautiful blue waters in the Ocean State, conservation efforts by the Salt Pond Coalition (SPC), the state-designated watershed group for salt ponds in the region, help maintain and preserve the health of Rhode Island’s salt ponds, benefiting wildlife and people. Established in 1985, the nearly 100 percent member-funded nonprofit supports six bodies of water – Point Judith, Potter, Green Hill, Ninigret, Quonochontaug, and Winnapaug ponds – with water-quality monitoring, environmental stewardship, advocacy, and educational events.
Salt ponds are a vital part of the eco-system, serving as nurseries for different animals
The Coalition sponsors year-round educational programming exploring the
JULY 9: COASTAL SOCIAL
The annual summer fundraiser for the Salt Ponds Coalition promises an evening for a great cause. This year’s event will be held at Point Judith Country Club, Narragansett. Learn more at SaltPondsCoalition.org
For those unfamiliar, these ponds are large bodies of saltwater that serve as a natural barrier against coastal storms. “They kind of look like overgrown ponds, but they serve a lot of different functions,” says Alicia Schaffner, SPC executive director of the nonprofit since 2014. The salt ponds also provide an excellent habitat for smaller species thanks to their shallow waters and reduced wave action. “Ecologically, they’re nurseries for a lot of different animals. So you might have flounder breeding grounds. Sometimes you see smaller schools of fish, seahorses, crabs, eel grasses, squid – sometimes you’ll see baby versions of those animals in salt ponds,” adds Schaffner.
Photos courtesy of Salt Pond Coalition
salt pond’s vast resources
With a variety of programming offered –from free, family-friendly Salt Pond Safaris from late-June to mid-August to volunteer opportunities to Birding on Quonnie – there is no shortage of exciting activities to support our local waters and gain knowledge of these unique ecosystems. These hands-on experiences help participants gain a deeper appreciation for the ponds while learning about the challenges they face.
Salt Pond Safaris run through mid-August
Birding on Quonnie is one of the many salt pond-based activities
Photos courtesy of Salt Pond Coalition
westerlyhospital.org
The Salt Pond Coalition has one of the longest water-quality monitoring programs in the country, maintaining consistent oversight to assess the health and water quality of the ponds. Each Rhode Island salt pond “has its own personality and its own specific challenges that it faces,” says Schaffner. Efforts by the coalition to mitigate degradation caused by issues such as sea-level rise and climate change include partnerships and projects that support marsh restoration through thin-layer soil deposition.
Winnapaug Pond in Westerly borders barrier beaches along the south coast
Potter Pond in South Kingstown
Photos courtesy of Salt Pond Coalition
THE SCOOP
Picture This...
Coalition members regularly monitor conditions in the salt ponds
The best way to support the Salt Pond Coalition’s mission is to attend events, volunteer, donate, or become a member. The nonprofit’s volunteer-driven Pond Watcher Program, which has been active since the coalition’s founding, is a critical undertaking to monitor pond ecosystems. Active from May through
October, it gives volunteers the opportunity to assess the health of the ponds by measuring factors such as salinity, bacteria, and dissolved oxygen. The result is a powerful example of citizen science in action, helping ensure Rhode Island’s iconic salt ponds remain healthy and vibrant for generations to come.
Photo courtesy of Salt Pond Coalition
Rhody Pets of the Month
By Karen Kalunian
Looking to welcome a new furry friend into your home? Adopt, don’t shop! Shelters around South County and across the state have dogs and cats ready to find their forever homes. Here are three pets ready to meet you, or reach out to the shelters to learn about even more adoptees.
LUKE
BREED: Labrador Retriever
AGE: 5 years
GENDER: Male
Luke is a stunning Lab with a beautiful tan coat, a big smile, and sparkling brown eyes. He’s an active boy, and at around 75 pounds, he’s strong too. Luke loves to stay busy, so a fenced-in yard where he can run and play all day would be his dream. If you have been searching for a big, handsome boy, Luke is your man – he’s excited to meet you and your family.
RHODE HOME RESCUE
401-354-2426; davina@rhodehomerescue.org
SHREDDED WHEAT
BREED: Lynx Point
AGE: 2 years
GENDER: Male
Here’s the purr-fect way to start every day with Shredded Wheat! This young handsome Lynx Point is longing for love and affection. Wheat’s blue eyes and warm, soft coat will truly melt your heart. He’s currently housed at the shelter with about 20 other cats from a hoarding situation and sometimes gets stressed out – the folks at the RISPCA hope a quieter environment will improve his behavior.
RISPCA
401-383-1900; cathy.simonini@rispca.org
If you have been thinking of adopting or if you know of an animal in need, please contact Karen Kalunian directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com.
GUNNER
BREED: German Shepherd
AGE: 3 years
GENDER: Male
Meet Gunner, an extra special German Shepherd who was unfortunately hit by a car, resulting in the loss of his rear leg. This has not stopped him; however, he has bounced back and is ready to share his life in a loving home. Gunner is available to foster, adopt, or foster-to-adopt – ideally in a petfree home with a fenced-in yard – a soft place to land while he builds back his strength. This special boy is just waiting for his chance to live a happy life again!
RHODE HOME RESCUE 401-354-2426; rhodehomerescue@gmail.com
Luke
Shredded Wheat
Gunner
Photo (L) by Karen Kalunian, (center) courtesy of RISPCA, (R) by Donna Normand
Pasta
Pasta
Fighting Fire with Fire in Rhode Island’s Great Swamp
DEM crews are conducting prescribed burns across the state as hotter, drier conditions increase wildfire risk in New England
In Partnership with Ocean State Media • OceanStateMedia.org • By David Wright
When most of us think about wildfires, we usually think about California. Maybe Canada. Not Rhode Island. But spend a few minutes inside a prescribed burn in South Kingstown’s Great Swamp Management Area, and it becomes clear the wildfire threat here is very real, especially during hot, dry spells.
Rhode Island experienced 62 wildfires last year alone, according to the state Department of Environmental Management (DEM). Climate change is creating warmer, drier conditions and longer fire seasons nationwide, increasing wildfire risk even here in New England. “By and large, this is an area that hasn’t had fire in a long time,” says David Walker, a Rhode Island wildland fire consultant leading a team this week burning out 25 acres of the Great Swamp. “Hazardous fuels have built up,” Walker says, “And we’re trying to slowly chip away and remove some of that.”
To reduce that risk, the DEM crews are intentionally setting fires deep in the woods. Using red canisters called drip torches, full of diesel fuel and gasoline, they spill flames along a straight line in the forest, all the while paying careful attention to the direction of the wind. A small fire grows quickly here, given the abundance of kindling. It quickly became so hot that the iPhone I was using to capture the scene stopped working. These carefully controlled fires, known as prescribed burns, are a major part of the effort to manage some of the state’s more densely forested areas.
This spring, DEM says crews are targeting areas in Exeter, West Greenwich, Coventry, Richmond, Glocester, Jamestown, South Kingstown, and elsewhere. “We do it even in the middle of winter out on Block Island,” says Walker. “It’s tough on the firefighters, but we can get the job done.”
Rhode Island experienced 62 wildfires in 2025, according to the state Department of Environmental Management
Photo by David Wright, courtesy of Ocean State Media
A RIDEM fire crew intentionally sets a fire in the Great Swamp Management Area in order to clear away debris that could fuel a wildfire
This Summer, SHOP401®
Shop local and support small businesses in Rhode Island.
A L E S T A T E A G E N T ?
The idea is simple: burn away dry leaves, brush, and debris before they become fuel for a dangerous wildfire. “This, the leaf matter that you see on the floor, is just from last fall,” says DEM Fire Control Officer Greg Rathdun, who is based in the Arcadia Management Area, a state preserve that stretches across Exeter, Richmond, Hopkinton and West Greenwich. “Every year, you get that next layer of falling leaves in the fall that builds up on that forest floor.” Invasive species of insects, like the southern pine beetle, are a problem too. In some of the more remote areas of the state, the forest quickly becomes full of kindling. The burns are designed not just to reduce wildfire risk, but also to improve forest health for the creatures who live there. The New England cottontail, the region’s only native rabbit, apparently thrives in the young growth conditions that emerge after the area burns. Fire has been a natural part of the forest ecosystem for eons, long before human beings encroached on this habitat.
“Fire used to be a natural part of the landscape in pre-colonial times,” says DEM spokesman Evan LaCross. “We’re trying to
Photo by David Wright, courtesy of Ocean State Media
Fire crews from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management conduct a “prescribed burn” in South Kingstown’s Great Swamp Management Area on May 18, 2026
prevent uncontrolled wildfires that could be a risk to residences and things like that. But we’re also using fire as a tool for forest health management.”
DEM says crews conducted 12 prescribed burns last year, treating more than 100 acres of state land. Concerns about wildfire are real. Recent years have seen several major brush fires. “Just recently in the past two or three years, we had our two biggest wildland fires on record in 50-plus years,” says Alan Waterman, a DEM fire control officer. The proximity of homes and businesses to these wooded areas raises the stakes considerably. “If one home is lost, that counts as severe,” Walker says.
With Rhode Island facing another stretch of hot, dry weather, DEM officials urge residents to be careful with anything that could spark a brush fire. A badly managed campfire or even just a stray cigarette butt could have catastrophic consequences.
This article was originally posted on May 21, 2026. David Wright can be reached at dwright@oceanstatemedia.org.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
• Same-day/next-day appointments
• Affordable, membership-based practice
• Monthly membership fees are HSA-eligible up to $150 per individual & $300 per family
• No insurance hassle
• Direct communication with your providertext, call, or email us directly!
• Personalized care
• Extended appointment times without the rush
RHODE ISLAND DIRECT PRIMARY CARE
Tastes Like Summer
Annual
By Thom Cahir
Tfestival
returns to Charlestown with fresh seafood, fireworks, and family fun
here are few traditions that capture the spirit of a Rhode Island summer quite like the Charlestown Seafood Festival. The aroma of clam cakes frying and steamers steaming drifts through the air, live music fills the park,
families stroll the midway with fried dough in hand, and neighbors reconnect. From August 7-9, Ninigret Park will transform into one of New England’s most beloved summer celebrations when the annual event returns for its 41st year. Set against the backdrop of the
former Naval Auxiliary landing field, the “gastronomic extravaganza” brings together everything that makes summer in the Ocean State special: fresh seafood, live entertainment, carnival rides, fireworks, craft vendors, even RV camping, and a strong sense of community.
BEST IN FEST
Handy info as you plan your day:
• Parking is free, but please bring a $2 donation towards the Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Program and the Peacedale Fire Department.
• Pets are not allowed.
• There are ATMs at the festival.
• Yes, there are foods other than seafood.
For more information, including a map, visit CharlestownSeafoodFestival.com
Photo courtesy of Charlestown Seafood Festival
Fresh lobster is a highlight at the Charlestown Seafood Festival
South CountyRhode
Island
Summer in South County, RI...
100 miles of coastline featuring 20 public beaches await you. Hike or bike miles of trails through lush forests and wildlife preserves and discover the Thomas Dambo trolls—two new additions in South County: Iver Mudslider in North Kingstown and Young Boulder in Arcadia, plus the originals Erik Rock and Greta Granit in Ninigret Park. Paddle peaceful inlet waterways and dine on fresh local seafood. We are the reason Rhode Island is known as “the Ocean State.” Learn more at SouthCountyRI.com.
Over 100 retail and food vendors return annually
This year’s festival features more than 100 food and retail vendors, including several newcomers. Charlestown Chamber of Commerce President Heather Paliotta points to additions like Blue Rock Catering, 401 Oyster Company, and Rhode Island Shell Fisherman as reasons seafood lovers will want to come hungry. A far cry from its humble beginnings in 1985 with just seven booths. When Paliotta took the reins in 2002, it grew to 20, and it’s been building ever since.
Heather Paliotta stops to pose with superfans
Photos courtesy of Charlestown Seafood Festival
RESTAURANT GROUP
The festival’s impact extends far beyond the park gates. Area businesses often experience one of their busiest weekends of the year as thousands of visitors descend on South County. David Moore, proprietor of the historic General Stanton Inn, describes the festival as “a giant beacon attracting tourists from all over New England,” while nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions also benefit from the influx of visitors. Paliotta echoes that sentiment, reporting that the weekend has
historically been one of the busiest of the year at the nearby The Nordic.
Yet despite its size and popularity, the Charlestown Seafood Festival remains deeply rooted in community. Hundreds of volunteers help make the weekend possible, donating countless hours in support of an event that operates as a nonprofit organization. The proceeds are turned over year-to-year to ensure event continuity; the money collected from last year’s parking donations financed
$1,000 scholarships for three Chariho High School seniors, awarded in June. For longtime volunteer Jill Fonnemann, beverage manager at the Charlestown Rathskeller, the commitment is easy to understand. “It’s much more rewarding to be a part of this local event,” she says. “It’s a chance to give back to the community alongside people who feel like family.”
No one is more grateful for the level of volunteerism than Paliotta, who notes that the festival is a non-profit.
The festival is one of the biggest summer events in New England
Photo courtesy of Charlestown Seafood Festival
First-Ever Hey Rhody Market Celebrates Small Businesses
RI250 spirit, local creativity, and community connections fill Rhodes on the Pawtuxet
By Ken Abrams
Historic Rhodes on the Pawtuxet was transformed into a vibrant celebration of Rhode Island creativity on May 13, as artisans, makers, and shoppers gathered for the inaugural Hey Rhody Market. Guests wandered through rows of vendor tables displaying handmade jewelry, fresh flowers, clothing, home décor, original artwork, specialty foods, wellness products, and a live pottery demo, while live music and dance performances filled the 110-year-old venue with energy, movement, and a strong sense of community.
by Ken Abrams
Photography
Over 1,000 guests attended the Hey Rhody Market on May 13
Students from the State Ballet of Rhode Island
The market reflects Hey Rhody Media’s ongoing commitment to spotlighting entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses across Rhode Island. Over 1,000 visitors mingled, sampled products, discovered over 60 new small businesses, and enjoyed the festive social atmosphere that has become a hallmark of Hey Rhody events.
A classical quartet offered a preview of the Kingston Chamber Music Festival (July 22-August 2 in Kingston), alongside a performance from the State Ballet of Rhode Island, still helmed by Herci Marsden. In addition, a fashion show from East Bay-based Beau Bleu Boutique & Gifts previewed casual wear and patriotic styles perfect for 250th celebrations. Look for an announcement and date of next year’s Hey Rhody Market later this summer. Until then, continue to support local every day!
Photography by Ken Abrams
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival brings world class talent to southern Rhode Island this month
For weekly Musts subscribe to our newsletter at HeyRhody.com
The Must List
10 essential events this month
Through July 18: Don’t miss Grease, the Musical , the enduring story of bad boy Danny who falls for new girl Sandy, featuring classic favorites like “You’re the One That I Want,” and “Hopelessly Devoted to You.” Wakefield, TheatreByTheSea.com
July 1: Hamilton on the Beach is a special movie night with food trucks, a Revolutionary trivia game, and prizes for the best colonial costumes. Rain date: July 10. North Kingstown, Facebook: HAMILTON! on the beach
July 4: North Kingstown Fireworks: Bring your blankets and chairs, but leave the pets at home for this beloved annual event held at the Town Beach Complex. Live music and food trucks. North Kingstown, NorthKingstownRI.gov
= Fireworks = 250
July 22-August 2: The Kingston Chamber Music Festival returns for its 38th season with Life, Liberty & Music , seven exciting concerts celebrating 250 years of live chamber music held at the URI Fine Arts Center. Kingston, KingstonChamberMusic.org
July 4: Celebrate America’s 250th at the Fourth of July Chicken Hatch , a fun-filled day of games, music, raffles, and hatching chicks at the historic home of Civil War-era Governor William Sprague IV. Narragansett, SouthCountyMuseum.org
July 10: The RI Philharmonic Summer Pops Concert on the beach features Emmy-award nominated Troy Quinn conducting Outstanding Overtures – favorites from theater, film, and classical music from My Fair Lady to Wicked . Rain date: July 11. Narragansett, RIPhil.org
July 11-12: The annual Wickford Art Festival at Wilson Park is a family-friendly weekend of discovering the handiwork of 200 juried artists at one of the region’s longest-running events of its type. North Kingstown, WickfordArt.org
July 12: Bring your own lawnchair to the Bluegrass Festival , an all-day event that includes The Splinters, Rusty Rails, and the Hosmer Mountain Boys, plus seafood, barbecue, local craft beers, bourbons and more. Kids are free! Charlestown, TheGeneralStantonInn.com
July 18: Get active at the 16th Annual Waterman Eco-Challenge, an event that includes the Ocean State 5K, swim and paddle races, water safety awareness, skin cancer screenings, and coastal environmental sustainability. Narragansett, WatermanEcoChallenge.com
July 31: The United Theatre hosts The Meaning of America: A Conversation with Doris Kearns Goodwin , author of the Pulitzer Prize-winning No Ordinary Time , and 2024’s An Unfinished Love Story: A Personal History of the 1960s . Westerly, UnitedTheatre.org
Photo courtesy of the Kingston Chamber Music Festival
Nana’s Ice Cream & Gelato
Sweet shop
What it is:
A seaside scoop and candy shop that’s been serving up memories in South County for 40 years.
Where to find it:
Directly across from Narragansett Town Beach in Pier Market Place, it’s the perfect summertime stop.
What makes it a Rhody Gem?
Owner Dianne Mann worked in corporate finance and dreamed of living at the beach when she retired. Well, dreams do come true, and her Narragansett ice cream and candy shop now teems with beach-going families and teens from morning til evening. “Everyone who walks through our door is smiling and happy, and the kids are screaming with excitement,” Mann, or “Nana” to her three grandchildren, says. “The smell of our delicious waffle cones hits you as you walk in the door barefoot and sandy right off the beach. Our customers wait in the long lines for a selection of 57 flavors of premium ice cream, Italian gelato, soft serve cones, and Del’s lemonade.” Even vegan customers have seven flavors to choose from, all made with coconut milk. “Nana’s Candy Bar is right next door,” says Mann, whose daughter Crissi helps run the happy madness. “It has walls and walls of nostalgic candy, saltwater taffy and fudge,” Mann says. Grab a beach pail and fill it to the brim!
Nana’s Ice Cream & Gelato
28 Pier Market Place, Narragansett 401-500-1900 NanasGelato.com
Every neighborhood has that secret, hidden, cool, unusual, or hole-inthe-wall spot that locals love. We’re on the hunt for Rhody Gems! Email Marketing@HeyRhody.com to suggest yours, and we just might feature it!
Photo courtesy of Nana’s Ice Cream & Gelato
We know how important your home is to your well-being. As custom home builders for nearly 40 years, we have crafted and restored coastal and luxury homes in Rhode Island and throughout New England. Our goal is to create spaces that allow you and your family to thrive.
TENNIS, TRANSCENDED
Experience the stories behind the impossible shots, incredible victories, and incomparable genius.
Roger Federer’s Path to Greatness exhibit on display now.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Our Narragansett Towers Casserole perfect for serving or baking, and a year-round reminder of summer in South County.
peter pots pottery
494 Glen Rock Rd., W. Kingston
Beer, Wine Rhody
At Angle Tree Brewery, good times live inside our walls. Rooted in community and crafted with love. Exceptional craft beer, so come in, grab a beer, and raise a toast! 45 Elm Street, North Attleboro, 02760 AngleTreeBrew.com
Enjoy artisan craft beer, cocktails, and spirits in our family-friendly taproom, a preserved 1920s Italian home with original murals, or relax in our petfriendly beer garden. Bocce, cornhole, board games, and wood-fired pizza on site. 65 Canal Street, Westerly. 401.596.4151, GreySailBrewing.com.
The contemporary barn located on 50 acres of farm land in North Stonington is a nod to the agricultural heritage of the town. Situated on the edge of a hill highlighting sprawling views of vines, forest, & wildlife. KingdomOfTheHawk.com.
Howdy! Moniker is a lagerloving, award-winning brewery with a massive beer garden in Providence. Come for the beers, stay for the sunshine and vibes. 432 W Fountain St, Providence. (401) 648-0150, MonikerBrewery.com
We believe nothing connects people like sharing a great beer or a delicious bite. Take refuge from the daily hustles of life in our historic taproom or our beautiful beer garden. 334 Knight Street, Warwick. (401) 744-0415, ApponaugBrewing.com
At Jonathan Edwards Winery, enjoy award winning wine in a relaxed picturesque setting. Open daily, year round. Shop wine and event tickets online at JEdwardsWinery.com. 74 Chester Maine Road, North Stonington, CT, (860) 215-3725.
INN & WINERY
The Langworthy Inn & Winery, a 7-bedroom B&B and Winery, located at 308 Shore Rd in Westerly RI just minutes from beaches, restaurants & shops in the Weekapaug, Watch Hill & Misquamicut areas. Visit this gem of the SE New England’s vineyards & wineries for a wine tasting, weekend getaway or private event. langworthyinn.com
Enjoy estate-grown wines, fresh craft beer & farm-totable dining while overlooking acres of vines. Family owned and operated for 30 years, and just minutes from downtown Newport. 909 East Main Road, Route 138, Middletown, RI.
& Spirits Trail
Experience Nickle Creek Vineyard, estate wines, scenic views, and warm hospitality make every sip unforgettable.
Open Saturdays and Sundays, 12–5 PM. 12 King Rd. Foster, RI, Cheers! 401-369-3694, NickleCreekVineyard.com
Located in historic Preston, Connecticut, Preston Ridge Vineyard is at the peak of a ridge providing breathtaking views of the Connecticut countryside. 100 Miller Rd., Preston, CT; PrestonRidgeVineyard.com
Discover Olneyville’s newest destination for craft gin and signature cocktails. Visit the historic Harrison Steam Building for tastings, bottles, and distinctive unique, craft spirits. 41 Troy Street Providence. SirenSpirits.com
Located in our authentic, New England-style post and beam barn, we at Tilted Barn Brewery are proud to be Rhode Island’s first farm brewery. One Hemsley Pl., Exeter. TiltedBarnBrewery.com
OUTER LIGHT BREWING
Outer Light Brewing is Southeastern Connecticut’s hometown brewery. Enjoy our diverse lineup of New England craft beer in our familyfriendly taproom, or take in some fresh summer air on our covered outdoor patio. Located at 266 Bridge Street in beautiful downtown Groton. OuterLightBrewing.com
Located in an impeccably restored WWII-era airplane hangar, the tasting room overlooks acres of vineyard and a preserved grass landing strip from the 1930s. 349 Elm St., Stonington, CT. SaltwaterFarmVineyard.com.
STONINGTON VINEYARDS
Stonington Vineyards is a boutique farm winery located on the CT Wine Trail, open 7 days a week, 11am–5pm, Saturdays 11am–7pm, June–September. 523 Taugwonk Rd., Stonington, CT. StoningtonVineyards.com.
Under New Ownership!
