Weekend Getaway: Narragansett
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Need a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of life? Then head to Rhode
Island’s best-kept secret: the seaside town of Narragansett. This coastal hiatus is just across the bridge from Newport and a quick ferry ride away from Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. With the freshest seafood, a dose of old New England charm, and arguably the best beach property along the Northern Atlantic coast, you won’t be disappointed. WORKS gives you the in on where to stay, eat, and play.
Where to Stay:
Ocean View: Village Inn at Narragansett Pier. If a room by the sea is what you crave, look no further. Located along Narragansett’s famous Ocean Drive, the Village Inn sits just steps away from the town beach, restaurants, and shops on the Pier. Rooms from $210 per night. One Beach Street; 401.783.6767; www.v-inn.com
Historic Home: The Atlantic House Oceanfront Hotel.Originally built during the winters of 1866 and ’67, this oceanfront property boasts large guest rooms with separate sitting parlors and private balconies. A few blocks away from the bustle of the Pier, this cozy hotel is the perfect place to rejuvenate. Rooms from $165 per night. 85 Ocean Road; 401.783.6400
Shabby Chic: Scarborough Beach Motel. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood directly across the street from Scarborough State Beach, this hotel is great for groups. Rooms come with full service kitchens and outdoor picnic benches for guests who want to grill outside. Rooms from $99 per night. 901 Ocean Road; 401.783.2063; http://www.scarboroughbeachmotel.com/index.html
Where to Eat:
Night Out: The Coast Guard House. Known for its delicious seafood, lively atmosphere, and unbelievable views of the Atlantic Ocean and Newport Bridge, the Coast Guard House is a can’t-miss. Try the made-to-order baked stuffed shrimp or lobster. After dinner, make your way to the rooftop bar to dance and drink with the young, hip crowd. 40 Ocean Road; 401.789.0700
Local Treat: Iggy’s Doughboys and Chowder House. This family-owned clam shack combines Rhode Islanders’ two favorite fast-food delights—clam cakes and doughboys, a smaller, fluffier version of the funnel cake. Sit on a picnic bench and indulge in a quick lobster roll or fish and chips. 1157 Point Judith Road; 401.783.5608; www.iggysdoughboys.com
Sweet Tooth: Nana’s Ice Cream. Located in the center of Narragansett Pier, Nana’s offers homemade waffle cones and unique flavors like the local favorite, Cookie Monster—blue vanilla ice cream mixed with cookie crumbs and chocolate fudge. Take that, Ben and Jerry! 28 Pier Market PI #A; 401.782.2705
Where to Drink:
See Without Being Scene-y: Turtle Soup. If you want to lounge outside with a specialty cocktail away from the action, this is your spot. This Italian seaside restaurant and bar is great for appetizers, drinks, and watching the sunset. 113 Ocean Road; 401.792.8683
Dive Bar: Mews Tavern. Located in Old Wakefield, the historic village just outside of Narragansett, this colonial saloon has 69 handcrafted microbrews on tap. 456 Main Street; 401.783.9370; www.mewstavern.com
Where to Chill Out:
High-Sea Excursions: Galilee. Take a trip to Narragansett’s authentic fishing village, where you can still watch the fishermen bring in their daily catch. With three beaches to choose from, you can sunbathe, take a whale-watching expedition, go clam digging, or even hop on a fishing boat for the day. Port of Galilee, Sand Hill Cove Road; www.narragansettri.com/galilee
Sun Worship: Narragansett Beach. Hang with locals on the town beach, where the water is crystal clear and there’s always a place to lay down the blanket. Free from the tourist trap of Newport and boat traffic, Narragansett Beach is the perfect place to relax. 39 Boston Neck Road; 401.783.6430