Area Guide

by ELIZABETH HOLE LOCAL GUIDE

TRAVELER Experience the sights, shopping, dining and entertainment nearby and in neighboring towns. There’s a little something for everyone.

Above: Next to the gallery at Avondale Arts, OMO Jewels carries clothing, accessories and gifts.

CULTURE & HISTORY

Historic Destinations

Benefit Street’s “Mile of History”

Take in haunts and history on Benefit Street, known as “the most haunted street in Rhode Island.” Stroll by the preserved colonial homes and consider an after-dark ghost tour—if you dare. Benefit St., Providence, RI; visitrhodeisland.com

Newport Mansions

Visit the lavish “summer cottages” of Newport, built by captains of industry during the Gilded Age. From the Vanderbilt’s extravagant Breakers home to the chateau-inspired Elms mansion, there is grandeur around every corner. Visit the website for the tour schedule. Newport, RI; newportmansions.org

Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge

Commune with nature while you hike in this wildlife refuge, which is only one of five in the state. The diverse landscape sits on an 858-acre property with swamps, grasslands and a coastal salt pond. Birdwatchers can observe over 250 species of birds. 50 Bend Rd., Charlestown, RI; fws.gov

Wickford Village

Between the preserved colonial village and oldest wooden lighthouse, Wickford is a walking history lesson. Admire the seaside locale while taking advantage of the modern shops and restaurants as well. 55 Brown St., North Kingstown, RI; histwick.org

Museums

Babcock-Smith Museum

Built in 1734, this Georgian mansion became a museum in 1972. Today, this Westerly landmark hosts historical lectures and seasonal boutiques throughout the year. 124 Granite St., Westerly, RI; babcocksmithhouse.org

Mashantucket Pequot Museum

This museum and research center shares the history and culture of the Mashantucket Pequot tribe. With 85,000 square feet of exhibitions, dioramas and films, there’s plenty to see. 110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT; pequotmuseum.org

Mystic Museum of Art

Serving the community for more than 100 years, this Water Street institution features curated exhibits as well as works by the painters of Mystic’s former artist colony. The museum aims to “deliver transformative experiences with art to a broader community.” 9 Water St., Mystic, CT; mysticmuseumofart.org

Mystic Seaport Museum

This maritime museum, which has more than 500 historical vessels, is appropriately situated on 19 acres along the Mystic River. There’s also a planetarium for visitors to stargaze and learn how the skies once guided sailors. 75 Greenmanville Ave. Mystic, CT; mysticseaport.org

Tomaquag Indian Museum

Celebrating tribal communities from Southern New England, the museum has plans to open a new facility in 2023. The expanded space will be located on 18 acres of land owned by the University of Rhode Island. 390 Summit Rd., Exeter, RI; tomaquagmuseum.org

Watch Hill Lighthouse & Museum

This historic lighthouse was built in the early 1800s after the first one was destroyed by a storm. Today, it’s protected by the Watch Hill Lighthouse Keepers Association. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk to the property and explore the museum. 14 Lighthouse Rd., Westerly, RI; watchhilllighthousekeepers. org

Theater & Music

Chorus of Westerly

One of the state’s leading orchestral and music performing arts centers, The Chorus of Westerly has performed major works for the community and beyond for more than 60 years. Wilcox Park, Westerly, RI; chorusofwesterly.org

Eugene O’Neill Theater Center

Since 1964, this theater has produced influential musicals and plays. Known as the “Launchpad of American Theater,” the center has received two Tony awards and a National Medal of Arts from President Obama. 305 Great Neck Rd., Waterford, CT; theoneill.org

Goodspeed Opera House

The magnificent opera house’s main stage is in East Haddam, with a second stage in Chester that comprises Goodspeed’s campus. Since 1963, it has produced over 250 musicals, 70 world premieres and

LOCAL GUIDE

Above: On The Water, Boston by Jack Keledjian, Lily Pad Gallery

exported more than 20 productions to Broadway. 6 Main St., East Haddam, CT; goodspeed.org

Granite Theatre

Billed as “a little theatre with a big heart,” this Westerly theatre presents eight musicals, plays and comedy specials throughout the year. The restored church setting enhances the experience. One Granite St., Westerly, RI; granitetheatre.com