WinterHawk Vineyards harkens to the halcyon days of grand fishing camps on bucolic Yawgoo Pond, A destination for handcrafted wines, scenic views, and relaxed gatherings. 35 Yawgoo Pond Rd., West Kingston. WinterHawkVineyards.com
Ninigret Park Summer Events
FRIDAY, SEPT. 4
ST. PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES MARTY STUART & HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES
FUTUREBIRDS • DONNA THE BUFFALO KINDRED VALLEY • LOS TEXMANIACS
SONS OF LEVIN • PAUL GABRIEL BLUES BAND • PLANET ZYDECO
SATURDAY, SEPT. 5
TOWER OF POWER • MARGO PRICE
BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY • JOHNNY MULLENAX
LOS TEXMANIACS • DONNA THE BUFFALO WARD HAYDEN & THE OUTLIERS • KNICKERBOCKER ALL-STARS
THE QUAHOGS • THE ALPACA GNOMES CURLEY TAYLOR & ZYDECO TROUBLE
SUNDAY, SEPT. 6
THE DEVIL MAKES THREE PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND
YONDER MOUNTAIN STRING BAND • ROOMFUL OF BLUES
QUINN SULLIVAN • THE SUITCASE JUNKET
JASON INGRISELLI & THE MILES NORTH
CURLEY TAYLOR & ZYDECO TROUBLE
SUNDAY SCHOOL WITH CHRISTINE OHLMAN & REBEL MONTEZ FEAT. THE SIN SISTERS & FRANK VIELE
PERFORMING DAILY
STEVE RILEY & THE MAMOU PLAYBOYS
PINE LEAF BOYS • OLD-FASHIONED ACES RUBEN MORENO
4-6, 2026
Charlestown
A NATURE-LOVER’S PARADISE
The Charlestown Seafood Festival is the gastronomic extravaganza of the season celebrating everything seafood, plus daily live entertainment, amusements, fireworks, and even a car show! Eat lobster rolls, chowder, and more to your heart’s content in Ninigret Park on August 7-9. See page 50 for details.
Photo courtesy of Charlestown Chamber of Commerce
CHARLESTOWN
A nature-lover’s paradise
With its quiet, sandy beaches and curious wooded spaces, Charlestown offers some of South County’s best natural scenery.
SHOP
Interested in 250 lore? History buffs won’t want to miss The General Stanton Inn (4115 Old Post Rd.). Any visit is like imagining what it was like to live during the Revolutionary War, but with today’s amenities. There are 15
guest rooms, and a roster of famous guests includes everyone from George Washington to George Bush. The food at onsite Tavern & Bar is scrumptious, and the grounds are the site of RI’s longest running flea – the General Stanton Sunday Market – which recently merged with the Charlestown Farmers Market. From 9am to 2pm on Summer Sundays, shop a variety of vendors, plus fresh produce. Lively events are planned, so take note of the following festivals : Bluegrass (July 12), Stanton Music (July 19), Lobster (July 26), Country Music (August 2), and Blues Music (August 23).
Toast a uniquely Ocean State summer with a bottle of wine – choose from a wide selection, plus beer and spirits, at Charlestown Wine & Spirits (4625 Old Post Rd.). And if you forgot any travel essentials or are looking for a snack, find everything you need – from toiletries to lotto tickets to fresh produce – at Charlestown Mini Super (4071 Old Post Rd.).
Contrary to its name, the Fantastic Umbrella Factory (4820 Old Post Rd.) does not make or even sell umbrellas. This eclectic bazaar is a local landmark, a great place to spend a few hours. Since 1968, the 19th century farmyard has been a sort
by
Fantastic Umbrella Factory
Photo
Elyse Major
SMALL AXE PRODUCTIONS
Est.1974
Domestic and Imported gifts, Clothing, jewelry, wood fired stoneware & much more (401) 364-1060
THE GENERAL STORE
A mix of humor, magic and rock ‘n roll
Lil’ RHODY TOYS
Toys and Fun for everyone
FRILLS GALLERY
Treasures for the Funky Soul 60’s, 70’s, 80’s & 90’s
THE PURPLE SHELL
Authentic Eastern Native Trading Post. Featuring WAMPUM, Native hand Crafted Jewelry and other hand crafted items (401) 364-8088
BLOCK PRINTS GRAPHICS
Local RI T-Shirt Designs, Stickers, Fun Jewelry at the Shack by the Fountain
BEE SUITE
A Country Store featuring-Candy from around the world, RI Products of all kinds and supporting Small Family owned Businesses.
NEW MUSIC DEPARTMENT featuring guitars, basses accessories and minor repairs. Guitar la Carte feature allows customerd to create their own unique instruments!
EDUCATION EARTH BOOKS
Local self published Author and Illustrator offering recycled paper and 100% sustainable ink printed books, up-cycle/organic merch, nature treasures and art.
THE RUSTIC GARDENS
A unique garden shop with fancy plants and funky finds. We carry a mix vintage garden decor and a wide variety of planters. We are known for our special selections of Annuals, perennials, Tropicals & succulents. Check out our do it yourself potting bar.
US ON FACEBOOK
CHARLESTOWN
A nature-lover’s paradise
of artist collective and international markeplace where you’ll find everything from penny candy to wampum. The expansive property is filled with flowers, sculptures, and places to sit and take everything in. The Umbrella Factory Gardens is an on-site greenhouse that sells unique plants and florals. There’s a bamboo maze and a barnyard filled with emus, goats, and chickens.
Imagine 8,000 square feet of beautifully displayed home decor, jewelry, “Made in New
England” gifts and more. That’s what a jaunt to Simple Pleasures (5000 South County Trl.) holds in store. Find more treasures at Shop the Barn , the outbuilding-turned-gift shop behind A Shore Thing at Charlestown Beach (2183 Matunuck Schoolhouse Rd.), a quaint B&B.
DINE
For a yummy start, grab coffee and baked good or breakfast sammie The Beach Rose Cafe (1 Charlestown Beach Rd.), and for something
heartier, The Breachway Grill in the very same building, has an expansive menu (you had us at lobster fries), sure to please everyone in your party. The Cove (3963 Old Post Rd.) is a family-friendly restaurant with a massive menu filled with pasta, seafood specialities, burgers, and more. The Nordic (178 Nordic Trl.) is a lakeside restaurant known for its “all you can enjoy” menu of surf (lobster, oysters), turf, apps, sides, fruits, and desserts – including an ice cream bar. Drop-in
Photo (L) courtesy of South County Tourism
Breachway Grill
dining on Fridays and Saturdays, reservations required for Sundays. Java lovers, set a course for Dave’s Coffee (5193 Old Post Rd.), serving house-roasted blends in their cafe, or grab their beans by the bag. The gourmet shop also makes and sells its own coffee syrup – used for making Little Rhody’s official state drink: coffee milk. And what summer day is complete with ice cream? That’s where Back Road Creamery (4160 Old Post Rd.) comes in.
The Beach Rose Cafe
Small Yoga Studio IN TRANQUIL SETTING
The Barn
Ninigret Park (5 Park Ln.) is a 227-acre park with a playground, ball fields, bike path, tennis and basketball courts, picnic areas, and freshwater pond with a beach. It’s also home to Erik Rock and Greta Granit, the first installations of Rhode Island’s Thomas Dambo Troll Trail . Nearby, Frosty Drew Observatory (62 Park Ln.) offers Friday night stargazing (their popular Celebrate the Milky Way gazing event takes place July 11). The park is also home to two huge festivals: the Charlestown Seafood
Photo by Abbie Lahmers
Thomas Dambo Troll Trail
Festival (August 7-9), is a “gastronomic extravaganza” with a schedule of fireworks, rides, bands, RV camping and more; and Rhythm & Roots (September 4-6) a music fest that caps summer with headliners including St. Paul & the Broken Bones, Tower of Power, and The Devil Makes Three.
Art appreciators are sure to enjoy Charlestown Art Gallery (5000 South County Trl.), a must-stop for viewing contemporary American art and perhaps enrolling in a plein aire workshop.
CHARLESTOWN
A nature-lover’s paradise
PLAY
Since 1933, the Charlestown Rathskeller Tavern (489a Old Coach Rd.) continues to be where it’s at – whether you’re in the mood to dance the night away to live music or toss a horseshoe after enjoying a burger and brew.
Nothing beats a meditative stretch before a long beach day, so treat yourself to a yoga session in the garden at Rockbriar Farm (274 North Niantic Dr.), a historic property that’s seen many lives before becoming a tranquil retreat and yoga studio, or sweat it out at CBX Pilates Studio (3810 Old Post Rd.), with workouts for all fitness levels that can be booked online.
Treat yourself to some R&R at full-service, upscale hair salon Jennifer’s a Salon (4259 Old Post Rd.), and pamper your pet with acupuncture services from Atlantic Animal Hospital and Wellness Center (5001B South County Trl.). Clients fly in from all over for Beachwood Integrative Equine Therapy (book online at BeachwoodRI.org) sessions treating anxiety and other conditions.
Breachway Campground
Beachwood Integrative Equine Therapy
Photo (L) courtesy of Beachwood Integrative Equine Therapy, (center) courtesy of Faye Pantazopoulos
And don’t worry, Charlestown Urgent Care (3769 Old PostRd.) is there if you need it, open seven days a week.
Scenic Watchaug Pond Trail is a birders’ wonderland for its many migrating, roosting, and nesting songbirds. The trail goes through Burlingame State Park and Campground (1 Burlingame State Park Rd.), perenially popular for camping, picnicking, and swimming. At press time, camping reservations are delayed due to the new shower and restroom project (find updates at RIParks.RI.gov). Ready to go fish? The park has a boat launch for boating and fishing. Pre-game by getting your license (DEM.RI.gov), and then pay a visit to Breachway Bait & Tackle (166 Charlestown Beach Rd.) for lures, reels, and even kayak, canoe, and SUP rentals.
For day-planning ideas and more info, visit South County Tourism (4160 Old Post Rd., SouthCountyRI.com).
WALK-IN CLINIC
Ninigret Park
East Greenwich
URBAN SOPHISTICATION MEETS COASTAL CHIC
Dave’s Fresh Marketplace has grown into Rhode Island’s largest independent grocer, proudly serving six communities with ten locations statewide. Recognized as Retailer of the Year for outstanding perishable foods, we’re known for our farm-fresh produce, local seafood, hand-trimmed meats, and so much more. See page 56 for details.
Photo courtesy of Dave’s Fresh Marketplace
EAST GREENWICH
Urban sophistication meets coastal chic
A small town with a city feel, East Greenwich is a must-stop destination. A new wave of trendsetting restaurants and chic shops are drawing crowds to stroll Main Street and beyond.
SHOP
Charming Main Street is dotted with clothing, home, and gift stores. Wag ‘N Wicks Candle Company (461 Main St., Unit 105), offers handcrafted aromatics with a portion of proceeds benefiting shelter pets (a win-win!), and neighboring Relentless Boutique (461 Main St., Unit 104) is a woman-owned company featuring expressive styles. Keep strolling to find Zuzu’s of East Greenwich (165 Main St.) a designer boutique where you’re sure to find the prettiest dress; A Gracious Soul Shop (110 Main St.) for consciously sourced apparel and gifts; The Current has (99 Main St.) designer-curated modern lifestyle goods; and Blueprint 5 (631 Main St.), an upscale men’s store, features imported Italian clothing and an on-site tailor. Each month the EG Chamber of Commerce hosts themed Main Street Strolls Held on Thursdays, look forward to Music on Main (July 23) and Taste of EG Stroll (August 20) to round-out the summer schedule. Just off Main, discover Bleubell Cottage & Garden (41 Rockyhollow Rd.) for romantic country home accents. Hop in the car, add more fabulous
shops to your itinerary, and make a day of perusing. Le’s Isle Rose (1000 Division St. #20) is an enormous store packed with souvenirs, gifts, clothing, home decor, and fresh flowers. Magnolia Soap and Bath Co (100 Division St. #80) sells eco-friendly soaps, bath bombs, and more, along with hosting candle-pouring parties. French Kiss Boutique (5 Division St.) is a can’t-miss stop for fashionistas, curating fun and functional looks from France and Italy.
Oenophiles will find delight in perusing shelves upon shelves of specialty wines, craft beer, and spirits at The Savory Grape (1000 Division St. Unit 130). Preorder an expertly assembled charcuterie board to carry out (or dig into tapas, cheese, and wine on the patio) from Graze on Main (58 Main St.) and make a point to visit their new boutique market Piccolino (37 Main St.) for provisions.
Complete a picnic lunch by picking up chef-prepared foods from Dave’s Fresh Marketplace (1000 Division St.) with additional locations all over RI. Back to Basics (500 Main St.), stocks wellness-oriented goods, natural vitamin supplements, and many local brands, from honey to pasture-raised meats. Grab a snack for your four-legged friend from Bone Appetit (102 Main St.), an eco-friendly dog treat store. And for plant lovers, Wildwood Nursery & Garden Center (659 Frenchtown Rd.) – a wonderland of greenery, plus outdoor furniture, statuary, and planters – is a must see.
Sports and Leisure
DINE
When people from Providence are heading to East Greenwich for dinner, you know big things are happening in the culinary scene. Breakfast and lunch are next level at Dante’s Kitchen (315 Main St.), where American favorites are served with a creative Southern twist. With three locations, T’s Restaurant (5600 Post Rd.) is a favorite homestyle spot known for their all-day breakfast and artwork by owner Anthony Tomaselli . Sport and Leisure (219 Main St.) is a slam dunk for cocktails, elevated pub fare, and chill vibes, while Blackstone East Greenwich (241 Main St.) has appetizer flights so you can sample to your heart’s content; also a Coventry location. For worldly cuisine, no passport is needed when you’re on Main Street. La Masseria (223 Main St.) presents fine Italian cuisine in an authentic countryside setting. Raku Sakura (148 Main St.) can cure any sushi fix. Rasa Restaurant (149 Main St.) is an upscale Indian restaurant, and Kon Asian Bistro & Hibachi Grill (553 Main St.) offers a fun dining experience with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Sombra Eatery & Lounge (50 Main St.) leaves an impression with Mexican-inspired entrees and cocktails. Pass around small plates of patatas bravas and charcuterie and feel like you’re in southern Spain at Besos Tapas & Wine Bar (378 Main St.). Simon Says Thai Food (96 Main St.) and we’re listening! Chicken katsu over rice, anyone? On the top of Main Street, Scotti’s Salumeria (4654 Post Rd.) serves authentic gourmet Italian food, with an approach that combines traditional and contemporary styles. Even coffee gets the epicurean treatment in East Greenwich. MainStreet Coffee (137 Main St.) doubles as a coffee shop and espresso martini bar that locals rave about. Felicia’s Coffee (5757 Post Rd.) offers an inviting atmosphere with a huge selection of flavored and specialty coffee. Brunch bites, mason jar cocktails, and ocean ambiance set the tone at Drip Coffee House (2725 South County Trl.).
To experience some of Rhody’s food heritage, stop by Jigger’s Diner (145 Main St.), which has been around since 1917 and is a go-to destination for johnnycakes, the iconic food made from cornmeal ground at Kenyon’s Grist Mill in Kingston. Can’t get enough pancakes? Mimi’s Cafe (1855 South County Trl.) serves stacks of goodness loaded with sweet toppings.
A Gracious Soul
Photo (L) courtesy of A Gracious Soul, (R) courtesy of Sports and Leisure
EAST GREENWICH
Urban sophistication meets coastal chic
Beyond EG’s downtown are more coastal and seafood-forward eateries, including Providence Oyster Bar (5707 Post Rd.) for local littlenecks, lobster, and more; and teetering the town line is Chelo’s Waterfront (1 Masthead Dr., Warwick), dishing great views and even better food right on the town’s border. A great place for families with a dedicated menu of kiddie classics. Live music, too.
For the sweet tooth, Nothing Bundt Cakes (1000 Division St. Suite 62), has entered the chat with cakes, bundtlets, bundtinis in many flavors.
EXPLORE
East Greenwich is steeped in history, including being where the first American Navy was formed in 1775. The Varnum House Museum (57 Pierce St.) is a Georgian mansion that is a time capsule of early American life, and boasts a recently planted Rhode Island 250 Liberty Tree. The Varnum Memorial Armory (6 Main St.) houses a military history museum, including artifacts from the Revolutionary War and weapons from World Wars I and II.
Fine art aficionados will find something to love at Heritage Gifts & Glass Studio (5580 Post Rd.), a glass shop off the beaten path that also offers classes; Nancy Stephen Gallery and School of Art (6 King St.) for paintings and lessons; and to add the finishing touches on a work of art you’ve found on your EG adventure, swing by Crestar Picture Framing (51 Liberty St.), for state-of-the-art framing and galleries.
Finn’s Harborside
Photo courtesy of Finn’s Harborside
PLAY
The town’s location on Greenwich Cove makes it easy for day-tripping boaters to make a stop. The East Greenwich Marina (45 Water St.) usually offers transient dockage by the hour or overnight. Prime Marina is where you’ll find Rhode Island Paddle Sports (1 Water St.), a family-owned company specializing in paddle sport rentals. Rather sit and watch? Blu on the Water (20 Water St.) has delicious food and drinks. Find stunning views of the cove at Water Street Kitchen & Bar (28 Water St.). All are great choices for grabbing a bite after watching the East Greenwich Yacht Club Annual Regatta (EGYC.com) on July 11. A community staple, Finn’s Harborside (38 Water St.) is back open and better than ever!
Treat yourself to a day of pampering starting with an eyebrow threading session at Stupa Threading (26 Main St.); skin rejuvenation, massages, and more from Bel Viso Medical Spa (63 Cedar Ave., #7); cosmetic treatments from Tokarz Dermatology (1485 South County Trl., Suite 105); acupuncture and other natural treatments at Holistic Health (990 Main St., #4); relaxing and rejuvenating spa packages from Shimmer Salon and Day Spa (500 Main St.); and holistic beauty services at Revive Aesthetics + Wellness (175 Main St.). Get ready to lather, rinse, and repeat at Rinse Luxury Salon (5600 Post Rd.), and Dynamic Men’s Grooming (1000 Division St. #50) is the place for a clean shave and cut from a skilled barber. Benefitness (816 Middle Rd.) is the state’s only Stott pilates certification center. Bittersweet Farm Estate (923 Division Rd.) hosts workshops, stays, and pop-ups in a pastoral setting. Catch acts at Greenwich Odeum (59 Main St.), and jam sessions at The Trap inside Safehouse (195 Old Forge Rd.), Union & Main (455 Main St.), and The Updike Room (162 Main St.) at the Greenwich Hotel
Kids ages up to 12, are sure to enjoy Go Play , an indoor 12,000-sf facility with soft play equipment (2727 South County Trail).
What Do Patients Want...and Need?
CO2 Resurfacing:
• Laser, fractional = heals faster
• Top layer (Epidermis) = color and texture
• Deeper layer (Dermis) = stimulates collagen for months after treatment
• Tailored treatment = face, mouth, or eyelid wrinkles, or neck smoothing
• Amazing results with one treatment
• Very specialized – Dr. Tokarz is an expert
Lips and Lower Face Aging:
• Fine lines, loss of lip volume, downturned lip corners, jowls
• Specialized injectable medications = fillers need a careful hand and good eye
• Rested, healthy appearance, not fake
• Amazing results with one treatment
• Very specialized – Dr. Tokarz is an expert
Laser for Sunspots, Rosacea, Blotchy skin:
• Power of light energy to target specific problem areas
• Little downtime or social interruption
• Amazing results with one treatment
• Very specialized – Dr. Tokarz is an expert
Angry or Tired Eyes:
• Medications that help soften frowns: you’ll look like yourself only rested
• Amazing results with one treatment
• Very specialized – Dr. Tokarz is an expert
Undereye Circles:
• PRP/PRFM: Use your own platelets for a series of treatments to lighten and improve skin under eyes – not a filler
• Very specialized – Dr. Tokarz is an expert!
Call for your personal consultation with a Board-Certified Dermatologist who has over a decade of experience in laser and cosmetic Dermatology: 401-886-5277 • info@tokarzderm.com www.tokarzderm.com
JAMESTOWN REAL ESTATE
47 Kane Avenue, Middletown - Private, well maintained home and yard with 4 beds in coveted Easton’s Point neighborhood; walk to beach.
1093 East Shore Road, Jamestown - New to market - Meticulously renovated 1880s home on the north end of Jamestown. 3-4 bedrooms with separate cottage, garage/studio and additional lots. Beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces.
100 Snuff Mill Road, Saunderstown - Inviting 3 bedroom on almost an acre; room to expand w/ new 4 bed septic; renovated interior; very private, yet easy access to highways.
Jamestown
A LAID-BACK ISLAND GETAWAY
Our Table Jamestown is about Simply. Great. Food. locally sourced to offer the best of every season. We cook from scratch, fresh ingredients creatively prepared; comfort food kicked-up and house-made desserts, pies, and ice cream. Great cocktails, too. It’s a spot where grown-ups can get a great meal, and kids can, too, in a place you’re going to want to hang out. Thursday through Monday, Open at 5pm. See page 64 for details.
Photo courtesy of Our Table
JAMESTOWN
A laid-back island getaway
Just a bridge away, Jamestown is Rhode Island’s hidden gem. This island has gorgeous, unspoiled nature to explore, some of the state’s best food, and a fraction of the crowds of other tourist destinations.
SHOP
Somewhat of a hidden gem, enjoy breezy shopping on Conanicut Island (AKA Jamestown) without the crowds. Be inspired to feather your nest or vessel at TWC Home (17 Narragansett Ave.) and Conanicut Gift Shop & Arcade (20 Narragansett Ave.) is a must for vacay essentials – from outdoor gear to sneakers, flip flops, clothing for all ages, and souvenirs. Swing by Blossom an Artisan Boutique
(24 Narragansett Ave.) for home and boat, plus accessories and baby items. Jamestown Outdoors (35 Narragansett Ave.) is your go-to for renting SUPs, paddle boards, kayaks, and beach cruiser bikes, plus lessons, tours (sunset and full moon), and “waterkid” birthday parties, and Island Animal ( 35 Narragansett Ave. ) has been called a general store for furry friends. Fuller Art & Frame Gallery (42 Narragansett Ave.)
sells fine art and gifts along with custom framing. Need printed Ts and crew gear? Latitude Custom Apparel (61 Conanicus Ave.) has you covered. Popular Narragansett shop Nauti Girl Boutique (47 Conanicus Ave.) just opened a J-town location, filled with clothing, accessories, and decor all with coastal allure, and brighten any day with a floral arrangement from The Secret Garden (12 Southwest Ave.).
