After a recent conference in Manchester, NH, Charlie and I explored Rhode Island, staying in Providence. You can read a more wordy version in TravelPulse – this is more of a pictorial. We were hosted by the Omni Providence Hotel, a gorgeous and convenient place to stay within walking distance of everything the city has to offer. GoProvidence provided lots of input in terms of what to see in the city including a day trip to Newport.

One of our favorite places in town was Federal Hill, Providence’s version of Little Italy. There are tons of stories about this place, sometimes called the “Tri-Guido” area. The food is phenomenal.

Newport is only a 45 minute drive and is worth spending an afternoon, just to see the amazing mansions that serve as summer homes to the rich. Many are open for tours.

Back to Providence…we enjoyed a tour boat ride through the center of town with Providence River Boat Company. Our captain gave us an excellent overview of the history of the city and pointed out info that only a native would know.

We wish we had more time in the state as there are over 400 miles of coastline, even though it is only 48 miles north to south by 37 miles east to west.

If a New England trip is planned, make sure you include Rhode Island…it has a personality of its own and the food is fabulous!