Salt Marsh Opera

Twelve friends started Salt Marsh Opera in 2000, after bonding over the fun they had each year hosting opera parties. During the summer season, this Stonington venue hosts Opera in the Park, Music at the Lighthouse and Broadway on the Lawn. 65 Cutler Street, Stonington, CT; saltmarshopera.org

Theatre By The Sea

This summer, Billy Hanney’s Theatre By The Sea features the following productions: Million Dollar Quartet, Footloose, Cinderella and Kinky Boots. Housed in a charming barn, the property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 364 Cards Pond Rd., Wakefield, RI; theatrebythesea.com

ART

Avondale Arts/OMO Jewels

Learn to paint, do needlecraft or attend a lecture at this art gallery and boutique. You can also shop in OMO Jewels for unique gifts, accessories and handcrafted jewelry. 95 Watch Hill Rd., Westerly, RI; avondalearts.com

The Charlestown Gallery

Catch striking new works at this artist-owned gallery. The owners, who focus on fine contemporary art, showcase everything from sculpture and paintings to photography and art-class jewelry. 5000 S County Trail, Charlestown RI; charlestowngalleryri.com

J. Russell Jinishian Gallery

Known for fine marine art, the gallery features everything from coastal landscapes and marine sculptures to 18th-century paintings. The owner—a leading art authority—is a former Director of the Mystic Maritime Gallery at Mystic Seaport Museum. 152 Water St., Stonington, CT; jrusselljinishiangallery. com

Lily Pad Gallery

Owner Wivi-Anne Weber, Ph.D, has run this Bay Street gallery for more than 30 years. Whether a client is looking for impressionism, realism or the abstract, Lily Pad has just the right piece. 1 Bay St., Watch Hill, RI; lilypadgallery.com

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Casual Upscale

Bouchard Restaurant & Inn

This Newport eatery and inn has been serving fine French cuisine for over 20 years. Nestled along Thames Street, it appeals to sophisticated palates in a romantic setting. 505 Thames St., Newport, RI; bouchardnewport.com

Bridge

Besides comfort food and a weekend brunch, Bridge serves a variety of seafood, sandwiches, vegetarian dishes and gluten-free options. The best part? Being seated above the Pawcatuck River. 37 Main St., Westerly, RI; bridgeri.com

COAST

Admire the views at this Forbes Five-Star rated Ocean House gem, considered one of the “World’s Best Waterfront Restaurants” by CNN Traveler. Diners are taken on a culinary journey, as they indulge in a prix-fixe, four-course menu created with the freshest flavors of the season. 1 Bluff Ave., Watch Hill, RI; oceanhouseri.com

Engine Room

Come for a burger and beer and kick back at this rustic eatery with a lively crowd. As the name suggests, the restaurant is housed in an old marine engine building. 14 Holmes St., Mystic, CT; engineroomct.com

Essex Clipper Dinner Train

All aboard! Step back in time as you enjoy a four-course meal from the comfort of a restored Pullman dinner car. With spectacular views of the Connecticut River, the 2 ½-hour experience is even more memorable. essexsteamtrain.com

Latitude 41° Restaurant

Sample new American cuisine at this seafood eatery, scenically situated along the Mystic shore. Go for classics like clam chowder, fresh catches and lobster. Their laid-back Shipyard Tavern has a full menu and a wide selection of brews. 105 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic, CT; coastalgourmetct.com/ latitude41

Olympia Tea Room

Since 1916, this family-owned treasure has been serving up “locally sourced food and the most generous cocktails in Watch Hill” to locals and visitors alike. Diners come for the “elegantly simple” food as well as the picture-perfect sunsets. 74 Bay St., Watch Hill, olympiatearoom.com

The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn

Expanding fine dining with a daily chef’s tasting menu using nearby farms and local waters, The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn has a full “farm-and-sea-to-table experience.” The Inn’s main dining venue features a carefully curated menu of in-season dishes served in a warm and inviting setting. 25 Spray Rock Rd., Westerly, RI; weekapauginn.com

Spain of Narragansett

A family-owned restaurant, this Spanish staple has been

Below: Diners at Bridge restaurant are seated above the Pawcatuck River.

