Rhode Island Undiscovered

• Watch Hill: The small seasonal town of Watch Hill is the most western point in Rhode Island and more recently famous for where Taylor Swift has a holiday home. You’ll find local shops along Bay Street and mansions around the corner along Bluff Avenue. If you’re staying at Ocean House, the white sand beach goes on for miles.

• Quonochontaug: Affectionately known as “Quonnie”, East Beach is where you’ll want to go to enjoy the beach but without the tourists.

• Guided tours at Weekapaug Inn: For those staying at Weekapaug Inn, don’t miss out on the complimentary guided tours offered by their knowledgeable staff—enjoy walking history tours and motorboat tours (or “nature safaris”) of the Quonnie Pond.

• East Bay Bike Path: A scenic paved bike path that begins in East Providence and follows the Providence River all the way down to Colt State Park.

• Block Island: Only open to visit during the summer months, Block Island is where locals go to “staycation” and is accessible only by ferry. Be sure to check out the Mohegan Bluffs for scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Montauk.

• Providence: There is a lot to explore in the beautiful capital of the Ocean State—check out my Providence guide on my profile.

• Herreshoff Marine Museum: If you’re into sailing (or just think boats are super cool), the Herreshoff Marine Museum in Bristol preserves the legacy of the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company, which was known for its yacht designs and dominance in the America’s Cup. It also houses the America’s Cup Hall of Fame.

Matunuck Oyster Bar (Wakefield)

Hands down the best oyster bar and restaurant in the state. MOB also offers its guests boat tours of their oyster farm in Potter Pond.

• Claire’s recommendation: Plan ahead and make reservations to sit outside. It gets busy!

Bayberry Garden (Providence)

Bayberry Garden offers seasonal menus with New England fare but wouldn’t be the outstanding restaurant it is without the incredible service provided by its staff.

• Claire’s recommendation: Have the GM or sommelier help you choose the perfect bottle of wine from their extensive list.

The Cooked Goose (Westerly)

A staple breakfast and lunch spot in Westerly, The Cooked Goose is a casual restaurant to grab a bite before you head out to enjoy the day. Be sure to get there early as there may be a wait.

• Claire’s recommendation: Try the 2 Eggs Breakfast Sandwich—simple, but delicious.

Greenhouse (Narragansett)

This family-owned order at the counter style restaurant offers deliciously fresh salads and healthy grain bowls - think sweetgreen, but better!

• Claire’s recommendation: The Cool Chick salad is the way to go here.

Dune Brothers Seafood (Providence)

Open only in the summer season, this bright red seafood shack is a must-visit if you’re in Providence. Order at the shack window then enjoy outdoor picnic table seating.

• Claire’s recommendation: Order a lobster roll with a Yacht Club soda for the perfect lunch.