The Hammock Coast beaches are perfect for taking away the cares of everyday life. Numerous national magazines have, in fact, noted that some of South Carolina’s best beaches are found on the Hammock Coast.

Those beach communities each have their own vibe and charm.

Murrells Inlet, for example, is home to Brookgreen Gardens, a world-renowned sculpture and botanical show case across 9,127 acres, and Huntington Beach State Park, a USA Today/10 Best nominee where visitors can relax in more than 180 campsites, and offers some of the best birding opportunities on the East Coast. At the 2,000-acre state park, you can even explore historic Atalaya Castle. Seriously, the Hammock Coast has a real castle at the beach!

Murrells Inlet is also known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” Originally a fishing village on a protected inlet, the community boasts some of the best sea food in the South! The Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, a half-mile-long board walk, allows visitors to experience the salt-marsh ecosystem while restaurants, shops, parasailing, jetskiing and fishing excursions all beckon.

Pawleys Island is the oldest seaside resort in America and is still a great place to enjoy a quiet, laid-back vacation. As the birth place of the Pawleys Island handmade rope hammock, relaxation has a long history here. The historic island has no neon and no commercial development (no, not even a single store or gas station); however, there are two historic inns and myriad homes for rent. And just over the short causeway are first-class restaurants and boutique shops.

Families have been devoted to Litchfield Beach for generations. Little wonder, then, that Tripadvisor has named it one of the Top 10 beaches in America.

Award-winning golf, with 13 courses within a 15-minute drive, can be enjoyed on the Hammock Coast, too. Many are built on former rice plantations, giving a graciously Southern golf experience. Three of Golf Magazine’s “Top 100 You Can Play” are here.

For the history buff, Georgetown is South Carolina’s third oldest city, founded in 1729, and the beaches of DeBordieu Colony are just across the bridge. Five museums, including the South Carolina Maritime Museum, are all within the waterfront historic district. Self-guided walking tours offer insight into the town’s 66 National Historic Register properties. Historic American figures such as George Washington and Harriett Tubman are intertwined in our rich history.

Andrews, located 18 miles inland from Georgetown, offers the perfect place to experience the natural world. From sporting clays to kayaking along the winding Black River, Andrews is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Throughout the Hammock Coast, visitors discover tempting culinary delights. When the hardest part of vacation is deciding where to eat, you know you’re in the right spot! From fine dining to Southern-fried goodness, myriad eclectic, locally owned restaurants will whet your appetite.

On South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, rediscover life with no schedules. The only itinerary you may need is a tide chart.

For information, go to www.HammockCoastSC.com

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Bakersfield is a city of surprises. It welcomes you with a hometown feel while offering urban area amenities. The ninth-largest city in California has countless food and entertainment options. And year-round sunshine means outdoor activities–biking, hiking, river rafting, fishing and boating–are always in season.

On the streets of Bakersfield, the city’s fun food experiences have been the focus of national attention. Seven local restaurants were spotlighted on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives show. An Indian food truck–Punjabi Dhaba–was featured in The New York Times and a Mexican restaurant, Nuestro Mexico, was hailed by Thrillist.com as having the best tacos in California. And Bakersfield’s many notable Basque restaurants continue to draw visitors as they have for decades.

The city’s brewery trail was such a hit when it launched in early 2021 that it was recently expanded to include breweries throughout the county. The Bakersfield Kern County Brewery Trail now touts twelve local breweries, providing more chances to check in and win.

In a few short weeks in February the annual almond blossom extravaganza bursts forth, courtesy of Mother Nature. A sea of white and pink almond blossoms blankets the CentralValley in a show that some say rivals the cherry blossoms in Japan. And that show begins in Bakersfield, because it is the warmest.

On the city’s selfie trail, check out the only shoe-shaped building in America with shoe laces. It’s 30 feet long and 20 feet tall. Bike or walk along more than 30 miles of the Kern River Parkway Trail, where you might see rabbits, roadrunners, and other wildlife, all protected from development. Several hiking options are ready for you, like the Panorama Bluffs Walking Trail over looking the Kern River, or 370 acres of Hart Park, where you might see wandering peacocks.

Eat dinner and see a show at Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, country music’s legendary music venue, where the Buckmobile, Buck’s Pontiac convertible, is mounted on a wall behind the bar. Legend has it that he won it from Elvis in a poker game.

