Newport, Rhode Island festival celebrating culture, food, music, and fun for 21 years at the Newport Yachting Center

A Taste of Rhode Island

Two days out of the year Newport, Rhode Island is the center of attention by celebrating their finest restaurants, arts and culture. The Stop & Shop Taste of Rhode Island brings together all the culture of Rhode Island that attract the travelers and keep the locals around, featuring dozens of Rhode Island’s favorite eateries, continuous live entertainment brought to you by Southwest Airlines, culinary demonstrations, games, contests, prizes, a Cookbook Corner and more! And best of all, there will be the top foods from all over the state in one little town. The festival is also host to the yearly New England Oyster Festival sponsored by American Mussel Harvesters. You won’t want to miss showing off your Rhody Pride at the 20th Annual Taste of Rhode Island at the Newport Yachting Center in Newport, Rhode Island.

Nearly a 10-minute walk off of Pelham Street is the Cliffside Inn whom is hosting a Coastal New England Wine Tour Package for Late Summer & Fall of 2009. They have joined together with the Coastal Vineyards of Southern New England to offer this package including: a top-pick bottle of both red and white regional wine (or one sparkling) selected by New England’s Coastal Winemakers; wine tasting and tour for two at the Coastal Winery of your choice; 10% savings at select wineries on purchases of three or more bottles; Coastal Wine Tour Guide and Vineyard Passport. Guests at the Cliffside Inn can add this wine package to any reservation for an additional $50. Call 401-847-1811 for more details.

Watercolor art classes, paintings, demonstrations, and workshops at the Rhode Island Watercolor Society

The Rhode Island Watercolor Society (RIWS) is the oldest and largest watercolor organization in America. Since 1896, they have provided artists and the general public the opportunity to view, purchase, exhibit and learn about watermedia art. They offer classes for any level, demonstrations, workshops and even Saturday “Paint RI!” Paint Outs. One Saturday each month, RISW encourage their members to get together somewhere in Rhode Island for an outside painting group session to build painting experience, network with fellow RIWS members, and develop work for the annual Paint RI exhibition. They also organize educational trips to art exhibitions, which is a perfect way to get the young students out of school for a day. The art gallery, library and studio space is located in a historic lakeside “boathouse” in Slater Memorial Park. They’re open Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm and Sundays 1-5pm.

For more information, contact RIWS or click on their website.

If you live North of Providence, RI and are traveling, the RIWS could be a great pit stop toward the Cliffside Inn for the perfect weekend or weeknight getaway. They are now promoting the all new Best of Newport Package for September & October 2009. It includes two nights in a deluxe State Room or Suite with the best rates, plus entry to The Breakers Newport mansion; Newport Harbor cruise and tour aboard The Gansett vintage wooden power boat; entry to Norman Bird Sanctuary; Cliff Walk map and walking guide; and the Destination Deal Book with $500 in savings at other attractions, restaurants, and shops. The Sunday Boston Globe has called the package Newport’s top luxury getaway value. Check room availability here but the Best of Newport Package can only be reserved by phone 401-847-1811.

Learn the history of the Chatham Railroad Museum – A New England and Cape Cod attraction

Even if you’re not crazy about railroads, a trip to this beautiful 1887 Victorian building filled of “Railroad Gothic” work of wooden art and tapering turrets. Inside you’ll find volunteers revealing the lore and historic artifacts featuring the “walk-through” 1918 New York caboose. This only 7-mile long railroad once connected Chatham, MA with the Old Colony Railroad main line in Harwich, MA. What’s stunning is the depot construction was begun in June; it and the neighboring engine house (with turntable), car house, work shed, and water tower (with well and windmill) were completed just 6 months later on November 22, 1887. The property of the Town, the Museum is run by an unpaid director and a group of volunteers and is welcome for donations. There’s a playground across the street which is perfect for a picnic lunch. They’re open from mid-June to mid-Sept Tuesday through Saturday 10am-4pm and located on 153 Depot Road off Main St. (1 block N of the rotary) in Chatham, MA. Being not so up to date, there’s no phone number or website to contact this New England attraction

