Middletown

This achingly cute farmstand actually started as a hobby project by farmers Jan Paul and Michelle Eckhart, who finally made it into a full-time operation in the '90s. The farm specializes in the kinds of things that make incredible housewarming gifts, like fresh-cut flowers and jams. You can also come to the stand for breakfast, lunch, and take-home platters for dinner. A major win for the littles: year-round, pick-your-own produce, offering berries and peaches in the summer, apples and pumpkins in the fall, and Christmas trees in the winter.

Despite Newport's serious yacht culture, the gorgeous scenery can still be enjoyed with both feet on solid ground.

While pro surfers head to Newport to catch ten and 15 foot swells at Ruggles break point, there are gentler beaches like Second where the waves are more appropriate for beginners. It’s here that Rhody’s instructors teach one hour private and group lessons (they also provide all the necessary equipment). Kids can also join their week-long morning surf camps—sign up online, as they fill up quickly.

There are no kites, joggers, or bike riders allowed in this 375-acre nature reserve on Aquidneck island—it’s for serious birders only. The number of species you’ll run across on any day is pretty impressive (#normanbirdsanctuary), and so are the seven, well-maintained miles of trails. They hold free guided bird walks every other Sunday.

A visit to a Rhode Island seaside town would be incomplete without a clam shack stop, and if you’re only making one, go for Flo’s with its picnic tables and fishermen’s tchotchkes hanging from the ceilings. Open since 1936—when it first introduced New England to the fried clam—it’s now a major, two-floor operation overlooking Easton Beach. Besides fried seafood, they’re known for their chowder. Bring cash.