by The Cowl Editor on October 5, 2017
Arts & Entertainment
by Catherine Goldberg ’20
A&E Staff
Recently, Raymond Dining Hall served some classic “Ocean State eats.” The lines of hungry students packed the dining hall, as they awaited Rhode Island’s most iconic dishes: breaded calamari, coffee milk, and spinach-feta pie. While Sodexo attempted to make students feel at home in Rhode Island, there is no better way to get to know the state than venturing off campus and exploring its historical roots.
Veering off from the city of Providence and to the city of Newport is a great way to discover the Ocean State. The trip is simple, and can be done by RIPTA, Uber, or ferry. Famous for its stunning shorelines, three-and-a-half-mile cliff walk, gilded mansions, and yacht-filled harbors, it is truly an American treasure. Lined with classic New England shops, from The Black Dog to delicious fudgeries, your money can be spent on something homegrown. With that being said, it is also brimming with authentic dishes, and nothing says Rhode Island more than fresh seafood.
On Oct. 14 and 15, Bowen’s Wharf Seafood will host their annual Seafood Festival. This waterfront event is a tradition in downtown Newport and is a great way to kick-off the festivities of fall. Historic Bowen’s Wharf truly honors the harvest of the sea, offering all of Rhode Island’s most quintessential dishes and drinks—from tender grilled calamari and lobster rolls to cold brewed Narraganset ybeer and vanilla frappes. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Bowen’s warmly welcomes people of all ages, and as Providence College students living on budget, nothing is better than a festival that is free of charge with vendors offering special prix fixe menus.
After indulging in all that “wicked awesome” seafood, what better way to work off the calories than a cliff walk. Much of the walk goes through areas where many of the famous Newport mansions are situated. The breathtaking views make for endless Instagram opportunities. A word of advice, though, with the steep inclines and jaw dropping vistas, one should wait until making it to solid ground before hitting up the Narragansett taps.
When approaching our state border, drivers see a vibrant blue sign which reads, “Discover Beautiful Rhode Island.” Rhode Island is a treasure just waiting to be discovered. Providence is at its core, but getting to know the surrounding regions encapsulates the true essence of its beauty. Discover beautiful Rhode Island, and visit Newport along the way.