Going northeast up Old Harbor Road for just about a half a mile is the Captain’s House Inn. The most distinctive Cape Cod bed and breakfast, the Captain’s House Inn is regarded by many respected lodging reviewers as “The Cape’s” finest smal inn. This four-diamond sea captina’s estate on two acres in Chatham, Massachusetts is the perfect choice for an affordable romantic getaway. There are four distinct facilities – the Main House, an 1839 Greek-Revival style mansion, the attached Carriage House, the luxurious Stables and the 200-year-old “bow roof cape” called the Captain’s Cottage. Find the right accommodation and check out their specials and packages to make your romantic getaway weekend perfectly fit for you.

Chatham Railroad Museum

Caledonia County Fair – fun, crafts, games, demolition derby and more! Rabbit Hill Inn ranked #1 hotel in US by Travel & Leisure

Caledonia County Fair 2009

Lyndonville, VT

The town of Lyndonville, Vermont is celebrating 162 years of Caledonia County Fair at the Mountain View Park this year. There will be plenty of games, food, fun, and best of all… the demolition derby! The 1st place winner for being the last car standing will walk away with $600. There will be plenty more exhibits such as antique demos, floral hall and craft exhibits, cattle/sheep/poultry/aquarium exhibits, a maple display, Alpaca demonstrations, Children’s Freedom Train, and of course King of Silly . There’s surely no county fair without the rides and this year Dreamland Amusements is proud to present exciting attractions for all ages for the last 8 years in a row. For more information visit their website . About a half an hour down the road lies the Rabbit Hill Inn which was recently ranked in the top 100 hotels in the world by Travel & Leisure. With a handsome score of 91.9 and ranked #1 in the U.S. for all aspects such as environment, ambiance, hospitality, service and accommodations. Featured in previous blogs is their Pink Slip Getaway Package that will help those unemployed take some vacation time, too.

“We’re very proud to be placed in such good company with the most distinctive hotels, resorts and inns in the world,” said Leslie Mulcahy, co-owner of the Rabbit Hill Inn. “Knowing that chateaus, safari clubs and island resorts were included on the list, it’s quite a humbling notion to be ranked among the best in the world. We’re delighted that our guests and Travel & Leisure readers shared their insight into our highlights to secure us a place on this list,” finished Mulcahy.

Museum of Fife and Drum Corps and a Connecticut country inn in Essex

THE MUSEUM OF FIFE & DRUM

Essex, Connecticut

At the Museum of Fife & Drum learn about America’s visual and music background dated from the Revolutionary War to today. Listen to shrills of fife and the beats of long drums as you observe the numerous artifacts on display such as drums, fifes, military swords, uniforms, medals, awards, and photographs. If you enjoy colorful and upbeat parades, then this is the perfect place for you to visit on your next Connecticut River vacation. There will even be free concerts every Tuesday evening during July and August usually featuring two corps per night. If you’re a drum corp, club, historical society, or college/high school music group, call the museum at (860) 767-2237 to arrange for a group tour. The donations are only $3 for adults, $2 for youth (ages 13-17), and children under 12 are free. Click the link proceeding for travel directions. Not even one mile down Comstock Avenue is the Copper Beech Inn, a four-star country inn and four-diamond, wine-spectator-award winning restaurant. It’s located in the beautiful Connecticut River Vally aside the Long Island Sound shoreline nearby several charming historic towns, shops, attractions and many outdoor activities. Currently they are advertising a two-night Summer package highlighting an Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Cruise, champagne upon arrival, free dinner for two one night in Brasserie Pip, and VIP discount coupons for Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets. Add a 3rd night for 50% off the regular room rate and enjoy your stay in Ivoryton, Connecticut.

New Chef Raises the Bar at Rabbit Hill Inn, Vermont

Rabbit Hill Inn proudly introduces accomplished Chef Matthew Secich

Food lovers may remember Chef Secich from several acclaimed establishments, including The Inn at Erlowest on Lake George (earning four stars from the Times Union,) The Alpenhof Lodge, in Jackson Hole, WY (noted by critics as creating the best dining experience in all of Jackson Hole), The Oval Room in DC (receiving frequent raves in the Washington Post) and most recently, Charlie Trotters in Chicago.

