As a lifelong New Englander, I really feel lucky to expertise the great thing about all 4 seasons. Whereas many dread the chilly, lengthy winter months, there’s one thing particular about strolling alongside snowy seashores, cozying up by a fire with a festive cocktail in hand, and taking within the Christmas lights wrapped round each streetlamp.

Westerly, Rhode Island, embodies all the perfect traits of a quintessential coastal city: native, family-run companies, sweeping views of the waves crashing towards the jetty, and a wealthy, deep-rooted historical past. Initially a maritime hub and a middle for granite quarrying, the city has advanced right into a seaside tourism vacation spot and continues to welcome guests year-round.

Though folks usually want to flock to warm-weather locations when the temperatures flip chilly, the quiet but radiant great thing about winter in Westerly is to not be missed. From sipping scorching chocolate with marshmallows to sledding down park hills, there are cozy experiences in each nook of Rhode Island’s westernmost city. Right here’s how you can plan a visit.

The place to Keep

Ocean Home

Ocean Home sits atop the bluffs of Watch Hill, a neighborhood with a wealthy maritime historical past, and simply steps from Taylor Swift’s personal “Vacation Home,” the house that impressed her tune, “The Final Nice American Dynasty.” The oceanfront resort gives excellent hospitality with subtle eating, personalised experiences, and wine and culinary arts courses.

Weekapaug Inn

Immersed in nature and surrounded by the Quonochontaug Pond and Atlantic Ocean, Weekapaug Inn blends a love for the water with its luxurious lodging and fashionable furnishings. The on-site restaurant sources regionally grown elements and creates beautiful farm-to-table eating experiences. Nature seekers, make sure that to seize a pair of Hunter boots from the Borrowing Closet for wildlife walks and excursions.

Margin Road Inn

Vacationers in search of an intimate keep ought to think about the Margin Road Inn. Nestled alongside the banks of the Pawcatuck River, the bed-and-breakfast supplies European morning fare, together with home made pastries and frittatas, adopted by afternoons on the porch with snacks and drinks. The ten cozy bedrooms, every with a non-public toilet, make this an ideal romantic journey or ladies getaway.

What to Do

Bundle up for a stroll in Watch Hill.

Put in your earmuffs, lace up your boots, and take a stroll previous Taylor Swift’s waterfront property and the Flying Horse Carousel—stated to be the oldest working carousel within the U.S. On the finish of the peninsula sits the photo-ready Watch Hill Lighthouse.

Discover the historical past within the Westerly Downtown Historic District.

Step again into the Nineteenth-century in Westerly Downtown Historic District, the place the city’s preserved structure reveals the interval’s industrial development. Throughout from the library and put up workplace, an adorned Christmas tree sits in Dixon Sq., and glowing wreaths line the streets. There are additionally boutique clothes outlets, a cidery and vineyard, and creative eating places. Across the nook, buckle your ice skates on the group rink.

Immerse your self within the arts.

With roots going again to 1926, The United Theatre brings tradition and humanities to Westerly by means of films, performs, and reside musical performances. With three movie venues, the theater creates a uniting house for the group and its guests, that includes instructional and entertainment-based programming.

The place to Eat and Drink

Ella’s Meals & Drink

With greater than 25 years within the kitchen, James Beard Award-nominated chef Jeanie Roland makes use of French strategies to create unforgettable dishes at Ella’s Meals & Drink. The menu options flavorful dishes like chitara (guitar string) pasta and Momma’s Hen, finest paired an expertly crafted cocktail. From the curry mussels appetizer to chef Jeanie’s well-known peanut butter pavlova, you’ll be reserving your subsequent reservation earlier than you even go away.

Excessive Hope Tavern

Excessive Hope Tavern, situated within the coronary heart of downtown, is a enjoyable cocktail bar and restaurant. Get pleasure from artistic drinks and Rhode Island bounty-inspired dishes, like linguine and clam sauce. Or, go for the long-lasting Caesar salad and triple-cooked fries served with a scrumptious garlic aioli.

Nana’s Westerly

Earlier than heading out of city within the morning, cease at Nana’s Westerly for freshly baked sourdoughnuts (sourdough bread made day by day with sustainably grown grains) and a hearty breakfast. The Seacoast Mushroom Toast and coconut miso caramel iced latte is an effective way to begin the day. For lunch and dinner, order pizza made with mould koji, which helps amp up the umami in dishes just like the basic Nana’s Tomato.

Perks & Corks

Creative martinis—don’t miss the dessert-worthy banana cut up or the well-known chai—and cocktails are ready at Perks & Corks. Visitors collect on delicate seating round boards of hummus, bowls of soup, and signature grilled cheeses. Professional tip: The bar is the perfect seat to look at all of the magic occur.

Junk & Java

To totally embrace the native espresso scene, head to Junk & Java. Right here, you’ll really feel the eclectic vibes and energizing employees able to whip up an iced chai or the customer-favorite Mountain Berry iced tea. Don’t overlook to peek subsequent door on the present store for funky earrings and regionally made artisanal items.

The place to Store

Woodmansee’s and Woodees

When you’re on the lookout for a trendy outfit, spend a while taking part in gown up at these neighboring mother-daughter-run boutiques. Woodmansee’s has styled consumers for greater than 120 years, and Anna, daughter of second-generation proprietor Maria Lenihan, heads up Woodees, the place you could find glowing vacation clothes and enjoyable assertion items for cocktail events or informal outings.

Martin Home Books

Get misplaced in a romance novel or a darkish thriller in a comfy nook of Martin Home Books. Maintain heat with a latte from the in-house espresso store, Cafe 1888, and keep into the night for a collection of beer and wine. Within the children space, youngsters can learn sitting atop crimson mushroom stools and peek into the hidden fairy doorways scattered all through the shop.

Windie’s

Trying to find a enjoyable hostess present or souvenir? Windie’s focuses on dwelling items ideally suited for individuals who love placing collectively a Sunday dinner or brunch unfold. You’ll spend hours shopping soiled martini-inspired coupes, hand-drawn word playing cards, tomato-shaped candles, and extra.