Fall in Rhode Island is a beautiful season with cool temperatures, beautiful colors, and plenty of activities to do with friends and family. New England has a history of mysterious happenings, eerie locales, and spooky tales, and Rhode Island inspires its fair share of stories. As we countdown to Halloween, here are five spooky (and not so spooky) Halloween themed activities to do in Rhode Island. Starting with a not so scary activity, pumpkin picking is a popular outing during the fall in Rhode Island. Whether picked from a field, or from a stand at the farm, there are many things to do with the pumpkin once you take it home: Hollow it out and make a jack-o’-lantern; paint a face or a picture, and use it for decoration; roast the pumpkin seeds, or find a delicious recipe for the pumpkin. Just don’t carve it too early, or it will be rotten before Halloween! Every year, the town of Gloucester hosts a Scarecrow Festival, where residents are encouraged to build scarecrows along the Main Street. It was started as a fun way to keep crows away, and welcome guests, and it has turned into a large event, attracting many out of town visitors. One day of the event is dedicated to voting for the best representation of specific categories, such as scariest, funniest, or most creative. Families, businesses, and organizations can build and submit their scarecrow design, which will be on display several weeks through October. Visit glocesterscarecrowfestival.org for more details. Corn mazes and hay rides can be a leisurely activity for a Sunday afternoon, or they can be turned spooky at night. Many local farms offer fund mazes, with punch points to make it like a scavenger hunt. Some begin or end in a hayride. Venues like Scary Acres take it a step further, and open at night with people dressed in scary costumes to scare you as you take a hayride to the haunted corn maze. Hope you find your way out of the exit before someone catches you - There’s only one way in, and one way out! Another local spooky attraction is the Haunted Labyrinth in Cranston, RI. Located in the Rejoice In Hope Youth Center, volunteers spend all summer planning a theme, building the set pieces, and putting together a walk-through haunted house, which is then stocked with scary faces and people trying to scare you! Look out for people moving, slamming doors, strobe lights, and other special effects that will be sure to delight and spook you. For some more authentic scary places, visit a local grave site. Mercy Brown’s grave in Exeter is popular due to the legend that she was reportedly a vampire. Her heartless body now lies under her marked tombstone after it was exhumed and the heart removed and burned to lift the vampire curse that was said to have plagued her family. For rumors ghost sightings, visit the School Street Graveyard in North Kingstown, or the Old Veteran Cemetery in Warwick. Visitors have reported seeing dark figures, shadows and flashes of light, and trees that seem to come to life at night. If you are looking for a real scare, a cemetery might be the destination for you!
Tired of fighting the crowds at the food truck festivals? Done with sitting in beach traffic and spending hours trying to find a spot to park? Why not find a different spot that has all the charm of our little state, without the hustle and bustle of the common summer locales throughout the state. Here is our list of hidden gems in Rhode Island that you may or may not have heard of. The Fantastic Umbrella Factory- A unique experience located in Charlestown, the Umbrella Factory is truly a hidden gem. The “factory” is comprised of several unique stores, each one with its own theme of eclectic gifts. You can find blown glass, soy candles, handmade jewelry, clothing, toys and much more! Stop in to the cafe for a sweet treat, or check out the candy store! The Umbrella Factory also has beautiful flower gardens and greenhouses, as well as some animals living on the land. Look out for the chickens and ducks as you wander from shop to shop! The Umbrella Factory is open year round, so consult their website for hours and openings before heading down. Brenton Point State Park- Located on the scenic Ocean Drive in Newport, Rhode Island, Breton Point is a beautiful destination for many summer activities. With over 85 acres of land, there is room for picnicking, kite flying, bird watching, hiking, or sunbathing. You could spend an entire afternoon enjoying all that the park has to offer, or make it a pit stop on your day trip to Newport. It is a spot you do not want to miss! If planning a trip, please abide by the RI State Parks’ “Carry In, Carry Out” policy. Anti-Gravity Yoga at Raffa Yoga- Raffa Yoga has been open in Cranston, Rhode Island since 2000, and currently offers over 75 different Yoga classes weekly, taught by highly trained instructors, available to all levels. One popular style is anti-gravity yoga. This particular style incorporates an anti-gravity hammock that supports the body as you hold poses, learn balance techniques, gain muscular and cardiovascular strength, and even practice