His impressive culinary journey began as a young gold-medal winning student at Johnson & Wales Culinary. He then spent several years with renowned chefs domestically and abroad, including ACF Master Chef Hartmut Handke, Patrick O’Connell of the famed 5 Star Inn at Little Washington, and Chef Craig Shelton of the Mobil Four Star, AAA Four Diamond, Relais Gourmand Ryland Inn in Whitehouse, NJ. In France, he studied at Restaurant Pierre Gagnaire, with Guy Martin at Le Grand Vefour, and with Raymond Blanc at La Manior Aux Quat’ Saisons.

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“Muddy Tracks” Getaway Draws Fun-seekers To Vermont For A Wild Mountain Ride

Rabbit Hill Inn offers it’s popular “Muddy Tracks” package to fun-seeking visitors in April & May. When ski season ends, North Country celebrates Mud Season. Rabbit Hill Inn introduces their guests to the old tradition of “Mud Boggin’” with a luxurious flare. The adrenaline begins to flow when they are strapped into the 6-wheel drive Swiss Army Pinzgauer transport vehicle for an adventurous ride up the muddy trails of Barron Mountain with a knowledgeable and trusted guide from Alpine Adventure Co. The vehicle seats 12, allowing inn guests to plan an exciting getaway with friends.

In addition to the wild Truck Safari Adventure, Guests benefit from an offering that includes reduced room rates, gourmet meals, 2 free Mud Puddle cocktails, service charges, and candlelit turndown service nightly.

The “Muddy Tracks” inclusive two-night package rates start at $ 589.00, per couple. This offer is available April 20 through May 17, 2007, weekends included.

Rabbit Hill Inn offers full concierge services to help guests customize their “Muddy Tracks” getaway. This includes individual day trip planning, in-room massage services, and extensive outdoor activity offerings

Rabbit Hill Inn is a AAA Four Diamond Inn and Dining Room and a proud member of Select Registry, Distinguished Inns of North America, and Distinctive Inns of New England. To learn more about this romantic luxury Inn (circa 1795), current seasonal menu, unique packages, and culinary getaways – visit their website at http://www.rabbithillinn.com/.

Best of Newport September Getaway Combines Newport Rhode Island’s Top Luxury Inns, Gilded Age Mansions and Vineyards, With Dining and Shopping Deals

Combining the best of Newport, Rhode Island, the Legendary Inns of Newport, has launched a September Getaway Package that features Newport’s famed Gilded Age mansions, vineyards, dining and shopping deals, with the luxurious accommodations and service that have made Distinctive Inns founding member Cliffside Inn –and the other Legendary Inns–Newport’s leading luxury destinations.

“September is my favorite month in Newport. The summer crowds have thinned out. The ocean is still warm. Autumn’s chilly days are still a ways off. All the famous attractions, shops and restaurants are open. It’s just delightful,” said Winthrop Baker, Group President, Legendary Inns of Newport. “Our Best of Newport September Getaway is a great way to experience this special time, while enjoying some equally delightful getaway package values.”

For one inclusive price, guests enjoy 2-nights in the best available luxury suite or guest room at the Abigail Stoneman Inn or Adele Turner Inn, plus the Best of Newport RI Getaway Package. Named by Fodor’s and The Boston Globe as Newport’s top 2006 luxury getaway package value, the Best of Newport mini-vacation package includes tickets to the Gilded Age mansions, vineyard tour and wine tasting, and a booklet with $500 in savings at Newport restaurants and shops.

The 2-night September Getaway package at the Adele Turner Inn is $650, available Mondays through Wednesdays in September. The ultra luxury Abigail Stoneman Inn 2-night package is $790, Mondays through Thursdays. Savings up to $200. For more details, click here.

At the Legendary Inns of Newport flagship property, Cliffside Inn, the September Getaway features 30% off the third night of a 3-night reservation, Sundays through Thursdays.

