There’s a lot to see in do in the Ocean State, but some activities really stand the test of time. Read our picks for the best classic attractions in Rhode Island.
BEST COFFEE CABINET
DELEKTA’S PHARMACY,
Warren
Impassioned arguments may be waged over which clam shack serves the best chowder and clam cakes, but nary a soul will disagree that old-school Delekta’s is the king of “cabinets” (Rhode Island frappes). Hands-down favorite: coffee (the syrup is a closely guarded family recipe).
496 Main St. 401-245-6767
BEST DRIVE-IN THEATRE
RUSTIC TRI-VUE DRIVE-IN,
North Smithfield
The state’s only drive-in, the Rustic has been entertaining carloads of families and friends with first-run films since the ’50s. It’s no-frills, but with three screens showing double features plus a snack bar that doles out doughboys and clam cakes, it’s a guaranteed good time.
Route 146. 401-769-7601
BEST GRINDER
HUDSON STREET DELICATESSEN,
Providence
Hudson’s take on Rhody’s sandwich staple could feed a handful of the hipsters who hang here. Ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone, and all the fixings are topped with homemade Italian salsa and nestled into a local loaf from Crugnale’s.
68 Hudson St. 401-228-8555; hudsonstreetdeli.com
BEST RIDE
CRESCENT PARK CAROUSEL,
East Providence
Release your inner kid with a turn on this 100-plus-year-old merry-go-round, with Charles Looff’s meticulously carved and appointed ponies, camels, chariots, and cherubs (no two alike).
700 Bullocks Point Ave. 401-435-7518
BEST MUDSLIDE
THE OAR,
Block Island
Mudslides may have reached their pinnacle of popularity during the Reagan years, but this blended boozy concoction is still Block Island’s de facto signature drink. Those in the know get their Kahlua fix at the Oar’s outside bar, where the blender (not a frozen-drink machine) reigns supreme.
221 Jobs Hill Road. 401-466-8820