Conanicus Avenue
by Nick DelGiudice
Photography
JAMESTOWN
A laid-back island getaway
DINE
For an island with a little over 5,000 residents, Jamestown has plenty of impressive dining. Highlights include Beech (13 Narragansett Ave.), serving upscale casual fare – from fresh-cut pasta to local seafood – all built around a 150-year-old beech tree. 1 Ferry Wharf (3 East Ferry Wharf) is an oceanside oasis in the Conanicut Marina; and JB’s on the Water (150 Conanicus Ave.) serves up scrumptious New England classics. Our Table Jamestown (53 Narragansett Ave., Suite 101) offers creative takes on comfort food, and a patio to fully enjoy sunny days. As the name would suggest, Standards (40 Narragansett Ave.) finds its niche in traditional family-favorite recipes, finely executed. There’s always something fun going on at The Narragansett Cafe (25 Narragansett Ave.). Whether it’s live music (usually Thursdays-Sundays) or Tuesday Trivia, it’s a fun place and their extensive menu has something
for everyone. If you’re looking for something casual, Slice of Heaven (32 Narragansett Ave. #1166) is a European-style bakery that serves breakfast and lunch, plus coffee, pastries, and cocktails. East Ferry Deli (47 Conanicus Ave.), open for breakfast and lunch daily, is known for their specialty sandwiches and sweeping waterfront views. Come for the elevated appetizers and stay for the desserts at Angel’s Kitchen (23 Narragansett Ave.). Island living isn’t complete without sweet scoops, so stop by The Wicked Whisk (79 North Rd.) for an ice cream cone or candy-infused milkshake. Filled with rustic charm, Village Hearth Bakery & Cafe (2 Watson Ave.) is where you’ll find scratch-made goods baked on-site.
Purchase harvested produce and more at the Jamestown Community Farm Stand (40 Eldred Ave.), open Saturdays 9:30am-11am, and buy fresh-picked blooms at the self-serve stand Wildflower Farm (18 Wildflower Ln.)
Village Hearth Bakery & Cafe
Photo by Jeff DiMeo
WELCOME TO BEECH
JAMESTOWN
A laid-back island getaway
EXPLORE
Beavertail State Park (Beavertail Rd.) is notably one of the most beautiful pieces of scenery in New England. The rocky coastline boasts views of Newport and the Atlantic Ocean from any of its four overlooks and from the hiking trails throughout. The park is also home to Beavertail Lighthouse & Museum , the third-oldest lighthouse in North America, open daily through Labor Day. Climbing the granite tower is available, weather permitting from 1:30-4pm on July 4, 18; August 8 and 22; and Labor Day. Don’t miss exploring the quarters, and stopping by the gift shop to get your Lighthouse Passport stamped.
Jamestown is only nine miles long and one mile wide, but there’s a lot of history on the island. Pack a basket of cheese and nibbles from charcuterie and organic wine business Grapes and Gourmet (9 E Ferry Wharf) (or ask about their pre-assembled picnic baskets), and head to Fort Wetherill (3 Fort Wetherill Rd.), an abandoned military fort and must-see destination. Besides the fort itself, which has become something of a graffiti art museum, the views from the cliffs of this 100-foot vantage are stunning. It’s also a popular spot for scuba divers.
Conanicut Battery National Historic Park (Battery Ln.) is home to several earthen fortifications dating back to the Revolutionary War, built by both colonists and the British. Explore the trails, which have information on the park’s history. Fort Getty Park (1050 Fort Getty Rd.), another piece of Jamestown’s military history, has fishing areas and a campground.
Watson Farm (455 North Rd.) has been in operation since 1796, and offers self-guided tours of livestock, wildlife, and farm history Thursdays and Saturdays. Jamestown Historical Society (92 Narragansett Ave.) is a hub for all of the island’s historic preservation, including the Jamestown Museum , Meetinghouse , and Jamestown Philomenian Library . Be sure to see the Jamestown Windmill , located on North Road near Weeden Lane, open weekends or by appointment.
If you find yourself wanting to never leave Jamestown, maybe you don’t have to!
Visit Jamestown Real Estate (57 Narragansett Ave.) to find out how to turn this charming location into your forever home.
PLAY
Skip Newport traffic by parking in Jamestown and then taking the Jamestown Newport Ferry (1 East Ferry Wharf, Unit 2) across the harbor. Hop aboard a Coastal Queen Cruise (1 East Ferry Wharf) for a leisurely voyage around Narragansett Bay and the Newport Harbor while enjoying live music ranging from jazz tunes to sea shanties, wine and cheese spreads from Grapes & Gourmet , and even the chance to see Newport’s Fourth of July fireworks display from the water (visit CoastalQueenCruises.com for a full line-up). Whether you captain your own vessel or enjoy harbor views, there’s plenty of marinas to choose from, including Safe Harbor Jamestown Boatyard (60 Dumpling Dr.) and TPG Marinas (252 Narragansett Ave.). Members and non-members can take a sailing lesson with the Conanicut Yacht Club (40 Bay View Dr.).
Open Daily at 6am
Photo courtesy of Cruise RI
Enjoy engaging with art at Jamestown Arts Center (18 Valley St.). Take a class or workshop, view the A Celebration of Trees exhibit (through August 29), and save August 8, for the Artists’ Open Studios tour.
Let the kids blow off some steam swinging and sliding at the Jamestown Community Playground (North Rd.).
If your idea of a getaway is more aligned with relaxation, Island Heron Yoga (34 Narragansett Ave.) offers vinyasa, meditation, and more for all levels, and sells curated accessories from their shop. Partake in a range of yoga classes from West Ferry Yoga (15 Melrose Ave.), manicures, pedicures, reflexology, and more from Cathryn Jamieson Salon and Day Spa (16 Narragansett Ave.), or learn about Dr. Wendy Regan’s non-surgical face treatments at Harbour Direct Primary Care, Inc. (53 Narragansett Ave.).
Coastal Queen
Narragansett
COME FOR THE BEACH, STAY FOR THE FUN
Big-time fun awaits at George’s
Galilee, an iconic waterfront restaurant that offers fresh seafood, cocktails, and amazing views. See page 82 for details.
Photo courtesy of George’s of Galilee
of
NARRAGANSETT
Come for the beach, stay for the fun
When visitors think of South County, they’re probably envisioning Narragansett.
Three public beaches – Scarborough, Wheeler, and Narragansett Town Beach – offer all the rays you can handle. And there’s plenty of food and fun to get you through the days, even the rainy ones.
SHOP
If you’re in the mood to shop, check out Pier Marketplace . The seaside complex is home to boutiques, Special T Shop (for ‘Gansett wear), Shades - Pier Optical , and Nauti Girl Boutique, selling unique pieces for your beach or boathouse and coastal styles. Queen of Cups is a tarot-inspired cafe serving tea, coffee, treats, and good vibes. In Mariner Square (140 Point Judith Rd.), visit sewing studio Beach Hut Gifts for custom-embroidered gifts, and show someone you care with an exquisite flower arrangement from Floral Designs by Donna , or sign up for a DIY class. The Cigar Box (142 Boon St.) covers all your stogie-smoking needs. Stop at Crosswynds Traders (1175 Boston Neck Rd.), a family-owned retailer, for jeans and local gear.
Crosswynds Traders
Queen of Cups
Photo (top)
courtesy of Queen of Cups, (bottom) courtesy of Crosswynds Traders
JULY 3rd (Fri): 4th (Sat): 10th (Fri): 11th (Sat): 17th (Fri): 18th (Sat): 24th (Fri): 25th (Sat): 31st (Fri):
1st (Sat): 7th (Fri): 8th (Sat): 14th (Fri): 15th (Sat): 21st (Fri): 22nd (Sat): 28th (Fri): 29th (Sat):
SEPTEMBER 4th (Fri): 5th (Sat):
Keturah’s Dream Earl Knightwood Band
Roger Ceresi, Richard Ribb, & Jon Hathaway
The Complaints
Dean Adams Street45 Band
Oblivious Fools
Edge of Dreams
Rory and the Blues Hounds
The Hitmen Keturah’s Dream Porch Rockers For The Record Street45 Band
The Complaints
Makin’ Waves
Dean Adams Papa Dukes
The Hitmen Oblivious Fools
NARRAGANSETT
Come for the beach, stay for the fun
At 123 Boon Studios (123 Boon St.), shop local art and treasures, while SunStruck Gift Boutique (1171 Boston Neck Rd.) is your go-to for uniquely Rhody trinkets, mostly from women-owned businesses, show more Rhody love with souvenirs and gifts from Gansett Goods (142 Boon St.). Treat summer skin to a facial at Inspire Medical Spa (14 Woodruff Ave., #10).
DINE
You definitely won’t go hungry here – this seaside town has tons of delicious dining options. Twin Willows (865 Boston Neck Rd.) has a huge menu of seafood and comfort food favorites, as well as an outdoor bar. Gansett Wraps (70 Point Judith Rd.) specializes in fast-casual fare – and
has locations in Westerly (55 Beach St.), Middletown (510 East Main Rd.), and North Kingstown (7380 Post Rd.). Gansett Poke first opened as a solar-powered food truck and continues its mission of sustainability and preparing delicious seafood bowls in Pier Marketplace. Picky eaters in the family? No problem! Head over to Boon Street Market
by Nick DelGiudice
Gansett Wraps
Photography
NARRAGANSETT
Come for the beach, stay
(145 Boon St.), which functions as four restaurants (and two bars!) all in one place. For on-the-go sipping, visit Fuel Coffee Bar (904 Boston Neck Rd.) for roasted brews, baked goods, and breakfast items. Take a global journey right in South County starting with coastal European fare celebrating the bounty of the Atlantic at Celeste (15 Kingstown Rd.). Indulge in Mediterranean bites and sips from Spain (1144 Ocean Road).
Photo courtesy of Aunt Carrie’s
In Mariner Square (140 Point Judith Rd.), located just steps from each other is Mariner Grille , offering the freshest steak and seafood; Arturo Joe’s , dishing out classic Italian; Pancho O’Malley’s Mexican fare and Irish grub served in a lively pub setting; and Umi Poke & Sushi for raw bowls. Aunt Carrie’s (1240 Ocean Rd.) and Iggy’s Doughboys and Chowder House (1151 Point Judith Rd.) are two
Aunt Carrie’s
NARRAGANSETT
Come for the beach, stay for the fun
venerable seafood restaurants across the street from one another, over which generations of Rhode Islanders have debated their personal preference. Or, grab take-out from Monahan’s Clam Shack (190 Ocean Rd.) and sit on the sea wall to enjoy the ocean view.
Ice cream isn’t hard to find in this beach town! Nana’s Ice Cream (28A Pier Market Pl.) also serves gelato and candy, and Baron’s Ice Cream (921 Boston Neck Rd.) is known for their small-batch, homemade scoops.
For fine dining, 1230 Ocean Bistro
(1230 Ocean Rd.) has waterfront views and a huge deck, and for live music and dancing, head downstairs to Bon Vue Inn Chair 5 at The Break Hotel (1208 Ocean Rd.) has poolside gourmet dining and a more casual menu on its roof deck. The Coast Guard House (40 Ocean Rd.), directly next to the Narragansett Towers, has views for days. Their roof deck offers casual fare, while downstairs (including a patio and some cocktail-ready Adirondack chairs) serves upscale options.
Coast Guard House
Photo courtesy of Coast Guard House
•
The South County Museum and School of Craft (115 Strathmore St.) is a living history farm, maritime gallery, print shop, oneroom schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, and more. For more old-timey fun, visit Sunset Farm (505 Point Judith Rd.), the oldest working family farm in the area known for its pies, all-natural veggies, and beef. Entrepreneurs, Sunrise Properties (24A Pier Marketplace) is a one-stop for property management and more.
The area around Narragansett Town Beach (39 Boston Neck Rd.) is bustling this time of year. Come prepared with cash – it’s one of Rhode Island’s only beaches that charges admission per head, rather than for parking. Watch for food trucks popping up, concerts on most Monday evenings at North Beach Clubhouse in July and August, movies on the big screen select Wednesday nights, and nearby, the Gazebo Summer Concert Series hosts live music (find schedules at NarragansettRI.gov). Within
Gazebo Summer Concert Series
SOUTH COUNTY LOCAL COLOR
view, the Narragansett Towers (35 Ocean Rd.) might be South County’s most photographed landmark; inside, find tourist info. One of the town’s signature events, the Blessing of the Fleet Celebration takes place July 24-26 in Memorial Square next to the Towers.
Chart a course for aquatic adventure with a visit to Warm Winds (26 Kingstown Rd.), a surf shop that also has surf and SUP rentals and lessons, and Narragansett Surf and Skate (74 Narragansett Ave.), which stocks equipment for both warm-weather recreations, plus surf classes and camps for adults and kids are available through Peter Pan
Peter Pan Surfing & SUP Academy
Surfing and SUP Academy . Unwind with Natural Fitness Yoga (76 Narragansett Ave.), which leads early morning beach classes on Town Beach, or join the fun, friendly cycling community for a spin at So Co Cycle Studio (140 Point Judith Rd., Unit A-14), and pick up a racket for a lively game with Ocean State Pickleball (360 S Pier Rd.). You must take the kiddos to Adventureland (112 Point Judith Rd.) for a screen-free day of bumper boats, mini golf, go-karts, and more. Go whale watching with Frances Fleet (33 State St.), which operates four fishing vessels out of the Port of Galilee.
Catch a wave – or some fish
This corner of Narragansett is best known as the fishing port of Point Judith – home of Rhode Island’s famous calamari – but the village of Galilee has a lot more to offer in fun and food.
SHOP
Galilee serves as the transportation hub for Block Island. Though the Block Island Ferry (304 Great Island Rd.) also sails from Newport, the busiest boats come and go from this port. Arrive early to ensure good parking, and spend that extra time strolling and souvenir shopping at Soft as a Grape (294 Great Island Rd.).
DINE
George’s of Galilee (250 Sand Hill Cove Rd.) and Champlin’s Seafood (256 Great Island Rd.) are so close together they share a parking lot. Champlin’s, serving traditional New England clam shack fare since the 1930s, has an attached seafood market and a second-floor restaurant where almost all of the seating is outdoors (including The Channel Lounge where you can watch the boats go by). Founded in 1948, George’s of Galilee has a walk-up window for beach snacks, beach chair service, full restaurant, and even two tiki bars! Jimmy’s Port Side Restaurant (321 Great Island Rd.), a few steps down the road, serves day-caught seafood in their large
dining room and outdoor patio and bar, and has live entertainment, too.
EXPLORE
There’s a reason you see Point Judith calamari on almost every restaurant’s menu in Rhode Island – it’s simply the best. The state’s freshest, most coveted seafood is brought into this port. Get it right from the source at the fishing docks, where you can pick up lobsters, squid, clams, and whatever other seafood is fresh.
PLAY
Salty Brine State Beach , named after one of Rhode Island’s most beloved radio and TV icons, is a little patch of shore that’s great for families.
Photo courtesy of RI DEM
The fishing village of Galilee
1 Enjoy the amazing selection of food options
Seafood is the signature specialty here – be it grilled, sautéed, baked, or fried. Clams, shrimp, oysters, lobster, mussels, fluke, and salmon are just a sampling of what’s available on the award-winning seafood menu. Hand-cut ribeye steaks, freshly made pasta, sushi, healthy options (such as gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan dishes), and kids’ favorites are also among the delicious options available daily for lunch and dinner.
SPONSORED CONTENT
Ways to Experience George’s of Galilee 5
2 Savor the fresh, locally-caught seafood
Nestled in the port of Galilee, George’s is committed to the fishing village and its community of commercial fishermen. The restaurant buys its fish directly from local day boats to serve fresh and responsibly caught seafood.
4 Experience a time-honored Rhody tradition
A local tradition since 1948, the thirdgeneration family restaurant continues to delight diners with its outstanding food, sweeping waterfront views, and customer service. Dining here is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. The largest waterfront restaurant in the state offers seven dining rooms on two floors with seating for up to 500 people. The gorgeous Harbor View Room offers a private event space and breathtaking views.
3 Soak up the sunsets
What’s better than dinner? Dinner with a view! George’s of Galilee has six dining areas on two floors that provide you with a scenic overlook of the water and some of the best sunsets around. During the summer our outdoor decks and patios are excellent places to catch some sun while enjoying some of the freshest seafood around. Sit back, relax, and enjoy watching the boats go by!
5 Discover beachside bites and breezy beats
Their iconic Tiki Bar is the place to be this summer. Enjoy live music daily while you sip on a peanut butter mudslide or pineapple jalapeño margarita. Perfect for beach lovers, George’s takeout window makes it easy to grab your favorite bites and head straight to the shoreline. Sun, sea, and seriously good food.
George’s of Galilee
250 Sand Hill Cove, Port of Galilee 401-783-2306 • GeorgesOfGalilee.com
North Kingstown
A CHARMING CORNER OF RHODE ISLAND’S HISTORY
Step back four centuries at Smith’s Castle on ancestral Narragansett land. Uncover the stories of colonial families, and enslaved people. With costumed docent led tours, Afternoon Teas, Breakfast Talks, and evening Conversations at the Castle, your summer just got historic. Come play in Rhode Island’s past! See page 86 for details.
Photo courtesy of Smith’s Castle
NORTH KINGSTOWN
A charming corner of Rhode Island’s history
North Kingstown has played an important role in American aviation, naval development, and innovation.
SHOP
Driving along Post Road (Route 1) you’ll find the usual strip mall businesses but keep your eyes peeled for eclectic shops like Rē (7511 Post Rd.), which specializes in antiques, art, jewelry and more, and The White Elephant (7535 Post Rd.), known for giving new life to old things in the form of upcycled home decor. Need new frames? Rhode Eyeland (74 Frenchtown Rd.) carries high-fashion eyewear and designer brands. For wellness, treat yourself to an appointment at Release Bodywork by Caitie Kelly (650 Ten Rod Rd., Suite G4), and discover Regen RX Help (7414 Post Rd.), a med spa with state-of-the art cosmetic procedures and services.
DINE
Popular Gooseneck Vineyards (1340 Tower Hill Rd.) serves award-winning varietals over charcuterie from their picturesque farm venue, with food trucks and live music on the calendar all summer.
Allie’s Donuts (3661 Quaker Ln.) is a RI tradition for just that and for their giant donut that serves 12. The Carriage Inn (1065 Tower Hill Rd.) offers family favorites in a historic setting, and its owners also opened The Frozen Cow Ice Cream Shoppe and RoyBoy’s Clam Shack (6710 Post Rd.). It’s all about comfort food at Rome Point Cafe (820 Boston Neck Rd.), which serves tasty breakfast and lunch, plus vegetarian options. Oak Hill Tavern (565 Tower Hill Rd.) dishes up big portions and live music. Feel like a local visiting The Neighborhood Table and The BAH (7366 Post Rd.), and enjoy a delicatessen lunch inspired by the Big Apple at The Provisioner New York Deli (7669 Post Rd.). West Passage Brewing (7835 Post Rd.) pours pale ales, hard seltzers, and more to pair with a curated menu of good eats. Rhody Slice (7415 Post Rd.) serves up Kurdish-inspired pizzas, salads, and desserts. Inside Scoop (30 Ten Rod Rd.) impresses with over 64 homemade flavors of soft-serve ice cream, nonfat yogurt, plus ice cream cakes. For fans of Jiggers in East Greenwich, their second location, Karie’s
Kitchen (640 Boston Neck Rd.), dishes diner classics along with baked goods, hot weiners, and more inside or on their open-air deck.
EXPLORE
One of the oldest homes in the state, Smith’s Castle (55 Richard Smith Dr.) contains 400 years of New England history. Along with tours and docents in period dress, watch for afternoon teas, evening lectures, and more. Take a step back in time to 1750 at The Gilbert Stuart Birthplace and Museum (815 Gilbert Stuart Rd.). Stuart is best known for his portrait of George Washington which appears on the US one-dollar bill. Set on 23 idyllic acres, the museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays; the welcome center houses the Bell Art Gallery and a gift shop.
History and trivia buffs will enjoy a ride to Quonset Point , a small peninsula, once known for manufacturing the semi-circle huts. The historic
area was once home to the Quonset Point Naval Air Station, the northeast’s major base during WWII and the Atlantic Seabees. Today, it’s Quonset Business Park (2574 Davisville Rd.), home to nearly 200 businesses. The Port of Davisville is a major point of entry for shipping on the East Coast, and is one of the top ten auto importers in North America, and where you board the Martha’s Vineyard Fast Ferry (reservations strongly advised, and bring cash for the parking lot) which runs from Quonset to Oak Bluffs, MA.
PLAY
Biomes Marine Biology Center (6640 Post Rd.) is New England’s only private marine education facility and the most hands-on aquarium in the region. With daily kids’ programming and a touch tank – plus adults-only BYOB Biomes After Dark events – visitors learn all about what’s living in local waters. If you can’t get enough marine life experiences, pay a visit
Gooseneck Vineyards
Photo courtesy of Island Rose Spa
to A’s Aquatic & Pet Store (6637 Post Rd.) across the street to peep the pet fish for sale.
Check out the Tuesday Night Concert Series at North Kingstown Town Beach (10 Beach St.), featuring local sounds in all genres (runs through August 25).
Get in touch with your sporty side by checking out the Lil’ Rhody Pickleball Club (6615 Post Rd.), a private indoor and outdoor club with instruction for beginners and challenging game play for pros.
Feeling crafty? Bring the family or friend group to Hammer & Stain (7671 Post Rd.) to make a memento, with public workshops available or private bookings for a party (reserve ahead at HammerAndStainWickford.com).
Before diving into your own creations, a visit to The Mill at Shady Lea (215 Shady Lea Rd., Studio 111) on open studio days is sure to spark inspiration, or reach out about guided tours and workshops at the artists’ spaces.
Hammer & Stain
Photo
Wickford
A CHARMING CORNER OF RHODE ISLAND’S HISTORY
Wickford Art Association hosts its 63rd annual Wickford Art Festival Featuring over 200 fine artists from around the country on July 11 & 12 at Wilson Park, North Kingstown, RI! Our gallery is located at 36 Beach Street in Wickford, check out all that we offer at www.wickfordart.org. See page 94 for details.
Photos courtesy of Wickford Art Association
WICKFORD
A charming corner of Rhode Island’s history
This delightful coastal village is a part of North Kingstown, and it’s the kind of picture-perfect waterfront New England town that summer days are made of.
