Latest news with #PointJudith
CBS News
7 days ago
- CBS News
Block Island on a budget: How to make the most of your summer
Sponsored by and provided by Block Island Ferry Block Island offers a picturesque escape with its pristine beaches, scenic hiking trails, and charming small-town ambiance. While it may seem like a luxury destination, a trip to Block Island can be affordable with some thoughtful planning. Summertime in New England is just around the corner. Block Island is just a short ferry ride from Point Judith, Rhode Island, making it accessible and affordable to reach. Follow this guide on how to enjoy a summer vacation on Block Island without overspending and while making the most out of every moment. You know the classic jingle... "Sail away on the Block Island Ferry." The Traditional Ferry from Point Judith is the cheapest option to make the trip. There are usually nine to fifteen departure times from Point Judith per day during the summer. The Traditional Ferry is about 55 minutes, and High Speed is a half hour. For an even better deal, bring your bicycle on board for just a nominal fee, saving yourself the cost of renting a car once you're on the island. There are several paid parking lots for those who choose to drive down to the dock. Another option is the Rhode Island Public Transit's Route 69 bus, which makes the trip daily from Providence to Galilee. Once you and your crew get off the ferry, the most affordable activity is the best part of Block Island: a beach day. Access to almost all of Block Island's beaches – and beach parking – is free. Attractions like Ballard's Beach have a cover charge on the Fourth of July. Crescent Beach stays shallow for a long way out, making it a good option for walking or swimming. It has a view of town and the ferries going back and forth. Block Island also offers miles of hiking and nature trails that are open to the public. The Meadow Hill Greenway Trail is the closest to the ferry. It's about 0.4 miles and offers easy access to town. The Clay Head Preserve and Greenway Trails have views of the hills of the island as well as the ocean. Additionally, the Block Island Walking Tour starts near the ferry and provides a self-guided loop through the island's main attractions. To avoid overspending on a day trip, you may want to pack a picnic. When it comes to summer picnics, rely on easy-to-eat, heat-resistant foods. Sandwiches, cut up fruit, pasta salad, potato salad, deviled eggs, and cured meats are easy to store and will keep your crew refreshed. Make it a classic Rhode Island summer outing and enjoy your picnic on a beach or trail overlooking the ocean, or bring it to the Southeast or North Lighthouse lawns. While packing food for the day, also gather enough sunscreen and water for your group to avoid having to buy it on the island. Those looking for an overnight vacation rather than a day trip may consider a house rental on the island. Block Island hotels and inns tend to be more expensive. Most rental homes on the island offer multiple bedrooms, which makes it ideal to split the cost with friends or family. Many of the rental homes have kitchens, so you can pack food for your whole stay. Making your own meals significantly cut costs, leaving room to splurge on one or two local dining experiences. Block Island Grocery on Ocean Avenue also has prepared foods like sandwiches as well as farm-fresh produce. If you're looking for a bottle of wine to enjoy while taking in the sights and sounds of Block Island in the summertime, visit Red Bird Liquor Store. Other than going to the beach and getting some exercise, there are a few interesting options for activities. The island's beloved and quirky 1661 Exotic Animal Farm & Gardens on Spring Street is about a 9-minute walk from the ferry. It's open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily and is free to the public. The farm includes rare animals to see like red kangaroos, camels, alpacas, and a zeedonk (half zebra, half donkey). Families can visit the petting zoo and get personal interactions as well as great photos of the animals. The Glass Float Project is also free and special to Block Island. Each float is numbered, dated, and often features unique designs, such as gold leaves or colored patterns, marking the first few of the season. The floats are hidden in public spaces from early summer through October, inviting both locals and visitors to partake in the treasure hunt. Finders are encouraged to register their discoveries with the Block Island Tourism Council and are asked to take only one float per year, promoting sharing and community spirit. There are also a few indoor options for those looking to get out of the sun. Museums and programs such as the Block Island Historical Society, Southeast Lighthouse tour, and the Block Island Maritime Institute offer reasonably priced admission fees. Block Island frequently hosts low or no-cost events, from farmer's markets to art exhibits. Check local listings for what's happening during your visit. About Block Island Ferry The Block Island Ferry, operated by Interstate Navigation Company, provides year-round ferry service. With a rich history dating back to 1930, the ferry is the primary transportation link for passengers, vehicles, and freight traveling to and from the island. In addition to traditional service from Point Judith, seasonal high-speed ferries operate from Newport and Fall River, Massachusetts, offering convenient and scenic options for visitors. The ferries feature inside and outside seating, air conditioning on most ferries, concessions with snacks, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Block Island is ideal for families and large groups to enjoy miles of scenic hiking trails and a relaxing atmosphere for those who want to take it easy. It's one of New England's hidden treasures that offers sea, sand, and sights only a short ferry ride away. Follow The Block Island Ferry on social media to keep up to date with any changes to the ferry schedule, including holidays and inclement weather. See schedules and fares here.
Business Journals
30-04-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
Ballast Equity Partners, hedge fund with ties to Point Judith Capital, raises $93M
A new Providence-based hedge fund with ties to Point Judith Capital has raised nearly $100 million for its inaugural fund. Point Judith is the VC firm co-founded by Gina Raimondo, the former Rhode Island governor who became Commerce Secretary under President Joe Biden, that moved to Boston in 2012.
