Rhody Picks You’ll Relish 🥒

In a weekend pickle? Don’t fret – we’re here to spice things up! Today’s newsletter has all the Rhody inspo you need: cozy weekend must-do’s, a Newport aquarium perfect for family fun, fall reads ripe for the season, and so much more. We’re serving up everything Rhode Island, with an extra splash of dill!

Weekend Must-Do’s: Unwind with Plant Sales, Art Markets, and More

From making sourdough bread with new friends to shopping for lush greenery to infuse your home with hygge, there’s plenty of ways to unwind and take a brain break. Catch an enlightening documentary screening, celebrate mile markers with anniversary parties, browse art perfect for gifting, and more! Read the full list at HeyRhody.com.

_{• By Abbie Lahmers, photo courtesy of Anti-Robot Club}

Celebrate National Pickle Day with 9 Must-Try Fried Pickle Spots in Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s fried pickle scene offers a diverse range of flavors that cater to every palate. Whether you’re a purist who loves the simplicity of a dill chip and ranch or an adventurous foodie seeking heat-infused bites, these local spots serve up creative takes on the beloved fried pickle. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan}

Presented by Save the Bay

Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium Lets Visitors to Dive Deep

“When you visit Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium, you embark on a journey through the fascinating and diverse habitats of Narragansett Bay,” begins Juan Espinoza, director of communications and marketing. The 7,500-square-foot destination not only houses critters from local ecosystems but also engages visitors with issues facing the health of the Bay through programs and activities for families, school groups, and anyone interested in marine conservation.

“Each habitat is home to a unique group of animals and plants that have evolved to survive perfectly under a specific set of conditions, and each habitat faces challenges that we can all help address,” Espinoza says, explaining that the Aquarium “functions alongside our advocacy and habitat restoration efforts to work toward our vision of a fishable, swimmable Narragansett Bay accessible to all.”

The new location, just steps away from downtown Newport’s main transportation hub and bus station, includes an expanded and revitalized Kids’ Zone with hands-on activities, a screen broadcasting underwater views of local marine life, biological artifacts, and more interactive features. Three touch tanks throughout the Aquarium allow guests of all ages to get close to local species, prompting curiosity and questions – which a team of knowledgeable staff and volunteers can answer, sharing stories and insights about the delicate ecosystem.

“By connecting people to the Bay’s underwater wonders, the Aquarium plays a crucial role in inspiring future advocates and supporting Save The Bay’s overarching mission to protect Narragansett Bay for future generations.”

Winter hours at Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium begin November 14: Thursday- Monday, 10am-4pm. General admission is $15, with discounts for seniors and members, and free for children under two and military personnel. No admission is required to enjoy the gift shop. You can also inquire about booking kids’ birthday parties in 2025. Visit SaveBay.org/aquarium for more information.

^{• By Abbie Lahmers, photo courtesy of Save the Bay}

A Sea of Jellyfish Blooms in New Exhibit at New Bedford Whaling Museum

Dive into a sea of glowing, recycled plastic jellyfish in Community BLOOMS, the latest exhibit at the New Bedford Whaling Museum. Created by artist Katy Rodden Walker and over 200 locals, these stunning, illuminated sculptures are a vivid reminder of the ocean’s plastic crisis – proof that beauty and awareness can bloom from the debris of pollution. Read more on our latest blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{•By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of New Bedford Whaling Museum}

Rhody Reads: Six Staff Picks from Wakefield Books

Looking for your next page-turner? The team at Wakefield Books shares their current must-reads across genres, from historical mysteries to magical adventures and heartfelt biographies. Step inside the world of these staff favorites, hand-picked by passionate readers who know the power of a great recommendation – just in time for the holiday season. Read more online at TheBay.com.

^{•By Michelle San Antonio}