Best Attractions in Rhode Island | 2014 Editors’ Choice Awards

Looking for fun in the Ocean State? You won’t have to look far! Read our picks for the best attractions in Rhode Island for 2014. BEST FARM STAND: SCHARTNER FARMS, Exeter The Schartner family has been farming for more than a century, so it’s no surprise they’re proficient in produce. Their farmstand brims with the freshest fruits and veggies around, not to mention sweet take-home treats like jams and baked goods. 1 Arnold Place. 401-294-2044; schartnerfarms.com BEST SEAWORTHY SOUVENIRS: Onne Van der Wal Gallery, Newport Onne Van der Wal’s nautical photography portfolio spans the globe, but our eye (and heart) is drawn to his local work. His stunning images—classic yachts, schooners under sail, the Newport Bridge off in the distance—are the perfect souvenir of the City by the Sea. 1 Bannister’s Wharf. 401-849-5556; vanderwal.com BEST INTIMATE THEATRE: THE GAMM THEATRE, Pawtucket Intimate, engaging, and smart, the Gamm has a reputation for producing plays that challenge. Expect a thoughtful lineup of classic and new works, sharp acting, and theatre you’ll be talking about for days. 172 Exchange St. 401-723-4266; gammtheatre.org BEST OLD-SCHOOL WATER PARK: Water Wizz, Westerly A pre- or post-Misquamicut Beach day stop-off, Water Wizz is a shot of nostalgia in the form of sleek curves, 50-foot speed slides, and cannonball-size splashes. Twelve bucks gets 40 minutes of unlimited runs, so savvy riders will practice their sprints from the pool back to the line. An all-day pass is $25. 330 Atlantic Ave. 401-322-0520; waterwizzri.com BEST LIVING-HISTORY FARM: Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol Travel back in time and learn what life was like in pre-industrial Rhode Island on this 48-acre active coastal farm. Interpreters dressed in period clothing tend to the heirloom plants, animals, and historic structures, and visitors are invited to roll up their sleeves and pitch in. 1 Coggeshall Farm Road. 401-253-9062; coggeshallfarm.org BEST LOCAL BATH PRODUCTS: Harbor Bath & Body, Bristol Sweet-smelling souvenirs—soaps, lotions, sprays, and bath salts—are the draw at Harbor Bath & Body. Much of the well-curated inventory hails from New England, and owner Lynn Shaw even makes her own Bristol-branded line called “Thames Naturals.” 251 Thames St. 401-396-9170