By: Claire Lyddan
Posted In: Entertainment
1. The Mystic Seaport, Mystic, Connecticut Located on the scenic Mystic River the Mystic Seaport is the nation’s largest maritime museum with lots to see and do from taking a river cruise in their antique steamboat, learning about the stars in their planetarium, to climbing aboard the last surviving whale ship there is no shortage of activities. The Mystic Seaport is set up like an old village sprawling over 40 acres with different houses where you step in to learn about specific areas of maritime life. The Seaport is a destination that truly meshes having fun with learning something as you go. The feel of the village with women walking around in period costumes to horse drawn carriages offering rides to visitors truly makes you feel like you have stepped back in time. After walking around the Seaport for the afternoon, you’re sure to go looking for some good eats and maybe a few fabulous shops and you won’t have to go far. Within the Seaport there is a super casual grill that has burgers, fish and chips, and a variety of salads. Also, the Seaport gift shop is a two story store filled with an impressive array of trinkets, books, posters, and snacks covering all prices ranges so you’re sure to find a little (or big) something to remember your mini road trip by. The Mystic Seaport is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. April through October and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. November through March. Admission: $12. Estimated Travel Time from Newport: 1 hr.
2. Faneuil Hall, Boston, Massachusetts Faneuil Hall (pronounced FAN-you-wull) built by merchant Peter Faneuil was the location of the first town meeting in America is now made up of five buildings that includes the renowned Quincy Market, located in central Boston. If you are in the mood for some good food and want many places to choose from, Quincy Market is the place for you. With over 100 places to eat and drink with food choices from around the world you are sure to find something to satisfy your tastebuds. Doug Southhard of the Historical Society of Boston says that, “Faneuil Hall is also called the “Cradle of Liberty” because of the number of revolutionaries and abolitionists who delivered important speeches there.” Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market have both indoor and outdoor areas to explore and eat so this is a destination that is a good one to visit in good or poor weather. Remember to bring your good walking shoes and appetite to this destination. For more information you can call (617) 338.2323. Faneuil Hall is open 10am-9pm Mon-Sat; Noon-6pm Sun. Admission: Free. Estimated Travel Time from Newport, RI : 1hr 30 mins. For those who want an adventure but want to stay a bit closer to home, my third spot is just the one for you.
3. Federal Hill, Providence, Rhode Island Federal Hill or simply The Hill as locals call it, is one Providence’s many “main streets” that extents from Atwells Avenue right into the heart of downtown Providence. Once you walk under the La Pigna, a bronze pinecone that symbolizes hospitality and sharing, you know you have arrived to Rhode Islands little slice of Italy. The Hill is lined with amazing restaurants and gourmet food shops, and it’s the place where all the locals “in the know” head for superior authentic Italian fair. For those who may not be huge fans of Italian food, the Hill has other ethnic restaurants sprinkled in from Mexican to Jamaican. When visiting Federal Hill, it is best to plan on getting around on foot. Restaurants on the Hill cover all price ranges and atmospheres from super casual to formal. For a mini-trip without leaving Rhode Island, Federal Hill is a great choice. Federal Hill is open 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Mon – Wed; 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Thurs – Sat; Noon – 6 p.m. Sun. Admission: Free. Estimated Travel Time from Newport, RI: 50 mins. No matter where you decide to head on your mini road trip remember to travel safely, plan for the weather and have a great time! About the Writer: Claire Lyddan is a senior at Salve Regina University in Newport, R.I., who enjoys traveling and good food.