inversion skills. Check out their website for a comprehensive schedule and class description page to find the class that is right for you! Below Deck- Westerly’s famed Ocean House, with its beautiful ocean views, is home to some delicious dining. The hotel boasts several refreshment options, including the sweet treats of Below Deck. Conveniently located on the walking path to the Ocean House, this shop sells gelato, sundaes, milkshakes, mini doughnuts, and coffee on a regular basis. Looking for a way to satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further on a summer day than Below Deck! Blithewold Manor- Bristol, RI is known for hosting the longest-running 4th of July Parade every year. The route is easy to spot: just follow the red, white, and blue stripes that run down the middle of the street. But there are many more delightful things to do in Bristol the rest of the year. Historic Bristol is a gem itself, with its waterfront areas, old-fashioned country-style stores, and Colt State Park. A section of the bike path runs through the city as well. Blithewold Mansion offers admission to the 45 room house and the 33 acres of grounds and gardens featuring unique trees and plants. The beautiful grounds offer a view of Narragansett Bay, but keep many secrets that one must visit to unearth! Visit their website to purchase your tickets today. Also, don’t forget to take your sunglasses. A day out in the sun requires eye protection. We can help if you’re looking for that fashionable edge to compliment your spring wardrobe! Call 401-521-6789 to speak with one of our frame stylists or visit us at 1277 Hartford Ave., Johnston, RI, you can also visit our web site www.OPTXrhodeisland.comAt a loss for a fun outing for you and your friends in Rhode Island? Consider one of these ideas the next time you gather friends together and need to do something other than the mundane “drinks and apps” at the local. Drag Brunch- Becoming increasingly popular, drag brunches are offered at several Rhode Island restaurants. Join some local “celebrities” for hours of fun, laughs, and entertainment. These events often have themes, with performers dressing for a specific decade, or as various versions of the same celebrity! Audience members are encouraged to interact, talk with, and tip the performers. Be sure to check for these events and more at local restaurants in RI! PPAC Show- Always an experience, a show at Providence Performing Arts Center may have just enough drama, action, and singing to keep every one of your friends entertained. From musicals, to fairy tales, to one-man shows, PPAC has them all. Check out the shows coming this season, and book tickets for you and a friend. Attend a matinee and make dinner reservations after at one of Downtown Providence’s popular restaurants. Festival Ballet- Although normally popular at Christmastime, Festival Ballet Providence offers shows throughout the year (not just The Nutcracker!) Ballet is an age-old tradition that has continued to develop into modern times. New adaptations of old stories are being presented in fun and exciting ways. Visit Festival Ballet’s website for a description of their latest shows! Rock Climbing- Looking for something a bit more active to do? Rock Spot Climbing has you covered. Whether it is your first time, or you are a climbing pro, Rock Spot’s locations have ever-changing routes based on your ability. Shoe and harness rentals are available, as well as chalk bags. Venture out of your comfort zone, clip in, and head for the top of the rock wall! Play Trivia- Another popular event that usually happens at local pubs and bars, trivia is a great way to get the gang together and test your uncommon knowledge! There are several team competitions held throughout the state, with weekly events happening all over. Music trivia in your wheelhouse? There are games specific to this knowledge. For a list of games and events in your area, visit wrikdj.com. As always, don’t forget to protect your eyes on your outdoor adventures and outings. Be prepared with sunglasses and special treatments to protect your eyes such as polarized lenses and blue-light blocking lenses.Stop in to see us for spectacular new shades at OPTX rhode Island, 1277 hartford Ave., Johnston, RI or our web site www.OPTXrhodeisland.com . 401-521-6789
We’ve all been there, packing at the last minute and arriving at our destination to realize we’ve forgotten some of the essentials! Whether you’re planning a weekend trip to Vegas, jet setting off to Europe, or spending a week at the beach, these items are a must-have in your suitcase. Comfortable wedges Wedges are a great choice for vacation shoewear because of their versatility! Dress them down with a pair of jean shorts and a cute top, or pair them with a sundress for an outdoor dinner date. Maxi dress Again, a versatile addition to your vacation wardrobe. Throw one on for breakfast on the beach, with a pair of flip flops. A cute pair of Converse sneakers with your maxi dress and you're ready to take a walk through town. At night, add the wedges and some jewelry and you’re ready for a casual dinner. Swimsuit and coverup Whether you’re vacationing by the ocean, or at a hotel in the middle of the city, a bathing suit is a vacation must-have. Swimming or sunbathing, the water is a relaxing place to spend some of your time. And don’t forget your coverup! A matching beach coverup and sun hat makes any outfit complete. Small purse Especially when flying, you want to save as much space in your luggage as possible. A small crossbody bag is perfect to store your money, ID, and phone when shopping, or walking along the beach. Sunglasses