SHOP
Artful shopping abounds in this picturesque village, starting with The Pearl (29 Phillips St.) a nearly hidden jewel box specializing in pearls. Eclectic Bungalow (1 Brown St.), is the source for colorful furnishings and accents, The Woven
Path (11 Brown St.) offers distinctive handmade gifts by local makers, and Spring Pottery (14 Brown St.), is a ceramic studio and retail space. Discover gifts and the shop’s own honey at Yes! Gallery (17 Brown St.). Harbor View Artisans (24 Brown St.) is an artist co-op showcasing work for sale in a wide range of mediums; next door is Pink Parasol Boutique (24 Brown St.), an adorbs boutique. The Mermaid’s Purl (68 Brown St.) is a must for any knitter, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a larger selection of sterling silver jewelry than Green River Silver Co. (83 Brown St.), sourced from around the world. Green Ink
(89 Brown St.), with a second location in Providence, is a village anchor that has been selling groovy women’s clothing and accessories since 1972. Pick up artisanal ingredients at Wickford Cheese & Sundry (26 Brown St.) and The Impressed Olive (99 Brown St.). Anchored Soul (2 Main St.) is an artist-owned gift boutique that offers energy healing sessions. For rustic-meets-coastal home decor, head over to flatfish cottage (12 Main St.). Along the way, pay a visit to Therapy Boutique (5 W Main St.) to cure your wardrobe blues, and complete the look with a pair of sunnies from
The Mermaid’s Purl
Photo (L) courtesy of The Mermaid’s Purl
The Novel Eye (1 W Main St.). Find beautiful faux floral wreaths and other elevated decor at Farmgirl’s Front Porch (10 Main St.). Beauty and the Bath (11 W Main St.) is filled with sunny vibes and everything for bath and body (including jammies), and Midnight Sun (13 W Main St.) carries colorful apparel and accessories. Different Drummer (15 W Main St.) brims with gifts and stationery. Pick up florals and gifts for green thumbs at Sprigs (16B W Main St. (second location in East Greenwich). Wickford Table & Home (21 W Main St.) boasts two floors of kitchen and
tabletop goods. Housed in an old church, The Sew-Op (31 W Main St.) is a one-stop for sewing; above is The Other Club , a private tattoo, art, and design studio specializing in classic, decorative, and custom work by appointment (AndrewMilko.com). Also at that address, discover sustainable fashion at Jennifer Lee Designs (31 W Main St.). Tucked behind is My Paris Maison , a Francophile’s dream with antiques and home goods in a former dairy barn; don’t miss its baby sister, My Paris Apartment (16 W. Main St.) filled with stationery and home accents.
Therapy Boutique
DINE
Kick off the perfect date night or get-together by stepping through the bright yellow door of Buttercup Flower & Wine Bar (4 Brown St.), where you can assemble your own bouquet over a glass of wine. Then grab a table at Press (30 W Main St.), a scratch-made kitchen serving brunch and dinner that channels the flavors of New England.
From a full-service tea experience at Sweet Marie’s Tea Cottage (7 Main St.) to Mediterranean-inspired fare with patios overlooking the cove at Tavern by the Sea (16 W Main St.), Wickford has no shortage of delicious options. Tate’s Italian Kitchen (64 Brown St.) serves Photo by Abigail
Burnham
fresh Italian classics. Shayna’s Place (45 Brown St.) is a family-owned restaurant specializing in homemade breakfast and lunch favorites including signature grinder Vinny’s Kitchen. A trip to Wickford wouldn’t be complete without a meal at Wickford on the Water (85 Brown St.), known for both creative specials and water views. If you’d rather do the cooking at home, Gardner’s Wharf Seafood (170 Main St.) sells live lobsters and seafood locally caught that day, with a patio, Chevy’s Shack , for outdoor dining. Cool off with sweet scoops from Village Ice Cream & Soup Co. (4 Brown St.).
Wickford on the Water
WICKFORD
A charming corner of Rhode Island’s history
EXPLORE
Evenings of live music, food trucks, activities, and extended shop hours are all part of summer lightings of Wickford Harbor Fire (July 16, August 13). Another seasonal must is the Wickford Art Festival (211 W. Main Street). Presented by the Wickford Art Association since 1962, it’s held at Wilson Park, July 11 and 12. For some self-care, plan a visit to Tranquility Day Spa (23 Brown St.) – a waterfront wellness center that offers the works – or Ocean Essence (14 Main St.) for massage therapy and skincare treatments. Challenge mind, body, and spirit at Wild Flow Barre & Yoga Studio (9 Phillips St.).
PLAY
Find all things paddle at The Kayak Centre (70 Brown St.), an expansive store offering a boatload of services and gear for sale, plus daily rentals and instruction for kayaks and SUPs, and guided sunset tours. Get on the water with Wickford Boat Rentals (1 Phillips St.) and neighboring In-Command Seamanship Training (1 Phillips St., Suite 1A), offering recreational boating lessons for the entire family.
Wickford Harbor Fire
The Kayak Centre
Photo (top) courtesy of Wickford Harbor Fire, (bottom) courtesy of The Kayak Centre
@myparismaison
TRY OUR WOOD-FIRED PIZZAS, HOUSE SMOKED BBQ PLATTERS, BURGERS, WINGS AND MORE
extensive draft + cocktail lists visit our
FEATURING LOCAL FAVORITES AND ROTATING LIMITED OFFERINGS
PERFECT PET FRIENDLY SPACE FOR DINNER + COCKTAILS OR CHECK OUT OUR GAME AREA
South Kingstown
RHODE ISLAND’S LARGEST TOWN IS FULL OF SEASIDE CHARM
Stylish, artisan, and unique finds are aplenty at the The Purple Cow . See page 98 for details.
Photo courtesy of The Purple Cow
WAKEFIELD
Eat. Shop. Play. Repeat.
While it’s technically a village of South Kingstown, Wakefield is a bustling center of life in South County, home to the area’s only mall, an excellent hospital, and a Main Street made for strolling.
SHOP
Wakefield Mall (160 Old Tower Hill Rd.) has both large-scale retailers and specialty shops like STEM-themed toy store Pow! Science! and 2nd Time Around Sports with new and used equipment. More shopping on Main Street awaits! Refresh your style at The Purple Cow (205 Main St.) with fun and funky women’s fashion and gifts, and find classic and on-trend women’s pieces at Therapy Boutique (343B Main St.;
second location in Wickford). Browse quality consignment at One More Time (406 Main St.), and second-hand keepsakes at Bubba & Lolo’s Thrift (119 Main St.). Discover unique treasures at Eclectic Energy (102 Main St.), low tide jewelry co. (1070 Kingstown Rd., Building 9) and Salt Pond Pottery (253 Main St.). Picture This Framing Center & Gallery (552 Kingstown Rd.) offers framing services and gifts.
Rebekah Cook Art
low tide jewelry co.
Photo (top) courtesy of Rebekah Cook Art, (bottom) courtesy of low tide jewelry co.
WAKEFIELD
Eat. Shop. Play. Repeat.
Create your own masterpiece at Rebekah Cook Art (344 Main St. Unit 103), a studio that offers pottery painting, art lessons, and paint parties. Home of the Block Island Glass Float Project, The Glass Station Studio (446 Main St.) has delightful displays of hand-blown items and jewelry. Ocean State of Mind (476 Main St.) is a new coastal boutique. Visit
Dove & Distaff (365 Main St.) for the perfect area rug, new bedding, and even cozy pajamas. Grab sweet treats at Main Street Candy (324 Main St.), and a nice bottle of bubbly from Wakefield Liquors (667 Kingstown Rd.). Dining in or picnicking on the beach? Belmont Market (600 Kingstown Rd.) has been a go-to since 1947, for groceries, local produce, and chef-prepared foods.
Wakefield Liquors
Photography by Nick DelGiudice
SALTPONDPOTTERY COM THURSDAY- SATURDAY 11-5 401-284-8872
PLAY MUSIC ENJOY LIFE
Wakefield Music Co.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Guitars • Folk Instruments • Keyboards
Percussion • Band Instrument Rentals & Sales
SHEET MUSIC & BOOKS
Popular • Classical • Methods • Collections
ACCESSORIES & MORE
Strings • Stands • Tuners & Metronomes
Reeds • Lessons • Repairs • Concerts
WAKEFIELD
Eat. Shop. Play. Repeat.
DINE
Wakefield boasts an emerging dining scene with inventive concepts including Purslane (318 Main St.), serving gourmet takes on pub fare – and their recently opened St. Charbel Oyster Bar across the street. In the thick of the action is Brickley’s Ice Cream (322 Main St.), where waiting in line affords time to ponder 45 homemade flavors for your scoops. Duck Press (333 Main St.) is a modern bistro with old-world elegance, and The Mews Tavern (456 Main St.) is the OG for creative comfort food and 69 beers on tap at any given time; their upstairs Celtic Pub boasts 200 Scotches and 40 whiskeys and bourbons to sample – just not all at the same time. Dragon Palace (733 Kingstown Rd.) is sure to satisfy Chinese food cravings.
Caf Bar (396 Main St.), is a cozy cafe, and South County Bread Company (333 Main St.) is a must for homemade breads, doughs, and quiches. Nearby, Maiz (58 High St.) has authentic Mexican fare, (second location in PVD). Find the South County Barbeque food truck making its rounds (schedule and catering info on IG at @southcountybarbeque). Feel like a local at The Joyce Restaurant & Pub (195 Main St.), a welcoming pub. Shop locally made provisions at Town Made (203 Main St.). Whether you’re hosting a soir é e or planning a picnic, Fig & Fromage (889 Boston Neck Rd.) is ready with luxe-meets-rustic charcuterie boxes to-go, and catering options like layered grazing spreads. The Gathering Table ( 237 Robinson St. ) doubles as
The Gathering Table
Photo courtesy of The Gathering Table
a cafe and specialty shop, complete with a cheese counter and party supplies. Swing by Ocean Catch Seafood (566 Kingstown Rd.) for prepared food and fresh harvests of the sea. GoPasta ( 32 Old Tower Hill Rd. ) has delicious prepared meals to go. Fans of Matunuck Oyster Bar will enjoy its new sister Matunuck Atelier (151 Old Tower Rd.) – elegant dining offering peeks into the kitchen. Do not miss Sweenor’s Chocolates (21 Charles St.), a fourth-gen family business that crafts smooth and delicious chocolate novelties, truffles, fudge, and more. Shipping available! Make any day a special occasion with a cake or pastry from Sweet Althea’s (542 Kingstown Rd.); now serving breakfast sandwiches.
WAKEFIELD
Eat. Shop. Play. Repeat.
EXPLORE
The Village at South County Commons (50 South County Commons Way) is a lifestyle and entertainment destination, designed to resemble a village. Among its 70 tenants is Pasquale’s , renowned for authentic Neapolitan pizza from its wood-burning oven, plus prepared Italian food, gelato, and more from its sister restaurant Neapolis Food Emporium . Enjoy a a taste of the Italian
countryside at Trattoria Romana South with dishes inspired by Chef Luciano Canova’s upbringing. Enjoy a hearty scratch-made breakfast at Rachel’s Cafe , Thai food from Tong-Ta , and Hawaiian seafood bowls from Pokemoto . Sip coffee or a coffee-infused cocktail from reality TV fan-favorite couple Ashley Iaconetti and Jared Haibon at Audrey’s Coffee House and Lounge , as currently seen on Bravo’s The Real
Housewives of Rhode Island . For craft beer-lovers, order a flight from Tower Hill Brewing Co. , with a rotating lineup of ales, seltzers, along with live music. BYO-food, welcome.
In addition to other programming, The Contemporary Theater Company (327 Main St.) stages Shakespeare on the Saugatucket with Love’s Labour’s Los t. They also provide the live music for RiverFire , which takes
Tower Hill Brewing Co.
Photo courtesy of Tower Hill Brewing Co.
over Saugatucket Park on third Thursdays through September, with food trucks, live
and shopping amidst floating blazing braziers. Visit Hera Gallery (10 High St.), a pioneer in artist-run spaces since 1974. History buffs won’t want to miss the The International Museum of World War II (344 Main St.), open Tuesdays through Saturdays or by appointment. Step into the gift cottage and wander
by
Photo
Elyse Major
the row of greenhouses – each filled with decor and plants by color scheme – at The Farmer’s Daughter (716 Mooresfield Rd.). Additionally, pick flowers, buy produce, and watch for special events. Experience the serenity of Lavender Waves Farm (3814 Commodore Perry Hwy.), a 14-acre lavender farm, home to 60 animals, with monthly sound baths and meditation evenings, and other events.
You r One-Sto p fo r
Summer S elf- Ca re
Our convenient, affordable services and classes will help you get healthy and feel great! Our amazing practitioners in one convenient location will bring you thoughtful, purpose-driven, unparalleled care.
Achieve your wellness goals today!
Massage
Fitness + Yoga
Integrative Health
Reflexology
Acupuncture
Reiki
Esthetician Services
Permanent Makeup
WAKEFIELD
Eat. Shop. Play. Repeat.
PLAY
512 Main Street, Wakefield, RI (401)515-4889 | jekawellness.com
South County Bike Path is a seven-mile stretch from Peace Dale to Narragansett that runs throughout Wakefield. Get yourself ready to roll at Stedman’s Bike Shop (196 Main St.), a full-service shop with rentals. Try beach yoga led by All That Matters (315 Main St.) or a hot vinyasa flow at Bottega Yoga (730 Kingstown Rd.). If you need a doc, Weatherly Direct Primary Care (24 Salt Pond Rd.) is there. Try your hand at Rhode Island Weaving Center (344 Main St., Suite 200), with offerings
for all ages and skill levels. Wind down with a relaxing massage from Jeka Wellness Center (512 Main St.) and a variety of personalized wellness treatments from Holistic RI (225 Main St.), and treat yourself to a mani-pedi at Universal Nails (532 Kingstown Rd., #A). It’s where you’ll also find Hair Crew International and Luxe Fitness . Ready to make the area home? Check out The South Shore Village and Country Club (40 South Shore Village Blvd.), RI’s premier 55+ golf community.
Photo courtesy of Rhode Island Weaving Center
Rhode Island Weaving Center
PEACE DALE
Hidden gem in the heart of South Kingstown
A district on the National Register of Historic Places, this village has beautiful open spaces and a handful of stores and restaurants.
DINE
Place your order now at Jayd Bun (1202 Kingstown Rd.) – a nationally famous busy spot for authentic Chinese take-out. Craving a burger? Head to Jack’s Place (501 High St.) and don’t skip the onion rings. Whalers Brewing (1174 Kingstown Rd.) is the place for craft beer made inside its on-site taproom, and food trucks on-site select dates.
EXPLORE
At just over seven miles, the William C. O’Neill Bike Path runs from Amtrak’s West Kingston Station to Narragansett; it connects to Tri-Pond Park , known for its hiking trail. Other trails to note include Old Mountain Field (831 Kingstown Rd.), which loops around Indian Run Reservoir, maintained by the South Kingstown Land Trust (SKLT.org);
and the trail at Trustom Pond Wildlife Refuge (1040 Matunuck School House Rd.), which offers scenic pond and ocean views.
PLAY
Indoor climbing facility Rock Spot Indoor Climbing (1174 Kingstown Rd.) has nearly 12,000 square feet of climbing walls and youth summer programs. The Pump House Music Works (1464 Kingstown Rd.) hosts shows all season, including monthly Potluck Open Mic nights. Learn the delicate art of stained glass at Bosgraaf Studio (1214 Kingstown Rd.) or explore the many ways you can help the community through the Jonnycake Center (22 Kersey Rd.). Get your toes sandal-ready at Skyla Raine Day (1183 Kingstown Rd.) a go-to for manis, pedis, and other services, by appointment.
Rock Spot
Photo (L) courtesy of Rock Spot, (R) by Erin McGinn
Jayd Bun
KINGSTON
Big charm in a smart little village
A village of South Kingstown, Kingston is home to an Amtrak station, RI’s largest state university, and a lot of historic charm.
SHOP
DINE
Get your java fix at TLC Coffee Roasters (3362 Kingstown Rd.), a specialty cafe roasting its own beans and serving 21 iced coffees on tap, plus baked goods and breakfast sammies. In nearby Exeter, grab a bite at 401 Deli and Two Scoops Cafe (567 South County Trl.). Sophie’s Brewhouse (699 South County Trl.) is a popular spot for coffee, pastries, and made-to-order sandwiches. Rhode Island’s original farm brewery, Tilted Barn (1 Hemsley Place), features a busy calendar including Summer Markets with live music on Wednesdays, trivia, crafty workshops, and more (calendar at TiltedBarnBrewery.com). Enjoy some of the best wings and waffles around at Stack House ; a breakfast sandwich
Inside a white cottage Fayerweather Craft Guild (1859 Mooresfield Rd./Rte 138), is stocked with gifts handmade by its artisan-members, plus demonstrations and the Blueberry Festival & Outdoor Craft Fair on July 25. Across the road is Painted Karma (2528 Kingstown Rd.), for eclectic furniture and vintage items. Take a scenic ride to Peter Pots Pottery (494 Glen Rock Rd.), a RI treasure, crafting beautiful and functional stoneware since 1948. For a fresh look, zip over to the Kingston Emporium (99 Fortin Rd.) on the University of Rhode Island (URI) campus, to Crops Barber & Beauty , a fun unisex barbershop, and Superior Tanning to get your summer glow on.
and coffee from Providence Bagel ; and a hot sub, burger, or any sandwich imaginable from Albie’s Place , all back at The Emporium (99 Fortin Rd.) at URI.
EXPLORE
Kingston is best known as the home of URI (45 Upper College Rd.), which is perfect for a picturesque stroll any time. Set the alarm for the South Kingstown Farmers Market (25 W. Independence Way) to grab provisions on Saturday mornings. The South County Art Association (2587 Kingstown Rd.), a member-based artist organization, offers educational programs, classes, and exhibits. Enjoy an idyllic stroll or sign-up for Thursday evening yoga and other programming at Kinney Azalea Gardens (2391 Kingstown Rd.). Musical performances at the Courthouse Center for the Arts (3481 Kingstown Rd.) range from classic rock tribute bands
Photo (L) courtesy of Kingston Chamber Music
The Kingston Chamber Music Festival
Kenyon’s Grist Mill
to family-friendly concerts. The Kingston Chamber Music Festival celebrates 38 years of bringing together established international musicians and up-and-coming talent with shows running July 22–August 2 (visit KingstonChamberMusic.org for tickets).
PLAY
Since 1696 Kenyon’s Grist Mill (21 Glen Rock Rd.) has been grinding cornmeal for the savory pancakes known as johnnycakes, as seen on local menus. In addition to taking in the bucolic setting, shop, tour, or kayak on the Queen’s River (QueensRiverKayaks. com). Stretch it out with a hot yoga class or vinyasa flow at Bend Yoga Studio (99 Fortin Rd.). Book a tee time or visit the driving range at Laurel Lane Country Club (309 Laurel Lane). Pro-tip: Head to Rudy’s Bar & Grille on the 18th green for pub fare.
Unique Gifts
MATUNUCK
Fresh from the ocean
This tucked-away South Kingstown village is where you’re most likely to find locals enjoying beachfront restaurants and live entertainment all day and night.
SHOP
Whether you’re a surfer or beach bum, Matunuck Beach Road is a must-stroll before hitting the waves. Get local merch at SeaView’s Matunuck Tees (682 Matunuck Beach Rd.), part of SeaView Marketplace , a local fave for grabbing lunch – their sandwiches are perfect for bringing to the beach. Matunuck Surf Shop (920 Matunuck Beach Rd.) has all your watersport essentials, including boards and wax, wetsuits, and paddleboards for rent, and next door, peruse Shaun Rock Art Gallery (706 Matunuck Beach Rd.). For farm-to-table goods and garden products, stop by Carpenter’s Farm (520 Matunuck Beach Rd.). In addition to being a garden center, Clark Farms (2984 Commodore Perry Hwy.) is packed with family fun, like their annual Sunflower Stroll (TBD on bloom-time; updates at ClarkFarms.com).
DINE
People travel from all over to experience fine dining on the freshest seafood at Matunuck Oyster Bar (629 Succotash Rd.). Currently housed beneath a tent while the original location is rebuilt, also enjoy year-round at Matunuck Atelier (151 Old Tower Hill Rd./ See Wakefield). Along a walkable stretch from East Matunuck State Beach is Cap’n Jack’s (706 Succotash Rd.) and sister restaurant Salt Marsh Pub and Raw Bar serving up coastal classics, from lobster to littlenecks, with an attached bakery that’s impossible to resist. Pick-your-own lobster and enjoy it on a dockside picnic table at Jim’s Dock (1175 Succotash Rd.).
The Ocean Mist (895 Matunuck Beach Rd.) serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and at night turns into the local nightlift spot with live music. Next door, The Pub (907 Matunuck Beach Rd.) is the oldest Irish bar in RI on the beach, with great food, drinks, and
live music. Need we say more about mainstays Matunuck Pizza Pie Co. (920 Matunuck Beach Rd) and The Vanilla Bean (757 Matunuck Beach Rd.)?
Set the alarm on weekends and head directly to Daddy’s Bread (805 Moonstone Beach Rd.). Since 1975, the self-serve bakery has been amassing devotees with varieties of scrumptious freshly baked loaves and more. Cash, check, and Venmo accepted.
EXPLORE
Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge (1040 Matunuck School House Rd.) is a great place for a walk or small hike, as is Succotash Road, surrounded by marshes.
PLAY
Bill Hanney’s Theatre By The Sea (364 Cards Pond Rd.) is a state gem. Along with a line-up of live children’s shows, this summer’s Broadway-caliber musical series continues with Grease (June 25-July 18); Titanic, The Broadway Musical (July 23-August 15), and You’ve Still Got a Friend (August 20-September 13 (details at TheatreByTheSea.com). Make it a full event by reserving a table to dine at Bistro By The Sea By Duck Press , and skip the drive home from any Matunuck activities by booking a room at Admiral Dewey Inn (668 Matunuck Beach Rd.), a comfy home-base for area activities. The inn has 12 guest rooms, plus access to beach chairs, towels, bikes, and a continental breakfast buffet offered each morning.
by
Daddy’s Bread
Photo
Elyse Major
CITY SOPHISTICATION WITH A BEACH TOWN VIBE
Eat Drink & be Married at The Haversham Tavern , Weddings and Events in Westerly, RI serving fresh seafood, hearty comfort food, cold drafts and a warm gathering-place atmosphere. See page 120 for details.
Photo courtesy of The Haversham Tavern
WESTERLY
City sophistication with a beach town vibe
The southernmost town in Rhode Island is a popular landing spot for visitors, and it’s not hard to see why. Easy access to the ferries and proximity to the highway – plus a lot of city sophistication with a small-town feel –make Westerly a destination.
SHOP
Bibliophiles, be sure to head to Martin House Books and Cafe 1888 (10 Canal St.). Along with its selection of titles in all genres, this independent bookstore fosters community with readings and literary events, plus a storytelling corner for young readers with adorable toadstool seats. Across the street, find beachy-boho looks at Christina’s Ltd. (1 Canal St.). OMO Jewels & Gifts (95 Watch Hill Rd.)
is a must-stop for fashion, fine jewelry, accessories, and trinkets. Steps away William Wright & Co. (95 Watch Hill Rd.) is a farm stand/store stocked with produce, baked goods, and blooms from Echo Rock Flowers (visit EchoRockFlowers.com for workshops and info). Windows need a seasonal refresh? KMR Blinds Drapes Carpet (224 Post Rd.) offers stylish choices for all kinds of spaces.
Echo Rock Flowers
Photo courtesy of Echo Rock Flowers
AWARD WINNING BURGERS & BREAKFAST With A View
WESTERLY
City sophistication with a beach town vibe
FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES
For the essentials, there’s Seaside Pharmacy (224 Post Rd.), and grab high-quality kitchen gear, gourmet goods, or schedule a private class for six or more at Gray Goose Cookery (93 Watch Hill Rd.). For little fashionistas, Wildflower Kids (33 High St.) is a children’s clothing store with gifts, accessories, and monogramming! The name says it all when it comes to FUN Company (39 High St.), where you can browse cool finds for adults and kids alike (don’t pass by the toy room) at prices that will make you equally giddy. Let the shopping spree continue at The Vault (25 High St.), a boutique with unique apparel, home decor, and more, and next door, Nigrelli’s Jewelry (27 High St.) with fashion and fine jewelry.
