While large events such as concerts and theatrical performances might be canceled this year, there’s still plenty to see and do in Rhode Island while practicing social distancing. Whether you enjoy the great outdoors or indoors, there is something of interest for everyone. Come enjoy the beauty Rhode Island has to offer!

Outdoors:

• Hikes– Rhode Island has roughly 115 walking and hiking trails spread out over the state with the longest trail being 10 miles. They vary from easy to difficult. You can take a short hike or an all-day adventure.
• Beaches– The Ocean State is home to 400 miles of coastline. There are roughly 32 beaches that are open to the public, a handful of which do not charge a parking fee. These beaches are located in Barrington, Block Island, Bristol, Charlestown, Jamestown, Little Compton, Middletown, Narragansett, Newport, North Kingstown, Portsmouth, South Kingstown, Tiverton, Warren, Warwick, and Westerly.
• Providence River Boat Company– Join Captain Tom and his crew as you discover Providence by open-air boat. Tour offerings range from daytime, sunset, and even ghost tour. PRBC is limiting capacity on each tour to ensure proper distancing while aboard. Patrons are encouraged to wear face coverings when appropriate. Be sure to visit their sister company, Providence Kayak if you’d prefer to paddle along the riverfront.

• Roger Williams Park Zoo– The zoo is located on 40 acres of woodlands in Providence. They offer over 160 species of animals from all over the globe. To ensure proper social distancing is followed, all tickets will be sold online in advance. Zoo workers will help guests follow a one-way trip through the zoo. Additionally, face coverings are to be worn at all times and temperature checks will be performed on all guests upon entry. The cafe will be open for those looking to enjoy the same menu with new safety measures in place.
• Experience RI–  This family-owned tour company, run by the Stricklin brothers, offers tours throughout Rhode Island. Now in their 8th season, there are 5 tours to choose from with 3 of them taking place right here in Providence. There are 2 seasonal tours offered later in the year as well, Autumn in New England and Christmas at the Mansions. Experience RI is limiting capacity on each tour to ensure proper distancing. All of their climate-controlled tour buses are being disinfected before each trip. The 2020 season kicks off on July 6th!

• Newport Mansions– The Breakers and Elms are open! Newport, known as the City by the Sea, is home to 11 beautiful mansions that have been preserved by The Preservation Society of Newport County. The Breakers, an 1895 mansion patterned after a Renaissance palace was built over a span of 3 years. The Elms, a 1901 mansion modeled after the mid-18th century French chateau d’Asnieres (c.1750) outside Paris. All tickets must be purchased online in advance. Face coverings are required and social distancing must be followed. Audio tours are available through your mobile phone, be sure to bring your headphones.

Dining:

Many restaurants in Rhode Island are getting creative due to COVID-19. Outdoor dining is now an option for many restaurants that previously only offered indoor dining, same with take-out and curbside pick up. With Rhode Island now in its 2nd phase of reopening, indoor dining is making a return.

• Federal Hill– During the summer months sections of Atwells ave will be closed on Friday & Saturday 5-11 pm to accommodate the expanded “Al Fresco Dining”. More than twenty restaurants are participating, with more being added in the coming weeks. Reservations are required along with face coverings and social distancing. For more information please visit the Federal Hill website.
• Nearby- The inn is within walking distance to many of our favorite restaurants; Cafe Nuovo, Mill’s Tavern, and Hemenway’s just to name a few. They are all currently open for either take-out or indoor/outdoor dining.
• Rhode Island specialties- Summer in the ocean state can only mean one thing (well two), Seafood and Del’s Lemonade! Dune Brother’s Seafood, located on the waterfront in Providence,  is offering its mouthwatering menu again this year. They feature fish & chips, cape shark sandwiches, clam cakes, and chowder just to name a few. If you’re heading to southern RI for the day be sure to check my personal favorites, Cap’n Jack’s and George’s of Galilee. Neither of these will disappoint. Del’s Lemonade is a true Rhode Island staple. Del’s is made from crushed ice, lemons, and sugar. It’s the best way to cool off on a hot day. Just don’t get caught eating it with a spoon, you might get weird looks.
• Updates- For a complete list of open restaurants in Rhode Island and to stay updated, please visit the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau website GoProvidence.