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Tour Rhode Island, There's No Place Like Home - May 3, 2008

1. Block Island, Highlights

Just a short ferry ride off the coast of southern Rhode Island brings you to Block Island, New England's unspoiled island paradise. Block Island is a precious gem surrounded by pristine ocean beaches and magnificent coastal bluffs that climb from the surf into a sanctuary of natural splendor. Enjoy storytelling about the island’s fishing industry, both past and present. Learn about the origins of the island and more during a tour with a local guide. The island's distinctive Victorian architecture and small town personality instantly refreshes your spirit.

Rolling meadows bordered by centuries-old stone walls line the winding country lanes that bring you to magical destinations such as Old Harbor. Here you will enjoy browsing through specialty shops, boutiques, galleries and museums, all surrounded by postcard-perfect scenery.

You’ll savor the views on your bus tour of the island. Stops include Southeast Lighthouse, Mohegan Bluffs, Rodman's Hollow, North Light, the Historical Society, Smilin’ Through and more.

2. Block Island, Highlights (Same as Tour 1)

Just a short ferry ride off the coast of southern Rhode Island brings you to Block Island, New England's unspoiled island paradise. Block Island is a precious gem surrounded by pristine ocean beaches and magnificent coastal bluffs that climb from the surf into a sanctuary of natural splendor. Enjoy storytelling about the island’s fishing industry, both past and present. Learn about the origins of the island and more during a tour with a local guide. The island's distinctive Victorian architecture and small town personality instantly refreshes your spirit.

Rolling meadows bordered by centuries-old stone walls line the winding country lanes that bring you to magical destinations such as Old Harbor. Here you will enjoy browsing through specialty shops, boutiques, galleries and museums, all surrounded by postcard-perfect scenery.

You’ll savor the views on your bus tour of the island. Stops include Southeast Lighthouse, Mohegan Bluffs, Rodman's Hollow, North Light, the Historical Society, Smilin’ Through and more.

3. Block Island, Naturally

Block Island has been heralded as "One of the Last Twelve Great Places in the Western Hemisphere." Its rolling green hills and dramatic bluffs are reminiscent of Ireland, while its beautifully restored Victorian hotels and inns preserve the elegance of a bygone era.

This tour includes a guided walking tour by the Nature Conservancy. Discover birds, flowers, and absorb the island’s history as you stroll along the groomed greenway trails. You’ll quickly discover why the Nature Conservancy declared Block Island "one of the twelve last great places in the western hemisphere."

This year’s tour will take you through the famed Rodman's Hollow Nature Preserve, a walk that will last approximately 2 hours.  This tour is NOT handicap accessible.

This tour will do considerable walking.

4. Block Island Historic Lighthouse Tour

With Block Island’s open fields and farmlands, narrow roads lined with stone walls and wild roses, and miles of sandy beaches, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time on this treasure off Rhode Island’s coast.

Built in 1875, Southeast Lighthouse sits on the Mohegan Bluffs, towering 200 feet above the ocean. It is a National Historic Landmark which is in the process of being completely renovated. The lighthouse was moved in 1993 to prevent it from crumbling over the eroding bluffs and being lost forever to the sea.

The access to the North Light is a three-quarter-mile hike from Sandy Point over a sandy stony terrain. This lighthouse, built in 1868, has an interpretive center and sits on the grounds of a National Wildlife Sanctuary. North Light is on the National Register of Historic Places, and is a wonderful example of Victorian architecture.

The walk to and from the lighthouse is three quarter miles each way over sand and stone. There is no motorized transportation to the lighthouse

5. Country Fun in the Blackstone Valley

Experience the one-of-a-kind farm and carriage works at Chepachet Farm. Enjoy a scrumptious pancake breakfast including fresh maple syrup before you climb aboard a horse-drawn wagon for a ride through the farm and backroads of Glocester.

A stop at the Brown and Hopkins Country Store in Chepachet, dubbed “America’s oldest continuously operated country store,” will bring back memories of a simpler time. Chepachet village offers a variety of antique shop for you to explore.

Then visit the Bridgeton School in Burrillville for a nineteenth-century butter-making demonstration.  A short ride brings you to Spring Lake, where you can enjoy a boxed lunch and try your hand at the vintage penny arcade games, or just relax and enjoy the view. 
Continuing north through bucolic countryside, we come to Burrillville and the 100-year-old Wright's Dairy Farm and Bakery. How long does it take to milk the herd? Learn the secrets of dairy production and watch a cow milking demonstration.

