Rhode Island may the teeniest-tiniest state, but what we lack in size, we make up for in charm! There’s no better time to visit the Ocean State than in the summertime when the clam cakes are hot and the coffee milk is cold. Read on for Yelp’s “Rhode” map for your perfect summer day in Providence!
Fuel up at Knead Donuts
The best thing about waking up early to greet the day? That’s when they make the donuts! Providence has the most coffee and donut shops per capita of any city in the country, with over 25 donut shops per 100,000 people. But, let’s face it, all donuts were not created equally. For a superior donut experience you never knew you “kneaded,” head over to Knead Doughnuts and pick up a dozen tasty treats to take with you on your RI journey. Fan favorites include the Brown Butter Pecan, Peanut Butter & Jelly, and their simple but perfect Vanilla Glazed.
Photo ops and seafood snacks at Blount Clam Shack
With over 400 miles of coastline, Rhode Island is known for its fresh seafood. Blount Clam Shack serves up some of Rhode Island’s most treasured delicacies, including clam cakes, chowder, stuffies, and their famous half-pound giant lobster roll. This clam shack, which is more of a food truck really, is located right along the waterfront so you can sit back and watch the ships drift slowly out to sea.
Sip on the Sakonnet at Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyards
Resting on 150 acres of lucious land, New England’s oldest vineyard is the perfect place to slow down during your epic day trip. Swing by Carolyn’s Cafe for a cheese board or charcuterie platter to nibble on while you sample delicious local wines out on the adirondack chairs. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle to enjoy at home–cheers!
Sightseeing at The Breakers
The Breakers Mansion tour is a must-see. This mansion was built in 1893 as the Newport summer home for Cornelius Vanderbilt II but is now open daily for regular Joe Shmoes like us to explore! A trip to this opulent and lavish property will have you feeling awe-inspired, bewildered, and a little broke. Oh, how the other half lives.
Ocean to table at Matunuck Oyster Bar
More seafood, you say? We don’t mind if we do! Matunuck Oyster Bar in Narragansett is unique in that in overlooks the water where the oysters were actually grown and harvested. You truly can’t get more fresh than that! Look into their $1 oyster deal to get the must shuck out of your buck.
Let’s go to the movies at Rustic Drive-In
This authentic 1950’s drive-in movie theatre shows double-features on three large outdoor screens. It’s the magic of the movies but in the privacy of your own car where you can gab with your friends and munch on your popcorn as loudly as you’d like. Talk about a Hollywood ending to a perfect summer day in Rhode Island!
Keep this handy road trip guide in your back pocket by following Yelp’s Rhode Map bookmark collection!
