Why Rhode Island?

Rhode Island is a beautiful place to live, visit, swim, ride a bike, explore, and so much more!  It is definitely a place worth trying out for size.  Speaking of size, did you know that Rhode Island is the smallest state in the U.S.A.?  Yeah, but don't let that fool you, because this little state has a huge array of things to do and see!  Having lived in Rhode Island as a child, myself, I can remember many wonderful days at the beach or eating clamcakes and chowder at Champlin's.

The RIG Team & Friends Visiting The Beach In Rhode Island

Here are just a few of my favorite places to go in Rhode Island.  First, you cannot go to Rhode Island without trying the clamcakes and chowder!  It's almost a sin to not at least try to eat this amazing meal.  Now, I know what some people are thinking "clamcakes?!" but I am telling you, you have to at least try one.  The one place I recommend the most is Champlin's Seafood Restaurant in Narragansett, Rhode Island.  It's a great atmosphere located right by the ocean!  I honestly don't see what there is not to love about the place.

Nickie Farley, eating Chowder at Champlin's!

Josh Farley eating a clamcake at Champlin's

Since we are already on the topic of food,  I have to mention my absolute FAVORITE food ever!  Now, you might think this is absolutely bizarre, but as a kid in Rhode Island I loved going to get these things.  They are called Hot Weiners!  They are kind of like your hot dog, but take it up to a yummy notch of about 100!  Even if you detest hot dogs, you may really like these things.  I highly recommend giving them a chance.

Josh Farley, eating a famous Hot Weiner for the first time thinking "WOW!"

Now that I have mentioned the food "must haves", let's move on to places you must visit.  First place, is the capitol of Rhode Island which is of course, Providence.  What a great name!  This place is very unique as it houses the nation's first Baptist church established in 1638 on College Hill in the downtown area.  Wow, I think that is just amazing!  Roger Williams, a Godly man and Theologian, was the founder of the colony, Rhode Island.  This was the first colony to apply the principle of absolute freedom of the individual in matters of religion. What a rich heritage this place holds.  Fast forwarding to the present, Providence has what is known as the WaterFire which is sponsored by local businesses.  It is a must see for anyone who enjoys city life and what a spiritual significance water over fire holds!

First Baptist church in America (picture taken by Josh Farley in July 2010)

A second place that is a must see is the Newport Cliff Walk which is located along the eastern shore of Newport.  What a beautiful place!  Along this 3.5 mile walk are very elegant mansions from the early New England populace on one side and a truly breathtaking view of the ocean on the other side.  Bring your camera!

Josh & Nickie Farley at the Cliff Walk

The next place is a great one to take a bike ride or rent a mo-ped to explore.  It's an island off the coast of Rhode Island named Block Island.  It's a lovely day trip for the family.  You take a ferry ride out to the island and explore to your hearts content the beaches and historical lighthouse, eat at one of the variety of restaurants in town, or shop.

The View from the Top to the Beach

Standing in front of a historic lighthouse on Block Island

A personal favorite of mine is Charleston Breachway.  Growing up, I have spent days and nights at the Breach.  RV campsites are available to which I can attest hold a special charm in the early morning when you wake up to the sounds of seagulls and waves, and curl up in a chair in the evenings to watch the colorful sun setting upon the water.  The campsites are by reservation only, but the beach is accessible to anyone for a small park fee.  But, bring a cooler full of food & plenty of water to drink, some sand shovels, and a towel, and I bet the fee will be the last thing on your mind as you leave the beach at the end of the day.

Pastor George Ellingwood walking with his granddaughter at the Breachway

I hope my little tour of the state of Rhode Island has you reaching for your GPS and sunscreen!  I encourage you to have a serious thought of visiting this lovely place that is full of so much of our great nations rich history.  But, not only is the place great, the people are amazing too!  So, now that I have shown you around, what do you think?  Isn't this the perfect place to start Rhode Island Genesis church?!

-Written by Nickie Farley