EASY EXCURSIONS
While locals like to joke that you can sneeze while driving and accidentally leave the state,
Little Rhody’s size is actually a blessing when it comes to traveling. Here are a few
destinations that are well-worth the quick Rhode trip.
FALL RIVER AND NEW BEDFORD, MA
(25–45 minutes from Providence)
History buffs should be prepared to set aside a whole day for
exploring the unique museums of southeastern Massachusetts.
Featuring the world’s largest collection of historic U.S. naval ships,
Battleship Cove in Fall River brings the past back to life with its
engaging exhibits dedicated to World War II. Experience the life of a
sailor as you climb aboard vessels like the USS Massachusetts
(nicknamed “Big Mamie”) and the USS Lionfish. Afterwards, take a
short drive down to the New Bedford Whaling Museum where you
can learn even more about life out at sea, both above and below the
surface. This impressive museum takes you through the history of
the whaling industry in New England and beyond and is complete
with four whale skeletons, a half-scale model of the whaling ship, the
Lagoda, and other immersive exhibits.
RIDING SHOTGUN? Find these 2020
releases (and more) at An Unlikely Story
in Plainville, MA, or Barrington Books in
Cranston and Barrington.
READS
Such a Fun Age, Kiley Reid
Chosen Ones, Veronica Roth
The Upside of Being Down, Jen Gotch
The Wife Who Knew Too Much, Michelle Campbell
A Hundred Suns, Karin Tanabe
56 YOUR ULTIMATE SUMMER GUIDE 2020
PATRIOT
MYSTIC, CT
(1 hour from Providence)
For a full day of fun the whole family can enjoy, embark on an adventure
just across Rhode Island’s southwest border to Mystic, Connecticut.
Once there, start your day at Mystic Aquarium, home to the only
beluga whales in New England as well as sharks, stingrays, penguins
and more. Everyone will love the immersive exhibits and spectacular
shows. Just across the street, you’ll find the shops at Olde Mistick
Village. The sixty-plus shops within this eighteenth-century-style
shopping center sell everything from eclectic goods and handcrafted
clothes to toys and home decor. Next, take a short drive to the Mystic
Seaport Museum for some maritime amusement (including knot-tying
and toy boat-building activities!) before grabbing a bite at Mystic Pizza,
the inspiration behind the 1988 film of the same name.
FOXBOROUGH, MA
(30 minutes from Providence)
Located next to Gillette Stadium, the shopping plaza at Patriot
Place features dozens of first-rate restaurants and retailers. It’s also
home to the Patriots Hall of Fame where you can brush up on your
Pats history before catching a live show at the nearby Comedy
Scene. If you’re hungry, swing into Bar Louie for some mouthwater-
ing burgers and spectacular cocktails — but remember to save room
for dessert! You won’t be able to pass by Cupcake Charlie’s without
picking up a tasty treat or two. Its delectable cupcake flavors range
from classic chocolate and vanilla to tantalizing chocolate mint and
orange dreamsicle.