Sun protection is very important whether you’re on the beach or in a busy city. In addition to being a style piece, sunglasses protect our eyes from sun damage. Make wearing sunglasses as common as putting on sunscreen when going out in the sun. Safety, but make it fashion! Stop by OPTX Rhode Island before your getaway for a stylish new pair of designer sunglasses. Prescription lenses are available. There may be an expression that says, “Suns out, Buns out” but in reality, it is more like “Suns out, Skins out”. And after a long Winter, and dreary Spring, it may be necessary to prepare our skin to be exposed to the Summer sun. Grab your sunscreen and head out for some pampering (just be aware of timing when scheduling these types of appointments, you don’t want your pedicure to wash off your spray tan!) Waxing might be the least enjoyed item on this list, so let’s talk about it first! It can be a love/hate relationship, we hate the process, but love the results. If you’re tired of shaving, or want the convenience of waxing, visit European Wax Center, located in Garden City. They offer all services, from legs, bikini, eyebrows, and more. Be sure to follow the instructions before and after getting a wax for the best results. Visit their website today. A fresh manicure and pedicure can change your mood and your willingness to dress nice. Try out some bright colors, and match your fingernails to your toes, or add some nail art to spice things up. Check out MiniLuxe in Cranston for all their nail and beauty services. They offer a variety of services based on your time, availability and needs. Appointment required, so book today! Spray tans may feel like the best way to prepare to debut your summer look. Before you’ve had time to develop your natural, sun-kissed look, visit Glistening Goddess for your spray tan. They offer several packages and options depending on how dark you want your coloring. Book an appointment now at either of their convenient locations, and get that summer dress ready to show off your tan! Eyewear is not just part of fashion, but can be a way to protect your eyes. Wearing sunglasses especially on a bright, sunny day will protect your eyes from sun damage. Not only that, but they prevent dry eye caused by excessive squinting, limit the risk of sand or other elements getting into your eye, and decrease wind damage. In need of new eyewear? Stop in to OPTX Rhode Island today for new glasses or sunglasses, with prescription or nonprescription lenses! Visit our website and check out our summer promotion, going on now.
There's nothing better than getting outside for some fresh air at any time of year. A sunny day may inspire you to get out and get moving. Below are some popular (and not so well known) walking and hiking trails in Rhode Island. Grab a pair of sunglasses and a friend (two-legged or four-legged!) and head to one of these great spots! Newport is a popular destination for tourists and Rhode Islanders alike! With so much to offer, it’s not hard to see why. From shops and restaurants, museums and the mansions, to beaches and ocean views, there’s something for everyone. One of the most popular stops is the Newport Cliff Walk. Over three miles long, this twisting, sometimes rocky trail overlooks the bay on one side and architecture on the other. Walk the whole path, or stop off at The Breakers Mansion, Salve Regina University, or The Forty Steps which leads you closer to the water. There are many entry points to the cliff walk, but it begins from First Beach! Located just down the street in Middletown is Third Beach, which offers a sandy coastline for walking, or enjoying the sun. But it also hosts the Norman Bird Sanctuary. This area of land includes seven miles of walking trails through acres of diverse habitats. There are marked hiking trails for all abilities, as well as guided birdwatching tours offered through the sanctuary. Check out their welcome center to learn about all the Norman Bird Sanctuary has to offer. Want to feel like you’ve escaped into the woods for an afternoon? Visit Lincoln Woods for both paved and wooded trails with lake views. The whole path is 3.1 miles and is accessible for all levels. A picturesque covered bridge is located at one entrance, and the nature around the park provides a relaxing atmosphere. With various activities in the park, there is something for all seasons. Ice skating in the winter, swimming and boating in the summer, and horseback riding year round; find information about what you're looking for on their