Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., but it’s packed with charm, history, and unique quirks. If you’ve ever called the Ocean State home and have since moved away, you might find yourself missing some things you never expected. Here are 11 of those things you’ll probably long for once you’re no longer in Rhode Island.
1. The Ocean State’s Endless Coastline
You never realized how much you took Rhode Island’s beautiful beaches for granted. Whether it’s the iconic Narragansett Bay, the scenic cliffs of Newport, or the quiet shores of Block Island, being close to the ocean is something you’ll always miss. The ability to visit the beach any time you want, even just to clear your head, is a luxury you didn’t fully appreciate until you left.
2. Coffee Milk
This local beverage is Rhode Island’s version of chocolate milk, but with a twist: it’s made with coffee syrup. You didn’t know how much you loved it until it wasn’t available anymore. Once you leave, you’ll realize it’s not something you can find anywhere else. You’ll crave it during quiet afternoons or at breakfast.
3. Rhode Island’s Quirky Town Names
You didn’t think much of towns with names like Pawtucket, Woonsocket, and Narragansett, but once you’re out of state, you’ll start to miss hearing these little tongue-twisters. They’re part of Rhode Island’s charm and identity. No one outside of the state seems to be able to pronounce them right, either.
4. The Deliciousness of Rhode Island-Style Pizza
Rhode Island’s take on pizza, often called “Greek-style” pizza, is a unique culinary treat. Thin, crispy crust, topped with a perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and toppings — there’s nothing quite like it. You’ll miss grabbing a slice from your local pizzeria, and other pizza places just won’t measure up.
5. WaterFire in Providence
The stunning, interactive art installation of WaterFire in downtown Providence is something you never truly appreciated until you left. The combination of fire, water, and music created a magical atmosphere. You’ll miss walking along the riverbank as the flames flicker and the crowds gather for a unique cultural experience.
6. The Proximity to Everything
Rhode Island may be small, but its location gives you easy access to nearby cities like Boston, New York, and even Cape Cod. When you lived there, day trips were a breeze. Now that you’re farther away, you’ll realize how spoiled you were to have so much within reach.
7. Clam Cakes and Chowder
The rich, creamy New England clam chowder paired with golden-brown clam cakes is something you’ll deeply miss once you leave Rhode Island. No matter where you go, you won’t find the same perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s a must-have for any Rhode Islander, and you’ll find yourself craving it long after you’ve gone.
8. The Tiny State’s Sense of Community
It’s easy to take for granted the fact that everyone seems to know everyone in Rhode Island. Whether you run into someone you know at the grocery store or bump into old classmates at a local coffee shop, the tight-knit, welcoming community is something you’ll miss in larger, more impersonal places.
9. Rhode Island’s Historic Charm
The state’s rich colonial history, especially in places like Newport and Providence, will leave a lasting impression. The old brick buildings, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old architecture are things that other places simply don’t have. It’s something you might not think about while you’re there, but you’ll miss the historic charm once you leave.
10. The Uniqueness of Rhode Island’s Festivals
Rhode Island hosts some of the most interesting festivals and events you never thought you’d miss. From the Feast of St. Joseph to the Newport Folk Festival, there’s always something happening. After leaving, you’ll realize how special these community-centered events are and how they bring people together in such a unique way.
11. The Overwhelmingly Strong Local Pride
Rhode Islanders have a special kind of pride that’s difficult to explain until you leave. Whether it’s their pride in the state’s history, their love of the local sports teams (like the Providence Friars), or their passion for their food and traditions, the pride of being from Rhode Island stays with you. Once you leave, you’ll find yourself defending your home state to people who don’t quite get it, and you’ll realize how much you miss that connection to your roots.
Living in Rhode Island might seem like a small, everyday experience, but once you leave, these unique aspects will sneak up on you and remind you of just how special the Ocean State truly is.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.thenewportbuzz.com/9-things-i-miss-about-rhode-island-whenever-i-leave/4939
[2] https://adventuresinnewengland.com/facts-about-rhode-island/
[3] https://parade.com/travel/things-to-do-in-newport-rhode-island
[4] https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/11/25/business/people-leaving-massachusetts-miss-politics-health-care-museums-sports-nature/
[5] https://www.gousa.in/state/rhode-island