DINE
Rivaling Providence and Newport, Westerly is a foodie’s dream town – so it’s no wonder James Beard award-winning chef Jeanie Roland chose it to open her premier eatery,
Ella’s Food & Drink (2 Tower St.). The Haversham Tavern (336 Post Rd.), is a welcoming restaurant with a menu sure to please everyone. Pro-tip: ask about the cinnamon dippers. Finding soupy on menus and scratching your head? It’s the nickname for soppressata, a dry-cured, spicy pork sausage brought to the area by Calabrian immigrants, and still made in many homes. Soupy is available for purchase at Dipper’s Packing Co. (55 Ledward Ave.) and Dunns Corners Market (5 Langworthy Rd.), and even infuses the Dipper’s Sipper cocktail at The Cafe (3 Canal St.).
Additionally, Westerly is home to most any restaurant that fits your taste, from farm-tobun offerings at Graze Burgers (127 Granite St.) to Irish-American fare at Kelley’s Deli (116 Granite St. #8). Craving a really good steak dinner? Look no further than Chillingham’s Steak (54R High St.) for premium cuts and all the fixins. Martinis and open mic nights reign supreme at Perks & Corks (62 High St.). Noodle Revolution (87 Oak St.)
Kelley’s Deli
Photo courtesy of Kelley’s Deli
WESTERLY
City sophistication with a beach town vibe
Customizable Gelato/Sorbet Cakes Gelato Sandwiches, Gelato Pops & much more! Ask us about our Catering options for any occasion! We've expanded our Vegan selection with more flavors‚ cakes and pops!
LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL DOWNTOWN 31 High Street, Westerly • 348-8586
serves some of the best Asian street food around, and Koi (65 High St.) offers creative sushi. If you’re craving Italian food, Vetrano’s (130 Granite St.) offers homestyle pasta and pizza while Casa Della Luce (105 Franklin St.) puts a fresh spin on the classics. Catch the game at CC O’Brien’s Sports Cafe (8 Mechanic St.) or for a light treat, don’t miss real Italian gelato from Pompelmo Gelateria (31 High St.) and fresh-squeezed sips from High Tide Juice Co. (55 Beach St.). Amigos Taqueria Y Tequila (2 Canal St.) is a lively spot with an impressive selection of authentic Mexican drinks and dishes. Nana’s Bakery & Pizza (82 High St.), whose first location is in Stonington, CT, specializes in cold fermentation to make their nutritious organic breads.
From the same owners, River Bar (37 Main St.) is a must-try spot for seasonally informed coastal cuisine with global influences – and a mouthwatering raw bar. Dine on the water at B&B Dockside (19 Margin St.), a snug eatery with approachable fare. Pooch’s Pour House (42 High St.) is perfect for families and sports lovers. For churros, waffles, and ice cream, Ozzo Sweets & Small Eats (92 Granite St.) fits the bill. Savor seasonal cocktails at High Hope Tavern (18 High St.), a cocktail bar and restaurant highlighting local harvests. Pro-tip: don’t sleep on their late-night menu. Owl & Dove (1 W Broad St.) is another great choice for refined sips, including natural wines, and features creative morning and night menus reflecting the region’s bounty.
Photo courtesy of Casa Della Luce
Casa Della Luce
City sophistication with a beach town vibe
Westerly has also become a beer lover’s haven. The town’s first brewery, Grey Sail Brewing (63 Canal St.), offers beers like their signature Captain’s Daughter imperial IPA and Flagship cream ale at their tasting and taproom (and at restaurants all over Rhode Island); watch for live music and events on their patio. On the same campus, and co-owned by a Grey Sail founder, South County Distillers produces top-quality spirits in-house. For small-batch rums, visit 13th Hour Distilling (59 Tom Harvey Rd.) which shares a space with Swiss-style Hauser Chocolatier
Photo courtesy of Langworthy Farm Inn and Winery
EXPLORE
Take a wine tour of Westerly beginning with an afternoon at Langworthy Farm Inn and Winery (308 Shore Rd.) – with events and a historic bed and breakfast offering picturesque views for a longer visit. Locally inspired bottles include reds and whites for every palate. Tapped Apple Winery & Cidery (37 High St.) offers tastings of their hard ciders and wines, along with charcuterie and gourmet chocolate truffles. Hop over the border to Connecticut to continue your coastal wine trail at Kingdom of the Hawk Vineyard (113 Pendleton Hill Rd.) and Saltwater Farm Vineyard (349 Elm St.).
Langworthy Farm Inn and Winery
WESTERLY
City sophistication with a beach town vibe
PLAY
Westerly’s entertainment scene shines during summertime. The Granite Theatre (1 Granite St.) is a small stage with a community focus, staging Oklahoma! July 10-August 2. Plan an evening around a performance, event, or movie at The United Theatre (5 Canal St.). Along with being a pristine place to walk, Wilcox Park (44 Broad St.) is where The Colonial Theatre ’s Shakespeare in the Park series takes place, with details and dates to be announced.
The famed Knickerbocker Music Center (35 Railroad Ave.) is a lively joint for live music
and dancing. Groove to Tunes on the Dunes , Monday nights through August 11, and Blues on the Beach , Wednesdays through August 12, at Westerly Town Beach (365 Atlantic Ave.). Illyrian Cigars (105 Franklin St., #42) is a premium brand with blends for all preferences. Enjoy a facial at Pure Eco Spa (18 Franklin St.), plus other skin and body treatments, and Breathe Massage & Wellness (116 Granite St.) offers massages, facials, and more. You’ll be in good hands when pain strikes with an appointment at Dunn’s Corners
Chiropractic Center (259 Post Road).
The Artists Cooperative Gallery of Westerly (14 Railroad Ave.), maintains a fine arts gallery in the historic Westerly Rain Station and typically offers a new exhibit each month. Keep the creativity flowing with a visit to Dawnland (40 High St.), a new contemporary art gallery, performance space (watch for live music events), and design shop downtown. Be sure to attend River Glow on August 1, to see the Pawcatuck River ablaze, with downtown businesses vending their wares, eats, and performers.
Photography by Savannah Barkley
Pure Eco Spa
MISQUAMICUT
This vibrant sandy strip of Westerly has some of the most popular beaches in Rhode Island, and it’s easy to see why.
DINE
Even a few hours can feel like a summer vacation along Atlantic Avenue. With delicious dining, beachside rentals, private cabanas, and live concerts at the Beach Haus, Paddy’s Beach Club (159 Atlantic Ave.) is an ultimate beachfront entertainment destination. Celebrating its 80th year, enjoy drink specials and seaside fare at The Andrea Seaside Restaurant and Beach Bar (89 Atlantic Ave.). The Windjammer Surf
Bar (321 Atlantic Ave.) offers live music and sweeping ocean views. The Pleasant View Inn (65 Atlantic Ave.) is a beachfront resort with a private beach and on-site restaurant. The Hotel Maria (132 Atlantic Ave.) is just steps off the beach and serves Mediterranean-inspired seafood at Maria’s Seaside Cafe .
EXPLORE
Along Atlantic Avenue discover the scenic beauty of the Winnapaug and Quonochontaug salt ponds , each opening to the Atlantic Ocean via a breachway lined with rock jetties. A few of turns later, encounter the rustic grandeur of the Weekapaug Inn (25 Spray Rock Rd.),
where natural environs meet quiet luxury – and chef-driven fine dining. Events like full moon paddles, movies on the pond, and BBQs, make this a special place. Find yourself never wanting to leave? Beachcomber Real Estate Agency (10 Winnapaug Rd.) just might be able to help.
PLAY
Atlantic Beach Park (321 Atlantic Ave.) is an oceanfront family center offering carnival-style rides and a century-old carousel. Weekend nights, fill the car and head to Misquamicut Drive-In (316 Atlantic Ave.) for favorite movies under the stars.
The Andrea Seaside Restaurant and Beach Bar
WATCH HILL
Taylor Swift’s squad famously descends on this part of Westerly for the Fourth of July, but any day is perfect for a visit.
SHOP
Enjoy breezy browsing by the sea, from splashy prints at Lilly Pulitzer (31 Bay St.) to home decor and gifts at HŌMbädi Boutique (104 Bay St.), featuring a hand-selected collection of fun and functional goods for “home-bodies.” Reinvent your summer style
with curated resort wear from Coppola’s Boutique (97 Bay St.), and outfit the family in sun-drenched hand-printed Balinese batik at Three Islands (99 Bay St.). Shop the latest trends and classic fashion at Rochelle’s Boutique (117 Bay St.), and eye-catching, size-inclusive styles at RI Boutique (108 Bay St.). Give your coastal look a refresh with fun bikinis and beachwear from Golden Collective (124 Bay St.) and JC’s of Watch Hill (62 Bay St.), a perenial fave for its expansive selection of women’s apparel and swimwear. Bring home a large-scale, colorful painting from Jeanette Vertentes Studio (147 Bay St.).
DINE
Family-owned and open since 1887, St. Clair Annex (141 Bay St.) is Watch Hill’s classic ice cream parlor and clam shack, with small-batch flavors made on-site, as it has been for generations. Another nostalgic destination, Olympia Tea Room (74 Bay St.), even at over 100 years old, continues to put a fresh spin on classic New England fare. For sweets, The Candy Box (14 Fort Rd.), is a quintessential coastal candy shop. For the best ingredients you’ll find between two pieces of bread, Ten Sandwiches (98 Bay St.) crafts specialty sammies sourcing from local purveyors, with a raw bar and
Sora at Ocean House
Photo (L) courtesy of Ocean House
cocktails, all inside an eatery too adorable not to take pictures for the ‘gram. While staying at Ocean House (1 Bluff Ave.) can be pricey, the seaside resort is visitor-friendly, especially the Verandah Raw Bar that’s perfect for people-watching over cocktails. Restaurants range from more casual gastropub fare at The Bistro to seasonal prix fixe fine dining experiences at COAST . New this summer is Sora on Seaside Terrace, for Japanese cuisine, sake, and cocktails, and Below Deck is an all-ages fave for ice cream. Pro-tip: bring $5 cash for valet parking (check OceanHouseRI.com for a calendar of special events).
Three Islands
WATCH HILL
EXPLORE
East Beach is the little strip of white sand between Ocean House seaside resort and Taylor Swift’s mansion. Parking can be a challenge, but it’s worth it. Napatree Point (Ford Rd.) is a popular spot for beachgoers, and it’s an important ecological preserve and wildlife refuge site for piping plovers – bring binoculars to spot birds from a respectful distance (plan your visit at TheWatchHillConservancy.org). Sandy Point was once attached to Napatree, but hurricane erosion separated the two. The 35-acre island also has a
public beach and is a nature preserve. Rainy days and sun breaks are perfect for visiting galleries. For a range of works, head to Lily Pad Gallery (1 Bay St.), and nearby is The Bemelmans Gallery At Ocean House (1 Bluff Ave.), an absolute treat for fans of the Madeline picture book series and of old NYC.
PLAY
The small downtown area of Watch Hill is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Visit the Watch Hill Memorial Library (2 Everett Ave.) to learn local history. Try to catch the brass ring at the Flying Horse Carousel (151 Bay St.), the oldest continuously operating carousel in the country. Watch Hill Lighthouse (14 Lighthouse Rd.), is a 15-minute walk from downtown Westerly and dates back to 1856; its museum is open to the public in July and August, Tuesday-Thursday. Village Park (Bay St.) is the site of the Chief Ninigret statue.
East Beach
Photo courtesy of RI DEM
There’s that moment, somewhere between the ferry and your first deep breath, when the pace shifts, the noise falls away, and time is measured in moments, not minutes. That’s when you know you’re not just here. You’re on island.
Block Island
AN ISLAND ADVENTURE JUST A FERRY RIDE AWAY
Poor People’s Pub is a friendly local pub serving up something for everyone. Large selection of burgers, sandwiches, and fresh local seafood, alongside beer and fun cocktails, trivia nights, live music & late night pizza are also offered!. See page 134 for details.
Photo courtesy of Poor People’s Pub
BLOCK ISLAND
An island adventure just a ferry ride away
Block Island is a natural wonder. Just 15 miles from Point Judith, the island’s expansive green spaces and unspoiled coastline are worth exploring. Best of all, all Block Island beaches are free.
SHOP
If you’re arriving by the Block Island Ferry , you’ll land in Old Harbor, a short walk from the busy “Main Street” area of the island –comprised of Dodge, Chapel, and Water streets – all lined with boutiques, galleries, gift retailers, and surf shops. Beneath The National Hotel , find boho-beach apparel at CARVE by Diamondblue (36 Water St.). Steps away is lifestyle shop Lazy Fish (235 Dodge St.), and discover vintage finds and art inside a barn annex at Tori Jones Studio (441 Dodge Street). For sweets, there’s Blocks of Fudge (459 Chapel St.), Golddiggers (90 Chapel St.) for fine and novelty jewelry, and Island Bound Bookstore (413 Water St.) for the perfect beach read. Visit Block Island Trading Company (1 Water St.) for provisions and souvenirs, and step inside Glass Onion (241 Water St.), a fave for artful home goods, clothing, and more since the 1970s. Stop by MarMar Boutique (30 Water St.), owned by metalsmith and indie artist promoter Martha Andrew, for unique accessories and permanent jewelry. To brighten a stay with florals, place an order with The Farmer Florist (334 High Street) at MimiFArnold.com.
DINE
Steps off the dock in Old Harbor, is Mohegan Restaurant and Bar (213 Water St.), a casual spot catering to all kinds of eaters (but don’t miss the chowder). Persephone’s Kitchen (235 Dodge St.) is the go-to for organic beans and tea, plus prepared foods; find its outpost Persephone’s Petite Cafe & Eatery offering a small menu of baked goods and snacks at the Historical Society Museum (18 Old Town Rd.). The Beachead (598 Corn Neck Rd.) is not only near the town beach, but the seafood is also crazy delicious. Poor People’s Pub (33 Ocean Ave.) serves gastropub fare, and upstars is Bodega , a convenience store that also
Persephone’s Kitchen
Photo by Jenna Kaplan
BLOCK ISLAND
An island adventure just a ferry ride away
sells prepared foods. Nearby is sister restaurant TigerFish (126 Corn Neck Rd.), renowned for creative Asian fare and tiki-inspired cocktails. Settle in for hearty pub fare and a pint at McAloon’s Restaurant (596 Corn Neck Rd.). Dead Eye Dick’s (219 Ocean Ave.) has seafood with a view, plus fresh market Dick’s Fish , behind the restaurant. Wetherbee’s Pizza and Bar is a new addition to the scene (35 Connecticut Ave.), and a fun spot for watching the big game. Boater-friendly The Oar (221 Jobs Hill Rd.) has showers on the lower level and a dining area
with an outdoor bar above, while Payne’s Dock & Mahogany Shoals (133 Ocean Ave.) is vessel-accessible and ideal for cocktails with sunset views. Nearby, don’t miss the Payne’s Killer Donuts truck: legendary. Kimberly’s (238 Ocean Ave.) menu serves Italian and American classics. Ballard’s Inn (42 Water St.) has its own beach with cabanas, and serves food – and cocktails in pineapples – right on the sand. The Surf at the Block Island Beach House (32 Dodge St.) boasts BBQ and breezy views, with aptly named sister restaurant Coffee & Cocktails
Take a walk on the dock at New Harbor and reward yourself with a mudslide at Trader Vic’s (83 West Side Rd.), a rooftop bar where you can watch the boats come in and out of the harbor. Any extended stay calls for a traditional lobster bake. The multi-generational lobstering family behind Sediment (Old Harbor Dock) brings the freshest ingredients to create a catered feast of lobster, corn on the cob, and potatoes, plus a raw bar of oysters from Great Salt Pond. Ask about services including weddings at SedimentBlockIsland.com.
Block Island Beach House
Photo by Read McKendree, courtesy of Block Island Beach House
BLOCK ISLAND
An island adventure just a ferry ride away
EXPLORE
Nearly half of Block Island is protected from development by organizations like the Block Island Conservancy (234 Weldon’s Way), which offers resources on exploring hiking trails. The Block Island Maritime Institute (216 Ocean Ave.) provides opportunities to explore and learn about the marine environment. Set the alarm for the Block Island Farmers Market (1 Legion Way), which takes over Legion Park every Wednesday and Saturday morning throughout the summer with many local vendors selling everything from honey to flowers and handmade crafts. It’s where you’ll find small-batch snacks from Block Island’s Nuts (also available online at BlockIslandsNuts.com). Block Island Historical Society (18 Old Town Rd.) is a wonderful
Block Island Maritime Institute
Photo courtesy of Block Island Maritime Institute
resource offering programs, tours, and a nice assortment of gifts. A visit to the Block Island Tourism Council (40 Center Rd. #101) is a must for getting info about island attractions.
One of two lighthouses on the island, the Southeast Lighthouse (122 Mohegan Trl.) offers awe-inspiring views of the Atlantic and the Block Island Wind Farm 1661 Inn Farm and Gardens is home to birds, kangaroos, a camel, lemurs, water buffalo, and a unique zeedonk, with The Farmstead selling island-grown produce and goods.
Carefully descend 141 steps and be rewarded with spectacular vistas of the 200foot Mohegan Bluffs and patches of pristine beaches. The adventure and unmatched scenery are all worth it.
BLOCK ISLAND
An island adventure just a ferry ride away
PLAY
When it’s time for the beach, Fred Benson Town Beach (7 Corn Neck Rd.), is a popular one – they rent beach chairs and equipment, and the waves are kid-friendly. Take to the sky and see the island from new heights with Block Island Parasail (1 Old Harbor Dock), or go for a nautical all-day, half-day, or sunset adventure with Serendipity Sailing (book online at SerendipitySails.com). Diamondblue Surf Shop (442 Dodge St.) offers surfing lessons, paddle board rentals, apparel, and more. If you’re arriving on the island via New England Airlines , Viking Fleet , or private boat, you’ll likely land in New Harbor. Nearby Champlin’s Marina & Resort (80 West Side Rd.) is a nineacre family-friendly resort that houses BI’s largest marina, several dining and drinking options
(even a sweet shop), a pool, and a boatload of water activities. Kayaks, paddle boards, and bumper boats can be rented for the day or by the hour. Pick the watercraft of your choice, and go explore Great Salt Pond for a few hours.
It’s good to note that there’s no public transportation, Uber, or Lyft services on BI; however, the island is small enough to traverse by foot, and you can bring your car on the ferry if you book in advance. If you prefer two wheels to two feet, rent a bike or moped. Since the Summer of ‘76, Aldo’s Mopeds (130 Chapel St.), has been doing just that, plus Jeeps. Beyond riding around, experience Block Island By Bike , a scenic 17-mile tour for intermediate cyclers, with stops along the way. Led by islander Zena Clark, small groups
of six adventurers will learn history and folklore fun facts while pedaling along (to book a tour, visit BlockIslandBikeTour.com).
STAY
There are many inviting properties on BI. From harbor views via wraparound patio at The National Hotel (36 Water St.), to peaceful charm at Neptune House (64 Connecticut Ave.), Victorian vibes at The Atlantic Inn (359 High St.), cottage simplicity (with breakfast via picnic basket) at Sea Breeze Inn (71 Spring St.), or family fun at Champlin’s Hotel, Marina & Resort (80 West Side Rd.). Make any trip a breeze by booking accommodations, activities, and entertainment with Block Island Reservations (213 Water St.).
Sea Breeze Inn
Photography by Nick DelGiudice
Newport
THE ULTIMATE WATERFRONT CITY
Celebrating 36 years in Newport, Spring Bull Gallery is an artist cooperative that offers original fine art in many styles and mediums. See page 148 for details.
Photo by Nick DelGiudice, courtesy of Spring Bull Gallery
NEWPORT
The ultimate waterfront city
Once a summer playground for the rich and famous, Newport is a thriving cultural center in any season, filled with restaurants, shopping, museums, and plenty of fun.
SHOP
This walkable city offers myriad options for shoppers along cobblestoned main and side streets, and wharves, and the Hop-on Hopoff Trolley Route 67 with stops at popular locations is free all summer, makes it a breeze to explore. Begin your shop-till-you-drop adventure at can’t-miss stores like Closet Revival (30 Broadway), a consignment and vintage boutique; then turn onto Thames for a mix of national retailers, souvenirs, and small
shops, including longstanding Ben’s Furniture ( 166 Thames St. ) , The Love Shack by LOLA (400 Thames St.) for unique pendants and bracelets along with apparel and housewares, The Salty Babe (391 Thames St.) for active wear and beachy styles, Matriarch (468 Thames St.) for feminist and foodie gifts, and The Spice & Tea Exchange (192-B Thames St.) for seasonings, sugars, and more. Don’t miss hidden gems like Franklin Street for boutiques like Athalia of Newport (26 Franklin St.), with handcrafted jewelry, and Zürner Oceanic (40 Franklin St.), a studio/shop selling handmade bags and nautical accessories. Nearby, discover SCANDIA Newport (227 Spring St.), a Scandinavian specialty shop. Brick Market Place (223 1/2 Goddard Row) has 25 shops and eateries, and the Umbrella Sky canopy exhibit. On America’s Cup Avenue, enjoy meandering small
shops before making your way up to Bellevue for upscale businesses like Michael Hayes Co. (204 Bellevue Ave.), a full-service apparel shop with styles for men and women offering on-site tailoring, and Sara Campbell (115 Bellevue Ave.), specializing in timeless looks. Look for pop-ups from The Burgess Collection , a Newport-based women-owned luxe fashion brand (TheBurgessCollection.com).
DINE
From seafood mainstays to buzzy cafes, rooftop cocktails, wiener joints, and lobster shacks, Newport has something for every taste and price point. Starting on Broadway, Caleb & Broad (162) is popular for their entrees and “bangin’ brunch,” and Pour Judgement (32) is a speakeasy in plain sight. Perro Salado (19 Charles St.) serves up spicy margs and bold tacos.
