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- I’m a lifelong New Englander, and I’ve gone on tons of day trips around the region.
- My favorite budget-friendly trip is Block Island, a quaint getaway off the Rhode Island mainland.
- I love exploring scenic beaches and eating delicious seafood for just $20 round-trip.
“Just leave your troubles behind” are the last words of a catchy, famous jingle for the Block Island Ferry.
I’ve lived in Rhode Island my whole life, and heard this jingle more times than I can count. I have to admit there’s something to it: After years of going on day trips, weekend getaways, and longer vacations to tons of New England hot spots, nowhere quite eases my troubles like Block Island.
Every summer, I plan a day trip there, knowing I’ll be met with tons of positivity, excellent seafood, and relaxation on island time.
Though the island is just 9 miles off the mainland and a short ferry ride away, I feel transported into a secluded coastal escape.
It’s easy to take the ferry to Block Island from several towns in New England.
The ferry ride to Block Island is often one of the highlights of my trip.
I take the traditional year-round ferry from Point Judith, Rhode Island, which costs $20.60 for an adult, round-trip ticket. The ride is about an hour long.
Daily ferry trips depart from four other ports in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York.
As soon as I board, I head upstairs to the top deck to soak in the sun and watch the island come into view. Each boat has a full-service bar with snacks, where I grab a cocktail in a souvenir cup and sometimes a plain bagel with cream cheese for the ride.
Arriving at the Block Island dock always feels a little magical.
The ride is usually smooth and provides perfect photo opportunities. Narragansett beachgoers wave goodbye as the ferry departs the dock, and before I know it, I’m approaching the bluff side of the island.
Once the boat is docked at the port, I can quickly exit onto the main road, Water Street.
You can shop, eat, and even meet animals here.
What I call “the main strip” has all a visitor could need on just a few roads. I love exploring the stores — I’ll usually pick up a sweatshirt at one of the cute souvenir shops and peanut-butter fudge for the ferry ride back.
Just a quick walk away is 1661 Farm and Gardens, which is home to not only ducks, geese, kangaroos, llamas, and emus.
There’s tons of great stuff to eat, from breakfast sandwiches to local seafood.
Looking for a quick breakfast or lunch? Head to Persephone’s Kitchen, my go-to spot for an iced latte and “Splendid Egg Sandwich” made with egg, cheddar, avocado, arugula, tomato, and bacon.
Later, local seafood is a must. My personal favorite is sushi from The Oar, which also has (in my opinion) the best Mudslide on the island. Pro tip: Order one with a banana to make it even better.
Other great local spots include the Surf Shack at the Block Island Beach House, which has incredible views, or the Atlantic Inn for a more upscale dining experience.
I also love the flavorful Mexican food at the Yellow Kittens, and snacking on sweet treats at Blocks of Fudge and Aldo’s Bakery.
The amazing views and vibes, of course, are the best part
There are no Ubers on the island, but the good news is that almost everything is within walking distance.
The Mohegan Bluffs and the Southeast Lighthouse are both a 2-mile walk from the ferry, but bikes and mopeds are also available for rent, if you’d like to get around faster.
In my opinion, the Mohegan Bluffs are worth the walk.
Not only do their large clay cliffs offer jaw-dropping views, but also taking the 141 steps down from the top of the bluffs leads visitors to a secluded beach perfect for swimming.
Wherever my travels take me on the island, it’s always filled with either relaxation or adventure (and sometimes, a fun mix of both).
After exploring delicious eateries, scenic beaches, and local shops, a day in Block Island flies by — and before I know it, I’m back on the ferry humming that jingle.
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