Jazz fans will enjoy the weekly Bakersfield Jazz Workshop every Tuesday evening at the Petroleum Club. Other types of music are on the playlist with concerts at the Bakersfield Music Hall of Fame, the Historic Fox Theater, and Mechanics Bank Arena.

A stop in Col. Baker’s field is not complete without taking a taste of Bakersfield home with you. Pyrenees French bread is Bakersfield’s bread. The sourdough bread is still baked in brick ovens using the same Old World techniques and recipes since 1944. Dewar’s chews are Bakersfield’s favorite candy. Made the same way for more than 100 years, they have been featured in numerous articles and on Food Network. Rio Bravo Ranch’s award-winning olive oil has earned gold and silver medals in several competitions. La Rosa Fruit Bars and Ice Cream serves up refreshing treats that you will find only in Bakersfield; they are handmade daily with fresh natural fruits and come in 26 assorted flavors. And My Husband’s Nuts specializes in seasoned and candied California almonds, direct from the farmer’s wife.

Winter is busy season for the area’s fruit packing facilities, so grab some freshly picked citrus while in Bakersfield. California Fruit Depot is one of the state’s smallest packing facilities and packs navel and Valencia oranges. You might even see some oranges being packed when you visit. Murray Family Farms offers fun farm entertainment, a petting zoo, country store and bakery, and you can pick your own fruit at its Big Red Barn.

Plan your visit to the streets of Bakersfield at VisitBakersfield.com.

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Sometimes it’s the hidden gems that shine the brightest. Such is the case with Watertown. Enjoy the kind of refreshing outdoor spaces, great dining, and artistic adventures you can only find off the beaten path.

Explore a portrait of prairie wonder in Watertown, South Dakota. Watertown has a story to tell. You can hear it whispered by the ornate arches on Kemp Avenue, taste it in the local fare, and feel it in a gold-soaked sunset over Lake Kampeska. This is where life slows down and your creative spirit soars. You’ll see why after spending a few days in this picturesque haven.

Take a tour through the recently renovated Goss Opera House, where historic charm meets modern elegance. If these walls could talk, the stories they would tell! The same area is also home to a bevy of locally-inspired dishes and drink, adding up for one inedible dining experience. Tickle your sweet tooth at the Watertown Confectionery and Ghost Town Winery, where you’ll find hand-dipped chocolates and house bottled wins. “Come Closer” at the AZA accredited Bramble Park Zoo, where more than 800 animals representing 120 species call home.

A hub of prairie culture, Watertown has a flourishing arts community you might think impossible in a town of 20,000. Those in search of inspiration will find it at the Terry Redlin Art Center, where 165 original oil paintings immortalize the rural scenes of Redlin’s youth. Outside the museum is the beginning of the Watertown Artwalk, a path of 12 sculptures gracing uptown.

Discover the Watertown story-and write a chapter of your own-on an invigorating getaway. Start planning yours today at VisitWatertownSD.com

Getting Here

Located at the intersection of Interstate 29 and U.S. Hwy 212, Watertown is approximately halfway between Omaha and Winnipeg on Interstate 29, and about 200 miles from Minneapolis on U.S. Hwy 212. Watertown has direct service to and from Chicago O’Hare and DenverInternational airports daily in the newly opened terminal at Watertown Regional Airport.

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In the center of West Virginia is small-town Buckhannon. Small, as in the local population and how quickly you can get around, but not to be confused with a boring po-dunk town. To West Virginia, Buckhannon is known as a vibrant downtown with loads of atmosphere. There’s an emerging arts district with public art popping up in unexpected places and, surprisingly, a number of options for top-quality food joints.

Buckhannon’s Main Street pumps with atmosphere–downtown shoppes line the street with colorful flags, and window displays welcome you to walk in to the boutiques. Spring and summer time are highlights, seeing nearly every street corner overflowing with flowers. And while this town is the classic, charming USA MainStreets, one end of the town is quickly becoming the funky, artistic scene. Places like Trader’s Alley have murals and a painted walkway. Tucked around the corner is Lascaux Micro-Theater that premieres showings like the Manhattan Film Festival and other artistic cinema. The Blaxxmith Shop and The Infamous Art Gallery have interactive art exhibits and events each week. It’s common to see a gathering of artists on the corner, prepping for the town’s next event.

It’s easy to see how the arts are appreciated throughout the town–the local city purchased a Main Street building and restored it into the Colonial Arts Center–a hub for performances, theater, exhibition space and workshops. Recent productions include “Clue: Live On Stage”and“ A 1940s Radio Christmas Carol.”