Photo courtesy of Umbrella Sky Newport
Umbrella Sky
NEWPORT
The ultimate waterfront city
Hotel Viking (1 Bellevue Ave.) is celebrating 100 years with reimagined interiors and dining options: Pescadou for coastal French, the Skoal Room , a classic cocktail bar, Tuck Shop for grab-and-go, and rooftop cocktail bar Cap Club . Located on the International Tennis Hall of Fame grounds, you’re sure to love La Forge Casino Restaurant (186 Bellevue Ave.). Stoneacre Brasserie (28 Washington Sq.) serves bistro-style cuisine in elegant surroundings; their sister restaurant Stoneacre Garden (151 Swinburne Row) has a rooftop. Thames Street is a long 1.5-mile stretch; Lower Thames is where you’ll find Midtown Oyster Bar (345 Thames), the Carribbean-inspired The Red Parrot (348), Wally’s Wieners (464), Cluck House (515), Claw & Hammer (527), and Beaucoup Cafe & Home (580); nearby on the waterfront is The Reef (10 Howard Wharf) with a menu inspired by international travels. Discover more wharf dining at The Mooring (1 Sayers Wharf), casual Diego’s (11 Bowen’s Wharf), The Black Pearl (30 Bannister’s Wharf), and Wharf Fishhouse & Tiki Bar (41 Bowen’s Wharf) for Polynesian-style fare and drinks. Sardella’s (30 Memorial Blvd. W) is the place for authentic Italian. Track down the famous Easton’s Beach twin lobster rolls at Salty’s (315 Sachuest Point Rd.). For a true Gilded Age experience, dine (and stay) at the newly remodeled The Chanler at Cliff Walk . Inside the mansion, enjoy fine dining at Remy’s Loose , Cara , and The Living Room , and sip in the sun at their Ca’ del Bosco Wine Garden (through September 7). Along famed Ocean Drive, relax over a delicious meal and panoramic views at Safari Room Restaurant and Bar at OceanCliff (65 Ridge Rd.); “next door” is the Lawn Terrace at Castle Hill (590 Ocean Drive), with the just-reopened Aurelia , inviting diners on a chef-driven journey of courses and pairings. The taproom at Newport Craft Brewing & Distilling Co. (293 JT Connell Hwy.) serves up craft beer and award-winning spirits; tours available. For local go-tos and lore, book the Newport Neighborhood Food Tour with Rhode Island Red Food Tours (270 Bellevue Ave.); also Providence.
Hotel Viking
Photo courtesy of Hotel Viking
NEWPORT
The ultimate waterfront city
EXPLORE
The city’s best-known attractions are the Newport Mansions , the opulent “summer cottages” of the Vanderbilts and other illustrious turn-ofthe-century families, many of which have served as filming locations for HBO Max’s The Gilded Age series. The Breakers (44 Ochre Point Ave.) is the grandest of all of them; Rosecliff (548 Bellevue Ave.) has also been the site of films like The Great Gatsby and True Lies ; Marble House (596 Bellevue Ave.) has a Chinese teahouse on the grounds; and The Elms (367 Bellevue Ave.) features a classical sculpture garden.
Known as the City by the Sea, Newport’s prominent boating scene includes marine trade institution IYRS School of Technology and Trades (449 Thames St.), and the Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame (365 Thames St.) is perfect for rainy day fun, with interactive exhibits for all levels of enthusiasts. For more maritime fun, head to Sail Newport (72 Fort Adams Dr.), a public center for rentals and classes inside Fort Adams State Park (80 Fort Adams Dr.), hosting group and self-guided tours of the historic site. Discover an array of cultural attractions, like the Newport Art Museum (76 Bellevue Ave.), the Audrain Automobile Museum (222 Bellevue Ave.), the International Tennis Hall of Fame (194 Bellevue Ave.), and Newport Historical Society (82 Touro St.).
Immerse yourself in tales of the past by booking a Coastal History Pedicab Tour (39 America’s Cup Ave.), or skip the traffic and enlist the bike cab service for transportation anywhere in Newport (CoastalHistoryPedicabTours.com).
Spring Bull Gallery (55 Bellevue Ave.) is a co-operative original fine art gallery with ongoing exhibits by member-artists. The Blue Garden is an exquisite display of landscape artistry inviting guests to learn about horticultural history (reservations required at TheBlueGarden.org).
Escape the crowds for a day trip or overnight at the secluded Rose Island Lighthouse (RoseIsland. org). Arrive via the Jamestown-Newport Ferry to wander the off-the-grid grounds and historic lighthouse. Not a typical tourist spot, there’s no restaurant, but it’s rich in natural scenery and history.
If you’re ready to call Newport home, let Gustave White Sotheby’s International Realty (37 Bellevue Ave.) be your guide to turning that dream into reality.
PLAY
With its proximity to the windy shoreline, Brenton Point State Park (Ocean Dr.) is a perfect location for flying kites, which dot the sky on breezy days. Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium (23 America’s Cup Ave.) is 7500 square feet of exhibits exploring the aquatic life of the Bay.
Newport’s famed Cliff Walk , offers breathtaking views of the sea. About a third of it is rough or rocky, so proper footwear is advised. Another adventurous way to experience Narragansett Bay is on the Rail Explorers (1 Alexander Rd., Portsmouth), pedal-powered vehicles that ride along a historic
Rose Island Lighthouse
Photo by Abigail Burnham
railroad track. Revive after adventures with therapeutic wellness services at Zen Den (42 Spring St. Suite 8A).
With a mission of empowering through documentary films, newportFILM offers year-round programming and screenings sparking conversation at venues around the city. A Friday or Saturday evening with improv comedy group The Bit Players at Firehouse Theater (4 Equality Park Place) promises non-stop laughs. Looking to surf? Catch a wave with a board rental and lessons from Rhody Surf (175 Memorial Blvd.).
Journeys on the water abound. Sea Newport (31 Bowen’s Wharf) lets you admire the coastline aboard a charter boat (with sea-worthy charcuterie provisions from Bellevue Boards ), docking from The Lobster Bar . Hop aboard one of the vessels in the Newport Classic Cruises (23 Bowen’s Wharf & 24 Bannister’s Wharf) fleet for sightseeing, or charter a private yacht. Make plans to set sail on the Schooner Aurora (Goat Island), a tall ship offering packages like the Dockside New England Lobster Boil and Sunset Sail (NewportExperience.com). Gansett Cruises (2 Bowen’s Landing) offers a variety of options, and Island Style Parasail (9 Bowen’s Landing) offers parasialing and tubing adventures!
If you’re seeking a slow-paced afternoon of pampering, a visit to The Spa at Newport Harbor Island Resort (1 Goat Island Rd.) for an Island Retreat package or a wide range of facials, massages, mani-pedis, and body treatments – and round out the day with resort dining options 1639 , Torpedo Bar & Lounge , The Pineapple Club , The Bakery , and by the firepits
Newport Classical Music Festival concerts take place over the course of July 2-19 all over the city, and Newport Contemporary Ballet (3 Charles St.) puts on the Newport Dance Festival on the lawn of the Great Friends Meeting House (21 Farewell St.) July 15-19. Multi-day annual music events Newport Jazz (July 31-August 2) and Newport Folk (July 24-26) festivals at Fort Adams State Park (80 Fort Adams Dr.) sell out quickly, so plan ahead.
THE BLUE GARDEN GILDED AGE
Experience Gilded Age splendor with a visit to the Blue Garden. Originally designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr, this garden was restored to its former glory, and welcomes visitors on Thursdays from June 11 through October 8, 2026. Tours meet at 11:00, 12:30, and 2:00. Online reservations and a $25 ticket purchase are required. For reservations and to learn more about the garden and its history, visit thebluegarden.org.
CÉDIAN PAINTING: STUDIO-GALLERY
New Waves rolling in by Jennifer Jones Rashleigh on paintings pillows & tiles. 3848 Main Road • www.cedianpainting.com @cedianpainting
MICK’S ARTFUL ODDITIES & ANTIQUES
“Purveyors of the obscure.” Explore the world of oddities, unique antiques & unusual props. 8 Neck Road • (401) 835 0117 @obscura_mick
FOUR CORNERS GALLERY
Explore stunning art created by 18 regional artists. Ceramics, collage, copper work glass, jewelry, paintings, pastels, photography. Experience our dynamic gallery space and special events. 3848 Main Road • (401) 816 4342 fourcornersgalleryri.com • @fourcornersgalleryri
SAYLES LIVINGSTON CURATED
Apparel for women & men. Accessories with intention. Distinctive gifts. Specialty toys & a touch of the unexpected. 3845 Main Road • (401) 625 5814 @SaylesLivingstonCurated
SAKONNET VINEYARDS
New England’s Oldest Vineyard, celebrating 50 years! Come enjoy expansive grounds, award-winning wine, music, events & our seasonal favorites from our kitchen. 162 West Main Rd, Little Compton • (401) 635 8486 SakonnetWine.com • @sakonnetwine
Explore a vibrant
&
LOU LOU’S DECOR
Make your beach house a home with a beautiful addition from Lou Lou’s Décor with locations in Tiverton & Newport. Full interior design services available. 3913 Main Road • (401) 816 4362 www.loulousdecor.com • @loulousdecor
TIFFANY PEAY JEWELRY & HEALING ARTS
Handmade fine jewelry featuring colorful gold, sparkling gemstones & fantastic pearls made on premises by Tiffany herself. Crystal Bed Light Healing session available. 3851 Main Road • (401) 816 0878 tiffanypeay.com • @tiffanypeayjewelry
FORZA CAVALLO FARM / BOUTIQUE
Forza Cavallo creates unique & sophisticated apparel, accessories, and home goods designed using their own custom graphic art inspired by the HORSE! Come SHOP and EXPLORE our animal sanctuary! 3650 Main Rd • @forzacavallori forzacavallo.com
FOUR
CORNERS GRILLE
Offering fresh, quality food along with fast, friendly service at reasonable prices. Featuring fresh, locally-caught seafood with an extensive & eclectic menu in a quaint, casual setting with a delightful patio. Cocktails, Wine & Beer. 3841 Main Road • (401) 624 1510 4cornersgrille.com • @fourcornersgrille
THE CHEESE WHEEL VILLAGE MARKET
Over 200 Cheeses Available. Sandwiches, Soups, House-Made Bread, Local Meats, Produce & Prepared Meals, Gluten-Free. Open 9-5 Tues-Sun 3838 Main Road• (401) 816 5069 @thecheesewheelri
East Bay
A CHIC AND HISTORIC COASTAL COMMUNITY
The coastal communities east of Narragansett Bay are collectively known as the East Bay, including Barrington, Warren, Bristol, Portsmouth, Middletown, Tiverton, and Little Compton. It’s also home to sweeping farms, vineyards, and parks.
Photo courtesy of Cafe Water Street
EAST BAY
A chic and historic coastal community
The towns of Barrington, Warren, Bristol, Portsmouth, Middletown, Tiverton, and Little Compton are home to many of Rhode Island’s largest farms, vineyards, and parks.
SHOP
Boutiques, galleries, and farmstands dot the region east of Narragansett Bay. Start your spree in Warren with a visit to New England’s largest gift shop, the three floors that is Imagine Gift Store (5 Miller St.). On Main Street , shop handmade at Made in Warren Artist Cooperative (476 Main St.), and don’t miss Water Street for more small shops. Next stop: Bristol for Caron Jewelers (473 Hope St.), a must for
fine jewelry lovers, and for unique gifts by local artisans, head to Hotpoint Emporium (39 State St.). Beau Bleu Boutique & Gifts (433 Hope St., Bristol & 39 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport) carries women’s apparel, accessories, shoes, and gifts, and Beau Menswear (435 Hope St., Bristol) features fresh styles for men. Stock up on fresh produce and provisions from family-run Johnson’s Roadside Farm Market (445 Market St.). In the heart of Barrington, make a point to visit Daisy Dig’ins (123 Maple Ave.) and Daisy Dig’ins Home Store (119 Maple Ave.) – sister shops filled with beautiful things. Feminine Fancies (290 County Rd.) is renowned for upscale styles and personal service. Destination shopping awaits at Tiverton Four Corners (Main Rd.), a charming area filled with art-forward boutiques like Tiffany Peay Jewelry & Healing Arts (2851 Main Rd.)
and Sayles Livingston Home (3847 Main Rd.), plus galleries including Artists at Four Corners Gallery (3848 Main Rd.). Sunday mornings, head to Tiverton Farmers Market (3588 Main Rd., RI-77) for all kinds of goods. In Portsmouth, Cory Farms Past & Presents (3124 E Main Rd.) is gift shop with new and vintage wares from Europe and around the corner, and Stalise (105 Clock Tower Square) showcases modern designer clothes for women, with personal styling services available.
Sweet Berry Farm (915 Mitchell’s Lane, Middletown) is a 100-acre estate with a market cafe, PYO fruit, and the Farmaesthetics shed. For free-range eggs, produce, homemade jams, pies, and accommodations, check out Sakonnet Farm (4042 Main Rd., Tiverton). Wishing Stone Farm (25 Shaw Rd., Little Compton) is a family farm selling produce, eggs, and prepared foods.
Photo courtesy of Sweet Berry Farm
Sweet Berry Farm
JOHNSON’S
Artwork © Heather Borg Martin
Graphic Designer
Funding by Helen Ellis Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Co-Trustee
EAST BAY
A chic and historic coastal community
DINE
Enjoy water views at neighborhood seafood joint Bluewater Bar + Grill (32 Barton Ave., Barrington). Head to Pivotal Brewing Company (500 Wood St., Building 111, Bristol) for creative beers and taproom happenings, with a second location in Newport. Bristolians get their scoop on at Jules Ice Cream (446B Thames St.). Meanwhile in Warren, munch on delicious seafood on picnic tables at Blount Clam Shack on the Waterfront (335 Water St.), creative small plates at The Revival Craft Kitchen and Bar (50 Miller St.), and tasty cocktails paired with inspired dishes at Saint Martha (40 Market St.). Satisfy crepe and coffee cravings at coastal gem Cafe Water Street (279 Water St.). Peruse
locally produced foods from Hope & Main (691 Main St.), businesses at their Wednesday Makers Markets. Live entertainment, too. Along a strip in Portsmouth, check out Localz (657 Park Ave.) serving surf ‘n’ turf with an Italian accent; dine on scratch-made fare outdoors or inside by the fire at Blue Anchor Grill (506 Park Ave.); Tremblay’s Bar and Grill (514 Park Ave.) is the place for pub fare; and get your Coyote Coffee fix at Sunset Cove (706 Park Ave.), a pet-friendly cafe with a boatyard bar! 15 Point Road Restaurant (15 Point Rd.), offers upscale-meets-casual dining near the water. In Middletown, Newport Vineyards (909 E Main Rd.) is the spot for award-winning pours, fresh craft
beer, and their new dining concept, Farm & Barrel Bistro , all on 100-plus scenic acres. For plant-based dining, Sprout and Lentil (796 Aquidneck Ave., Unit 3) is the place. Diego’s (116 Aquidneck Ave.) in Middletown is an excellent choice for brews, bites, and ocean breezes.
Experience tastings and scrumptious light bites at the region’s oldest vineyard, Sakonnet Vineyard (162 W Main Rd., Little Compton). Little Rhody Pasta (14 A Stafford Rd., Tiverton) has prepared Italian foods at the ready. Thames Waterside Bar & Grill (251 Thames St.), and Flo’s Clam Shack (4 Wave Ave. & 324 Park Ave., Portsmouth) is the East Bay OG for all things clam.
Flo’s Clam Shack
Photo courtesy of Flo’s Clam Shack
Summer-by-the-Sea
EAST BAY
A chic and historic coastal community
Celebrating Our 15th Year of Fine Gifts, Tabletop, Women & Baby Items, and Antiques From Europe and US.
•
EXPLORE
Though Bristol entices locals and visitors with its hopping downtown dining and shopping scene, the waterfront town is also a destination for historic sites. Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum (101 Ferry Rd.) is an impeccable property that includes the 1890s summer cottage of Augustus and Bessie Van Wickle. Tours of the mansion and gardens are offered throughout the year, along with programs ranging from tea and scones on the porch to nature drawing and outdoor yoga. On 48 acres of coastal farmland, Coggeshall Farm Museum (1 Colt Dr.) lets guests experience firsthand 18th-century life for tenant farmers with immersive events and tours of the grounds. Overlooking Narragansett Bay, Mount Hope Farm (250 Metacom Ave.) is another historically significant
property that dates back to early American settlement. In fact, some historians believe that the first Thanksgiving feast was held here – be sure to visit on a Saturday morning for their outdoor market. Linden Place (500 Hope St.) is also steeped in history as one of the grandest examples of Federalist architecture in New England. Today, the museum mansion offers community educational programs, tours, and events. Learn about the region’s maritime history with a visit to The Herreshoff Marine Museum (1 Burnside St.), which features everything from a hall of boats to events like the Summer Sunset Concert Series. Art enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the Open Studio Tour . Held July 18-19 & August 1516, this self-guided trek of up to 75 exhibiting South Coast artists takes you to maker
Coggeshall Farm Museum
Photo by Mark Dieterich, courtesy of Coggeshall Farm Museum
TIVERTON FARMERS MARKET
Tiverton Town Farm Recreation Area 3588 Main Road, Rt.77, Tiverton, RI
through October
spaces in Tiverton and Little Compton, and Westport and Dartmouth, MA ( SouthCoastArtists.org ). Art Night Bristol Warren takes place last Thursdays through August, inviting enthusiasts on a self-guided tour to visit open studios in both towns, with live music and demos (ArtNightBristolWarren.org).
Bring home a finely crafted masterpiece that speaks to you by visiting Plumb Gallery (437 Hope St., Bristol), with a mission of making art purchasing accessible.
Like a Rhody version of the Hamptons, Little Compton is where you’ll find roads lined with farm stands en route to Wilbur’s General Store (50 Commons St.) and The Art Cafe (7 South Of Commons Rd.). Stay a while by booking a room or suite at Stone House Inn (122 Sakonnet Point Rd.).
The Art Cafe
PLAY
Colt State Park (Hope St. Route 114, Bristol) boasts panoramic views of the coast, four miles of bike trails, hundreds of picnic tables, and a small-town beach. The Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium (1401 Hope St., Bristol) has a natural history museum, tidepool exhibit, nature programs, and a shop stocked with eco-friendly gifts. Bristol Historical (48 Court St.), hosts exhibits and walking tours, just off the end of the East Bay Bike Path , a 14.5-mile paved and scenic trail that spans from Bristol to Providence. Norman Bird Sanctuary (583 3rd Beach Rd., Middletown) is seven miles of well-preserved hiking trails on its educational campus. All aboard the Grand Bellevue Rail
Photo courtesy of Discover Newport
Dining Experience (2 Alexander Rd., Portsmouth), with themed dinners and murder mysteries on a train trundling past scenic sights. Look your best with a visit to Audrey Wood Aesthetician (710 Aquidneck Ave., Middletown) for facials and anti-aging treatments inside Polo Salon & Spa. Legacy Spa & Wellness (985 East Main Rd., Middletown) offers a range of holistic therapeutic services. Often referred to as the “most patriotic town in America,” the Bristol Fourth of July Celebration is a multi-week series of events culminating with the popular parade (FourthOfJulyBristolRI.com).
Take in coastal views as you pedal custom-built tandem or quad rail bikes along historic coastal railroad tracks at
Rail Explorers (1 Alexander Rd., Portsmouth), or at a lighter pace, stroll seven acres at Green Animals Topiary Gardens (380 Corys Ln., Portsmouth). Purgatory Chasm (Tuckerman Ave., Middletown), offers dramatic views of the rocky chasm, ocean, and coastal cliffs.
Cross the state line to Massachusetts to experience the Take Me to the River Festival (Fall River) on August 22, a day of free concerts and food trucks on the waterfront, and in New Bedford, save July 30-August 2 for the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament (50 Madeira Ave.) – four days of live music, traditional Portuguese food, and a parade. Take in a show at the newly restored Zeiterion Performing Arts Center (684 Purchase St.).
Locally roasted coffee, espresso drinks, and outstanding hot and iced chai. Gourmet sweet and savory crepes made to order, and fresh baked goods crafted from scratch. Fantastic location right on the Town Wharf!
Green Animals Topiary Gardens
On-Site Management & Maintenance Featured Amenities Our animal-friendly apartment community in the heart of the Providence, features beautifully renovated 1 bedroom flex suites and 2–3 bedroom apartment homes, perfect for a variety of living needs. Apartments offer quartz countertops in the kitchens and bathrooms, stainless steel appliances, designer flooring, and in-unit washers and dryers in select homes. Conveniently located near Route 6 and I-95, the community is just minutes from Providence Place and WaterFire.
Stainless Steel Appliances
In-Unit Washer/Dryer
Designer Flooring & Carpeting
Electronic Thermostat
Quartz Countertops
Garage Parking
Providence
THE CREATIVE CAPITAL AND ITS NEIGHBORING CITY
Providence is worthy of a full vacation in its own right, but if your schedule only leaves room for a single day trip, here are some must-see highlights.
Photo by N. Millard, courtesy of GoProvidence
PROVIDENCE
An ever-vibrant Creative Capital
Providence is worthy of a full vacation in its own right, but if your schedule only leaves room for a single day trip, here are some must-see highlights.
SHOP
Providence has many neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. For starters, downtown is home to many of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants, along with nightlife, theater, and art. On Westminster Street, browse stylish clothing at Queen of Hearts and Modern Love (220-222 Westminster St.), artful furnishings at Homestyle (233 Westminster St.), and books, vinyl, and events at Symposium Books (240 Westminster St.).
Stroll America’s oldest indoor shopping mall, The Arcade (65 Weybosset St.), home to Lovecraft Arts & Sciences . Nearby is East Bay Comics (259 Weybosset St.) for a wide selection of issues and toys. On the East Side of the city, Hope Street brims with boutiques at each end: Frog & Toad (795 Hope St.) sells quirky merch, Rhody Craft (769 Hope St.) has shelves lined with RI goods, and Stock Culinary Goods (756 Hope St.) carries kitchen products and provisions, many made in New England. Don’t miss Broadway , Wayland Square , and Wickenden Street for more unique retail at all price points. Providence Flea (Dyer St.) is a PVD-must – find it outdoors at 195 District Park, Sundays through September.
On the West End , shop sustainable,
slow-fashion at The Nest (272 Carpenter St.), flip through albums at Armageddon Record Shop (436 Broadway), and find your TBR at Heartleaf Books (374 Atwells Ave.) and Riffraff Bookstore + Bar (60 Valley St., Suite 107A). Just over the line in North Providence, Providence Picture Frame & Dryden Gallery (1350 Mineral Spring Ave.), is a light-filled gallery with art-forward gifts and a range of services, including custom framing, digital printing, installation, and more.
DINE
Sample dishes from top local chefs at Track 15 (1 Union Station), a historic train station reimagined into a stunning food hall with a central bar. Another cool spot is CHOP ( 211 Washington St. ), housed inside the Track 15
by
Photo
Ian Barnard, courtesy of Track 15
PROVIDENCE
An ever-vibrant Creative Capital
Providence Public Library with a menu of globally inspired dishes (don’t skip the cookies). While Federal Hill is still known as “Little Italy” – over the past decade it’s become a much more multicultural dining destination –the main drag of Atwells Avenue is still home to many classic red sauce joints like Constantino’s Venda Bar & Ristorante and Trattoria Appia , and also Mexican ( Don Jose Tequilas ), Japanese food ( NAMI ), Cajun ( The Royal Bobcat ), and more. Just off Atwells,
experience Italian-Latin fusion and handcrafted cocktails at Bella Vista (145 Spruce St.).
The West End is home to the city’s vanguard of restaurants serving gourmet food in fun, casual settings, like elevated burgers at There, There (471 W. Fountain St.), crepes and tea at Schasteâ (300 Broadway), and smoked Great Northern BBQ Co. (9 Parade St.). Don’t sleep on a cold brew or one of many specialty coffee drinks – teas and pastries, too – at The Nitro Bar (228 Broadway).