6. Favorite Pastimes of the Blackstone Valley

Your day begins with a river boat tour of the Valley Falls Wilderness area aboard the Blackstone Valley Explorer. While cruising enjoy pastry and coffee as you explore the urban preserve in search of wildlife.

The Rhode Island Antiques Mall is one of the largest outlets of its kind in New England. Enjoy browsing through two floors of high-quality antiques. The space was redesigned by Morris Nathanson, a prominent local architect based in Pawtucket and it is a must see.

Next it’s off to the Slater Mill Living History Museum, where the American Industrial Revolution actually began. Costumed guides bring to life the three historic buildings on the site and demonstrate the wooden waterwheel at the millrace. Lunch will be provided on the grounds before departing for you next adventure.

Baseball enthusiast’s love newly renovated McCoy Stadium, home of the Pawtucket Red Sox, AAA-affiliate of the 2007 World Champion Boston Red Sox. Get to know the “Paw Sox” with a special behind the scenes tour.

Embrace your inner child at Slater Memorial Park with a ride on the historic Looff Carousel. You can also explore the exhibits at the Rhode Island Water Color Society or visit the Daggett House, an early Rhode Island farmhouse.

7. Hidden Treasures of the Valley

This morning’s journey heads to Burrillville where the Grace Note Farm is your first stop. This hidden gem is nestled in the northwest corner of Blackstone Valley. Here, you’ll enjoy light breakfast fare.
           
Then it’s off to St. Ann’s Arts and Cultural Center, Woonsocket, “A treasure to be seen and saved”, view the finest fresco paintings found in North America, “America’s Sistine Chapel.”

A stop will be made at the Blackstone Valley Visitors Center in Lincoln where you will enjoy lunch before departing for the Capt. Wilbur Kelly House (on foot or bus). Along the way view a preserved section of the historic Blackstone Canal that was once used for transportation and today a segment of the Blackstone River Bikeway runs on top of the old towpath.

The Wilbur Kelly House transportation museum brings a new appreciation to our understanding of the importance of our inland waterways. The museum demonstrates the history of the river and canal as a means of transportation from the time of the Native American peoples to the pinnacle of the Industrial Revolution.

Before leaving the Blackstone, at the Gamm Theatre you’ll tour behind the scenes of one of Rhode Island’s theatrical treasures.  The Gamm Theatre Company has earned critical acclaim for their performances.  A member of the New England Theater Association, the Gamm Theatre is located in the former Pawtucket Armory.

8. Blackstone Valley Sampler

This day of exploration begins at the Blackstone Valley Visitors Center, where you will view the award-winning movie” Hidden in the Blackstone. After a snack and peek at the Slater Mill Gift Shop you are footsteps away from the Slater Mill Living History Museum, where the American Industrial Revolution actually began. Costumed guides bring to life the three historic buildings on the site and demonstrate the wooden waterwheel at the millrace.

A short ride takes you to the town of Lincoln and Hearthside, an imposing manor house built in 1810 with winnings from the Louisiana lottery. Period costumed guides relate romantic family lore while pointing out architectural features in one of Rhode Island’s finest examples of a Federal period home.  Nearby at Hannaway Blacksmith Shop, local farriers still hammer glowing hot metal into horseshoes and tools for the farm. Lunch will be provided amongst the treasures at Hearthside.

Later you’ll arrive at the Museum of Work & Culture, depicting the struggle of les Québecois, the French Canadians who left their farms in Canada to pursue a better life for their families in America. Interactive exhibits enliven the experience, rounding out a day of fun and discovery.

Lastly you will tour behind the scenes of the “1926 Vintage Stadium” theater, recognized as one of the finest theaters in the country.  Built as a deluxe movie theatre, it combines amusement, comfort and entertainment for large numbers of people who work and live in the Blackstone Valley.

9. South County – Where Nature Meets History

South County encompasses miles of pristine coastline, thousands of acres of woodlands and nature preserves, ocean beaches, freshwater ponds, pristine, meandering rivers and forested wetlands.  From scenic coastal communities along Narragansett Bay and the Atlantic Ocean to pastoral villages, inland forests and farmlands, South County is truly a nature lover’s dream.  Behind its landscape lies an incredible amount of history, tradition and culture. 

