In-Depth Rhode Island: The Ultimate Summer Bucket List
If you told me a year ago that I would be writing an article about a Rhode Island summer bucket list, I would have thought you were crazy. When I first left for college, I wanted nothing to do with my home state. I wanted to leave it behind me.
But now that I'm done with school, I find myself pulled back to it.
It's gravitational.
Now anyone who read my last Rhode Island post knows all about some of these places, but your Rhode Island summer bucket list truly isn’t complete without them so here we go again! I consider myself a bit of an expert in this category, having grown up here and having parents that were raised here. And now, I want you to see it for yourself.
So, if you find yourself in the smallest of the 50 states, here's what you should absolutely do.
What To See
Rocky Point
I’m going to be honest, this was a recommendation from my parents. I’ve never been here before, but if you ask any Rhode Islander over the age of 45 and they’ll be able to tell you about going to Rocky Point Amusement Park as a child. Today, it’s been turned into a beautiful park and I, for one, can’t wait to go and check it out.
Narragansett Towers / Walk to Narragansett Beach
The only downside to visiting this location on a Saturday was the parking. It’s terrible. I would love to go back here and walk around first thing in the morning. This place was super crowded on a Saturday at 3pm, so you should definitely plan on doing something early on a weekend or going midday during the week if you want to try and avoid the people. It will also help solve your parking problem. Otherwise, plan on parking a few blocks away and walking over.
Look at me. So happy. Look at the cars. So many.
Block Island
While I personally have only been once (and that was years ago), my Instagram feed over the summer is always full of my Rhode Island friends going to Block Island and Ballard’s. If you’re traveling on a budget, then I’d consider avoiding this destination; but if you don’t mind spending a little money on a beach day or weekend, then Block Island should be right at the top of your list.
Fort Adams
There is so much history in Fort Adams. Although I’ve never been able to go on a tour there, a quick perusal of their website and the Fort’s history has me itching to go on a tour this weekend. Plus, if you’re looking for another beautiful sunset spot in Rhode Island, then look no further. Because that I have done, and I can say from experience that it’s absolutely worth it.
Beavertail Lighthouse
I think this might be the most beautiful spot in Rhode Island. I’ve been coming here for years and the best part about it is that it’s absolutely free! The best time of day to go is for either sunrise or sunset. Both are beautiful, but the sunsets here are unparalleled. Even the photos I managed to capture don’t do it justice.
Even this photo doesn't capture all the gorgeous colors in the sky!
What To Eat
New York System
Now this is a Rhode Island staple. My father loves this place, and rightfully so. It may have been a few years since I’ve had my last meal here, but I still remember it like it was yesterday. I haven’t been able to find anything like it outside Rhode Island.
Del’s
If we’re talking staples though, I have to put Del’s even higher on the list. Not quite pure liquid, not quite your typical slushie, Del’s is easily the thing I miss the most about Rhode Island. I’m writing this article from the floor of the South Station Bus Terminal (don’t even ask), and my mouth is watering at the thought of one right now.
They had a new Blood Orange flavor and I was skeptical, but holy lemons it was delicious.
Allie’s Donuts
Now there’s something to be said for this little donut shop in North Kingstown. I actually used to work here and let me tell you, I think I ate 400 donuts in the span of 5 months. I wish I was exaggerating. They’re just that good.
Iggy’s
I think Iggy’s is a Rhode Island rite of passage. Every person I’ve ever hosted in my home state has been brought here and loved it. After all, what’s not to love? The food is decently priced, not to mention absolutely delicious. If you do go, don’t forget the doughboys! They’re fried squares of goodness covered in granulated sugar and they are actual perfection.
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. This picture just makes me hungry.
Grab an Awful Awful at Newport Creamery
It’s not quite soft serve, not quite a milkshake. Newport Creamery is a Rhode Island staple. Hell, even the Big Blue Bug can be seen sipping on one in the summer. There’s really nothing left for me to say about it - besides the fact that I’m now craving one.
What To Do
Ride the Carousel at Crescent Park
This was a recommendation I got from my mother, even though I have vague recollections of it as a child. The park is beautiful, but the biggest draw for me is the carousel. But Lauren, aren’t you an adult? Yes. Yes I am. The carousel is that amazing. It has little rings you can grab and if you get the golden one, you get a free ride. It’s like scratch-tickets for children (or grown adults, I don’t judge).
See a Show at Trinity Rep or PPAC
As a young theatre kid growing up in Rhode Island, I used to love seeing shows at Trinity Rep and PPAC. If you’re looking for newer theatre, or even a modern take on an old classic (or sometimes an old take on an old classic - there’s lots of variety here), Trinity Rep has got your back. On the other hand, if you’re looking for Broadway shows on tour, PPAC is absolutely your best bet. Their seasons are packed with showstoppers every year, and it always makes for a fun night out with your friends or family.
Take a Stroll Around Federal Hill
Bakeries, restaurants, shops, photo ops - you name it, Federal Hill has it. I only got to spend an hour in this awesome spot, but I easily could have wandered around for the rest of the afternoon. A word to the budget-conscious though: you can blow through $100 without even thinking about it here. The food is amazing, but perhaps just going with cash is your best bet.
The whole street is beautiful, but this little plaza definitely took the cake for me.
Go to Providence Water Fire
This is such a fun event to go to. It’s one of the things I consider to be uniquely Rhode Island. So far in my travels, I haven’t found it anywhere else. There’s food and music and people (so many people). It’s one of my favorite ways to rediscover Providence, because I promise you it’s so different from how you see it during the day.
Spend the Day at Roger Williams Park Zoo
Who doesn’t love going to the zoo?! The RWP Zoo is dedicated to conservation and education so not only are you supporting an awesome nonprofit when you go, it’s also a boatload of fun! There are so many animals and exhibits - I can easily spend a whole afternoon here (as long as my allergies don’t win out first).
Go Exploring at The Fantastic Umbrella Factory
What I enjoy the most about this little hidden gem is how cute and quaint it is. It’s eclectic and hipster and well-priced. The jewelry has some of the lowest prices I’ve ever seen, and the main gift shop had us in stitches (I’m so sorry to the person behind the counter. If it’s any comfort, we’re always like this...).
The other thing I love about The Umbrella Factory is that it’s a great way to support small business, while also finding some truly one-of-a-kind trinkets. I struggled not to buy anything, but my mom caved and bought a cute little Christmas present for one of her friends.