LOCAL GUIDE

Above: Olympia Tea Room has been a popular Watch Hill establishment since 1916.

serving the Narragansett area since 1987. Foodies like the authentic dishes, while oenophiles like to peruse the extensive wine list and find the perfect pairing. 1144 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, RI; spainri.com

Stoneacre Brasserie

Locals love the brunch at this friendly neighborhood French eatery. Fan favorites include the freshly baked scones, quiche and truffle egg toast. 28 Washington Sq., Newport, RI; stoneacrebrasserie.com

Italian

Bravo Bravo

Be sure to try signature dishes like pappardelle Bolognese and cacio e pepe at this contemporary Italian on Main Street. You’ll say “bravo bravo” to the house-made pastas, sauces and desserts. 19 East Main St., Mystic, CT; bravobravoct.com

Mamma Luisa Ristorante Italiano

This Bologna-inspired restaurant is named for the real Mamma Luisa who ran a restaurant in Northern Italy. Since 1992, diners have been coming here for homemade pasta dishes like ricotta and spinach gnocchi or a classic spaghetti carbonara. 673 Thames St., Newport, RI; mammaluisa.com

Mango’s Wood Fired Pizza Co.

Dough is made from scratch for thin-crust pies at this Olde Mistick Village restaurant. Owned by two brothers, “the art of authentic pizza making” is in full effect. After dinner, stop by Mango’s Ice Cream across the street. 27 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT; mangospizza.com

Below: Everything is roasted in-house at Dave’s Coffee.

Pizzeria Longo

Everything here is prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and the dishes are meant to be shared. Try a delicious variety like chicken Francese, cavatelli Bolognese and coal-fired pizza done 20 different ways. 84 High St., Westerly, RI; pizzerialongo.com

Japanese

Johnny’s Peking Tokyo

Everything is beautifully presented at Johnny’s, which serves up Japanese fusion and Asian cuisine. For sushi lovers, delicious handmade rolls are a hit. Non-seafood eaters can choose from teriyaki, hibachi, noodles and more. 12 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT; johnnysushibar. com

Koi Japanese Cuisine

This popular Westerly destination has lunch deals like Bento boxes and sushi bar specials. Also on the menu are appetizing options such as hibachi, sushi and teriyaki. 65 High St., Westerly, RI; koijapaneserestaurantri. com

Samurai Noodle Bar & Grill

You can’t go wrong with ramen at this downtown noodle mecca. If you want to branch out, try Japanese curry, Asian barbecue and wash it down with a lychee or ginger martini. 27 West Main St., Mystic, CT; Facebook: samurainoodlemystic.com

Mexican

Amigo’s Taqueria & Tequila

Serving authentic Mexican cuisine, Amigo’s has an array of savory fajitas, chimichangas and designyour-own taco options. This upbeat eatery also offers a salsa flight and a variety of delicious margaritas. 2 Canal St., Westerly, RI; amigosri.com

Milagro Café

Sip on spicy margaritas served with shaved ice at this colorful café, while perusing the innovative menu. You’ll find a fresh take on classics like Baja fish tacos, enchiladas verdes and chile relleno. 142 Water S., Stonington, CT; milagrocafe142.com

Perro Salado

Described as having a “fiesta-like energy,” Perro Salado serves New England fare with a twist. Dine in this historic maritime home and sample everything from lobster tacos to Caesar salad with jalapeno bacon and cotija cheese. 19 Charles St., Newport, RI; perrosalado.com

Refreshments

The Candy Box

After a ride on the Flying Horse carousel, walk over to this beloved Watch Hill candy shop. Sample the saltwater taffy and homemade fudge they still make the old-fashioned way—in a copper kettle. 14 Fort Rd., Watch Hill, RI; Instagram: candyboxwatchhill

Dave’s Coffee

Get your caffeine fix at Dave’s Coffee for sustainably farmed, small-batch coffees with fun names like Black Crow, Falcon and Quonnie. There’s also an espresso bar for signature lattes with high-quality flavors. 5193 Old Post Rd., Charlestown, RI; davescoffee.com

LOCAL GUIDE

Above: The Coast Guard House has sweeping views of Narragansett Bay.