The first stop, at the head of the Pettaquamscutt River, is the Gilbert Stuart Birthplace Museum.  As the family’s dwelling place, it was also a place of industry.  View the oldest snuff mill in America and reproductions of the works of one of America’s foremost portrait painters.  Enjoy a special presentation of the annual Herring Run, explained by a representative from DEM, and view the famous waterwheels as you walk the historic grounds and gardens. 

Enjoy the scenic, narrated driving tour of the wooded areas of the Arcadia Management Area en route to the Tomaquag Indian Memorial Museum, located in Arcadia Village, Exeter.  Through this guided tour, learn the history and culture of local Native American Indians, with a presentation of song and dance by students from Nuweetooun School.  Sample Native American food and browse the many significant exhibits showcasing Native American culture. 

Next, we will visit the quaint village of Usquepaugh.  Running through the heart of this village lays the Queens River, providing a picturesque setting for the next stop, Kenyon’s Grist Mill.  This historic mill dating back to the early 1700’s provides a variety of meals, flours, mixes and baking items.  Sample Johnny Cakes, one of Rhode Island’s best known staples, while learning various grinding techniques used by Native Americans that are still preserved today. 

Located in Wickford, surrounded by Mill Cove and the Cocumscussoc Brook, is the last stop on our tour, Smith’s Castle.  Providing an up-close look at four centuries of Rhode Island history, watch a re-enactment of encampment as pirates and docents dressed in costumes parade the grounds.  Take a guided tour of the castle, a trading post owned by Roger Williams, founder of Rhode Island which was sold in 1661 to Richard Smith.  As you learn about the transformation of the plantation, you’ll see why it is still a treasure today.

10. South County – Arts & Culture Tour

Arts and culture play an important role in South County.  From art galleries, theatres and mansions to landscape and architecture, South County has long been recognized as a cultural center of the state.  Abundant in history, buildings from the seventeenth century and beyond still stand and tell the stories of South County’s Narragansett Indians, war heroes, America’s founding fathers and many others.

Our first stop is the General Nathanael Greene Homestead in Coventry. A Revolutionary War hero, Greene lived here from 1770 to 1776. Greene was the youngest and one of the most trusted generals of the Revolutionary army and a friend and comrade-in-arms of George Washington. The house is now a museum run by the General Nathanael Greene Homestead Association. Explore the yard and eight display rooms, furnished with period furnishings and Greene family memorabilia.

Enjoy a tour of the Babcock-Smith House, a Georgian-style mansion built in 1734 by Dr. Joshua Babcock, Westerly’s first physician, a postmaster and the Chief Justice of Rhode Island. The house is full of furniture that dates back 200 years and toys from the 1890s. The landscape includes a Colonial garden and culinary herb garden.  Lunch is at Wilcox Park, a beautifully landscaped park which is a miniature replica of New York City’s Central Park. The park, maintained by the Westerly Public Library, has a unique species of trees, a dwarf conifer collection and perennial and annual flower beds.

After a driving tour of downtown historic Westerly, we will visit the Langworthy Farm Winery, a small, intimate farm winery on beautiful Route 1A.  Situated one-half mile from the ocean near Weekapaug and Misquamicut, it is an ideal area for growing grapes and producing wines. Taste samples that have names like Misquamicut Merlot, Rhody Riesling, Shelter Harbor Chardonnay and Weekapaug White.  Observe how a variety of their delicious wine is made, while getting a taste of history.

Our last stop, the South County Museum in Narragansett, is located in a 174-acre town park that was the 19th-century estate of Rhode Island's Civil War-era governor and post-war senator, William Sprague.  Visit the seven exhibit buildings portraying blacksmithing, carpentry, printing, textiles and early transportation.  The farm and grounds are home to several types of gardens, farm animals and the official home of the Rhode Island Red.

11. East Bay Mansions and More

The day begins with a spin on the Looff Carousel at Crescent Park, designated as one of American’s finest example of preserved folk-art. Later, enjoy a tour of the Audubon Society’s Environmental Education Center, situated on the twenty-five-acre Claire D. McIntosh Wildlife Refuge. The center features a life-size model of a Right Whale, Rhode Island’s largest aquarium, tide pool tank, trail and boardwalk to the bay. 

