Providence Rhode Island Bed and Breakfast Inn, Historic Jacob Hill Inn, A charming New England Inn, lodging, accommodations.

We highly recommend a day trip into Legendary Newport a quick 45 minutes drive south or a ferry or bus ride from Downtown Providence. It is a very beautiful, historic city, it offers visitors the opportunity to see firsthand the evolution of American architecture and a glimpse at what life was like during the Gilded Age at America's first resort.

Fist on our itinerary is Bellevue Avenue home of the Tennis Hall of Fame and the "Summer Cottages". When the Astor's, Vanderbilt's and other families took summer holidays they vacationed in style, these mansions are now open to the public. The Breakers, Elms, Marble House and Rosecliff are some of the Preservation Society Properties. The Astors Beechwood is privately owned and offers a living history tour. Belcourt Castle is the only one still occupied by its owners. The Rhode Island Restoration Foundation has also preserved a few properties.

There is always a festival of some kind going on in Newport, but Christmas time is truly magical with special events at the mansions.

The Cliff Walk, long (4 miles) or short walk near the Breakers "Forty Steps" make a Kodak moment. Best if you have your own vehicle or by bike do Ocean Avenue at the end of Bellevue Avenue. Kite flying is a daily sport on the picturesq Brenton Point also along the way is the Castel Hill Light House, and Fort Adams the site of the annual Folk and Jazz Festivals.

At the end of Ocean Avenue, if you use our advice, is the Warf Area and Brick Market with lots of opportunities to shop and eat. The Black Pearl on Bannister's Warf in another Newport legend, known for their clam chowder (pronounced chow-da).

There are several public beaches and many boating or yachting opportunities available. The Newport dinner train is also enjoyable. Just out side of Newport itself are many Winery's. In Portsmouth the Green Animals Topiary Gardens overlooking Narragansett Bay include a Mansion with a Victorian toy collection.

Just across the bay on Newport Bridge you can find Historic Jamestown where you can visit a restored windmill. If you continue on Route 138 West you can visit one of Bill's favorite eating spots, the Nordic Lodge, for those with a large appetite you will find a bottomless Lobster Pot.

Jamestown Windmill

The destination images are provided by Boston based photographer Greg M. Cooper. You can purchase a custom print by contacting the studio at www.gregmcooper.com.