Behind the Scenes at Four Town Farm
For five generations, this family farm has nourished four communities with the fruits — and vegetables — of its labor.
SOURCES: city-data.com; 4townfarm.com; seekonkspeedway.com; crescentparkcarousel.org; distance-cities.com
Where to Eat
Black Duck Tavern
For a laid-back weekend bite, check out the Black Duck Tavern for a beer, a burger and some house-made chips. For a little more heat, try the hot Nashville chicken sandwich or if you feel like connecting with your Canadian side, try the duck poutine. 31 Warren Ave., East Providence, 434-8703, blackducktavern.com.
East Bay Oyster Bar
Complete with trendy wooden tables and a full-service bar, East Bay Oyster Bar sits right in the heart of downtown Barrington. Seafood lovers have their pick of the sea here. If you’re craving seafood and a selection of full-bodied wines, stop by this popular casual eatery. It’s a great place to take the family or even a date. 308 County Rd., Barrington, 247-0303, stockfoodgroup.com.
Mizu Asian Bistro
If you’re in search of a good place to have some sushi or noodles, check out this modest Asian-fusion bistro, which specializes in Japanese and Thai cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy crunch salmon roll, pad Thai or a hibachi bowl, Mizu is there to satisfy your cravings. 1165 Fall River Ave., Seekonk, Mass., 508-336-3388, mizuseekonk.com.
Harvest Market
What was once a small roadside farm stand is now a market and restaurant serving food from farm to table. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the restaurant portion of the building features an extensive menu with a salad bar, massive sandwiches, breakfast plates including potatoes from Quonset View Farm in Portsmouth and much more. After a hearty meal, visit the market for your grocery needs. The shelves are stocked with a large selection of fresh produce, local products and bakery treats. 2685 Grand Army of the Republic Hwy., Swansea, Mass., 508-379-6072, harvestmarketma.com.
Places to Shop
Gilmore’s Flower Shop
The shop offers arrangements for different occasions, whether it’s an anniversary, birthday or wedding, and will work with customers to fulfill their floral needs. This family-owned business has been around since 1936, and as a result, has provided flowers to generations of townspeople. 76 Taunton Ave., East Providence, 434-3667, gilmoresflowershop.com.
Daisy Dig’ins
This mainstay in the heart of Barrington began as
a floral design shop in 1977, but has since expanded its roots. Find home decor to transform any space in your abode, pick up bath and beauty products to pamper yourself or purchase a unique piece of jewelry for your very best friend. Plus, a fresh flower arrangement is sure to cure any wintertime blues. Choose from pre-made bouquets or personalize your own. 123 Maple Ave., Barrington, 245-0580, daisydigins.com.
Grubby Hollow Shoppe
This quaint little gift shop is chock-full of assortments of adorable country primitive decor. From candles to flowers to furniture and beyond, this spot sells local or handmade treasures that you just won’t be able to find anywhere else. 568 Arcade Ave., Seekonk, Mass., 508-336-0065, facebook.com/grubbyhollowshoppe.
Willow Tree Country Shoppe
A local store selling primitive Colonial home decor, floral arrangements and everything in between, this charming shop is a hidden gem in the area. For those who find it, they are pleasantly satisfied upon leaving with just the right thing they never knew they needed. 157 Gardners Neck Rd., Swansea, Mass., 508-672-3900, willowtreecountryshoppe.com
Things to Do
Comedy Connection Rhode Island
The featured acts at Comedy Connection range from local to famous and from witty to downright profane. Grab a drink from the full-service bar but be conscious of your order; whiskey might seem like a good idea at first but not so much when it comes out of your nose during the show. (Note: you must be eighteen or older to laugh here.) 39 Warren Ave., East Providence, 438-8383, ricomedyconnection.com.
Weirdgirl Creations Pottery Studio
Embrace your inner artist and create a piece you can proudly display in your home. Plus, get your baby’s hand and foot impression (or your pet’s paw prints), create wedding gifts or find one of the many pre-made objects to paint to your heart’s desire. All pottery options available for you to paint are carefully crafted and made onsite. Drop in the studio in between errands or during your weekend downtime, as appointments are not necessary. 33 Kent St., Suite B, Barrington, 247-1397, weirdgirlcreations.com.
Caratunk Wildlife Refuge
Open from sunrise to sunset, this nearly 200-acre wildlife refuge offers a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Filled with lush forests, bubbling brooks, rustling fields and serene ponds, the Caratunk Wildlife Refuge is one of the Audubon Society’s most popular properties. Its historic White Barn is also available for events and functions. 301 Brown Ave., Seekonk, Mass., 949-5454, asri.org.
The Ice Cream Barn
A fan favorite by any measure, the Ice Cream Barn is more than just your local ice cream shop. This beloved establishment serves up a multitude of flavors including cookie dough, chocolate brownie Oreo and more in waffle cones, which are made fresh, daily. Plus, the barn offers frozen yogurt and no-added-sugar options to ensure that every tastebud is covered. Hang outside in the rolling green fields or head across the street for a peek at the longhorns. 289 Locust St., Swansea, Mass., 508-567-6278, theicecreambarn.com.