Experience the exquisite architecture and unique hand carved moldings at Linden Place, the home of the DeWolf family, which founded the Uniroyal Rubber Company, a banking empire, and is more infamously known for their participation in the triangle slavery trade.

Next it’s off to Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum, which captures all your senses as you meander through the gorgeous gardens and marvel at the forty-five room main house.

A short drive brings you to Herreshoff Marine Museum, located at the site of the world-famous Herreshoff Manufacturing Company, whose products dominated the Golden Age of Yachting. Explore the unique collection of 60 classic sailing and power yachts built from 1859 to 1945, steam engines, fittings, photographs and memorabilia. Don’t miss the Americas Cup Hall of Fame.

Later, Mount Hope farm is a magnificent site that includes healthy farmlands, wetlands, rocky coastline and historic farm buildings. View more than 200 acres of pristine natural beauty that include ponds, spillways and trails.

Historic architecture, coastal inlets are around every corner along your journey to Colt Park where breathtaking seascapes, stone fenced fields and rolling meadows await you. Before leaving the East Bay, discover Coggshall Farm, an early 18th century farm that is still operated with traditional equipment.

12. East Bay, Historic Treasures

Everyone is a child again as you begin your the day with a ride on the Looff Carousel at Crescent Park, East Providence, one of two Looff carousels remaining in Rhode Island.  Next, the Maxwell House offers an authentic view of Colonial America. The 1752 cc gable house is where 18th century crafts are demonstrated to expand the understanding of what life was like 250 years ago.

Later, enjoy a boxed lunch and tour of the Audubon Society’s Environmental Education Center, situated on the twenty-eight-acre wildlife refuge. The center features a life size model of a Right Whale, Rhode Island’s largest aquarium, tide pool tank, trail and boardwalk to the bay. 

Next it’s off to Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum which captures all your senses as you meander through the gorgeous gardens and marvel at the forty-five room main house. Visit the Herreshoff Museum and America's Cup Hall of Fame to learn about Bristol's history as a boat and yacht building center.

Located on the traditional lands of the Wampanoag peoples, the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology is a treasure house of fascinating artifacts from the native peoples of the Americas, Africa, Asia and the Pacific. Enjoy the museum’s four intimate galleries and a museum gift shop.

Later, The Bristol Train of Artillery is filled with rare examples of military weapons, artifacts, shoulder arms, sabres, and other artifacts, as well as documents and memorabilia dating back to the time of the American Revolution.

Before leaving the East Bay, discover Coggshall Farm, an early 18th century farm that is still operated with traditional tools.

13. Warwick, Then and Now

Welcome to Warwick, where it’s history around every corner with a glimpse of the future.

When you think of Warwick, what comes to mind? If you said suburbia, shopping on Route 2 and TF Green Airport, you would be absolutely right. But what you will see today will show you that Warwick is much more than shopping and transportation.

We’ll start the day off with a traditional May Breakfast in Apponaug Village.  The village will soon be accepting a futuristic makeover and you’ll be first to hear about what is to come!  

You’ll also be treated to a sneak preview of an up-and-coming touring site located at the Knight Estate, which includes the original windmill, corn crib, greenhouse and horse stables.  This 19th century gentleman’s farm boasts a fascinating history and a panoramic view of the City from this scenic location next to our CCRI Knight Campus. 

If Victorian Americana is your cup of tea, then stepping back in time at the Clouds Hill Victorian House Museum is as authentic as it comes.  Let Anne guide you through her lovely house museum and award winning gardens along with the rest of her household, all in period costume and serving one of their original family recipes. As a direct descendant of this 19th century home, Anne’s pride and passion shines throughout her tour. You’ll also learn about the museum hours and availabilities.  

These highlights, lunch, additional surprise stops, local samplings, games and prizes, are sure to delight all.
 
So bring your friends and discover what else Warwick has to offer!

14. Warwick, Then and Now (Same as Tour 14)

Welcome to Warwick, where it’s history around every corner with a glimpse of the future.

When you think of Warwick, what comes to mind? If you said suburbia, shopping on Route 2 and TF Green Airport you would be absolutely right. But what you will see today will show you that Warwick is all of that and lots more! 

We’ll start the day off with a traditional May Breakfast in Apponaug Village.  The village will soon be accepting a futuristic makeover and you’ll be first to hear about what is to come!  