website. Looking for a short trail to burn off some energy? Mowry Conservation Area in Smithfield at 41 Old Forge Rd, offers two short trails at under a mile that are clearly marked and lead you over a river, and through the woods! Bring a lunch to enjoy in the picnic area, or simply enjoy some nature as you loop around the pine grove. The shorter “Red Trail” forks to the additional length of the “Yellow Trail”. Also located in Smithfield is the Wolf Hill Forest Preserve. With longer trails, and rockier terrain, your walk will feel more like a hike than a leisurely stroll. A rock quarry and a scenic overlook of Providence await you on your adventure. Difficulty may vary as you venture along, and trails are linked so pay attention to the direction you take, and the length, or you may spend the afternoon retracing your steps along the same paths. Goddard Park in East Greenwich is a popular spot for kids and adults alike. Known for its spacious meadows, multiple picnic areas, and various walking trails, an afternoon at Goddard park offers something for everyone. There is even a beach for swimming or sunbathing, with lifeguards on duty during the summer hours. If you’re in the Johnston area and you find yourself wanting to hunt down a new pair of prescription eyewear or sunglasses, make a quick trip to us at OPTX Rhode Island! We are right on Hartford Avenue. Come see our opticians and frame stylists to get hooked up with some new shades for your next outing. If you have questions, call us at (401)521-6789 and check out our website at www.optxrhodeisland.com for more details and services offered.
Let’s face it, our lives have not been normal since 2020. As we strive to find normalcy in our everyday lives, it is beneficial to add new experiences to shake up the mundane day-to-day. With the changing season and longer sun-filled days, we may feel more motivated to try something new, or alter the way we live currently. Here are 10 ways you can get ready for Spring, and improve your daily lifestyle. Get a new haircut, style, or color Looking to make a change? Look no further than your hair salon. A subtle change, such as adding layers to your hairstyle, will add volume. Highlights make for a change, while still feeling like yourself. Or, drastically change your look by cutting several inches off of your hair, or by changing your hair color entirely. Whether you go for a trim, or a chop, get rid of the dead ends and feel much lighter as you move towards the future. And, as they say, “it will always grow back.” In need of a new hairstylist? Check out St. Germain Studio at 150r Broadway, Providence. Salonrunner.com for appointments. Start an outdoor fitness routine While the cold weather forces us inside, the emergence of the sun draws us back out from the darkness. Whether you begin running outside instead of on a treadmill, find new outdoor places to walk, or find somewhere to workout outside, you get more than what you put into your routine, with the addition of vitamin D. Want to try something new? Check out Simmons Farm in Middletown where they offer Goat Yoga! A fun way to combine nature, animals, and meditation, this highly popular trend is one of many things to do at Simmons Farm. Find their website at http://simmonsorganicfarmri.com/ Spiritual cleansing We often fall into a slump during the winter months; the cold weather, lack of sun, staying indoors, limited socializing. As we enter into Spring, we can reset our minds with meditation, and by setting intentions and goals as we move forward. This can be done with Yoga, at home or in a studio like Raffa Yoga In Cranston, indoors or outdoors. Clearing the mind of negativity and creating pathways for positive thoughts is often a good way to start. There are many guided meditation programs on music streaming services or through websites. A simple action such as taking a walk outside, or relaxing in a bubble bath can help this process along, too. Lastly, journaling can be the best way to keep negative thoughts out of your life, and make way for positivity, leading to a more positive and productive life. Find ways that work for you to create good vibes all around! Check out the latest Spring fashion trends Good Outfit, Good Mood, Good Day! And what better way to improve your mood than an outfit with bright colors! Greens, pinks, and yellows are a popular trend for Spring 2022. Pair these colors with a pastel jean jacket, or white straight-leg jeans for a trendy look. Add some pearls, and your fashion look is on point, head to toe! For the men, letterman jackets are making a comeback. Shop Anthropologie in stores or online for the best trends! Don’t forget, your outfit is not complete without eyewear! Visit OPTX for the best frames to match your look! Spring cleaning Yes, last but not least, freeing your home of clutter and doing an in depth cleaning of your home is a wonderful way to get your house, and your mind, into a positive, happy place. Use the Marie Kondo method of cleaning, figuring out which of your possessions “bring you joy,” and which ones you are needlessly holding on