EDITORIAL

Stay local to beat summer inflation

Posted 7/5/22

There’s no avoiding the fact that the price of gas, and just about everything else, is problematically high right now. But alleviation from some of that pain might be attainable through a …

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EDITORIAL

Stay local to beat summer inflation

Posted

There’s no avoiding the fact that the price of gas, and just about everything else, is problematically high right now. But alleviation from some of that pain might be attainable through a re-evaluation of the things right in our own back yard.

Enjoying summer doesn’t require long road trips or excessive purchases when you live in Rhode Island, where great vistas and free events are plentiful and available to anybody within a short distance.

Many Rhode Islanders, surprisingly, tend to stay relatively close to home — who has time to cross the bridge on 195 and venture into the foreign land of the “East Bay” after all?

Indeed, we are all aware of the nearby Roger Williams Zoo and its family-friendly fun, as well as the beautiful parks and beaches available for a leisurely stroll throughout Warwick’s interior and coastline. But those who choose a sedentary life in our wonderful state are sorely missing out.

A short trip into Providence will provide a wonderful night out at Waterfire, or provide a jumping off spot at India Point Park to walk or cycle on the stunning East Bay Bike Path, which opens up the scenic towns of Barrington, Warren and Bristol — the latter of which many in our audience likely enjoyed this Monday during their 237th 4th of July Parade, which only required an investment of time and whatever supplies you felt inclined to bring with you.

Trips west and northwest will bring you to underrated hiking trails throughout the rural parts of the state, perfect free outings for the whole family to leave their electronics in the car and unplug for some much-needed time in nature. A trip south to Narragansett or across the bridges to Newport or Jamestown will provide plenty of enjoyment just from strolling and window shopping. And although not free to outsiders, a beach day at Second Beach in Middletown is inexpensive enough at $20 to warrant a day of needed serenity with perhaps the most striking backdrop among Rhode Island’s plethora of beach experiences.

Local tourism groups within each of our cities and towns do tremendous work to market their communities, so check out their recommendations online for plenty of free events and happenings throughout the area. Block Island beckons to those yearning for a ferry ride and to explore a corner of Rhode Island away from the mainland.

You never know what you may find, or what you could experience. And in this state, it’s never more than an hour away.

inflation, editorial

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  • umpwuggly

    Don't forget our museums. From Herreshoff Marine Museum, to RISD, to Varnum Armory, to Gilbert Stuart, to South County, to all the Newport Mansions and many more.

    Friday, July 22, 2022 Report this