If you’ve never been to Rhode Island, you’re missing out! Nicknamed “The Ocean State”, you’re never more than a 30 minute drive from the water’s edge, whether on the mainland or one of its many islands. Did you know that Rhode Island is America’s smallest state by size yet not by population, the first to declare its independence from Britain, and the last to ratify the constitution? You can find out even more fun facts at one of its many museums. Other must sees for Rhode Island are Narragansett Bay, Aquidneck Island and Block Island, which are some of the most popular. And you have to try the distinctive cuisine. Rhode Islanders have some unique beverages and foods to their credit, like coffee milk, the state’s official beverage, which is milk mixed with coffee syrup. Another is a version of lemonade using a mixture of ice slush, fresh lemons, and sugar. Other culinary eccentricities include wieners (small hot dogs covered in a meat sauce, chopped onions, mustard, and celery salt), grinders (a special type of submarine sandwich), Chouriço and peppers (sausage and peppers), and dynamites (sloppy-joes with peppers and onions on torpedo rolls). A “stuffie” is a large clam mixed with spicy minced sausage stuffing, baked in a clam shell shell. Shellfish, chowders, clam cakes, and other seafoods are also popular in the state. Once you get your fill of the state’s delicious cuisine, head to one of the many casinos, take a stroll along the beach in summer months, book a fishing tour for the following day, or charter a relaxing cruise among the islands in the small state that’s big on fun.