🥪 Your Lunch Inspo Awaits...

Whatever happened to April showers and May just bringing flowers? Luckily, May’s doing the most—and this newsletter is your cheerful cure for any lingering gray skies. Inside, you’ll find everything from the art of the mid-day bite in our hot-off-the-press magazines to penguins making waves at the zoo and outdoor movies turning city sidewalks into starlit theaters. If you’ve been waiting for a reason to trade doomscrolling for daydreaming, consider this your cozy cue to dive into something delightfully local.

Dig In to May’s Magazines!

May we tempt you with a midday revival? This month’s lineup dives fork-first into The Joy of Lunch – a love letter to the most underrated meal of the day. Also on the menu: Hey Rhody bites into 10 buzzworthy new restaurants, Providence Monthly serves up fresh city-living inspo, So Rhode Island dives into South County’s booming blue economy, and The Bay takes flight with an artist’s brand-new birding guide. Scoop up a copy around town or dig in online – this issue is packed with flavorful reads for every craving.

Movies on the Block Returns to Light Up Providence Nights

InDowncity is reviving its beloved Movies on the Block series, turning Grant’s Block into a monthly outdoor cinema starting June 26. Free screenings of cult classics and tasty to-go snacks from local eateries make it the perfect downtown hangout all summer long. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of InDowncity}

^{Presented by Save the Bay}

Discover Marine Life at Newport’s Save The Bay Aquarium

“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.”

Just steps away from downtown Newport’s main transportation hub and bus station, the Aquarium 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.”

Save The Bay’s Hamilton Family Aquarium is open daily from 10am-4pm with expanded summer hours starting May 26 from 9am-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. Birthday parties and private rentals at the Aquarium will be available from September 2025 through June 2026. Visit SaveBay.org/aquarium for more information.

Penguins Make a Splash in Providence Zoo Comeback

Twelve Humboldt penguins are waddling back into Roger Williams Park Zoo this Memorial Day weekend, headlining a brand-new warm-weather exhibit. Native to the sunny coasts of Chile and Peru, these sociable seabirds bring charm, conservation, and plenty of photo ops to the Ocean State. Read more on our blog at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Jenna Kaplan, photo courtesy of RWP Zoo}

Taste Your Way Through Rhode Island’s Hottest New Tables

Rhode Island’s dining scene just got a delicious upgrade with ten fresh spots you’ll want on your foodie bucket list. From swanky Italian vibes at Bar Lazio to crave-worthy comfort eats, these new restaurants are the perfect excuse to rally your group chat. Read more online at HeyRhody.com.

^{• By Patty J, photo courtesy of CRU PVD}

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Rhode Island’s softest runway ✨

Photo by @timnewportri

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