NEWPORT, of COURSE . . . . Whether Visiting the Fabulous Mansions, Hammersmith Farm

2016 Seaside Classic Some Fun Things To Do While You Are With Us

ART APPRECIATION . . . . The 54th annual Wickford Art Festival will be held Saturday, July 9 from 10:00AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in historic Wickford Village, North Kingstown (just north of us). This great juried show (the nation's oldest open-air art fair) has been ranked #1 in New England by Sunshine Artist magazine and was also ranked as 7th best fine-arts festival in the country. It features fine art (including photography) created by over 250 national/international artists. Take Rt. 1 north for just under 5 miles from the Rt.1/Rt. 138 -West intersection and bear right on Rt. 1. Then look for signs to the historic village of Wickford. Admission is free.

NEWPORT, OF COURSE . . . . Whether visiting the fabulous mansions, Hammersmith farm (Jackie O’s family residence), the beaches, or interacting with interesting folks along the downtown wharves, the City by the Sea is always a great time. For a more intimate look at the sea and the rich architectural history of Newport's gilded age consider taking a stroll on the Newport’s world famous Cliff walk ( www.cliffwalk.com/ ). Admission is free. Of course, just taking a drive along Newport’s stunning Ocean Drive and on to Belmont Avenue is always a great way to view the wonderful mansions, the sea & sky and just enjoy the outdoors. In addition, the exciting Kite Festival is being held both days (9th & 10th) of this weekend 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM. at Brenton Point State Park on Ocean Drive. Admission is free.

LIFE’S A BEACH . . . . For your enjoyment we have arranged to make the South Kingstown Town Beach available discounted price. This real gem features wonderful sand, surf (watch the quick change in water depth with the little ones! ), concession area, a playground for toddlers, and picnic & volleyball areas. It also sports a very picturesque boardwalk winding among beach grass and stunning masses of wild blooming bushes. Check with your coach for more information and to obtain a pass.

IN PROVIDENCE . . . . The capital city has undergone a renaissance and has much to offer - - it is an engaging city that is easy to navigate. The Benefit Street walk on the east side features many beautifully restored historic houses. The nearby Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) museum on "the hill" is well known and is a real gem. The Arts District is developing a strong presence and great restaurants abound on Federal Hill and in other parts of the city. There also are a few notable events on the weekend. One is particularly captivating: at 8:20 PM enjoy the award-winning WaterFire featuring numerous bonfires set on braziers in and along the Providence River. Set to the accompaniment of soothing music, food, drink and other attractions, it is a great time. This memorable atmosphere begins at 8:20 on the evening of July 9. Providence Place Mall features great shopping and movie theaters including an IMAX. Also, on the city southern outskirts is Roger Williams Park - a real gem. The park’s Zoo , one of the oldest in the country, has been ranked by Travel & Leisure Family Magazine as one of America's top 10. Entrance is from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM.