Local Guide

by ELIZABETH HOLE LOCAL GUIDE

TRAVELERThere are many sights to see near our resorts and in surrounding towns. Explore the possibilities for shopping, dining, entertainment and more.

Above: Shop at OMO Jewels for clothing, accessories and gifts, and admire art on the gallery side at Avondale

CULTURE & HISTORY

Historic Destinations

Benefit Street’s “Mile of History”

Lined with preserved colonial homes and museums, Benefit Street is perfect for history buffs and day trippers seeking out “the most haunted street in Rhode Island.” Book a guided walking tour or pick from self-guided options. Benefit St., Providence, RI; visitrhodeisland.com

Newport Mansions

Experience the extravagance of the Gilded Age. From the chateau-inspired Elms mansion to the Vanderbilt’s “summer cottage,” there is no shortage of opulent architecture. For an updated list of mansions offering tours, visit the website. Newport, RI; newportmansions.org

Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge

One of five wildlife refuges in the state, this 858-acre property has more than 250 species of birds and a diverse landscape. Take a scenic hike among the grasslands, swamps and the largest coastal salt pond in Rhode Island. 50 Bend Rd., Charlestown, RI; fws.gov

Wickford Village

Step back in time while visiting this charming seaside gem. One of the nation’s oldest preserved colonial villages, Wickford is a walking history lesson. There are plenty of modern shops and restaurants too. In December, the village hosts a Festival of Lights celebration. 55 Brown St., North Kingstown, RI; histwick.org

Museums

Babcock-Smith Museum

This 18th-century Georgian mansion was occupied by several generations until it became a museum in 1972. Built in 1734, it showcases both Colonial and Victorian periods. The museum hosts a festive holiday boutique each December. 124 Granite St., Westerly, RI; babcocksmithhouse.org

Mashantucket Pequot Museum

Celebrating the Mashantucket Pequot tribe and its history, this museum and research center features 85,000 square feet of exhibitions, dioramas and films. 110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT; pequotmuseum.org

Mystic Museum of Art

A Mystic institution, the museum has a mission to “deliver transformative experiences with art to a broader community.” In addition to curated exhibits, visitors can admire the work of painters from Mystic’s former artist colony as well as scenic river views from the Water Street location. 9 Water St., Mystic, CT; mysticmuseumofart.org

Mystic Seaport Museum

Learn about maritime history at this seafaring museum, and then do some stargazing at the planetarium. Set on 19 acres along the Mystic River, it has over 500 historic vessels in its collection. 75 Greenmanville Ave. Mystic, CT; mysticseaport.org

Tomaquag Indian Museum

Sharing the culture of tribal communities from Southern New England, this museum displays indigenous artifacts and offers educational services and events. Plans are underway to open a new museum in 2023 on 18 acres of land owned by the University of Rhode Island. 390 Summit Rd., Exeter, RI; tomaquagmuseum.org

Watch Hill Lighthouse & Museum

Accessible only by foot, visitors can enjoy a beautiful walk to this historic lighthouse built in the 1800s. The museum is open just for the summer months, but there’s plenty to see and do in the off-season. 14 Lighthouse Rd., Westerly, RI;

Above: Arrangement with Glass Bottle by Robert Douglas Hunter, Lily Pad Gallery Below: COAST at Ocean Above: Signature burger from The Brasserie at Weekapaug Inn

41 WEST ELM STREET GREENWICH, CT TEL. 203.622.7000

www.VANDERHORNARCHITECTS.COM @DVHARCHITECTS

Above: Olympia Tea Room is a Watch Hill favorite. Below: Lump crabmeat from The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn

Waterfront DiningWaterfront DiningWaterfront Dining Waterfront DiningWaterfront Dining Waterfront Dining

Sea Food Sea Friends Sea ViewSea Food Sea Friends Sea ViewSea Food Sea Friends Sea View Sea Food Sea Friends Sea ViewSea Food Sea Friends Sea View Sea Food Sea Friends Sea View

Open year round 7 days a weekOpen year round 7 days a weekOpen year round 7 days a weekOpen year round 7 days a weekOpen year round 7 days a weekOpen year round 7 days a week FORLunchANDDinnerFORLunchANDDinnerFORLunchANDDinnerFORLunchANDDinnerFORLunchANDDinner FORLunchANDDinner

Above: Popular blend at Dave’s Coffee Below: Linguini and clams entrée at The Coast Guard House

Above: Grey Sail Brewing in Westerly Center: Saltwater Farm Vineyard Bottom: Jonathan Edwards Winery watchhilllighthousekeepers. org

Theater & Music

Chorus of Westerly

The Chorus of Westerly has performed major works and lesser-known pieces for the community and beyond for over 60 years. Today, they are one of the leading orchestral and music performing arts centers in Rhode Island. Wilcox Park, Westerly, RI; chorusofwesterly.org

Eugene O’Neill Theater Center

Known as the “Launchpad of American Theater,” this prestigious organization has produced seminal works of musical theatre and plays since 1964. The center received two Tony awards for Regional Theatre, and it was awarded a National Medal of Arts from President Obama. 305 Great Neck Rd., Waterford, CT; theoneill.org

Goodspeed Opera House

Since opening in 1963, this majestic opera house has produced over 250 musicals, 70 world premieres and has exported 21 productions to Broadway. The opera house main stage is in East Haddam, with a second stage in Chester comprising Goodspeed’s campus. 6 Main St., East Haddam, CT; goodspeed.org

Granite Theatre

This unique theatre is set in a restored 19th-century church. Known as “Westerly’s Destination for Comedy,” it puts on eight musicals, plays and comedy specials each year. One Granite St., Westerly, RI; granitetheatre.com

Salt Marsh Opera

Since 2000, the Salt Marsh Opera has produced classical music operettas in their Stonington home base, along with a popular winter concert series and various outdoor productions throughout the busy summer season. 65 Cutler Street, Stonington, CT; saltmarshopera.org

ART

Avondale Arts/OMO Jewels

Take art classes or stock up on hobbyist essentials at this Watch Hill art gallery and boutique. You’ll also find unique gifts and handcrafted jewelry in the OMO Jewels section. 95 Watch Hill Rd., Westerly, RI; avondalearts.com

The Charlestown Gallery

Admire emerging and established talent at this artist-owned gallery. Specializing in fine contemporary art and regional works, the owners showcase everything from sculpture and paintings to photography and art-class jewelry. 5000 S County

Trail, Charlestown RI; charlestowngalleryri.com

J. Russell Jinishian Gallery

This Stonington gallery specializes in fine marine art. The owner—a leading authority in the art world—is a former Director of the Mystic Maritime Gallery at the Mystic Seaport Museum. Visiting hours are currently appointment only. 152 Water St., Stonington, CT;

BOUTIQUES

ROCHELLESBOUTIQUE.COM ROCHELLESBOUTIQUES

jrusselljinishiangallery.com

Lily Pad Gallery

For over 30 years, this Bay Street gallery has featured spectacular works of impressionism and realism as well as the abstract. Owner Wivi-Anne Weber, Ph.D, helps clients select works of art to complete their collections. 1 Bay St., Watch Hill, RI; lilypadgallery.com

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Casual Upscale

Bouchard Restaurant & Inn

Above: BURGEE Mystic is a new lifestyle shop on Water Street. Below: Christina Stankard Jewelry is known for handcrafted statement pieces.

This French eatery appeals to sophisticated palates, while the inn is perfect for a romantic getaway. Located in the heart of Newport, Bouchard has been serving fine French cuisine for more than 20 years. 505 Thames St., Newport, RI; bouchardnewport.com

The Brasserie at Weekapaug Inn

Known for its warm, inviting setting at Weekapaug Inn, The Brasserie serves up French and European fare with seasonal ingredients. The menu features delectable weekly specials like coq au vin, cote de boeuf, bouillabaisse and more. 25 Spray Rock Rd., Westerly, RI; weekapauginn.com

Bridge

Seated above the Pawcatuck River, diners can choose from a seasonal menu of seafood, sandwiches, vegetarian entrées and hearty brunch staples at this lively spot. The restaurant also offers a raw bar and gluten-free items. 37 Main St., Westerly, RI; bridgeri.com

COAST

Considered one of the “World’s Best Waterfront Restaurants” by CNN Traveler, COAST showcases the finest, freshest flavors of the season. This Ocean House favorite is also a Forbes Five-Star rated restaurant, offering a prix-fixe four-course menu that changes nightly. 1 Bluff Ave., Watch Hill, RI; oceanhouseri.com

Engine Room

Known for burgers, beer, bourbon and a hearty American menu, this rustic eatery is housed in an old marine engine building. Wood-paneled décor, a lively crowd and river views only enhance the ambience. 14 Holmes St., Mystic, CT; engineroomct.com

Essex Clipper Dinner Train

All aboard! Savor a delightful four-course meal with spectacular views of the Connecticut River Valley. Dinner is served in a restored 1920s Pullman dinner car, which makes the 2 ½-hour experience even more memorable and romantic. essexsteamtrain.com

Latitude 41° Restaurant

Located on the Mystic shore, this premier seafood spot offers new American cuisine and classics like clam chowder, fresh catches and lobster. Be sure to try their laid-back Shipyard Tavern too, which features a full menu and a bevy of brews. 105 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic, CT; coastalgourmetct.com/ latitude41

Olympia Tea Room

A family-owned gem that’s been part of the village landscape for over 100 years, Olympia Tea Room is both elegant and welcoming. The seaside restaurant serves up “locally sourced food and the most generous cocktails in Watch Hill.” Enjoy the history, cuisine and waterfront views. 74 Bay St., Watch Hill, olympiatearoom.com

The Restaurant at Weekapaug Inn

This farm-to-table destination offers a modern interpretation of New England coastal cuisine, along with lovely Quonnie Pond views. The main dining venue at Weekapaug Inn, The Restaurant serves “off-the-boat” seafood and other in-season dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. 25 Spray Rock Rd., Westerly, RI; weekapauginn.com

Spain of Narragansett

All dishes are made fresh, cooked to order, and served to please at this authentic Spanish staple on Ocean Road. Foodies like the eclectic dishes, while oenophiles like to peruse the extensive wine list. 1144 Ocean Rd., Narragansett, RI; spainri.com

Stoneacre Brasserie

Serving French food in a jovial setting, this eatery is a neighborhood gathering spot. Don’t miss brunch options like freshly baked scones, quiche and truffle egg toast. 28 Washington Sq., Newport, RI; stoneacrebrasserie.com

Above: Kimberly Pucci Atelier designs custom handbags. Below: Fall look from Rochelle’s Boutique

Italian

Bravo Bravo

Indulge in house-made pastas, sauces and desserts at this contemporary Italian in a prime Main Street location. Regulars say “bravo bravo” to delectable dishes like pappardelle Bolognese and cacio e pepe. 19 East Main St., Mystic, CT; bravobravoct.com

Mamma Luisa Ristorante Italiano

Diners have been coming here for a taste of Italy since 1992. Named for the real Mamma Luisa who ran a restaurant near Bologna, this Northern Italian staple turns out homemade pasta like ricotta and spinach gnocchi with marinara and arugula or a classic spaghetti carbonara. 673 Thames St., Newport, RI; mammaluisa.com

Mango’s Wood Fired Pizza Co.

This Olde Mistick Village pizzeria is owned by two brothers who practice “the art of authentic pizza making” for their thin crust pies. Ingredients are locally sourced, and the dough is made from scratch. After dinner, stop by Mango’s Ice Cream across the street. 27 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT; mangospizza.com

Pizzeria Longo

At this Westerly restaurant known for “Italian soul food,” dishes are meant to be shared. Be sure to order a delicious variety like chicken Francese, cavatelli Bolognese and coal-fired pizza done 20 different ways. Each dish is prepared with fresh, local ingredients. 84 High St., Westerly, RI; pizzerialongo.com

Japanese

Johnny’s Peking Tokyo

Serving Japanese fusion and Asian cuisine, this sprawling eatery has a variety of entrées to please any palate. Sushi lovers come here for the inventive flavors and delicious handmade rolls, while non-seafood eaters can order teriyaki, hibachi, noodles and more. 12 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT; johnnysushibar.com

Koi Japanese Cuisine

Don’t miss the lunch deals like Bento boxes and sushi bar offerings at this popular Westerly destination. You can also choose from appetizing options like hibachi, sushi, teriyaki and chef’s specials. 65 High St., Westerly, RI; koijapaneserestaurantri. com

Samurai Noodle Bar & Grill

Ramen is all the rage at this downtown Mystic noodle bar and grill. For something different, you can’t go wrong with their tasty Asian barbecue and Japanese curry. Check out the cocktail list featuring specialty drinks like lychee and ginger martinis. 27 West Main St., Mystic, CT; Facebook: samurainoodlemystic.com

Mexican

Amigo’s Taqueria & Tequila

Dine with your amigos and enjoy savory fajitas, chimichangas or choose from 17 different meats, fish and vegan options for a design-your-own taco. Known for authentic Mexican meals, this upbeat eatery also offers a salsa flight and a variety of delicious margaritas. 2 Canal St., Westerly, RI; amigosri.com

Milagro Café

This colorful café puts an innovative spin on classics like Baja fish tacos, enchiladas verdes and chile relleno. Other fan favorites include traditional street corn, tacos and spicy margaritas served with shaved ice. 142 Water S., Stonington, CT; milagrocafe142.com

Perro Salado

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

Refreshments

The Candy Box

Adjacent to the iconic Flying Horse carousel, this Watch Hill candy shop makes fudge the old-fashioned way—in a copper kettle. Indulge your sweet tooth with some saltwater taffy and homemade chocolates or give the chocolate-covered potato chips a try. 14 Fort Rd., Watch Hill, RI; Instagram: candyboxwatchhill

Dave’s Coffee

Located in a charming colonial setting in Charlestown, Dave’s Coffee is only 15 minutes from Ocean House. Roasted in Rhode Island, these small batch coffees have fun names like Black Crow, Falcon and Quonnie. Dave’s also serves signature lattes with high-quality blends and flavors. 5193 Old Post Rd., Charlestown, RI; davescoffee.com

Deviant Donuts

Donut devotees flock here for the always-changing creations, unique flavors and craft coffee. From samoa and pb+j to limited-edition

donuts inspired by movies, these homemade delights are delicious works of art. 27 Coogan Blvd., Building 6, Mystic, CT; deviantdonuts. com

Hauser Chocolatier

Everything is made in house daily at this family-owned chocolate factory, which has been serving locals for over 60 years. Don’t miss the premium truffles and assorted chocolates in their Westerly sweets shop. 59 Tom Harvey Rd., Westerly, RI; hauserchocolates.com Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream Sample homemade treats at this Mystic institution, which hand mixes ice cream like they did in the 1800s. Try unique flavors such as Kona coffee, Vermont maple nut and Southern peach. You can also order soda floats, shakes and fruit smoothies. 2 West Main St., Mystic, CT;

Above: Sail Trim Again offers sunset cruises and private charters. Below: Wickford Festival of Lights