We've already covered our favorite things to do in New York, Boston, and San Antonio, Texas and next up is Rhode Island. This small state packs many attractions and reasons to visit Providence, Newport, and beyond — here are some of them:
One of the most historic landmarks in Rhode Island is the Providence Biltmore hotel, which was built in 1922. Not only is the impressive lobby and grand staircase worth a selfie or two, but the guestrooms are seriously glam. The property recently underwent a $13 million restoration and you can definitely tell by the linens — look at this bed:
While the rooms feature a newer, modern feel, the original charm of the property is till very much present throughout the building. The hotel's restaurant, McCormick & Schmick’s is also a great spot for afternoon cocktails. Did we mention their happy hour specials start at $3.95? When you're ready for some good, old-fashioned pampering, head downstairs to The Spa at the Providence Biltmore, which is the city's only full-service spa and also our #1 pick for where to relax like a star. Indulge in an 'Island Bliss' manicure (which blends coconut and essential oils to nourish the skin while a pure cane sugar polish helps exfoliate), followed by their signature massage or facial.
For dinner, two of our favorite restaurants in the area are Hemenway's and the Waterman Grille. The former is a must-visit for classic Rhode Island seafood — their menu features delicioso apps, like crab and lobster cakes with spicy chipotle aioli and mouthwatering mains, like a killer paella with shrimp, scallops, swordfish, chourico, clams, mussels, pimentos, and saffron rice.
Meanwhile, the Waterman Grille is the perfect setting for outside dining on their patio. Dishes like tacos filled with crispy shrimp and pork belly and the chili-brined hanger steak with queso fresco whipped potatoes and roasted fennel chimichurri are not to be missed and neither are the views of the Seekonk River. Also worth noting is their superior staff. The Waterman Grille servers, bartenders, managers and chefs go above and beyond to ensure your experience there will be one you'll never forget.
For drinks, post-dinner, head over to The Dean Hotel, which is one of the hottest boutique hotels in Providence at the moment. Not only is the atmosphere just plain cool, but their bespoke mixologists in The Magdalenae Room are some of the best in the city. Whether you're into margs or martinis, and spicy or sweet flavors, they can craft the perfect libation to please your palate in seconds.
After a night (or two) in the city, head south to Newport. Along the way, be sure to stop by Monahan's in Narragansett. This "clam shack by the sea" has the BEST whole belly clams and lobster rolls.
Then, partake in a cliff walk or do a Mansion tour. You can't go to Newport without stopping by The Breakers, Rosecliff, Chateau-sur-Mer, The Elms, or Marble House. See Exhibit A:
For dinner on your last night, try Thames Street Kitchen. This BYOB gem features a locally-sourced menu consisting of unforgettable starters and entrees that change every week, but here's a sampling to intrigue your taste buds: raviolo with cured egg yolk and serrano ham, fried chicken and honeyed spaetzle, and spaghetti squash with lobster roe and mushroom. We told you it was bueno.
Lastly, no weekend getaway would be complete without proper wheels. For this escape, we tested out the new Ford Escape (appropriately) since it's the ultimate car for both comfort and convenience. There's even a “Do Not Disturb” feature to block calls, allowing you to actually disconnect when you're in pursuit of a happier commute. We see nothing wrong with that.
Adiós, Rhode Island! See you next time... Where will you escape this fall? Tell us in the comments below.