As well, you’ll be treated to a sneak preview of an up and coming touring site located at the Knight Estate, which includes the original windmill, corn crib, greenhouse and horse stables.  This 19th century gentleman’s farm boasts a fascinating history and a panoramic view of the City from this scenic location next to our CCRI Knight Campus. 

If Victorian Americana is your cup of tea, then stepping back in time at the Clouds Hill Victorian House Museum is as authentic as it comes.  Let Anne guide you through her lovely house museum and award winning gardens along with the rest of her household, all in period costume and serving one of their original family recipes. As a direct descendant of this 19th century home, Anne’s pride and passion shines throughout her tour. You’ll also learn about the museum hours and availabilities.  

These highlights, lunch, additional surprise stops, local samplings, games and prizes, are sure to delight all.
 
So bring your friends and discover what- else Warwick has to offer!

15. Best of Providence Tour  

Providence seamlessly blends the urban sophistication of a big city with the graceful charm of a small town.  Experience the best of the city on this fun-filled tour.  Your day will include an eclectic mix of history, art, food, wine and fun!  Be sure to wear your walking shoes, as Providence is known for its accessibility as a walking city. 

Your day begins at the John Brown House Museum, a fascinating mansion built in 1788.  Enter the museum and step into the world of 18th century wealth and power, featuring meticulously restored rooms containing significant national treasures.

Students and scholars worldwide vie each year for admission to Brown University.  Although renowned today as an Ivy League university, Brown’s beginnings, in 1764, as the College of Rhode Island were humble.  You will walk the University “Green” to discover the first buildings of this special campus in the heart of Providence.  

Your next stop is the Culinary Archives & Museum at Johnson & Wales University, often referred to as “The Smithsonian Institution of the Food Service Industry.”  This renowned museum has a remarkable collection representing the preservation of five millennia of culinary development, traditions and anecdotes. 

No Providence festival would be complete without the wild puppet creations from The Big Nazo Lab.  We will get to peak inside the lab, which serves as an exhibition space and a creature-building workshop.
 
The tour continues with a look at the African American heritage of Rhode Island as we visit the Black Repertory Theater. The theater’s civic and artistic goals provide unique experiences in performance, education and public programs. We will also hear from The Rhode Island Black Heritage Society about their amazing collection of books, manuscripts, letters, and photographs, and their preservation efforts to maintain these treasures for generations to come.

The day ends with a wine class presented by the New England Wine School held at 3 Steeple Street Bistro & Bar.  Learn about the characteristics of wine and how to pair wines with food. 

16. Providence Arts, Culture & Theater Tour

Galleries, theaters and museums fill the streets of Providence.  There’s a buzz about arts and culture in the city.  Find out how this happened and why Providence is a magnet for music, design education, and great visual, culinary and performance art.  Join us as we explore this city’s arts scene.  Be sure to wear your walking shoes, as Providence is known as a walking city. 

Your day begins at the Providence Performing Arts Center, which hosts touring Broadway shows, plays and concerts.  This stunning Rhode Island landmark began as a Loew's Movie Palace in 1928 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. 

At the RISD Museum, you will view one of the most diverse art collections in the nation.  This classic, but trendy museum houses more than 80,000 pieces from around the world, featuring everything from Monet to a larger-than-life Buddha sculpture.

You will then visit the Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum. This Renaissance Revival mansion built in 1865, is described by the New York Times as "one of the most complete, authentic and intact Victorian houses in the country." 

Your next stop is the Culinary Archives & Museum at Johnson & Wales University, often referred to as “The Smithsonian Institution of the Food Service Industry.”  This renowned museum has a remarkable collection representing the preservation of five millennia of culinary development, traditions and anecdotes. 

Next at the Bert Gallery, you will view exhibits showcasing the trends and styles embraced by New England artists.  Founded in 1985, the gallery’s mission continues to focus on researching, showcasing and preserving paintings from the region. 

Your tour continues with a visit to the Tony Award-winning Trinity Repertory Company, which has brought laughter, insight, magic, tears and passion to three generations of audiences. 

The day concludes with a stop at AS220, a downtown arts center, and The Dreyfus Hotel.  Originally built in 1890, The Dreyfus has a long history as a hotel, lounge and restaurant that served the bustling downtown theater district.  AS220's adaptive re-use of the Dreyfus is being undertaken as a historic preservation project that will bring new life to the building.