to. Rid the closet of clothes you have not worn in years, the “someday, maybe” clothes, and the “I remember the day I last wore this” outfits. Donate old toys to charity, throw away the VHS tapes and DVDs you will never watch again, and organize the pantry (chances are, the products in the back are expired!) Take it slow, tackle one room at a time, and you will find your life feels just a bit more organized and stress-free. Plan a weekend getaway Looking for a weekend getaway without massive travel time? Look no further than The Beatrice Hotel, located right here in Providence. From brand new hotel rooms stocked with amenities, to award winning dining at Bellini, with private dining areas, and a rooftop bar. Best of all, they are pet friendly! Nearby, you’ll find all the local splendor of Downtown Providence. Book today at thebeatrice.com Learn new recipes A new food plan is a great way to ease into spring: a refresh after the winter months. Fresh foods are more readily available, and can be used in flavorful recipes. The internet is an endless resource for recipes to include all your favorite foods, or to add some new ones to your meal rotation. Try a breakfast pizza, or an omelet for dinner, with a variety of vegetables and meats. Do charity work As a way to perhaps reset your karma and balance, consider charity work in your community. There are always local shelters looking for volunteers, churches or soup kitchens that may need assistance, and animal rescues looking for supplies. You could take some time to attend or participate in a charity event, donate your gently worn clothing, or volunteer your time with a non-profit organization nearby. Take fitness classes. While the warm weather may encourage you to get outside more often, a daily walk may not be all you need to achieve your fitness goals this spring. Joining a gym that offers fitness classes can be motivating; keeping you on track and on schedule, rather than working out alone. Zumba, Step, and Spin are popular fitness styles that you can find at many local gyms. Sample a variety of classes until you find what you like best! Buy new glasses.
As always, OPTX offers the latest designer styles of eyeglasses and sunglasses. Check our website for current specials and promotions. If you’re in the Johnston area and you find yourself wanting to hunt down a new pair of prescription eyewear or sunglasses, make a quick trip to us at OPTX Rhode Island! We are right on Hartford Avenue. Come see our opticians and frame stylists to get hooked up with some new shades for your next outing. If you have questions, call us at (401)521-6789 and check out our website at www.optxrhodeisland.com for more details and services offered. Cold weather making you retreat indoors and for food delivery and bingeable TV every night? While that seems desirable sometimes, enjoying the perks of winter living in Rhode Island can be just as thrilling. Have a spa day The winter is a great time to treat yourself. A massage, facial, or hair treatment can be a bright pick-me-up on a gloomy winter day. Day spas like Blue Sky Spaworks offer a variety of treatments to pamper yourself in a safe, clean environment. Call and schedule your appointment today! https://www.blueskyspaworks.com/ Ice Skating Indoor or outdoor, bundle up and head to the skating rink for a trip down memory lane. Hone your skills on the ice, whether you can do a double axle, or you need to hold the wall to get around! Ice skating is a great family outing. Skates are available to rent during public skating hours at the Cranston Veterans’ Memorial Skating Rink. They even offer lessons on how to skate! Come by on a Friday night for Rock’n Skate! https://www.cvmrink.com/ Ice Bumper Cars The outdoor Providence Ice Rink also offers ice skating, but with pre-purchased tickets, they also have Ice Bumper Cars! You read that correctly; the same bumper car attraction you love, ON ICE! You control the buggy as you slide across the ice, bumping others, sending you and them into a 360 spin. You’ll move forward, backwards, and sideways on the slippery surface. Guaranteed laughs for all! Check their website for times and availability! https://theprovidencerink.com/bumper-cars Outdoor shopping in Garden City Take advantage of a sunny winter day to get some fresh air and retail therapy! The ever-changing array of shops, restaurants, and boutiques keeps the atmosphere fun and exciting. Check out the stores and then grab lunch! With all Garden City Center has to offer, there are hours of fun for everyone. https://gardencitycenter.com/ Yoga- Raffa Yoga With the start of a new year, it is a good time for a physical and mental reset. Raffa Yoga offers over 75 yoga classes a week, for all levels and in all styles. They even offer antigravity yoga. The Urban Sweat healing and restorative experience includes several hours of relaxation in unique steam rooms and saunas. Other services include massage therapy, and a plant-based, vegan cafe. https://raffalife.com/ Visit the beach! Yes, in the winter! Grab some hot coffee (or iced, for those die-hard Rhode Islanders!) and