Tons of Fun, No Cost: 10 Great Things To Do For Free
Thursday, May 27, 2010
A wise person once said that the tougher the times, the more creative the solution. That applies to going out, from getaways on a date to finding fun for the kids on a rainy Saturday. We've scouted the state for 10 winners for right now. And we've got another batch coming. On this front, there are deep pockets.
Providence: WaterFire
Warren: Massasoit Historical Association
Rich in history, this two-and-one-half-story brick Colonial-gable house was built in 1752 by the Rev. Samuel Maxwell and the home of James and Level Maxwell, prominent ship owners and merchants. Fireplace and bake oven cooking, candle dipping, other eighteenth-century crafts are often demonstrated.The grounds feature an eighteenth-century herb garden and shrubs. Corner of Church and Water Sts, Warren, www.massasoithistorical.org
Charlestown: Fantastic Umbrella Factory
A very funky and fun visit to the Fantastic Umbrella Factory is a must. Small galleries, eclectic shops, a restaurant and farm animals all in a rustic New England atmosphere. It's free if you don't buy anything... but we can't make that promise for you. 4820 Old Post Rd, Charlestown. Open 10am to 6pm during the summer.
West Kingston: Kenyon's Grist Mill
There are plenty of free weekend events at Kenyon's Grist Mill, the second oldest, continuously operating business in the state. Look for free tours of the mill and grinding process, free johnny cakes, and local food samples. Free parking at the Washington County Fairgrounds and Richmond Antique Center & Country Store with continuous shuttle bus transportation. Yes, it's free, but Kenyon Grist Mill asks that you bring a food and/or clothing donation to support the Jonnycake Center & Rhode Island Community Food Bank. Worth it, don't you think? 21 Glen Rock Rd, West Kingston, 783-0454, www.kenyonsgristmill.com
Newport: The Cliff Walk
Here's a free attraction that's no secret, but one of the best ways to spend a cost-free day. This 3.5-mile pathway by the sea is one of New England's most spectacular walks. It affords views of both Newport's legendary mansions and the restless and magnificent ocean they overlook. www.cliffwalk.com
Providence: RISD Museum of Art
You may already know that the Rhode Island School of Design's RISD Museum is a great place for art lovers to spend an afternoon. You may know that it has a collection of 84,000 objects of international significance and is southeastern New England’s only comprehensive art museum. But do you know when you can go for free? Mark your calendar for Free-For-All Saturdays (the last Saturday of each month - that's this weekend), and Gallery Night, 5-9pm, the third Thursday of each month (except December). 224 Benefit St, Providence, www.risdmuseum.org
Portsmouth: Butts Hill Fort
History buffs won't want to miss this site, which was a key position during Rhode Island's only major Revolutionary War land battle on August 29, 1778. Markers tell of the battle in which Generals Lafayette, Hancock, Greene and Sullivan participated. Located off of Sprague Street, you can find more information at www.portsmouthri.com
South Kingstown: Observation Tower at Hannah Robinson Park
Don't you pay your gym to make you climb the Stairmaster? Not here. For free, climb up this 100-foot, open-air wooden tower atop MacSparran Hill for an amazing view of the Rhode Island coastline. Built in 1937 as a lookout to the sea, this is a great free spot to take a few pictures or just enjoy the view. 3481 Kingstown Rd, South Kingstown.
Warren: Firemen's Museum
Who doesn't love a firehouse? Check out the original location of the Narragansett Steam Fire Company Station Number 3. The early Victorian building houses, among its fire department memorabilia, the Little Hero, the town's first fire engine purchased in 1802. A nice little piece of history in the equally historic East Bay town. 38 Baker St, Warren, 245-7600. Call ahead for visiting hours.
Lincoln: Cinemaworld Free Summer Movies
The popular Summer KidFest is back and offers free films every weekday at 10am at this popular theatre at the Lincoln Mall. From Shrek to Curious George, all movies are rated G or PG. Children are free and adults are just $2. (Adult admission is waived if you bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to local food pantries.) 622 George Washington Hwy, Lincoln,333-8019.