In addition to being the first AAA Four Diamond luxury bed and breakfast inns in Rhode Island, the trio of well known B&Bs is also AAA’s top-rated Rhode Island lodging group. Along with the special rates and package extras, the September Getaways all include the luxury amenities and services the Legendary Inns is known for: warm hospitality and personal service; acclaimed afternoon tea (named one of America’s Top 20); multi-course breakfast; finely appointed suites and guest rooms with whirlpools, steam baths, grand beds, fireplaces, antiques and artwork; pillow menu; signature in-room spa service; and elegant locations near the beach and in-town.

Summer Vacation Mini-Getaways in Newport — Named Top Fodor’s Pick

Targeting a growing number of summer vacation-time-constrained travelers, Newport’s leading luxury inn group and DINE member, the Legendary Inns of Newport, has launched three late-summer, mini-vacation getaways.

“We’re seeing a lot of two and three-night mini-vacations this summer and less of the three and four or five-night Newport summer vacations we’ve seen in other years,” said Winthrop Baker, Group President, Legendary Inns of Newport. “Our new mini-getaways offer vacation-time-starved guests some very attractive summer getaway values in August.”

The group’s flagship Newport, Rhode Island B&B property and founding member of the Distinctive Inns of New England, Cliffside Inn, is offering 25% off the third-night of a three-night reservation, Sundays through Thursdays. At Adele Turner Inn, guests save 50% off on any Tuesday, when they book Monday and Tuesday together.

The ultra-luxury Abigail Stoneman Inn Mini-Getaway Vacation Package includes two-nights with the best available luxury suite or room, plus the Quintessential Newport Summer Getaway Package, just named by Fodor’s as one of New England’s top three summer getaway package values. It includes tickets to Newport RI’s Gilded Age mansions, vineyard tours and wine tastings, and the Destination Newport coupon book worth $500 at various Newport, RI restaurants and shops. The getaway is available Mondays – Wednesdays for the all inclusive price of $700.

In addition to being the first AAA Four Diamond luxury bed and breakfast inns in Rhode Island, the trio of well known B&Bs is also AAA’s top-rated Rhode Island lodging group. In addition to the special rates and package add-ons, the Mini-Getaway Vacations all include the luxury amenities and services the Legendary Inns is known for: warm hospitality and personal service; acclaimed afternoon tea (named one of America’s Top 20); multi-course breakfast; finely appointed suites and guest rooms with whirlpools, steam baths, grand beds, fireplaces, antiques and artwork; pillow menu; signature in-room spa service; and elegant locations near the beach and in-town.

For complete details and other restrictions on the August Mini-Getaway Vacations, please visit our specials webpage or call 800-845-1811. The Mini-Getaways can only be booked by phone, but you can check availability or reserve other dates online for all Legendary Inns by clicking here.

Four Diamond Celebration for Distinctive Inn-siders

Newport Rhode Island luxury bed and breakfast, Cliffside Inn and its sister property, Abigail Stoneman Inn, have helped set a new luxury inn standard in Newport, by both being honored recently with AAA Four Diamond Awards. The pair are owned and operated by the Legendary Inns of Newport, which now has the distinction of running one-quarter of all the AAA Four Diamond luxury hotels, inns or B&Bs in Rhode Island.

Cliffside is also a founding member of the Distinctive Inns of New England. And to celebrate our unique Four Diamond achievement, Cliffside is inviting all Distinctive Inn Innsider members to enjoy 10% off all suites and rooms not only at Cliffside, but also Abigail Stoneman Inn and the Adele Turner Inn in Newport Rhode Island.

You can check availability on line but to book a room, please call our reservation office 800-845-1811 and present your Innsider number. This Four Diamond Celebration Special is available from April 2 – 30, Sundays through Thursdays only.

The Legendary Inns collection features a trio of meticulously restored, historic Victorian inns, known for seamlessly blending today’s most luxurious amenities — whirlpools, steam baths, fireplaces, grand beds, fine linens, wireless internet — with exquisite design and decoration, antiques and artwork, refined elegance, personal service and warm hospitality.