Deviant Donuts

Give in to the decadence of these always changing and delicious creations. From samoa and pb+j to limitededition donuts inspired by movies, these homemade delights are works of art. 27 Coogan Blvd., Building 6, Mystic, CT; deviantdonuts.com

Hauser Chocolatier

This Westerly chocolate shop has been making sweets in-house daily for more than 60 years. A family-owned operation, Hauser is known for premium truffles, assorted chocolates and more. 59 Tom Harvey Rd., Westerly, RI; hauserchocolates.com

Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream Just like they did in the 1800s, Mystic hand mixes all their ice cream to make unique flavors such as Kona coffee, Vermont maple nut and Southern peach. Or if you’re looking for something different, they also make soda floats, shakes and fruit smoothies. 2 West Main St., Mystic, CT; mysticdrawbridgeicecream. com

Root, A Vegan Juice Bar & Eatery

For healthy eating, you can’t do better than this plant-based spot for breakfast bowls, smoothies, custom juices and sandwiches. They also serve grain bowls with veggies, quinoa or rice, and you can add toppings like avocado, vegan tzatziki and kimchi. 6 Broadway St., Newport, RI; rootonbroadway.com

Sift Bake Shop

This downtown Mystic delight and French patisserie bakes fresh breads, pastries, quiches and more. Owned by a husband-and-wife team, the duo has a seasonal menu and sources ingredients from local farmers. 5 Water St., Mystic, CT; siftbakeshopmystic.com

SEAFOOD

22 Bowen’s Wine Bar & Grille

For a refined dining experience, try the surf and turf menu at this this bustling harborside tavern. Foodies appreciate the global cuisine, while younger diners can choose from a children’s menu. Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, RI; 22bowens.com

The Coast Guard House

Besides stunning Narragansett Bay views, this seafood oasis serves a feast of land and sea. A former U.S. Coast Guard station, the restaurant offers fresh anchor platters filled with oysters, littlenecks and shrimp—as well as a variety of steak and pasta options. 40 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, RI; thecoastguardhouse. com

Dog Watch Café

After a day at the beach, stop by this family-friendly café for salads, sandwiches, barbecue and surf and turf. You can also shop for Good Dog merchandise and apparel. 194 Water St., Stonington, CT; dogwatchcafe.com

Matunuck Oyster Bar

Don’t miss the sunset or the famed oysters at this premier seafood restaurant. Dine on farm-to-table or pond-to-plate selections, and be sure to tour the oyster farm to see how shellfish, clams and steamers are harvested. 629 Succotash Rd., S Kingstown, RI; rhodyoysters.com

The Mooring

With harborside views, The Mooring serves “top-ofthe-catch seafood” out of the original New York Yacht Club building. Diners come for the “panoramic sunsets,” sophisticated surf and turf menu, and an awardwinning wine list. 1 Sayers Wharf, Newport, RI; mooringrestaurant.com

Oyster Club

Everything is locally sourced from farms and town fishermen at Mystic’s Oyster Club. Patrons love the ever-changing menu and top-rated oyster bar. Visit sister restaurants Engine Room and Grass & Bone Butcher Shop. 13 Water St., Mystic, CT; oysterclubct.com

Red 36

A menu to please any palate, Red 36 is a waterfront eatery featuring everything from lobster rolls and fish tacos to shrimp and grits. You’ll also find non-seafood selections like burgers, salads and flatbreads. 2 Washington St., Mystic, CT; red36ct.com

S&P Oyster Co.

Embrace a little zest! Chef Cobena adds a South American spin to New England fare. Get the best of both worlds and order the seafood paella, a popular entrée with monkfish, shrimp, mussels, Spanish chorizo and bomba rice. 1 Holmes St., Mystic, CT; sp-oyster.com

Breweries & Vineyards

Beer’d Brewing Company

The owners of Beer’d “make craft beer accessible to everyone” with their seasonal flavors, tried-and-true favorites and experimental, small-batch brews. Check out the Beer’d Garden, which is located inside American Velvet Mill. 22 Bayview Avenue, Stonington, CT; beerdbrewing.com

Below: S&P Oyster Co. adds a South American twist to coastal cuisine.

BOUTIQUES

LOCAL GUIDE

Above: Grey Sail Brewing and its sister company, South County Distillers, are a popular gathering spot in Westerly.

Barley Head Brewery

Barley Head is a nano-brewery that uses locally grown hops. They carry four to six beers on tap, changing the selection each week. Beers are available by the glass, the growler and also in cans. 12 Water St., Mystic, CT; barleyheadbrewery.com

Cottrell Brewing Company

Since 1997, this husbandand-wife team has aimed to “produce the best product… using fresh, natural, quality ingredients.” The whimsically named Old Yankee Ale, Off Duty and Incredibly Pretentious Ale are all crowd-pleasers. 100 Mechanic St., Pawcatuck, CT; cottrellbrewing.com

Grey Sail Brewing

Named for the grey sails that dot New England waters each summer, this awardwinning brewery was started by Alan and Jennifer Brinton in 2010. Beer enthusiasts flock here for offerings like Flagship Ale, Hazy Day and Captain’s Daughter. South County Distillers, their sister company, is located between the Brewery and Tap Room. 63 Canal St., Westerly, RI; greysailbrewing.com, southcountydistillers.com

Whaler’s Brewery

Pet-friendly and a fun gathering place for friends, family and Fido, Whaler’s serves both flagship and rotating beers on tap. The brewery won three awards for Rise, including “Best American-Style Pale Ale” from the World Beer Awards. 1174 Kingstown Rd., Wakefield, RI; whalers.com

Jonathan Edwards Winery

A “Napa style” winery with “New England charm,” Jonathan Edwards sits on 20 acres of grape fields, expertly crushed and fermented. The hilltop winery hosts weddings, private parties and live concerts. 74 Chester Main Rd., North Stonington, CT; jedwardswinery.com

Langworthy Farm Winery

Langworthy Farm is both a winery and bed and breakfast, hosting tastings and various special events. It was built on the historic 1875 property of former Rhode Island Governor Samuel Ward. 308 Shore Rd., Westerly, RI; langworthyfarm.com

Above: Saltwater Farm Vineyard in Stonington has estate-based wines.

Saltwater Farm Vineyard

Sample estate-based wines in the Tasting Room while admiring this idyllic vineyard. Formerly the site of a farm and WWII-era airport, it was named one of the “Top 50 Most Romantic Venues in the U.S.” by Brides magazine. Be sure to come for their impressive line-up of live music, food trucks and fun events. 349 Elm St., Stonington, CT; saltwaterfarmvineyard.com

Stonington Vineyards

Established in 1987, Stonington Vineyards is a founding member of the Connecticut Wine Trail. The vintners produce riesling, cabernet franc, chardonnay and the signature blends Seaport White and Triad Rose. Besides wine tastings and tours, the vineyard also hosts special events. 523 Taugwonk Rd., Stonington, CT; stoningtonvineyards.com

Below: Jonathan Edwards Winery brings a Napa style to New England.

SHOPPING

bella tu

Fans of bella tu appreciate the vibrant, vacationfriendly kaftans, shirts and tunics with gorgeous colors, embroidery and hand beading. The resort brand, which translates to “beautiful you,” is sold at Ocean House’s boutique, Coppola’s in Watch Hill and other specialty shops. bella-tu.com

Book Barn

Enjoy baked goods and complimentary coffee, while perusing the Book Barn’s collection of more than 350,000 titles. This “bibliophile’s bliss” is home to friendly free-roaming cats in Niantic, where you can buy or sell gently used books and new releases. Main Barn, 41 West Main St., Niantic, CT; bookbarnniantic.com

LOCAL GUIDE

Above: BURGEE Mystic carries coastal-inspired clothing, accessories, home goods and gifts.

BURGEE Mystic

Don’t miss this curated coastal boutique for men, women and children, which features clothing and accessories that go from “boat to beach and from city to coast.” You’ll also find home goods, gifts and the exclusive #burgeeblue collection. 3 Water St., Suite 102, Mystic, CT; burgeemystic.com

Christina Limited

“Spreading local love” in downtown Westerly for three decades, Christina Limited is a trendy, yet timeless boutique. Shop for boho fashion, accessories and gifts. 1 Canal St., Westerly, RI; Instagram: christinaltdstore

Below: Christina Stankard Jewelry is known for colorful gemstones.

Christina Stankard Jewelry

With a painter’s eye, designer Christina Stankard carefully picks each gemstone for her stylish, handcrafted pieces. Her collection of necklaces, earrings and bracelets are known for their “modest elegant design.” 100 Bay St., Watch Hill, RI; christinastankard.com

CoCo & LaLa

CoCo & LaLa exudes summertime fun with colorful clothing and accessories for mommy and baby, along with unique gifts. Check out their Instagram for helpful mom hacks. 103 Bay St., Watch Hill, RI; cocoandlala.com

Elizabeth McKay

Elegantly simple, Elizabeth McKay features high-end designs in quality fabrics. You’ll find sophisticated and trendy tops, bottoms, blazers and much more at this Watch Hill style staple. 101 Bay St., Watch Hill, RI; emckay.com

Farmaesthetics

Founder Brenda Brock, who has seven generations of farming in her blood, got her start selling skincare products from a Rhode Island farm stand over 20 years ago. Her line of “fine herbal skincare” is carried in leading spas like Ocean & Harvest at Ocean House and The Retreat at Castle Hill in Newport. farmaesthetics.com

Galapagos Boutique

This popular Charlestown shop sells a variety of name brands, designer pieces and American-made merchandise for men and women. Customers love the welcoming and rustic setting, along with its signature look of casual chic. 5193 Old Post Rd., Charlestown, RI; galapagosboutique.com

Grand & Water Antiques

Besides selling “antiques with a twist,” owner Deborah Norman helps clients design rooms based on items they already own through her service REDESIGN. 135 Water St., Stonington, CT; grandandwater.com

Gray Goose Cookery

This home goods store carries colorful Le Creuset Dutch ovens and KitchenAid mixers. Brides, grooms and cooking enthusiasts come here to stock their kitchens and hone their skills at the store’s cooking classes. Olde Mistick Village, 27 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT; graygoosecookery.com

Highpoint Home

Enjoy the eye candy as you shop for beautiful home décor and gifts—or enlist owner Kaitlin Smith’s interior design services. At her Watch Hill store, she reimagines accessories and décor with a colorful lens. 6 Fort Hill Rd., Watch Hill, RI; highpointhomedecor.com

Hungry Palette

Shop for pieces at the Hungry Palette to get that perfect pop of color! Everything is uniquely inspired, ranging from handstitched garments and fabrics to rugs with an exotic flair.

Above: Farmaesthetics is a skincare line made from herbs and flowers.

105 Water St., Stonington, CT; stoningtonboroughct.com

Kimberly Pucci Atelier + Vault

Known for handbags in statement-making colors, Kimberly Pucci Atelier works with Tuscan artisans to craft each bespoke accessory. The custom pieces have elegant hardware and detailed stitching. For the Vault label, Pucci creates wearable art using semi-precious stones and diamonds for her exquisite jewelry collection. 449 Thames St., Newport, RI; kimberlypucci.com

J. McLaughlin

Sophisticated and timeless, J. McLaughlin’s wear-forever styles come in bold patterns and tailored pieces for all ages. This American brand keeps evolving its signature preppy dress code, because you can never go wrong with a classic. 124 Bay St., Watch Hill, RI; jmclaughlin.com

Kiel James Patrick

The flagship store for this “classically inspired clothing” brand is right at home on Bowen’s Wharf. Epitomizing the New England look, this Newport retailer offers an

Below: Galapagos Boutique in Charlestown epitomizes casual chic.

LOCAL GUIDE

Above: Designer Kimberly Pucci creates bespoke accessories.

aspirational lifestyle and quality clothing designed in the Ocean State. 3 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, RI; kieljamespatrick.com

Lilly Pulitzer

Capturing the essence of summer, Lilly Pulitzer continues to offer colorful, signature prints and iconic resort wear you won’t find anywhere else. Visit the Westerly or Newport locations to add a little sunshine to your vacation wardrobe. 471 Thames St., Newport, RI; lillypulitzer.com

Main Street Soap Emporium

Shop for environmentally friendly shampoo, face masks, bath bombs and roll-on perfumes at this Mystic soap and scrub boutique. Besides sustainability, the owner believes in accessible prices. Everything is under $30. 22 East Main St., Mystic, CT; mainstsoap.com

Marc Allen

Old school design is alive and well at Marc Allen, where clients come for bespoke suits, jackets and outerwear in the Southern Italian tradition. Skilled artisans design each suit and stitch from scratch. Shoppers can also buy “off the rack” pieces from Loro Piana, Crockett & Jones and more. 142 Bellevue Ave., Newport, RI; marcalleninc.com

Mystic Disc

Since 1983, Mystic Disc has been the go-to destination for music lovers looking for vinyl records, turntables, amps and speakers. Vinyl Me, Please magazine named it one of the country’s “50 Best Record Stores.” 10 Steamboat Wharf, Mystic, CT; mysticdisclp.com

Rochelle’s Boutique

Owner Rochelle LaRue Gallo has been helping customers find stylish statement pieces you can dress up or down since 2003. Her popular boutiques carry labels like Free People, Cotton Candy and Z Supply. 117 Bay St., Watch Hill, RI; 381 Thames St., Newport, RI; 11 Cottrell St., Mystic, CT; rochellesboutique.com

Sandra Liotus Lighting Design, LLC (SLLD)

The pioneering duo behind this Newport-based company has developed the art world’s most sophisticated eco-friendly custom lighting system. American designer Sandra Liotus and British engineer Sir David Crampton-Barden are the creative team behind SLLD, which does work in homes, galleries and resorts like Weekapaug Inn. sandraliotuslightingdesign. com

Below: Lilly Pulitzer features an array of colorful new prints and resort wear. Above: Rochelle’s Boutique carries the latest spring and summer styles.

Saltzman’s Watches

If you have a Luminox or Fendi, Saltzman’s is the only authorized repair facility for these watches. The third generation, family-run business also works with Cartier, Baume et Mercier and Victorinox Swiss Army. 117 Swinburne Row, Newport, RI; saltzmanswatches.com

Savoy Bookshop & Café

Don’t miss this gem known for supporting local authors. Bibliophiles can sip on locally sourced coffee and delicious pastries while browsing best sellers, paperbacks, audiobooks and gifts. 10 Canal St., Westerly, RI; 53 W. Main St., Mystic, CT; banksquarebooks.com

Sea Bags

Shop this sustainable brand’s nautical totes and handbags. Made with material from used sails, the company motto is “Once a sail, forever a sea bag.” 101 Bay St., Watch Hill, RI; 36 West Main St., Mystic, CT; 25 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, RI; seabags. com

Soap and Water

Indulge in luxury loungewear, Italian soaps and fragrances at this Newport oasis. You’ll also find a curated selection of bath and body essentials. 16 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, RI; soapandwaternewport. com

Style Newport

This seaworthy boutique carries jewelry with anchor and mariner flag pendants. The store also sells baseball hats, dog collars and décor. 306 Thames St., Newport, RI; stylenewport.com

Toci

Toci features casual luxury in the form of comfy cashmere, pima cotton, linen and silk sweaters, shirts and joggers. Shop here to live in the

Above: Run by Captain Jack Spratt, Sail Trim Again offers private charters, history tours and sunset cruises.

“world of everything cozy.” 18 Franklin St., Newport, RI; thisistoci.com

The Velvet Mill

Housed in a former textile factory built in 1888, The Velvet Mill is a gathering place that promotes creativity and togetherness. This historic space is a glorious assortment of shops, event showrooms, eateries and creative arts services. 22 Bayview Ave., Stonington, CT; americanvelvetmill.com

FAMILY FUN

Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center

For a great family activity, take a hike or check out the wildlife sanctuary— where several species of owls, hawks, turtles and bullfrogs roam indoor and outdoor enclosures. Since 1946, Denison Pequotsepos has been teaching how to preserve and protect the natural world. 109 Pequotsepos Rd., Mystic, CT; dpnc.org

The Dinosaur Place

Come face to face with more than 50 life-sized dinosaurs at this fun-loving family hotspot. Explore the park and enjoy some ice cream, challenging mazes and mini golf. 1650 Hartford-New London Turnpike, Montville, CT; naturesartvillage.com