Farm Fresh Rhode Island (10 Sims Ave.) is home to a number of small food businesses. East Side foodie highlights include Pizza Marvin (468 Wickenden St.) slinging creative pies and seafood, and its nearby sibling Club Frills (79 Ives St.) – an atmospheric joint for inventive eats and next-level artisanal drinks. India Restaurant (1060 Hope St.) serves flavorful authentic dishes in stylish surroundings, and Puerto Rican cafe Little Sister (737a Hope St.) is a vibrant spot
courtesy of CHOP
CHOP
Photo
for meeting and eating. At the bottom of College Hill, experience mainstays like Parkside Rotisserie & Bar (76 South Main St.), and Hemenway’s Restaurant , both renowned for their hospitality and food. Harry’s Bar & Burger (121 North Main Street & 301 Atwells Avenue) makes even turkey burgers delish!
Downtown is home to an eclectic mix – from Korean food at SOTT (333 Westminster St.) to West African cuisine from Suya Joint (320 Westminster St.). Gift Horse (272 Westminster St.) raw bar. Rollers Sports Bar & Grill (33 Aborn St.) is a fun new addition. Experience a chef’s tasting menu in chic surroundings at Claudine (225 Weybosset St.), and for a lively night out, Medici Lounge (172 Pine St.) serves crafted cocktails with style. Motor over to Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park Carousel Village (1000 Elmwood Ave.) for fun eats outdoors.
Photo by Elyse Major
PROVIDENCE
An ever-vibrant Creative Capital
EXPLORE
The East Side is full of both beautifully preserved history and vibrant young energy. For the former, check out the Mile of History , the most impressive concentration of colonial homes in the US along Benefit Street and its surrounds. For the latter, visit Thayer Street , the epicenter of College Hill’s food and nightlife scenes. Home to Brown University , RISD , and the RISD Museum (20 North Main St.), this neighborhood attracts the bright and creative. Make the most of a day here by signing up for an Experience Rhode Island Tour (ExperienceRI.com).
Descend Thomas Street to discover a procession of picturesque buildings, which together are the Providence Art Club (11 Thomas St.). Inside the marigold-accented Fleur de Lys Studios, are fine artists, including Anthony Tomaselli . Book or take a self-guided tour of the city’s murals via TheAvenueConcept. org, and any trip to RI wouldn’t be complete without a day at Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village (1000 Elmwood Ave.), home to more than 100 species of animals, A Bug’s World , an outdoor exhibit of larger-than-life bug structures (through August 9).
PLAY
Experience PVD from a different vantage point by paddling with rentals from Providence Kayak (101 Dyer St.). Plan an evening around a WaterFire night, a spectacle of lit braziers along the river on select dates (WaterFire.org). The Providence Rink (2 Kennedy Plaza) transforms from ice to roller skating, and hosts movie nights (TheProvidenceRink.com). Bring the kids to Providence Children’s Museum (100 South St.) for hands-on fun. For gamers, Level 99 (8 Providence Pl. Suite #D301), is a high-tech indoor playground with a scratch kitchen and craft beer hall, and Free Play Bar & Arcade (182 Pine St.), is a 21-plus bar with pinball, rhythm games, and more.
Providence Kayak
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Photo (top) by Abigail Burnham, (bottom) courtesy of Providence Kayak
WARWICK
Central Rhode Island’s leading city
If you’re arriving by air, Warwick is your gateway to the Ocean State.
SHOP
Sprawling Warwick is full of both commercial strips and coastal charms; it’s home to the Warwick Mall (400 Bald Hill Rd.), boasting 80-plus stores – including We Be Jammin’ , a family-owned condiment brand – plus a food court, carousel, movie theater, and surrounding dining options. Feel words away as you skirt the city’s shoreline, discovering gems like Changing Tides Gift Shop (355 Arnolds Neck Rd.) – a fisherman’s shanty-turned-coastal gift store filled with handcrafted baskets (and lessons) and merch, and Pawtuxet Village , a waterside gem with cafes, dining, and of course, ice cream. The Veiled Crow (3287 Post Rd.) has essential oils and crystals, with tarot readings available by appointment. Enjoy the thrill of the hunt at Fully Furnished Consignment (1889 Post Rd.). Need some metime? Book an appointment at Blue Sky Spaworks (80 Lambert Lind Hwy #12), an Aveda Lifestyle Spa. For banking services, Greenwood Credit Union (3275 Post Rd.) has been serving the community since 1948. In West Warwick, Organical Botanical (294 Cowesett Ave.) sells signature aromatherapeutic herbal bath and body products.
DINE
Intrigued by RI classics like stuffed clams (“stuffies”)? Head to Iggy’s Boardwalk (885 Oakland Beach Ave.) for clam cakes and chowder, and their famous golden-fried doughboys. Top of the Bay (898 Oakland Beach Ave.) serves casual fare with bay views, Apponaug Brewing Co. (334 Knight St.) is a must for beer lovers, and for a casual bite and live music on weekends, look no further than Ollie’s Pub (941 West Shore Rd.). Tree House Tavern (1094 Centerville Rd.) serves creative fare indoors or outside in a garden setting illuminated by lanterns; dessert options are presented by cart. For authentic Italian dishes, head to Vanda Cucina (1 Centerville Rd.). Cork & Rye Gastropub (255 Lambert Lind Hwy.) is a whiskey and wine bar cooking upscale pub fare. Jefferson & Co. (1946 Post Rd.) is a
speakeasy-style bar with an innovative menu. For Chinese fine dining, visit Lemongrass Asian Bistro (1138 Post Rd.). Relax with coffee and a calzone at Red White & Brew Coffee House and Budding Violet Gift Shop (1800 Post Rd., Unit 26). Pack a blanket or lawn
chair and head to to The Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick lawn for Warwick Food Truck Night (801 Greenwich Ave.); wine and beer for sale, and music, too; July 30, August 10). Need a gift? Orange you glad there’s Edible Arrangements (1800 Post Road, Unity 5A) nearby.
Tree House Tavern
Photo by Elyse Major
WARWICK
Central Rhode Island’s leading city
EXPLORE
While this central hub is best known for award-winning Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (2000 Post Rd.), there’s plenty to discover. Once home to an amusement park, Rocky Point State Park (1 Rocky Point Ave.) now offers natural trails with views of Narragansett Bay. Pro-tip: July to mid-August is generally when to visit Rocky Point Farm (130 Rocky Point Ave.) for blueberries, and for fresh corn, Morris Farm (2779 Warwick Ave.) is a local fave. Oakland Beach is a sandy getaway with a boat ramp and saltwater
swimming; boaters can inquire about slips at Safe Harbor Marina (1 Masthead Dr.).
PLAY
The Gamm Theatre (1245 Jefferson Blvd.) stages plays with stellar casts, and offers lessons and classes. Bring a group to get puzzling at Riddle Room (1150 Bald Hill Rd.), an escape room highlighting local lore with its challenging mystery quests. For the techie: Rhode Island Computer Museum (1755 Bald Hill Rd.) not only houses a collection
of vintage computers but also hosts hands-on STEAM programming for all ages.
By day, Warwick Center for the Arts (3273 Post Rd.) hosts art classes and workshops; by night enjoy Bring Your Own Improv , an interactive show that welcomes audience participation. Two shows are held each Friday night: family-friendly at 8pm, late-night at 10pm. Urban Air Adventure Park (300 Quaker Ln.) has attractions from APEX trampolines to indoor ziplines – ideal for rainy days.
The Gamm Theatre
Photo courtesy of The Gamm Theatre
HOME & STYLE
Home | Shop | Family Fun | Rhody Roadtrip
Fresh Start
A cottage is redesigned with an eye on hospitality for use as a summer rental
Comfort and durability informed furnishing choices, like the slipcovered couch and natural fiber rug
By Erin McGinn
When Ellen Kelly, artist and co-owner of Newport-based luxury stationery design house Champagne and Ink, and her husband Bill Kelly decided to embark on turning the first level of their Middletown property into a short-term rental, they thought no further than the island they call home for inspiration. “The joy for me was creating a space that feels welcoming,” begins Ellen. “I wanted to reflect the ease of a summer vacation – when you can sit and relax and feel the breeze and the warm sun.” After the bulk of the remodel was complete, a chance meeting led the pair to Kelly Rosadino of Two Twenty Interiors, an interior designer in Newport who specializes in helping short-term rental owners rework their spaces.
HOME & STYLE
“I knew a couple of things about how I wanted the space to be, but I didn’t know how to go about executing it. That’s where Kelly came in and executed everything to perfection. She took haphazard ideas and a few pieces we already had and pulled everything together in such a cohesive way,” says Ellen. “She shared so much information with me about the rental aspect of the project as well, not just the interior design side, but also knowing what guests are looking for. I found that to be as valuable as her interior design abilities.” Rosadino echoes Ellen’s feelings about the collaboration, “We
quickly aligned on a budget and shared vision: creating an atmosphere that would feel intentionally effortless and relaxed. The kind of experience where guests immediately want to kick off their shoes and settle in.”
Serene and stylish were the guiding principles in furnishing the home. “I wanted to keep in mind as we were working through the space that nothing was overdone,” Ellen explains. Rosadino adds, “In designing the bedrooms, we chose full-length mirrors, an iron and ironing board, closet hangers, and a luggage rack in each room. Simple essentials that are often overlooked
A pair of swivel chairs are perfect for being part of the conversation or turning around to look outside
when styling a rental make a big difference in regard to the overall experience.”
Crisp whites and classic deep blues used throughout are a constant reminder of being on Aquidneck Island, but unique pieces like the bright green velvet chairs, the long oak dining table, and even the entryway with its nooks for pet supplies (furry friends are welcome here) are thoughtful and elevated. “We pulled colors from the ever-changing ocean tide, which is why you’ll see various shades of blue used throughout,” says Rosadino. “The home just has such a fun and light energy that you can sense and feel.”
Get Rhody Style
Ideas and resources for making the most of living in the Ocean State
White-hot Tip
Thinking of starting a rental of your own? “It’s been proven that pristine white linens signal to guests that the bedding is thoroughly cleaned between stays, and therefore they are more incentivized to book your rental over another listing,” says Rosadino.
Reno Respite
“I think we’re proud of all these little things people don’t even see, but if I had to pick a room, I might be most proud of the bathroom. I’m just really happy with how it came together,” says Ellen of the results.
Sizzling Sisal
“When it came to the bedrooms, we opted for jute and sisal area rugs to withstand the suitcases and traction,” notes Rosadino. Learn more about her work at TwoTwentyInteriors.com
Local Love
Products from Rhody brands and goods from nearby small businesses are well represented in The Gilded Gull, and include Coastal Ave Design, E. Frances Paper, Erin McGinn Photography, Little Chateau, Newport Sea Salt, Shore Soap Co., and Young Designs Floral Studio. Learn more about this “guest favorite” at airbnb.com: The Gilded Gull; @thegildedgull
A range of textures keep a neutral palette interesting and inviting
Photography by Erin McGinn, courtesy of The Gilded Gull
Dark cabinets, flooring, and countertops lend sophistication while being forgiving of scuffs
In Season
Maximizing style and comfort in the summer sun
By Britt Machado
What’s better than spending a gorgeous day outside? We’ve curated favorites from across the state to add comfort and color to your outdoor adventures, whether that means glamping, beaching, or attending any of the many amazing music festivals. For starters, how about a game for keeping you entertained (no charger required), and a canopy to keep things shady. Day got away from you? No problem when you have a solar-powered light in your kit. When your accessories are as fashionable
Inflatable Solar Lantern
The Sporting Shoppe at The Preserve Richmond | TheSportingShoppe.com
Hip Pack
Ure Outfitters
Hope Valley | UREOutfitters.com
Shibumi Shade
Downcity Outfitters
Pawtucket | DowncityOutfitters.com
Folding Chair
Salk’s Ace Hardware and Marine
North Kingstown, Pawtucket, Wakefield, and Warwick, RI; Seekonk, MA SalksHardware.com
Family Fun for Days (and Nights)
A season of flying kites, stomping divots, and picking blueberries awaits
By Jane Govednik
With school behind us and back-to-school still far enough away that we’re not thinking about it yet, July is truly the sweet spot of summer. If you’re looking to fill your calendar with memory-making family fun, here are 10 uniquely Rhody favorites to check out.
PICK-YOUR-OWN BLUEBERRIES
July is peak blueberry season in Rhode Island so head out to places like Rocky Point Farm (Warwick), Smith’s Berry Farm (Saunderstown), or Sweet Berry Farm (Middletown) and spend a few hours filling buckets together. Bonus: kids somehow become much more enthusiastic about fruit when they pick it themselves. Find more PYO produce and locations at RIFB.org
ADVENTURELAND FAMILY FUN PARK
Adventureland brings all the summer nostalgia with mini golf, bumper boats, arcade games, and go-karts. It’s old-school fun that feels exactly the same as you remember, except now you get to watch your own kids experience it. Seriously, when was the last time you went to an arcade where the games still take quarters? Narragansett
BRISTOL FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION
The Bristol celebration is much more than just the parade (but that’s really fun, too!). The days leading up to July 4 include concerts at Independence Park (pregamed by reading sessions with Mrs. Katz and Her Hats Storytime), a carnival at Bristol Town Common, and fireworks over Bristol Harbor (July 3). It’s one of Rhode Island’s classic summer traditions for a reason. Bristol
DRIVE-IN MOVIES
There’s something about piling everyone into the car with blankets and snacks that feels like stepping back to a simpler time. Both the Rustic TriView Drive-In and the Misquamicut Drive-In provide an experience kids will remember long
Photos courtesy of Jane Govednik
Sweet Berry Farm
Bristol Carnival
after the credits roll. Arrive early, let the gang stretch their legs before the movie starts, and settle in for a classic summer night under the stars. North Smithfield, Westerly
NEWPORT POLO
Whether you’re a polo expert or have absolutely no idea what’s happening on the field (same), it’s really about the atmosphere. Think lawn picnics, fun hats, and divot stomping. Matches take place on Saturdays at Glen Farm, with food trucks and vendors on site offering something for everyone. For lawn seating, children 15 and under are free. Portsmouth
A BUG’S WORLD EXHIBIT AT ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO
If your kids are fascinated by creepy crawlies, Roger Williams Park Zoo’s larger-than-life exhibit lets visitors get up close to giant insects and discover the interesting world of bugs. Plus, you can make a full day out of exploring the rest of the park afterward. Carousel Village, a quarter-mile from the Zoo, is where you’ll find the historic carousel, open late during Food Truck Friday season. Providence
PAIR A PLAYGROUND WITH A LIBRARY STOP
Some of our favorite family outings are the simple ones. Libraries like Cumberland Public Library, Exeter Public Library, Louttit Library (West Greenwich), Barrington Public Library, and Jamestown Philomenian Library have playgrounds nearby, making it easy to combine
outdoor play with browsing for books. With an Ocean State Libraries card, you can borrow and return to any member library in the state.
RAIL EXPLORERS
Take a ride on pedal-powered rail bikes along Narragansett Bay for one of our state’s more unique family outings. The route offers water views and a different way to experience the beauty of the area, and kids think the novelty of riding on railroad tracks is pretty cool. Children must be accompanied by a rider at least 16 years of age to operate the brakes. Portsmouth
RHODE ISLAND FC GAME
Spend a summer evening cheering on Rhode Island FC at Centreville Bank Stadium. Even if you’re not a huge soccer family, live sports are always fun with kids, and the game-day atmosphere makes for a memorable night out. And if you do have a young fan, check out the TerRIFC Kids Club presented by the Providence Children’s Museum and Community Libraries of Providence, it’s free with fun perks. Pawtucket
THE NEWPORT KITE FESTIVAL
On July 11 and 12, head to Brenton Point State Park for the Newport Kite Festival, two days of looking up to marvel at colorful kites filling the sky, plus activities, music, performances, and food trucks. The expansive lawn on Ocean Drive is the perfect location for kite flying, thanks to breezes from the Narragansett Bay at its juncture with the Atlantic, so keep a kite in the trunk!
SUNDAY, JUNE 28 • 1:30PM MATTHEW CURRY BAND
MONDAY, JUNE 29 -6:00PM MESSAGES FROM SPIRIT ROLAND COMTOIS
FRIDAY, JULY 10 • 7:30PM THE LEGEND OF OZZY OSBOURNE
SATURDAY, JULY 11 • 7:30PM THE TRAVELING WILBURYS REVUE
FRIDAY, JULY 17 • 7:00PM DAN FONTAINE & MEMPHIS SUN MAFIA BAND ELVIS
SATURDAY, JULY 18 • 7:00PM DOO WOP REVUE THE CORVETTES
FRIDAY, JULY 24 7:00PM COMEDY TALES FROM HOLLYWOOD BOB PERLOW
SATURDAY, JULY 25 • 7:00PM AFFINITY JOURNEY
FRIDAY, JULY 31 • 7:30PM FLEETWOOD MACKED FLEETWOOD MAC
SATURDAY, AUGUST • 1 1:00PM HARRY CHAPIN, GOLDEN LIGHTFOOT CAT STEVENS, TOM DIMENNA
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7 7:30PM BLUSHING BRIDES ROLLING STONES
SATURDAY, AUGUST 8 7:00PM SAINTS IN THE CITY BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
SATURDAY, AUGUST 15 7:00PM YESTERDAY ONCE MORE THE CARPENTERS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21 1:30PM AWARD WINNING DAN FONTAINE ELVIS
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 7:30PM RETRO FLOYD PINK FLOYD
DOOR OPEN 1 HOUR BEFORE SHOW TIME. COME ENJOY OUR GALLERIES AND BAR
3481 Kingstown Road West Kingston • (401)-782-1018 CourthouseArts.org
Adventureland carousel
Rhody Roadtrips
One tank getaways across New England
By Elyse Major
There is nothing better than an Ocean State summer, jam-packed with things to do and places to eat, drink, and stay at nearly every exit. Of course, with looser schedules, it’s the perfect time for hitting the open road, but with gas prices outrageously high, keeping it within New England is a best bet for maximizing funds for fun!
Using the Rhode Island State House as your starting point, here are places worth filling the tank for, sure to be enjoyed by all ages.
New Hampshire
CANOBIE LAKE PARK: 1 HOUR, 30 MINUTES
Why travel to Hershey Park when Canobie Lake Park is close enough for a day trip? For thrill-seekers, there are myriad rides, and for those missing wooden coasters (remember Rocky Point and Lincoln Park, Fall River?), they’ve got the Yankee Cannonball (circa 1936). For antique carousel enthusiasts, there’s a 1902 Looff/Dentzel with a Wurlitzer-style organ, and for those who seek serenity while others ride the rides, enjoy a 20-minute scenic journey aboard the Blue Heron Lake Cruise. Tasty handheld foods and treats like fried dough, lemonade, and ice cream complete the day. Canobie.com
Connecticut
HILTON MYSTIC: 50 MINUTES
At less than an hour away from most points in Rhode Island, it might seem unnecessary to book a room, but Hilton Mystic’s proximity to both Mystic Village and Mystic Aquarium across the street, scrumptious dining at onsite restaurant The IRONS, and ongoing activities (crafts, character meet-and-greets, concerts), deem it worthwhile. Overnight accommodations make it possible to take the kids to the “dive-in” movie at the indoor pool before bathtime, or enjoy sitting by the fire pits in the courtyard after finishing your iron cookie skillet chocolate chip cookie. Hilton.com
Trip Tips
AAA: The auto association has an online gas calculator to help drivers plan fuel cost based on miles, MPG, and gallons needed. GasPrices.AAA.com
GAS BUDDY: Along with a range of tools, this top-rated app helps users find the best gas prices quickly. GasBuddy.com
VISIT NEW ENGLAND: Since 1996, this family-run website has been a go-to for finding everything from lodgings to points-of-interest and more. Useful for turning pit stops into detour destinations.
Poland Spring Resort Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club
Massachusetts
OCEAN EDGE RESORT AND
GOLF
CLUB: 1 HOUR, 40 MINUTES
When people think of Cape Cod, it’s often towns like Hyannis, Chatham, and Provincetown that come to mind, but Brewster is filled with charm, and the aptly named Ocean Edge puts you right there. Aside from many amenities and activities (wellness retreats like floating sound baths), the property offers easy access – and bike rentals – to traverse the Cape Cod Rail Trail: 25 paved miles through six towns. There are also kayak and SUP board rentals, golfing at a Nicklaus Design course, a spa, and onsite dining. Don’t miss The Beach Bar overlooking the Brewster Flats. Nearby, the main road is lined with independent shops like Brewster Bookstore, and art galleries. OceanEdge.com
Martha’s Vineyard
Resort, imagine five Magic Kingdoms, but this is Maine so instead of a monorail and castle, there are views of the White Mountains. Across 500 lush acres, guests staying at one of the three inns or 12 private cottages can spend their days at the Donald Ross 18-hole championship golf course, hiking, playing pickleball, tennis, disc golf, or mini golf, or swimming in the outdoor pool. For quiet afternoons, wander the historic 1893 Maine State Building and the 1906 Poland Spring Bottling Museum, or browse the pro shop and gift shop. Dining options include a chef-made all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, meals at Mel’s Hilltop, and an ice cream shop. Watch for special events and concerts at the gazebo. PolandSpringResort.com
Vermont
Martha’s Vineyard is 125 square miles in total and has six towns: Aquinnah (formerly known as Gay Head), Chilmark, Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, West Tisbury, and Oak Bluffs. To get there, you’ll need to take a boat or plane. From Quonset, the Vineyard Fast Ferry takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. Other ferry options that depart from MA include Falmouth, Hyannis, New Bedford, and Woods Hole. Skip bringing the car and get a Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) bus pass instead. If you want to plan your visit around an event, be sure to visit MVY.com and book any recommended reservations in advance.
HOTEL VERMONT: 4 HOURS, 30 MINUTES
If you’re looking to experience the Green Mountain State, Hotel Vermont has assembled packages to help travelers do just that. The Vermont Parks Forever package hosts guests in one of three Vermont State Park-inspired rooms, and amenities include access to complimentary state park passes for each person on your reservation, and a locally made s’mores kit. This July, Hotel Vermont will host their second annual Cherry Street Social on July 9, a one-day celebration of all the small businesses on Cherry Street, culminating in a fun party on Hotel Vermont’s Brick Terrace with food and music. HotelVT.com
Hotel Vermont
FEATURE
Pump Up the Volume
Outdoor concerts bring communities together all summer long
By Emily Homonoff
hen temperatures start to climb and the days stretch long, something magical happens in towns and cities across Rhode Island: the music starts. While our fair state is widely known for its sweeping beaches and oysters for days, there’s also no shortage of opportunities to take in great live music all summer. No matter where you may find yourself – in Lincoln or in Little Compton – there are amazing performances to experience. These shows bring neighbors together, amplify surrounding businesses, and even introduce Rhode Islanders to parts of the state that they may rarely visit. Here’s a sampling of standout musical events that will have you buzzing this summer.
