Ah, spring. A time where Rhode Islanders across the state emerge from their snow dens to see the sunlight for the first time after what usually is a brutal and unrelenting winter. Though the complaining over the wind chill and multiple feet of snow on the ground have come to an end, it is only replaced by grumbling over the unpredictable weather and high pollen count. Despite these "hardships," there's a lot to love about our tiny state in the warmest months of the year.
Iced Coffee
Like many Rhode Islanders, I treat iced coffee as if it were a lifeline. Though I sport my iced coffee in its standard styrofoam "hot cup" year-round, there's something about the mouth-watering taste of a freshly brewed iced coffee on a warm spring day. Say goodbye to the days of disapproving glances received as you trek through downtown Providence, iced coffee in hand, on a 12-degree day, and say "hello" to the jealous stares aimed right at your purple and orange iced coffee cup.
Del's Lemonade
A time in which I, as well as other Rhode Island natives, rejoice is when Del's Lemonade opens for the season in early April. People from all over flock to the nearest Del's stands to get their first seasonal taste of the flavored ice we all know and love.
Side Note: If you've never had Del's Lemonade before, I highly recommend that you give it a try. I promise that you won't regret it.
Iggy's Doughboys and Chowder House
You're in for a treat every time you visit one of Iggy's two Rhode Island locations. Its chowder and clam cakes are to die for, and no meal is complete without its signature white paper bag filled with a dozen of Iggy's famous doughboys.
The Providence Flea
One of Rhode Island's hidden treasures is the Providence Flea. Its location on the Providence River Greenway is the perfect place for collectors and lovers of anything vintage. The Providence Flea is not your average flea market, but rather is a gathering spot for artists, upcyclers and foodies alike. Its Sunday markets open in early June and run through the summer, and are typically accompanied by music from live, local-based musicians as well as a food truck line-up that serves a wide variety of delicious treats.
Waterfire
I'm always amazed by Rhode Island natives who have never experienced a night in Providence at Waterfire. I mean, who doesn't love spending a couple of hours traipsing through our capital city among a sea of sweaty bodies, just to catch a glimpse of what is essentially a floating fire pit on the Providence River? Sweatiness aside, Waterfire is a Rhode Island attraction you have to experience at least once in your life. While you wander, be sure to stop in at one of the many Del's Lemonade stands located throughout the event.
The Newport Cliff Walk
A great place to spend a warm Spring day is at the Newport Cliff Walk in Newport, RI. Its 3.5-mile walkway borders the expansive Newport shoreline and is a popular attraction for natives and out-of-state visitors alike.
The WBRU Summer Concert Series
Beginning in June, 95.5 WBRU (an RI alternative-rock radio station) puts on an annual Summer Concert Series that runs for several weeks and features a well-known band as well as few local bands. The best part? The concerts are free and are conveniently located at Waterplace Park in Providence. Some of the biggest names in music today have performed in our tiny state, including Plain White T's, Dropkick Murphys, Paramore and Cold War Kids.
Pawsox Games
A family friendly (and inexpensive) weekend activity in Rhode Island is attending a Pawtucket Red Sox game. The minor-league baseball team, an affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, play at McCoy Stadium in Pawtucket, which is just 15 minutes from Downtown Providence!
Summer Vacation
Finally, for all of my fellow college students out there, the Spring is the finish line to what feels like a century-long semester. It's the time where our notebook-filled backpacks get tossed aside for the few months of freedom we so deserve.
