July 7, 2008

Rhode Trip

Family Getaway to Rhode Island

Looking for an easy summer escape? Skip airport chaos and plunging dollars for Rhode Island’s beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and lobster rolls.

The Brass Ring
Seaside town Watch Hill is straight out of central casting: quaint houses, the Flying Horse Carousel, and homemade vanilla ice cream from St. Clair Annex (141 Bay Street; 401-348-8407). Kids will love Napatree Point, a half-mile long sandspit with remnants of a fort from the Spanish-American War. In addition to primo sand castle-building conditions and gentle surf, the views from the Point are stunning.

Room and Board
After an action-packed day, head to Aunt Carrie’s (1240 Ocean Road; 401-783-7930) in Narragansett for vast quantities of fried food (mmmm … clam cakes), freshly baked rhubarb pie, and picnic tables. Sleep off the New England charm at family-friendly Breezeway Resort, which has fully equipped kitchens and a heated pool, or the more upscale Shelter Harbor Inn in nearby Westerly.

Wicked Charming
Next stop, Wickford, for a sweet Main Street and Beach Rose Cafe (85 Brown Street; 401-295-2800), where you can get a picnic to go. Head for the beach in nearby Matunuck, then to Theatre by the Sea (364 Cards Pond Road, Matunuck; 401-782-8587) for the Children’s Festival — a little culture in the country.

Last Hurrah
Ease the transition back to NYC with a stop at Charlestown’s funky Fantastic Umbrella Shop (4820 Old Post Road; 401-364-6616). The complex of small shops surrounded by gardens and a petting zoo is the perfect mix of penny candy, live peacocks, and tchotchkes. Finally, the Mystic Seaport provides a last dose of fish and folklore.

Shore sounds good.

HEAR
Martha Redbone and Band
What: Take a picnic and enjoy tunes overlooking Carl Schurz Park and the East River.
Why: Easy listening.
When: Wed., 7-8:30 p.m.; rain date, Thurs.
Where: Carl Schurz Park, East End Ave., from 84th to 90th Sts. (on the John Finley Walk, at the top of the E. 86th St. stairs).

READ
Storytelling Saturdays
What: Roam 52 acres of flowers, then hear tales of garden adventures and animal journeys.
Why: Bloom and grow.
When: Sat., 2-4 p.m.
Where: Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Discovery Garden Toddler Lawn, 1000 Washington Ave. (718-623-7200).

BOOGIE
Family Swing Dance
What: Big band sounds and Lindy Hop lessons on the Esplanade Plaza (at the very end of Liberty St.).
Why: It’s swing time.
When: Sat., 6:30-8 p.m.
Where: Battery Park City, Hudson River, Battery Pl. to Chambers St.

EAT
Ice Cream Festival
What: Savor sorbets, besos (sandwich “kisses”), and avocado ice cream made tableside with strawberries and white chocolate.
Why: Licks and kicks? Muy bueno.
When: Thru July 20.
Where: Rosa Mexicano, 1063 First Ave., at 58th St. (212-753-7407); 61 Columbus Ave., at 62nd St. (212-977-7700); 9 E. 18th St., b/t Fifth Ave. & Broadway (212-533-3350).