Make the Most of a Weekend in Providence

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the Union, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in seaside charm, idyllic colonial architecture, and lobster rolls. Jackie Ignall, founder of beauty and lifestyle blog Wander + Lash and a recent transplant, wasted no time finding her local spots.

RHODE ISLAND – I recently moved from New York to Providence and love exploring my new city. Rhode Island's capital is filled with beautiful historic architecture, green spaces, and cool indie shops. These are my favorite places to buy stuff, eat healthy, and squeeze in a quick sweat session.

For Beauty

CITRÓN
225 Wayland Ave.; +1-401-861-0908
A great spot to unwind after a long week, this spa's nail bar gives one of the most relaxing pedicures in town. Don't miss the aromatic pedicures, which incorporate seasonal fruits, flowers, and essential oils.

Evolve Apothecary and Spa
769 Hope St.; +1-401-383-3089
Opened by two registered nurses, this clean beauty shop's shelves are filled with skin-saving creams, hair products, body lotions, makeup, candles, and home products from some of my favorite natural beauty brands — RMS, Jane Ireadale, and RI-based Farmaesthetics, to name a few. There's also a spa that gives relaxing and good-for-you facials, body treatments, and massages.

For Fitness 

Blackstone Boulevard Walking Path
A popular spot with locals, Blackstone is a 1.6-mile path buzzing with runners, walkers, and bikers from morning to night. Located on the east side of town, the path is surrounded by beautiful foliage and flanked by the city's most stately homes.

Jala Studio Yoga & Art
285 South Main St.; +1-508-566-2524
This small, light-filled yoga studio offers a variety of classes at all levels, but I especially love the 45-minute lunchtime class, which always leaves me feeling refreshed for the rest of the day.

Downcity's trendy unisex boutique Clover. Photo by Jackie Ignall.

For Shopping

CLOVER
233 Westminster St.; +1-401-490-4626
Located in the Downcity neighborhood, the trendy unisex boutique carries cozy sweaters and contemporary accessories, and the latest designer denim. More laid-back cool than New England prep.

LORE Collection
144 Brook St.
A well-curated boutique stocked with unique gifts, artwork, and jewelry by emerging contemporary artists. What I love most about this little indie shop is that part of the store is an art gallery with rotating exhibits throughout the year.

Capucine
359 South Main St.; 401-273-6622
You can find everything from everyday basics to office attire at this women's clothing store. I go for the selection of soft, cozy T-shirts, cashmere sweaters, and stylish accessories.

On display at Stock. Photo courtesy of Stock Culinary Goods.

Stock Culinary Goods
756 Hope St.; +1-401-521-0101
Stock sells unique artisan gifts, cookware, and culinary items for the hostess, chef, or passionate cook. local designers make just about everything — from the ceramic bowls and cutting boards to the glass-blown wine stoppers.

For Healthy Eats

Wildflour Vegan Bakery and Juice Bar
727 East Ave., Pawtucket; +1-401-475-4718
Technically not in Providence, but right on the border in Pawtucket, this juice bar and vegan café is my favorite for fresh green smoothies and healthy gluten-free lunches and pastries.

The Shop serves the best avo toast in Providence. Photo by Jackie Ignall.

The Shop
460 Wickedon St.; +1-401-684-1140
This hip coffee shop is one of my favorite spots to hang out and they serve the best avocado toast in town. The coffee and pastries are really good, too.

Livi's Pockets
65 Weybosset St., Unit 101; +1-401-453-6500
Loved by locals, this Middle Eastern takeout spot, located in the historic Arcade building, is one of the city's best-kept secrets for quick, healthy meals like falafel sandwiches and fresh salads.

BUT WAIT THERE'S MORE

Little Black Book: Coastal Rhode Island
Three-Day Weekends from Boston
Take a Mini Break: A Quick Hit List for Newport, Rhode Island