head to the beach. Whether it’s to sit in your heated car and watch the waves from the parking lot, or to go for a walk on the near-empty shore, the beach can be a relaxing place to visit in the winter. RISD Museum The RISD Museum features art representing diverse cultures and multiple centuries. The museum has over 100,000 pieces of art in their archive, and currently displays over 2200 objects in the museum. The exhibits include paintings, sculptures, furniture, costumes, and textiles. Check their website for information regarding their current exhibitions, and see the pieces always on display. https://risdmuseum.org/ Seal Tours and Aquarium New England has a variety of sea life institutions, and the Ocean State is no exception. The Biomes Marine Biology Center in North Kingstown or the Save The Bay Aquarium in Newport offer an up close look at sea life. The winter is the best time to see migratory harbor seals. Book a tour of Newport Harbor to see these creatures in nature. https://www.savebay.org/family-fun/seals/ A restaurant “tour” Tired of eating the same old thing for dinner every night? Create your own “restaurant tour”. Select three restaurants locally and visit each one for a different course. Drinks and appetizers? Start off with outdoor dining at Constantino’s Ristorante, and take in the sights and sounds of Federal Hill. Then head to Providence Oyster Bar for your entrees, a change of pace from the traditional Italian food of most restaurants in the area. Finish the night at Massimo for dessert. Enjoy some Italian pastry, or indulge in a dessert martini. Keep it exciting! Plus, walking to your next destination allows you time to digest to be able to enjoy your next course! If you’re in the Johnston area and you find yourself wanting to hunt down a new pair of prescription eyewear or sunglasses, make a quick trip to us at OPTX Rhode Island! We are right on Hartford Avenue. Come see our opticians and frame stylists to get hooked up with some new shades for your next outing. If you have questions, call us at (401)521-6789 and check out our website at www.optxrhodeisland.com for more details and services offered.
As we enter December, the holiday season is in full swing around us! From Christmas carols on the radio, to decorations in stores, and sales upon sales being advertised, there is no escaping the holiday spirit! While many people prefer to shop online, holiday shopping is a great opportunity to support local, small businesses. Here are some of our favorite local businesses and unique gift ideas for this holiday season! Looking for great stocking stuffers or gifts for friends on your list? Get everything from hair products, beauty products, or gift certificates for hair service at St. Germain Studio in Providence. They carry boutique hair products, and have a long list of services for both men and women. Shop the salon or book online at stgermainstudio.com A night out to the movies is something people of all ages can enjoy. A movie gift certificate to see the newest flick would be a hit among anyone on your Christmas list. Wrap it up in a DIY movie basket with some popcorn, candy, and soda and let your gift recipient pick the movie. Check out your local theatre for gift options. Buying for those “hard to shop for” people on your list? Flaunt Boutique should be your next stop. From clothing, to jewelry, to gourmet goodies, Flaunt Boutique has it all! They offer name brand accessories, trinkets from local vendors, and even gifts for your furry, four-legged friend! Hours and contact information at Flauntri.com This winter, give the gift of sun-kissed skin from Glistening Goddess. With three convenient locations, the gift of a perfect Caribbean glow is one stop away. Recipients can make an appointment for a decadent spray tan, or utilize the teeth whitening services. Visit their website for a list of locations, or send an E-Gift card! Glisteninggoddess.com A unique gift for those on your list is a gift certificate for a local catering company. Pranzi Catering, located in Providence, offers a dining experience unique to your event, for a meal at any time of day. Use their services to send a decadent dinner or holiday cookie tray. Even better, allow them to help with your holiday event. Find their information at www.Pranzi.com Another option is the gift of health and wellness. Emerging Energy Acupuncture in Providence offers not only acupuncture services but a variety of massage packages, and sauna treatments. Don’t forget about yourself this holiday season; book yourself an appointment too! www.Emergingenergy.net As always, OPTX Rhode Island is your one-stop-shop for designer sunglasses! Prescription or nonprescription, try on frames for you, and pick a pair for a friend. Check out winter specials on the website www.OPTXRhodeIsland.com or visit us at 1277 Hartford Avenue, Johnston, RI. We gladly assist clients from all areas of Rhode Island whether you are as close as Garden City, Cranston or a little further such as East Greenwich, it is worth the drive for those perfect, stylish eyeglasses or sunglasses.