The Fantastic Umbrella Factory

There’s nothing else like The Fantastic Umbrella Factory. A whimsical knick-knack store, garden and café, it even has a petting zoo. There are goats, emus and scores of chickens and ducks you can feed for a small fee. 4820 Old Post Rd., Charlestown, RI; fantasticumbrellafactory. com

Frosty Drew Nature Center and Observatory

Frosty Drew has a mission: “To enlighten, discover and inspire” visitors about “science, the night sky and the universe.” Stargazers of all ages come here to visit the observatory and science center. 61 Park Ln., Charlestown, RI; frostydrew.org

Mystic Aquarium

This popular aquarium has several animal encounters for visitors to experience, including African penguins, seals, sea lions, sharks and whales. The beluga whale pod was recently expanded, making it “the largest outdoor beluga habitat in the United States.” 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT; mysticaquarium.org

Sail Trim Again

Perfect for a date or family outing, Sail Trim Again’s coastal adventures offer fascinating history and spectacular views. Join Captain Jack Spratt on a memorable voyage, as he sails through history on his classic sailing yacht, Trim Again, or the wooden motor yacht, Encore. Private charters are available through November. sail-trim-again.com

Terra Firma Farm

Bring your kids to this non-profit farm to check out their inventive programs, and don’t miss a trip to The Creamery for a delicious chocolate milk. Terra Firma aims to educate children about food, so they make smart decisions “with respect to their health and our environment.” 564 Norwich-Westerly Rd., N. Stonington, CT; terrafirmafarm.com

EVENTS

Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival

Sample over a dozen different types of oysters and enjoy homemade chowder from multiple restaurants right on the wharf from Saturday, May 21 to Sunday, May 22. The event features live music, cocktails and a lively shopping scene. 13 Bowen’s Wharf, Newport, RI; bowenswharf.org

Newport Folk Festival

While this year’s festival is sold out, you can visit the website to join the waiting list. Held at Fort Adams State Park, America’s premier folk-music festival has hosted the likes of Bob Dylan, Mumford and Sons, Roger Waters and Patti Smith. This year, the event will be held July 22–24. Fort Adams State Park; Newport, RI; newportfolk.org

Newport Jazz Festival

Considered by many to be the “granddaddy of all music festivals,” this event takes place at Fort Adams State Park the weekend following the Folk Festival—this year to be held July 29–31. Blankets, standard-sized coolers and lawn chairs are encouraged; bring cash for the beer and wine garden. Fort Adams State Park, Newport, RI; newportjazz.org

Newport Polo

Established in 1876, America’s first polo club invites teams from the U.S. and around the world to compete during its summer season. Come for matches and enjoy the après-polo gatherings too. Check the website for a full roster of events, which run from June to September. nptpolo.com

Rhode Island International Film Festival

Film buffs will appreciate a break from the sun and sand by attending screenings and talks with globally recognized filmmakers. This is the largest public film festival in New England, to be held Aug. 8–14, and a qualifying festival for the Academy Awards. Various screenings take place across the state. film-festival.org

River Glow

Gather on August 6 for this annual Westerly tradition, where spectators enjoy a dazzling bonfire display lighting up the Pawcatuck River. The popular event also features fire jugglers, live music, face painting, food vendors and more. Donahue Park, Westerly, RI; westerlychamber.org

Sailfest New London

Sailfest returns to Waterfront Park July 8–10. Marvel at ships docked in the water while taking in more than 200 street vendors and some fun carnival rides. Stay for fireworks! 5 Waterfront Park, New London, CT; sailfest.org

Summer Pops

The world-renowned Chorus of Westerly and Pops Festival Orchestra will entertain a lawn of hundreds with performances of classic and modern works. Check the website for an updated calendar. Wilcox Park, Westerly, RI; chorusofwesterly.org

Taste of Mystic

Foodies rejoice! All your favorite participating Mystic restaurants gather in one place to share some yummy eats. Although the date has not been confirmed as of press time, this weekend-long event featuring live bands and a beer garden typically takes place in June. Check website for updates. Olde Mystic Village; 27 Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT; thisismystic.com

Waterfire

Watch as Providence lights up. This public-art showcase features nearly 100 bonfires along three separate river passageways in the heart of downtown. Hosted on multiple evenings, the spectacle begins at sunset and lasts to around midnight. 475 Valley St., Providence, RI; waterfire.org