17. Dining through History in Rhode Island

Depart this morning on an adventure that will span more than two century’s of Rhode Island culinary culture.  This year’s Foodie tour looks at dining from a historical perspective and explores First Period, Colonial and Victorian foodways. Did you know that most restaurants in Providence are on historical sites, or are historical themselves? Any idea what the Victorians did with all that silverware on the table? Well, today we’ll find out.

Our first stop is at the Roger Williams National Memorial in Providence where Natives Americans led Williams to an abundance of fish and wildlife. Here, National Park rangers demonstrate traditions past down to the colonists by the Wampanoag and Narragansett whose sophisticated planting methods included  using fish as a fertilizer, and planting the “Three Sisters”- squash, beans and corn.

A guided walk down North Main Street past 3 Steeple Street, New Rivers Cafe, and Café Nuovo reveals a historic prospective almost as decadent as the current purveyors’ renowned cuisine.  Before boarding your motorcoach, view the convergence of the Woonasquatucket, and Moshassuk rivers from the Providence Riverwalk.

The John Brown House is where you’ll learn about dining in opulence during the colonial period.  View the Brown family china displayed in the houses elegant dining room as your guide explains a typical daily menu.

Lunch will be served at Local 121 in Providence, one of the contemporary leaders in the sustainable foods movement. Most of the ingredients used at the restaurant are locally procured; in fact, they have a “food forager” on staff that seeks out locally produced meats, produce, etc.

Lastly it’s off to Newport for a special tour at Marble House. Alva Vanderbilt’s kitchen served society’s most indulgent guest during the gilded age. Learn why the chef was the most prized staff member and best paid.

18. “Only in Rhode Island”

Rhode Island is America’s precious gem, with historic, cultural and natural treasures around every corner waiting to be discovered. This tour celebrates some of Rhode Island’s unique places and people.

Designed by McKim, Mead and White in 1891-92 of white Georgian marble, the Rhode Island Capitol building is considered to have the fourth largest self-supported marble dome in the world. You’ll enjoy viewing the original Rhode Island Charter of 1663, and historic portrait of George Washington, by Rhode Island native Gilbert Stuart, during a guided tour.

Next it’s off to the Slater Mill historic site, where you’ll explore the birthplace of American industry, an early skilled worker's home, and the Wilkinson Mill, which houses an authentic nineteenth-century machine shop and a reconstructed 16,000-lb. water wheel. Learn about the people of the early industrial revolution, the tools and machines they used and the place where America changed direction.

Later, you’ll head to Newport and Belcourt Castle where the lady of the house Mrs. Holly Tinney will greet your group before your tour begins. This Louis XIII-style castle designed by Richard Morris Hunt for Oliver H.P. Belmont exhibits a full-size gold Coronation Coach and one of the largest collections of antiques and treasures in Newport. Belcourt is the only Newport mansion with owners-in-residence. Enjoy viewing the family’s furnishings collected from thirty-three European and Oriental countries.

A special stop will be made at Only In Rhode Island, a specialty shop located in Newport’s Brick Market district, that features products made only in Rhode Island.

The last stop of the day is at the former summer home of Pennsylvania coal magnate Augustus Van Wickle. This charming forty-five room turn-of-the-century mansion and thirty-three acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens overlook Narragansett Bay and historic Bristol Harbor. One of the first and most innovative arboreta in America, it features 50,000 flowering spring bulbs, a Japanese water garden, exotic bamboo stand, a display garden and the largest giant sequoia east of the Rockies, among hundreds of unusual plantings.

There truly is no place like Rhode Island

19. Rhode Island’s Spooky Legends

Rhode Island has its share of spooky stuff that goes bump in the night, and this tour will investigate some of the legends. Led by Rory Raven, mentalist and author of Ghosts of Providence, it’s sure to be a fun day looking at Rhode Island’s darker side…

The first stop will be in Exeter where the group will hear the legend of Mercy Brown, Rhode Island vampire, from Dr. Michael Bell, state folklorist. Dr. Bell has written Food for the Dead, a book about Mercy and other NE vampire legends, so he’s certainly the expert. Learn how consumption wiped out families and was thought to be the work of dead relatives.

Our next romp will be at the Sprague Mansion in Cranston, now home of the Cranston Historical Society. The murder of Amasa Sprague, owner of the Cranston Print Works, and the subsequent investigation, arrest and execution of John Gordon ended the use of the death penalty in Rhode Island. Interestingly, it’s not John or Amasa that walks the halls of the Mansion. Is it Charlie, the butler?