... As the beautiful autumn leaves fall and the temperatures begin to drop, we begin to venture inside for our activities. But for those nice, crisp, fall days, here are some family friendly outdoor activities that even your dog will enjoy! Outdoor dining Dining in Rhode Island doesn’t have to be limited to indoors as the temperatures drop. Many local restaurants offer patios equipped with heaters, or enclosed tents to keep you warm. Diego’s in Newport, The Trap in East Greenwich, and Ogie’s Trailer Park in Providence, all offer these amenities and are dog-friendly with their outdoor seating. Check your local restaurant’s website for hours, menus, reservation options, and to find out their outdoor dining and dog policies. Rustic TriView Drive-In Movie Theatre- North Smithfield, RI The Rustic Drive-In is a Rhode Island treasure. Located on Rt 44, the theatre opens Fridays and Saturdays with a variety of movies for your viewing pleasure. Whether you tailgate out of your trunk, or bring your own comfy chairs, its never too cold to wrap up in a blanket and watch a double feature. Pack the car with the kids and the dogs, and don’t forget to hit the snack bar upon arrival and stock up on treats for all! Details and movie times are located at www.yourneighborhoodtheatre.com Escobar Farm- Portsmouth, RI Escobar Farm is a great fall destination for the whole family. They offer an extensive corn maze, with a new design every year. Open September-November, the farm hosts several events such as Harry Potter Day, Military Appreciation, and their annual Halloween Party on October 31st! You can even host a birthday party at the farm! Don’t miss out on pumpkin picking and a hay ride once you’ve escaped the maze! Check out their website for information about their other offerings like Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree, special events, and to see an aerial view of this year’s corn maze! Dogs are welcome on a leash for the safety of all participants. www.escobarfarm.com North Burial Ground -Providence RI Rhode Island is the resting place of many famous (and infamous) Americans. Whether important to history, or the basis of popular folklore, their gravesites are throughout Rhode Island and waiting to be visited (if you dare!). One not-so-scary location, the North Burial Ground, was established in the 1700s as Providence’s first public cemetery, and now consists of more than 40,000 gravestones. The grounds open to the public daily and welcome browsing, or you can participate in a guided tour, organized based on notable inhabitants. This history-rich site is home to many notable people from Rhode Island’s past, yet is beautiful enough for a fall afternoon stroll through the foliage. Stop by the front office for a map of the burial ground or visit their website to learn about their tours. www.northburialground.com Festivals and Food Trucks- Throughout Rhode Island Autumn in Rhode Island boasts many festivals and events celebrating the season. From the Newport Food Truck and Beer Festival, to Woonsocket’s Autumnfest, to the Scituate Art Festival, they are scattered throughout the state and feature art, crafts, food and fun! Kids and adults alike can find a festival tailored to their interests. While not all venues allow pets due to crowds and safety precautions, many welcome furry, four legged companions. Farmers markets, pumpkin festivals, and Halloween events are also prominent at this time, including Paws In the Park at Pawtucket Dog Park (in Slater Park). The event includes a costume contest for dogs with prizes awarded, and an agility course. Register on their website www.pawtucketdogpark.com If you’re in need of some new prescription eyewear or sunglasses for your next outing, come see Team OPTX at OPTX rhode island! We are a full service eye-care center with an eyewear gallery sure to please. Our staff is ready and committed to helping you find that perfect frame! Dozens of designers on hand and plenty of package deals to suit every budget. OPTX is located just minutes from Cranston, Providence, Warwick and more! Call us at (401)521-6789, visit us at 1277 Hartford Avenue, Johnston Rhode Island or check out our web for more information at www.optxrhodeisland.com!
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