Nothing beats summer in New England, check out this series where we take you on the perfect summer day in the most notable vacation spots across New England.
New Englanders put up with frigid temperatures, icy roads, and shoveling multiple feet of snow every year just to be able to enjoy the few blissful months of summer awarded every year from June to August. There is truly no weather that beats a sunny and clear sky New England summer day. If you are smart enough to be a snowbird (someone who leaves New England in the winter and returns for warm weather,) or just on vacation up in the historic north, here are some of the best spots to check out throughout the region this summer.
Providence, Rhode Island
Starting this series out with one of my favorite places in all of New England: Providence, Rhode Island. Providence is the small but beautiful capital of Rhode Island. It is best known as the home of Brown University but also boasts some fun features outside of the school itself.
Begin your morning with a deliciously smooth cup of coffee in the capital of the state by heading to Coffee Exchange on Wickenden Street. Offering a vast and sustainable coffee menu, aesthetic atmosphere, and a cool backstory to boot, this coffee shop is the perfect place to start a lovely day in Prov. Continue your adventure on Wickenden by doing some vintage shopping at Nostalgia, a second-hand shop that embodies the definition of eclectic. Find everything from vintage clothes, to skateboards, to décor on three levels of organized chaos. If you’re looking for a younger and hipper vibe, check out Nava just up the street. The Urban Outfitters reminiscent boutique features the cutest bohemian clothes, accessories, and household items that are only slightly over-priced.
Continue your day with a short commute over to the Providence River and take a walk on the brand new pedestrian bridge. Stroll, feed some ducks, or zip around on the public scooters parked on the side of the road (via mobile app) to take a break from shopping and enjoy the view.
For lunch, Plant City is unique in its 100% vegan menu and products. Sitting in a beautiful brick building right by the river, you can enjoy creamy carbonara, mushroom burgers, and flatbread all made from plants. If the weather permits, try to snag a seat outside as the hanging wicker chairs are too cute to pass up an opportunity to sit in. If you’re up for a quick 5-minute car ride or 15-minute walk, head over to Thayer Street. One of the most famous streets in Providence, Thayer is located right by Brown University’s campus and features tons of restaurants and shops to hit. If you’re in the market for some delicious, cheap, and quick food; check out Baja’s. Other standout food joints on the street include Flatbread, by CHLOE (vegan) and East Side Pockets.
To wrap up your night in the Ocean State, head to the dynamic West End for a delicious dinner and drinks. Some spots to consider include La Mei Hot Pot, Nick’s on Broadway, Long Live Beerworks, and The Avery.
Providence is small but packs a big punch as far as fun summer adventures go, make sure to stop by this historic city for more than 24 hours to truly inhale the comprehensive experience the city has to offer.