After lunch, we’ll visit Warwick City Hall for a tour of the building with Bob Martin, who was interviewed on Ghost Hunters. Bob has photographed something that didn’t quite belong in the building, and there’s a rumor that the City Council Chambers have a resident ghost.

Finally, Rory will lead the group on a walking tour of Providence’s East Side, home of HP Lovecraft, creator of the science-fiction genre who featured buildings from the East Side in his tales of the macabre.  Rory will also point out some of the places where ghosts have been “hanging around” for a while and spin the tales behind the legends.

Please note: This tour involves walking about one mile on city sidewalks.

20. Rhode Island FarmWays

Explore the unique treasures of Rhode Island’s private farms and discover the history, ecology and culture of our local communities through a series of activities and experiences. 

Your day begins with a tour of Miner’s Farm provided by a family member. A former dairy farm run by the family who lived off the land until 1946, its sixty-one acres of pasture, waterways and woodlands provides dramatic views and experiences of a very unique kind. Enjoy a variety of water and earthen gardens, an apple orchard, grapes and raspberries on the vine. Places and items of historic and archeological interest are found on the property. There are pastures for cows, horses, donkeys and pigs and acres of grasslands recently preserved through the first Grasslands Reserve Conservation Easement ever awarded in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic States.

Next it’s off to Hidden Meadows Farm where a member of the Wright family will conduct a tour of the 200 acre farm, which has been in the family for 60 plus years. As its name implies, this secluded location offers an abundance of wildlife where you may spot wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, song birds, birds of prey, fox, coyote and many more creatures. Before leaving Hidden Meadows, enjoy a delicious boxed lunch.

Hi-On-A-Hill Herb Farm & Gardens is a small seventh generation family farm specializing in herbs and land/wildlife conservation management. Within the borders of quaint fences, bedrock and glacial boulders are various herbal theme gardens, a water garden and the herb shed where herbs hang to dry for future use in “dried everlastings” arrangements available from the gift shop, along with honey from Celestial Offerings. Herb plants are available for purchase.

Family members work on this farmland along with thousands of honey bees that belong to Celestial Offerings Inc., an apiary located in the privacy of a woodland opening on the farm. A honey bee history garden with period display hives is one of the educational settings on the farm. Afternoon tea will be taken at Hi-On-A-Hill along with tours of the property provided by the Hi-On-A-Hill family.

Please note: This tour will involve a variety of walking paths and terrains. Please dress appropriately and expect tours of different durations.

21. Country fun in Newport County

Your visit to Rhode Island’s historic Farm Coast area begins with a stop at Arruda’s Dairy in Tiverton, named Rhode Island’s Outstanding Dairy Farm of 2006. This working dairy farm has been owned and operated by the Arruda/Moniz family since 1917. You’ll learn how the dairy produces its full line of milk products without bovine growth hormones during a guided tour. You’ll see the farm, calving barn, processing room and other sights and sounds of Arruda’s Dairy.

Board the bus for the quick ride to historic Tiverton Four Corners. This small crossroads village dates to pre-Colonial times (it takes its name from the fact that in Colonial times, a public house or tavern could only be located, by law, at a crossroads!).  Today, this quaint collection of 18th and 19th century buildings contains numerous small shops, art galleries and artisan food stores. You can stroll at your own pace around the Village, exploring the wonderful craftsmanship of dedicated young artists in their storefronts, walk down to the Mill Pond shops, or just find a quiet spot to enjoy the early spring day. You may enjoy your box lunch in or around the Meeting House* Oh, yeah, did we mention that Gray’s Ice Cream is right in the middle of town!

*In case of inclement weather, the bus will visit Fogland Beach on the Sakonnet Passage just a few minutes from the Meeting House, a restful and beautiful spot to enjoy your lunch.

The Peckham family of Little Compton has its roots deeply planted in the Farm Coast. Several of the working farms in the area are owned and/or operated by one family member or another! At Peckham’s Green House, you can visit one of Rhode Island’s most extensive nurseries. See why southeastern Rhode Island farming is a passion and expertise to many!

One of the most elegant farms in Little Compton is Sakonnet Vineyards, where some 50 acres of grape vines in this unique microclimate produce the vineyard’s award-winning wines. You will enjoy a tour of the winery and a special wine tasting exclusively for members of this tour. A little taste of the grape is a wonderful way to end your tour to the Farm Coast!

