If you’ve chosen to travel to Rhode Island, no doubt you already know you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time. With everything there is to do in our charming little state, how could you go wrong? That said, here are a few mistakes that newbies to Rhode Island make, and avoiding them can only improve your trip!
1. Repping the wrong sports team
If Rhode Islanders are anything, it is loyal to our New England sports teams, so don't let us catch you out in a Yankees or Jets jersey if you aren't trying to be questioned on your loyalties.
2. Not trying the seafood
Seafood is one of Rhode Island's claims to fame, so make sure you don't miss out! Most popular are probably the fried clam cakes you can find all over the state, but oysters, lobster, and shrimp are mostly locally caught and sure to be delicious as well.
3. Eating at chain restaurants
With all of the amazing local eateries to be found in every town and city in Rhode Island, why on earth would you settle for basic chain fare? You can find almost any cuisine that intrigues you in our little state with a quick Google search.
4. Not talking to the locals
The locals are so happy to talk to travelers in Rhode Island. Since we are the smallest state, we aren't always thought of first as a travel destination, so we get excited when someone wants to visit! Locals have a wealth of knowledge about the best places to eat, explore, and get educated about Little Rhodey.
5. Badmouthing Del's lemonade
Del's lemonade is a legendary treat in Rhode Island. Established over 70 years ago, we better not hear you talking trash this frozen delight packed with fresh lemon juice and zest!
6. Asking for directions, always trust your GPS!
While we highly encourage talking to the locals, asking them for directions can land you in hot water. It's very common to give directions based on places that no longer exist, and if you aren't from here, it can be pretty hard to "take a left at where the Benny's used to be."
7. Skipping out on seeing a lighthouse
New England is known for its gorgeous lighthouses, and Rhode island is no exception. There are fifteen lighthouses scattered across the state and all are worthy of a visit.
8. Only visiting in the summer
Yes, Rhode Island summers are gorgeous, but that doesn't mean the other seasons don't have their merits. Going to Rhode Island in spring means glorious flowers, fall brings breathtaking leaf changes, and winter is perfect for a low key cozy trip. And you can guarantee shorter lines and smaller crowds when you visit outside the summertime.
9. Avoiding small towns
Rhode Island has some lovely and lively cities to explore, but you will be remiss if you don't spend some of your trip exploring our tinier towns! Bristol, Warren, and Tiverton are all well worth your time for the shopping, dining, and nature to be found.
None of these mistakes will get you into too much trouble, but it’s great to know ahead of time what can trip you up while traveling. What are you most excited to see when you visit Rhode Island?
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.