To celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, look no further than the enduring state of Rhode Island, one of the original 13 colonies. 

Known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Providence, Rhode Island’s long-standing, historic infrastructure has been given a new breath of life. With many of its remnants still standing, from the old wooden mills to the famed, red brick buildings, time and ingenuity have transformed this aged landscape into a diverse, culturally rich hub. Here the past and present intertwine, creating a destination brimming with art, history, and a mix of classic northeastern fare with ethnic cuisine. 

Weave Into the LOOM Hotel

Hilton’s The LOOM, a Tapestry Collection perfectly embodies the essence of this region with its restored, historic textile mill hotel. Combining the industrial minimalism of cool, slick concrete walls, exposed brick, and dark wood tones with color popping wall art and quirky, vibrant textiles, The LOOM radiates warmth and character in every detail.

Even with all the echoes of America’s industrious beginnings reverberating throughout the setting, the tree-lined Pawtuxet River flows right outside the LOOM. This river, which once powered many of the area’s early mills, still flows today as an unspoken hero, bringing a touch of nature to balance The LOOM’s factory vibes. Book your room here.

Downtown Providence: A Contemporary View of the Past

In the heart of this enduring city, time-honored industrial progression and the power of nature intersect, creating a cultural center complete with walkable features that include the Providence Riverwalk, the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, and many local shops and cafes along Federal Hill.

Track 15 pays further homage to its history with a modern food hall inspired by the railroad which carried the town well into the 20th century. With the exciting Romolo Bar serving up classic and monthly-fresh Old Fashions to six different concepts, from Latin-inspired to classic Italian, Track 15 delights with a diversity of flavors.

As a landlocked Texan traveler, I naturally gravitated towards Dune Brothers, a pier-to-plate elevated take on Rhode Island seafood. Husband and wife team Nicholas and Monica Gillespie have taken comfort food classics to a new level, like the New England Lobster Roll, a lovely heaping of fresh lobster meat dripping with butter atop a golden toasted roll, and the Fish Sandwich, a delightfully crispy and generous portion of fried cod topped with tangly slaw and house made pickles.

Kick Up the Heat at Tuxpan Taqueria Mexican Kitchen

In the densely populated neighborhood of Central Falls, Rhode Island sits a humble taco shack, Tuxpan Taqueria Mexican Kitchen, which brings genuine South of the Border flavor and heat to this often-frigid Northeastern setting. Spaces are understandably limited, both inside the shack and for parking, but if you get here at the right time, either right before the lunch rush or afterwards, you can help yourself with your choice of either.

Just from the aroma alone, I knew that this was going to be an authentic experience. Meat sizzled with tantalizing spices as cumbia played. The menu was short and simple, with a collection of tacos and some standard plates for the less adventurous, like quesadillas and burritos. I tested their homegrown recipes by ordering chicharrónes and birria and was impressed. Strong spices. Tender. Lightly toasted tortilla. It was everything I expected from a great taqueria in DFW or anywhere else in Texas.

Another unexpected treat was the paloma, a handmade mix of grapefruit and tequila with a tajin rim. This perfect blend of tart, slightly sweet, and spicy notes pairs well with their tacos by complementing the spice yet allowing just enough sweetness to counterbalance it.

A Righteous Awakening at Apothica Café

Apothica Café offers a wholesome breakfast and locally roasted, fair-trade, organic coffees in an artful setting that evokes thoughtfulness and nourishment. Once a quaint corner house, the now bustling café brings all sorts in, from the young hipster parents and outspoken artists to the blue-collar professionals, all united by the love—or need—of perfectly crafted caffeine and a hearty meal to start the day.

I enjoyed a robust Americano with an egg bagel sandwich and washed it down with a light and crisp mimosa made with fresh orange juice. I looked around and noticed all the pieces of local art available for purchase, each revealing a unique story or vision. Drop by for any of their hosted events which feature poetry nights from local acts.

Andino’s Restaurant: An Old School Italian Tradition

You cannot leave the Northeast without indulging in the traditional staple of Italian comfort food. Once inside this Andino’s Restaurant in Federal Hill, I was immediately greeted with wafting garlic and the sounds of locals chattering at the bar top. It was a quintessential setting. In the backdrop, soft, warm lighting and rich dark wood tones were joined by classical murals, each creating a scene befitting any favorite Italian film.

I opted for the seasonal ravioli special featuring pillowy pockets of subtly sweet fig and crispy prosciutto, a well-crafted balance of fruity and salty notes. The Lemon Cello was an idyllic ending to dinner, bringing an exciting twist on what’s usually a light tart into a velvety tangy and mildly sweet cake.

Create a Lifelong Keepsake at the Blackstone River Glass Center

Let’s acknowledge that we all want to bring something back from our travels to remind us of a certain sight, smell, taste, or touch. With the Blackstone River Glass Center, set inside one of Providence’s defining historic structures, you can bring home more than a fridge magnet or shot glass.

Among the mediums the team of local artists teach, glass blowing combines a meticulous process of high heat with a constant movement of twisting, pounding, and snipping, and frighteningly bright fluorescent colors to create a functional, decorative, and personal piece crafted by your own hands. Schedule your class here.

Walk Through History and Nature

With old mill reminders spread throughout the city of Providence, as well as colonial call backs to our nation’s humble beginnings and natural landscapes of rivers, streams, and wooded trails weaved into this rich industrial heritage, there’s no shortage of places to meander for a bit (and walk off those tacos, pasta, or lobby rolls). River Island Park’s sustaining landscape of rusty mills, stone bridges, and babbling river creeks offer picturesque moments that will anchor any shot with history and natural beauty.

Continue strolling through Cumberland, where old boat barns remain flanked by two-story colonials, setting the scene as a walk-through time. Plan your trip and celebrate 250 years by visiting one of the founding colonies that birthed the global powerhouse that the US is today.

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Cover photo courtesy Visit Rhode Island

Martin Ramirez is a brisket-eating, Shiner-loving, road-tripping enthusiast of all things Texas. This Dallas-born writer / adventurer is ready to take his ‘78 El Camino to find the best in food, fun, and fitness throughout the Lone Star State.