New England Trip Journal · Rhode Island

This is the first installment of my New England journey. I quietly set a small goal: to explore this unique cultural and historical region made up of six states with my feet during my limited weekends. 🗺️ My first stop was Rhode Island (RI). It’s the smallest state in the U.S., but it’s known as the “Ocean State” thanks to its long coastline and numerous harbors 🌊. Here, you’ll find world-famous Gilded Age coastal mansions, as well as a strong academic and artistic atmosphere—home to prestigious institutions like Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). Small yet exquisite, blending ocean views with culture and academia—this is exactly what makes RI so special. I left Boston at 6 a.m., heading to Providence via the Purple Line from Ruggles Station. The 1.5-hour ride wasn’t too long; outside the window, autumn was in full swing, with morning mist lingering softly 🍂. When I arrived, the sun broke through the mist and spilled over the quiet streets. It was here that I was about to reunite with E, whom I hadn’t seen in over a year—he’s pursuing his master’s at “BU” (likely Bryant University) in RI 🤗. Before meeting up, I stopped by the renowned Pastiche Fine Desserts to grab some fruit tarts for breakfast. Each tart was like a handcrafted work of art 🥧—but honestly, they were a bit too sweet for my taste… Later, we explored the RISD Museum, Brown University, and Downtown Providence. The RISD Museum is small but elegant, with a collection covering both classical and modern art—it exudes a unique artistic charm 🎨. Step outside the museum, and the whole city feels steeped in intellectual warmth. Brown’s campus is classic and serene, with a strong academic vibe that wraps around you as you walk 📚. In the afternoon, we tried Jahunger, a Xinjiang-style restaurant. The food was slightly spicy—satisfying our appetites and adding extra warmth to our long-awaited reunion 🍜. #NewEngland #EasternUS #TravelJournal #Boston