Rhode Island is nothing if not unique, but there are some things that really stand out. Our two-ton termite The Big Blue Bug for example. Everyone is familiar with Nibbles, but there are plenty of other attractions here that aren’t things you see every day. We’ve put together a list of some unique Rhode Island spots that are worth checking out, because visiting these places make great stories at parties.
1. Gun Totem, Providence
Across from the Federal Court House on South Main Street is a piece of artwork by Boris Bally. Dubbed the "Gun Totem", this 12 foot obelisk is made of steel, concrete, and over 1000 handguns from a firearms buyback program in 2001.
2. Florence Nightingale's Nursing Cap, Westerly
Florence Nightingale is the founder of modern nursing, and there's no better way to pay homage than to go visit her actual nursing cap. It has been on display in the lobby of the Westerly Hospital since 1965. Visiting this attraction would make a great day trip for local nursing students. 45 Wells Street, Westerly
3. Green Animals Topiary Garden, Portsmouth
Confronting life size unicorns and giant rabbits sculpted from English Boxwood are unique experiences on any day. Doing it in America's oldest topiary garden does it one better. 380 Corys Lane, Portsmouth
4. Statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog, Woonsocket
The heartwarming story of Hachiko the dog who loyally waited for his master every day, was made famous in a 1987 movie in Japan. In 2009, the story was remade into a movie starring Richard Gere that was filmed in Woonsocket and Bristol. Sculptor Darren Hussey created the replica of the famous Hachiko statue in Tokyo, which was eventually placed in front of the Woonsocket train depot. He sits out there every day, just like he did in the movie. This is a fantastic attraction for dog lovers to visit.
The famous original statue of Hachiko in Tokyo is a popular meeting spot, symbolizing the love and commitment of the people who meet there.
5. Old Stone Tower, Newport
What is it? How old is it? What was it for? Truth is, no one really knows. Some say it's the remains of a 17th-century windmill, some say it's much older and evidence that Vikings visited Rhode Island centuries ago. Check it out in Touro Park on Mill Street in Newport.
The tower in 1894.
6. The Fantastic Umbrella Factory, Charlestown
The Fantastic Umbrella Factory is a complex like no other, complete with 5 shops, gardens, a cafe, local artists, and even goats and emus. Spend the day at 4820 Old Post Rd Charlestown.
Step out of the box and check out some of these unique Rhode Island attractions for yourself. Have you already been to any of these places?
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