In the small state of Rhode Island, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been everywhere there is go. But if you haven’t paid a visit to Monastery Park in Cumberland, then you’ll want to add this unique spot to your bucket list. With an interesting history, gorgeous architecture, walking trails, and a bookstore, this picturesque park has something for everyone.
Our Lady of the Valley Monastery was founded by twelve Nova Scotian monks in 1900. The stone buildings were built over time with stones quarried from the surrounding area and were completed in the 1930s.
The monks abandoned their original monastery after two devastating fires. In the 1950s, here in Rhode Island, history repeated itself and tragic fire claimed the interior of the monastery. The monks left and moved onto Massachusetts to rebuild.
A set of stairs leads to an iron gate preventing visitors from exploring the old church foundation. But the monastery is hardly just a relic of the past, this quiet place of reflection has been repurposed into a wonderful space for Rhode Islanders to enjoy.
Monastery Park is home to the town library. Enjoy browsing the titles and joining in on the many educational programs. The children's room is a cheerful space with plenty of books and activities to keep the younger crowd entertained.
More than just a home for the library, the park offers a network of gorgeous walking trails. Explore 12 different scenic paths, the longest at just over one mile.
The Nine Men's Misery trail takes you to the site where nine colonists were tortured by the Narragansett Indian tribe during King Philip's War. A stone marker was placed in 1676 and this is believed to be the oldest veterans memorial in the nation.
Other trails are former cart paths or just paths used by the Monks for meditative strolls. Enjoy spending time in the natural surroundings whether on a family outing or a solitary hike.
Monastery Park also has a playground which is a huge draw for the kids. Swings and climbing structures are great places for the little ones to stretch their legs and blow off some steam.
You'll also want to pay a visit to the Friends Bookstore. Discover a large selection of hardcovers, paperbacks, audiobooks, and children's titles. Reasonably priced at $1 or less each, you won't go home empty-handed.
Find the Monastery Park at 1464 Diamond Hill Rd., Cumberland, RI 02864. Learn more by visiting the Cumberland Public Library website. You can download a trail map here.
Have you ever visited Monastery Park? What is your favorite part of this complex? As the weather thaws, you’ll want to start exploring outside even more. Check out these ten must-visit spots for spring.
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