BRISTOL: Blithewold’s Music at Sunset
If there’s a more idyllic setting for a summer concert than Blithewold Manor’s 10-acre lawn with stunning views of Narragansett Bay, it’s hard to imagine what that could be. Every Wednesday evening through August 26, the award-winning estate grounds serve as the backdrop for the Music at Sunset Concert Series. It’s one of Rhode Island’s longest-running and most coveted warm-weather traditions, and with good reason. Gates open at 5pm for parking and checkin, with live music from 6 to 8pm. Guests are
encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs, take in the property, and settle in for two hours as the sun sets. New to the venue this year are local food trucks on-site each week. This rotation of thoughtfully curated independent vendors offers concertgoers a fun night out while also supporting the East Bay’s ever-evolving food scene.
The way Director of Museum Operations and Communications Tree Callanan sees it, “For nearly two decades, folks have come from near and far to enjoy our concerts. For many, this is
a Wednesday night summer tradition. For others, it’s a joyful addition to their vacation in the Ocean State. Either way, it’s like you’ve stepped into another world for a few hours. Which is how the Van Wickle family designed Blithewold to be.” The programming spans a wide range of genres from week to week, something the organizers do to make sure there’s something for everyone. It’s the kind of series where you might catch a cover band one week and a jazz ensemble the next. Blithewold.org
Blithewold hosts concerts with views of scenic Narragansett Bay through August 26
Photo (L) courtesy of Blithewold, (R) courtesy of Chase Farm
Food trucks at Chase Farm have become an integral part of the outdoor concert experience
Head north to Lincoln, and you’ll find a quieter, more low-key version of Blithewold at Chase Farm Park. The town’s Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free Summer Concert Series there, with concerts held monthly running through the summer. A scenic working farm with open fields and walking trails, Chase Farms’ natural setting makes for an easy, unhurried evening out. There’s no admission, just folks gathering on a warm evening to enjoy some live music together. It’s the kind of event that reminds you what public spaces are actually for.
HOMETOWN CONCERTS
Many Rhode Island cities and towns host free concert series at public parks. Chances are, there’s one near you. Check city/ town websites to find out!
“Our summer concerts at Chase Farm Park have become a beloved summer tradition that brings together residents and visitors of all ages for evenings filled with music, laughter, and community spirit,” says Grace Gervais, Parks and Recreation assistant director “More than just a concert series, it’s a safe and welcoming gathering place where people can relax with family and friends, enjoy great live entertainment and local food, and celebrate the strong sense of community that makes Lincoln so special.” LincolnRI.gov
Providing financial assistance to the parents of children battling brain cancer
Honoring the children who suffer from cancer and fight everyday. Our hopes are to make a day in the life of a family suffering from cancer a little bit brighter
LINCOLN: Chase Farm Summer Concert Series
NEWPORT: NIMFest and Friends of the Waterfront at King Park
Down on the coast, Newport’s summer music scene takes full advantage of one of the state’s most spectacular natural backdrops. NIMFest and the Friends of the Waterfront Summer Concert Series bring live music to the gazebo at King Park on Wellington Avenue, every Sunday through August 26. These concerts feel more like a true community event and carve out a slice of peace amid a busy summer in the City by the Sea. The concerts are free and open to the public; just bring a lawn chair, a blanket, and you’re set.
As local artist Atticus Allen puts it, these events “require people to come together and be seen and heard. We live in a world that can be so isolating. Music creates these kinds of hallmarks of the summer for people’s stories.” The series mixes emerging and established local artists in a format that puts a premium on original music and living-room-level intimacy. It’s the kind of afternoon where you discover a new favorite local act while watching sailboats drift past the harbor. Live music and Newport tourism have always fed each other, and the free, accessible format of the King Park series makes sure that the benefits flow in both directions. DiscoverNewport.org
A NEW FOLK FESTIVAL FINDS ITS GROOVE ON PROVIDENCE’S EAST SIDE
By Ken Abrams
The inaugural Swell Folk Festival debuts in Providence this fall, coming to Lippitt Park on September 20, bringing a day of live music inspired by the spirit and eclectic energy of the Newport Folk Festival. The lineup blends regional favorites with emerging national talent, featuring South Carolina singer-songwriter Cody Gentry alongside local acts Melo Green, The Vox Hunters, and Princess Jun, among others. Performances will range from intimate solo sets to full-band showcases throughout the day-long event.
For founder Andrew Tagher, bringing the festival to life has been nearly a year in the making. After launching the nonprofit Swell Folk Foundation, Tagher spent months fundraising, securing vendors, and assembling artists while laying the groundwork for what he hopes becomes an annual East Side tradition. “We’ve been very focused on putting the foundation together, making sure that it’s a well-run event, that the stages will be there, the food trucks, and the beer garden – all those things.”
The idea first struck Tagher while attending the Newport Folk Festival last summer. Inspired by both the music and the atmosphere, he began imagining a more accessible version in Providence. “I’m a longtime fan of Newport Folk,” he explains. “But tickets are expensive and hard to get. I remember hearing The Swell Season perform and thinking, ‘We could create something like this in Providence.’ I wanted it to feel open and welcoming – something people could simply walk to and enjoy with their neighbors.” In that spirit, the event will be family-friendly, community-oriented, and free to attend. Volunteers are needed – learn more at SwellFolkFestival.com.
Photo courtesy of Discover Newport
Local and nationally-known touring bands perform at outdoor concerts all summer long
WHAT?! IS RI MULCH EXPRESS BLOWER SERVICES??
PROVIDENCE:
Summer Concert Series at Track 15
In the capital city, summer Fridays belong to Track 15. The outdoor event space at the beautifully restored historic Union Station hosts a free concert every Friday through early October. For those who are counting, that’s 20 weeks of live music! For organizer and performer Julie Rhodes, these events hold special meaning beyond the venue, “We’re so inundated these days with digital screens, AI, and algorithms. After a long blizzard-filled New England winter, a lot of folks have been feeling especially isolated and depressed. Summer live music is the antithesis of that. A universal language made by human hands and voices, bringing communities together to share feelings in real life when it’s needed more than ever.”
What sets the Providence series apart is its broad embrace of creativity. Each concert pairs live local music with painters, poets, and makers. This turns what could be a straightforward music night into something that feels more like a community arts event. Dining options and drinks are on-site, the vibe is easygoing, and admission is free and open to all ages. Track15RI.com
Photo (top) by Taylor Buttie, (bottom) courtesy of PVD Food Truck Events
Family-friendly concerts can be found around the state daily through August - check with organizers to see if pets are permitted as policies vary
SOUTH KINGSTOWN:
RiverFire Along the Saugatucket
Down in South Kingstown, the Wakefield Village Association has built something that’s as quirky and special as the village itself. And it’s entirely free! RiverFire takes place on select Friday evenings during the summer at Saugatucket Park in downtown Wakefield, and it does a lot more than simply put music in the park. The name tells only part of the story: as evening approaches, fires are lit along the Saugatucket River. Their warm glow settles over multiple live music stages, making it something you really have to experience for yourself. This event takes it up a notch or two, also including a local artisan market, food trucks, a beer garden, and kid-friendly activities. RiverFire activates the entire community and has become a fan favorite for Rhode Islanders who enjoy going south for the summer. That intentional connection between the concert series and local commerce is central to RiverFire’s identity. The event draws on a combination of local sponsorships and the association’s advocacy work to keep it free for everyone who wants to enjoy it. WakefieldVillageAssociation.com
MORE THAN MUSIC: How Food Trucks Transform Outdoor Concerts
By Ken Abrams
Food trucks serving a diverse range of options have blended seamlessly with outdoor concerts in recent years. Eric Weiner, who founded PVD Food Truck Events over a decade ago, works with event organizers staging more than 100 events throughout Rhode Island each summer. “Food trucks change the entire dynamic of a public event,” he explains. “They transform a passive, 45-minute concertgoer into a threehour community participant. By handling the logistical heavy lifting of food, local beer/wine service, and securing permits, we allow cities and towns to focus entirely on the arts and crowd enjoyment. It creates a sustainable ecosystem where local food trucks thrive, local musicians get paid, and the public gets a free, high-quality, multi-sensory evening out – connecting in a vibrant, town square environment that has long been missing for many people.”
Singer-songwriter Beth Killian at a PVD Food Truck event
Photos courtesy of PVD Food Truck Events
FOOD & DRINK
In the Kitchen | Mainstay Returns | Real Foods | Round Up
By the Sea
Beloved restaurant and bar celebrates 80 seasons at Misquamicut Beach
By Ann Martini
ighty years ago, in 1946, Leonardo Colucci and his son Ralph Colucci Sr. fell in love with the seaside area Pleasant View, RI, now known as Misquamicut. They took a leap of faith and purchased what was then known as The Andrea Tea Room, a quaint bed and breakfast right on the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean. This began the Colucci family legacy that is now celebrating eight decades and four generations of summertime hospitality. Ralph Colucci Sr. passed away in the early 1980’s, leaving the property in the hands of his son Lenny Colucci and his wife Judith.
FOOD & DRINK
Reservations are highly recommended and can only be made via Toast at AndreaSeaside.com
The original Andrea was a strong old gal – she was one of just four buildings still standing after the hurricane of 1938 decimated the seaside town. Hurricane Sandy dealt the final blow to the B&B part of the property in October 2012. The Andrea Seaside Restaurant and Beach Bar was resurrected from the debris by Lenny and Judy’s daughters, Michelle and Rebecca. The Coluccis saved the original fireplace and moved it to its current location on the outside patio. The fireplace, now
fueled by gas, burns nightly in the summertime. Since Sandy, The Andrea has operated solely as a restaurant and beach destination. Today, it offers a full oceanfront dining experience either under the tent or on the patio, centered around beachy vibes and the relaxing sounds of crashing waves. Their beach service includes parking for one vehicle, a reserved beach spot for up to four guests, and dedicated food and beverage service right on the sand throughout the day.
“Some of our most popular menu items are the baked scallops, asparagus fries, and fish and chips – which are especially popular because they’re so flavorful and perfectly crispy,” says owner Rebecca Colucci. “And of course, lobster is a huge part of what we do. We always joke that we put lobster in everything. Guests can enjoy it in four different ways throughout the menu, and it continues to be one of the biggest draws each summer.”
Photography by Nick DelGiudice
Drinks are available in cups or 60-ounce pitchers
BIRTHDAY BEER
In celebration of their 80th, The Andrea has partnered with Narragansett Beer to launch a limited-edition Andrea lager, called 80 Seasons Ale, and they have introduced “80’s Hour” from 3-4pm daily, featuring an $8 specialty food and drink menu. “We’re excited to celebrate this milestone with the community and the generations of guests who have made The Andrea part of their summers for decades,” says Colucci.
➤ Numbness ➤ Herniated Discs ➤ Peripheral Neuropathy
Stenosis
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
The Andrea is open daily, MayOctober. Reservations for onthe-beach dining and cocktailing experiences cost $50, which includes a reserved parking space, beach space for four people, and a personal server for the day from 9am-4pm. You’ll find additional details and can book directly on their website. 89 Atlantic Avenue, Westerly, AndreaSeaside.com
Family-friendly: find a menu for children and seniors
Summer weekends at The Andrea are nonstop from open to close. On busy days, all 50 reserved beach spots are booked, the takeout window has a steady line, and there can easily be over an hour wait for dining… not that happy guests seem to care. “The kitchen is constantly moving, and the bars stay busy well past sunset. Even when it rains, we
still see strong crowds because people come for the atmosphere as much as the food,” says Colucci.
There’s a strong sense of familiarity and tradition throughout the property during the summer that the Colucci family is proud of. “We have guests who have been coming to The Andrea for generations, including families
who have been visiting since the hotel days. Despite how busy it gets, our staff thrives in that environment. There’s a lot of energy throughout the property, and everyone is excited to create a fun experience for guests. We also serve the same menu all day, so guests can enjoy their favorites anytime they visit,” says Colucci, adding “See you at the beach!”
Photography by Nick DelGiudice
KEANE’S WOOD-FIRED CATERING
A Finntastic Comeback
East Greenwich’s beloved waterside restaurant rebuilds after a fire
By Ann Martini
Rhode Island breathed a collective “Oh no!” during the first two days of March 2024, when the news that East Greenwich’s beloved Finn’s Harborside suffered a fire after a Friday night service. The Water Street restaurant has been a favorite for both visitors and locals looking for a gorgeous view and seaside eats, as well as dock-and-diners who could pull their boat into a slip and settle in for succulent lobster rolls, chowder and crispy clam cakes, linguine and clams, burgers, fish tacos, cold beer, and cocktails.
Owners Carole and Mark Finn were in New
York City celebrating her Leap Year birthday that weekend. When they returned on March 1, they received a 10:45pm phone call from their son Connor, a manager at the restaurant. “He said I needed to come to the restaurant because it was on fire,” recalls Mark. “It’s probably one of the worst phone calls you can get besides someone passing away.”
The Finn family has owned the building, which was built in 1880, since the late 1960s. “We rented the restaurant to Jerry Fain for 42 years and when the lease ran out at the end of 2012, we started running the restaurant.” It quickly became a family
affair. Carole ran special events, son Connor went to the University of New Hampshire for hospitality before coming aboard, and daughter Taylor did everything from waiting tables to supervising.
“It was a devastating moment for our family, our employees, and our customers who have made this restaurant a second home,” the family said in a statement released shortly after the fire. “Finn’s has always been more than just a business to us – it’s our family’s livelihood, a place where memories are made, and where generations have gathered to enjoy great food and the beauty of the waterfront.”
P hotos courtesy of Finn’s
Steak tacos with roasted garlic aioli are a popular handheld
Carole and Mark Finn
No one was injured in the fire, and that was “the silver lining,” says Mark. It started in a small section of the restaurant, in the grill exhaust on the north side of the building. “So most of the restaurant was not affected,” he says. “We never considered not getting the restaurant back to operating again. It took longer than normal because many things that were grandfathered in had to be brought up to code. We didn’t have any major changes in mind, just minor ones like new flooring, new HVAC, and fresh paint.”
On a recent Friday afternoon, there is little
evidence that the fire ever occurred. Customers in Helly Hansen shirts and Vineyard Vines caps belly up to the bar or venture out to sit in the sun on one of two outdoor patios overlooking Greenwich Cove. The food is better than ever, with hearty portions of fresh seafood claiming center stage. Lobster lovers delight in simply prepared rolls with minimal additions so as to let the tender shellfish shine. Fried shrimp gets a kick from a spicy remoulade, and cod bites play the role of baby fish and chips. Cocktails and the beer and wine selections run the gamut from simple to snazzy.
Regular Karen Pajak of Cranston has been enjoying Finn’s since she moved to Rhode Island from New York in the mid-80s, and she couldn’t be happier Finn’s is reborn. “It was called Harborside Lobstermania back then,” she recalls. But since the reopening, she’s getting her fill. “In the last week, I’ve been there three times. It’s kept its charm. It’s my comfort zone.”
Finn’s Harborside
38 Water Street, East Greenwich FinnsHarborside.com
P hoto courtesy of Finn’s
There’s something for everyone at Finn’s
A celebration of the city featuring places to explore, neighborhood
and promises to be one of our biggest issues of the year!
Dos and Don’ts for Eating Like a Real RI Housewife
From lattes to lore, we got you covered
By Bekah Berger and Elyse Major
Love it, hate it, or deny knowing anything about it, behind the drama of Bravo’s hit reality series The Real Housewives of Rhode Island , is the unfiltered beauty of the smallest state. To the uninitiated, the series follows Alicia Carmody, Rosie DiMare, Ashley Iaconetti, Liz McGraw, Rulla Nehme Pontarelli, Kelsey Swanson,
Jo-Ellen Tiberi and Dolores Catania (also from The Real Housewives of New Jersey ), as they sip champagne, eat pizza chips, and figure out their relationships, set against a backdrop of the beautiful Ocean State. Oh, and the food, Ma! Here are places featured on the show where you can enjoy a bite, a sip, and – not to be delulu, but – perhaps a RHORI sighting.
Audrey’s Coffee House and Lounge SOUTH KINGSTOWN
Day-to-night cafe owned by adorbs married couple Iaconetti and Jared Haibon, who met on The Bachelor .
DO try their new latte menu featuring the Cookie Dough Latte and (as seen on TV) Ashley’s Turtle Latte.
DON’T forget to brush up on your Rhody lore for their Friday trivia nights. (And put some respect on Nibbles Woodaway’s name, please!)
caption
As seen on S1E5: A cocktail party / birthday party (for a cast member’s friend) catered by Fig & Fromage before they set sail on the Schooner Aurora
Circe Prime Italian Steakhouse CRANSTON
Rustic-meets-elegant in this storied spot, most recently where Chapel Grille used to be.
DO ask for The Liz cocktail at the bar.
DON’T forget to tell the party you’re with that this is where “the bad boy school used to be.”
Fig and Fromage NARRAGANSETT
Caterer specializing in artful charcuterie, as seen aboard the Schooner Aurora.
DO be sure to include “crackahs” in any order to keep calm and happy.
DON’T leave your Gathering Box in the hot sun.
Matunuck Oyster Bar WAKEFIELD
Fine dining beneath a tent (during a rebuild), serving the freshest dishes.
DO try the oysters that Jo-Ellen’s husband Gary Tiberi recommends (wink wink).
DON’T get nervous if you have to drive on the highway for more than 15 minutes to get there.
Newport Polo PORTSMOUTH
A historic farm is the place for polo, peoplewatching, and a wide range of tailgating.
DO stop at Angelo’s Palace Pizza in Cumberland first.
DON’T forget to tell your posse how much you “love a horse.”
Newport Vineyards MIDDLETOWN
A 60-acre vineyard with tastings, tanks, merch, and dining.
DO make a reservation at their Farm and Barrel Bistro, and save room for the lemon tart.
DON’T let those wine flights turn into wine fights, especially if you’re dressed for the Ren-Faire – and to be fair, Ashley I wore her boho best because she thought they would be stomping grapes – which they did, but it didn’t make the episode!
The Real Housewives of Rhode Island cast
Photo (L) courtesy of Bravo, (top) courtesy of Schooner Aurora
Pizza Mamma CRANSTON
Everything you need to make a full meal with a delicious New York, Detroit, or Sicilian pie.
DO order off-menu pizza chips and sign up for their rewards program.
DON’T miss the uniforms, chandeliers, and overall vibe that the Pizza Mama herself is responsible for.
Sombra Eatery and Lounge EAST GREENWICH
Design-forward restaurant serving Mexican-inspired cuisine and cocktails.
Do try their delicious margaritas while taking in their insanely gorgeous decor.
DON’T be surprised if someone asks you if your partner really goes to “the gym” every morning.
Nathaniel's in Lincoln
Savoring Rhody
Best bets for tasting your way around the state this month
By Patty J
July in Little Rhody means hydrangeas in full bloom, busy beaches, and something fun going on at most every turn. Whether you’re looking for coffee by the coast, a restaurant on the green, a charming bistro for a late supper, or one of the most famous buffets in the country, here are eight faves to get you started on the ultimate foodie summer!
Drift Cafe
The married team of Samantha and Rob DePaola have duplicated the vibe of their Newport cafe and opened a second location in Narragansett. Just as delightful, patrons of the Point Judith spot can now enjoy the same fresh and delicious smoothies, bowls, sandwiches and wraps, specialty coffee and tea drinks. Best of all, you can order breakfast all day! Narragansett & Newport
Ellie’s
Your favorite downtown Parisian eatery by day is now a French bistro at night. Ellie’s founder Ellen Gracyalny recently hosted a menu preview and I can’t say enough great things. On dinner service nights, dishes include L’Entrecôte steak with pomme frites, brook trout with pickled beets, asparagus and dill, and don’t sleep on the petits pains au lait, a yummy bread and butter plate. Providence
Higher Grounds Community Coffee House
Did you know there’s a Wyoming, Rhode Island? Well, there is, and it’s where you’ll find Keith Frost’s Higher Grounds, along Kingstown Road/Route 138. The cozy spot is wellknown for its wide variety of coffee drinks –including cold brew – incredible baked goods and sandwiches, and for giving back to local charities via their donation jar. Richmond
The Nordic
This all-you-can-eat restaurant overlooking the water is the stuff that a diner’s dreams are made of! Owned and operated by the Persson family, it’s a marriage of quantity and quality with buffet-style offerings including whole lobsters, filet mignon, baked stuffed shrimp, and a gourmet ice cream bar. Proper casual attire is required. Sundays are reservation-only and made exclusively at TheNordic.com. Charlestown
The Pantry Cafe & Provisions
Danielle Lavalle opened her chic cafe near the International Tennis Hall of Fame just a few months ago. Inside stylish surroundings, find lattes named for characters on HBO’s The Gilded Age , pastries, and light bites. Headed to the beach or boat? Call 401-236-2700 to pre-order their Beach Kit: a 12-inch baguette sandwich, hibiscus lime iced tea, two macarons, and kettle chips. Newport
The Nordic Par and Tackle at Harbor Lights
The Pantry Cafe & Provisions
“Bonjour,” from Ellie’s
Par And Tackle at Harbor Lights
You don’t have to play golf to enjoy dining at Par and Tackle. Located next to the first tee of the public course at Harbor Lights, this open-air eatery serves up farm-to-fork classics like Mediterranean veggie wraps, grilled pizza, calamari, and clam chowder, backdropped by the lush green course and bright blue bay. There’s a full bar, big screen TVs, and a patio with a stone fireplace. Warwick
St. Charbel
The folks behind Purslane – namely, Matt Brown and Freida Sahady – have opened a new oyster and cocktail bar right next door, and it is divine with a standout menu. Open Wednesday through Sunday after 4pm, there’s a full bar as well as happy hour specials. As far as food, we’re talking small plates like Old Bay shrimp cocktail, local oysters, and three different kinds of caviar. Wakefield
Sorelle “Off the Lane”
Sorelle is the Italian word for sister, which makes perfect sense because this restaurant and bar on Main Street is the sister restaurant to Spaghetti Lane in Barrington. Both are owned by the wife-and-husband team of Mary Beth Kyden and Chef Michael St. Angelo, who have created a menu of shareables like zucchini flowers, salads, flatbreads, pasta, and offerings from land and sea. Warren
BOOKING NOW
Sorelle “Off the Lane”
SOUTH COUNTY SCENES SOUTH COUNTY
Celebrating America’s 250th year, coastal style, in Narragansett!
ABOUT RHONDA
@classicallynewengland
A mom living life forever passionate about noticing all the little things, from the trees dancing in a breeze and sounds of birds singing in the rain to the beautiful colors of a summer sky. It’s these moments that bring her a sense of gratitude, peace, and joy.
With preferred pricing and 5-year parts and labor warranty, Arnold Lumber is Andersen’s only Elite Dealer in Rhode Island.
More Than Kitchens
Arnold Lumber is proud to announce the opening of our newest Arnold Kitchen + Design center located at 549 Metacom Ave. in Bristol, RI. This new state-of-the-art design center offers a full selection of products to take your new home or renovation ideas from vision to reality, along with the team and resources to guide you along the way.
• Contractor referrals
• On-site design consultants
• Interactive showroom displays
• Homeowner + Contractor support
• Comprehensive product selection guidance