22. The Newport Experience

Taste, touch and smell your way through history on this walking tour of the Lower Thames Street neighborhood. Chocolate, spices, and rum flavored old Newport's kitchens and commerce.  Explore the wharves where these goods were made and traded, while hearing lively stories about sailors & boat builders, smugglers & merchants, and working women & immigrant families. The tour includes a short visit inside the kitchen of the Federal-period Whitehorne House.

Next you will tour the International Tennis Hall of Fame.  The museum chronicles the entire history of the sport through fascinating galleries while portraying the game’s greatest champions.  Housed in the Historic Newport Casino, a National Historic Landmark, discover this great sports museum and experience the grandeur of a Victorian-era social club.

Visit the Newport Visitor Information Center located at 23 America’s Cup Ave.  Here you will find one stop shopping for attraction and recreational tickets, information on events and activities, shopping, dining, and a whole lot more.

All Aboard!! Enjoy a scenic harbor cruise on board the Majestic, one of Newport’s newest tour boats. Learn about fascinating points of interest in the ‘City by the Sea.’ A gourmet Rhode Island box lunch will be provided.

Before heading back to Warwick, you will board the bus for your Newport Mansions experience! Enjoy a tour of The Elms, once a summer residence of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Julius Berwind of Philadelphia and New York. The house is modeled after the mid-18th century French chateau d'Asnieres (c.1750) outside Paris. Construction of The Elms was completed in 1901 at a cost reported at approximately $1.4 million. In 1996, The Elms was designated a National Historic Landmark.

23. Newport County Winery Tour

A special visit will be made to the Newport Information Center where you will find one-stop shopping for attraction and recreational tickets, information on events and activities, shopping, dining, and a whole lot more.

Then it’s off to Rhode Island’s largest and oldest winery, Sakonnet Vineyards & Winery. One of the most elegant farms in Little Compton, where some 50 acres of grape vines in this unique microclimate produce the vineyard’s award-winning wines. You will enjoy a tour of the winery and a special wine tasting exclusively for members of this tour.
           
Voyage onward to Greenvale Vineyards, nestled in the town of Portsmouth. Explore the vineyard’s idyllic setting and beautifully restored Victorian Gothic stable/tasting room.  Taste and savor delicious award-winning wines produced from 100% estate-grown grapes that have been nurtured by the Parker family’s historic farm. Before leaving enjoy your Rhode Island gourmet box lunch on the scenic grounds of Greenvale Vineyards!

Your last stop on the Newport County Winery tour is Newport Vineyards, where you will enjoy an informative tour of the world-class wine making facilities and vineyard, ending with a sampling of the fruits of their labor at their winery tasting bar!  Enjoy shopping in the wonderful gift shop.

24. The Best of Jamestown

Travel to Jamestown this morning where Watson Farm is your first stop. Heritage breeds of cattle, sheep, horses, chickens and a large garden are a few of the features highlighted during a one hour walking tour of the 265-acre working farm. Don’t miss the sweeping view of Narragansett Bay’s west passage.

Your Jamestown exploration will continue with a visit to the Old Jamestown Windmill built in 1787 and in operation until 1896, the Windmill stands high on Windmill Hill in the center of the island.  Then it’s off to the Quaker Meeting House, built in 1786-1787 it has been open for Sunday worship every summer.  Later, Clancy Designs glass blowing studio features hand-blown functional and fun glassware. You’ll get to meet the artists, tour their beautiful workshop and experience the glass blowing process.

The southernmost part of Conanicut Island (Jamestown) is known as Beavertail, for its natural beavertail contour. This rocky, windswept point looks south to the open Atlantic Ocean and separates the East and West Passages of Narragansett Bay. It has hosted beacons and lighthouses since at least 1705. The current lighthouse was built in 1856. Enjoy a boxed lunch from a local favorite, Spinnakers Café and explore Beavertail’s natural splendor or indulge in the locations unique history at the Beavertail Museum.

A local tour through Jamestown reveals the places, history and folklore that have help to attracted tourist to the popular vacation destination for centuries.

Before leaving the island take a guided walking tour down Narragansett Avenue where our museums, shops and restaurants are located. You’ll have free time afterwards to check out the shops and grab a snack if you like!