Buckhannon’s creativity flows into the restaurants, too. Local–and yes, it’s all certainly local–as Laura Meadows, director of the Convention and Visitors Bureau says,“Buckhannon is proud to have our own people own the restaurants; we don’t have many chain restaurants and we like it that way.” Eating local means finding places like Fish Hawk Acres, that’s famous for Teresa’s biscuits, focaccia bread, and sunny windows. Fish Hawk serves more than meals–the downtown spot has first-class private dining experiences; the retail market, called The Coop, plus welcomes guests into the kitchen for some interactive cooking classes.

When a caffeine boost is needed, a favorite is Stone Tower Brews that has top selections of West Virginia craft beer on tap and creates specialty coffee blends. For one of the best burgers, the unassuming Whistle Stop Bar and Grill might not look like much, but serves up amazing burger creations like “The Caboose” and the “Almost Heaven.”

While Buckhannon is most known for its downtown vibes, the wild and wonderful side of West Virginia can be seen surrounding the town. Trail networks have become a priority for places like Upshur County Trails, with 10+ miles of trails for mountain bikers and hikers. Local trail makers like to say the wooded network is “made by mountain bikers, for mountain bikers.” More scenic trails and experiences are found at the West Virginia Wildlife Center. An immersive experience, guests can walk through the wooded forest of West Virginia to see the state’s native animals in natural enclosures. Overnight camp spots at Audra State Park are along the Middle Fork River, where the scenes and sounds of the flowing river can’t be beat.

West Virginia is an emerging top destination. The locals have long known the hidden gems–the scenic rolling hills, the winter mountains lined with ski slopes, the wide-open forests, and the small towns dotting the state with true Appalachian culture. In a time when everyone is searching for a new getaway, choosing Buckhannon is worth a shot.

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13 breweries? 400+ eateries? 1.5 miles of pristine beach? Ramen Capital of Southern California? Here’s the truth. Torrance is home to some of the best kept secrets of Southern California. Bordering Redondo Beach and the Palos Verdes Peninsula, this uncrowded, anti-hustle-and-bustle location is the perfect place to catch a wave, toss back a craft brew or relax in one of the city’s many exciting hotels. Whether you’re planning a proper vacay or bringing a little work with you, Torrance’s hotels are the ideal place to take advantage of some great onsite amenities such as pools, outdoor patios and bars. Many offer free breakfast, additional dining options, parking and area shuttles, too.

When it comes to all the reasons why Torrance is the perfect getaway, it may be unbelievable, but it’s true. Torrance has more than 400 eateries in town and has been dubbed “The Ramen Capital of Southern California.” There’s plenty to be “hoppy” about as you cozy up to the city’s 13 craft breweries and cheer on a vacay well-planned. And there’s a lot to look forward to–new restaurants are calling Torrance home soon, featuring Italian, Mediterranean, Japanese and more types of cuisine.

Need to bring back some souvenirs? You just hit the shopping motherlode. Torrance happens to be home to one of the largest shopping malls in America, Del Amo Fashion Center. This high-end shopper’s paradise has three levels and 2.7 million square feet of amazingness: an outdoor village, numerous dining options and a movie theater. Be sure to stop by the California Welcome Center Torrance, where you can get more personal suggestions. While you’re there, you can also plan your trip through our interactive kiosks, shop locally-sourced merchandise, get custom activity planning and more. The California Welcome Center is located in the Del Amo Fashion Center at the main entrance, level one.

Beyond the Torrance city limits, you’re also a hop, skip and a jump from nearby attractions such as Disneyland and Aquarium of the Pacific, one of the best aquariums in Southern California. Torrance, only 11 miles from LAX, is a more casual way to enjoy these adventures and the perfect home base for sports and events. Dignity Health Sports Park, home of the MLS’s LA Galaxy, and SoFi Stadium, host to the NFL’s Chargers and Rams, are close enough to enjoy the fun and far enough to escape the crowd. Staying in Torrance might be the easiest, and best, decision you make this year.

And of course, the best all-around beaches in Southern California area are—what’s that word?—unbelievable. The dream of uncrowded sand and surf in Torrance is the perfect spot to catch a wave. (Plus, unlike other area beaches, it’s pretty easy to snag a parking spot.) And when you’re done catching some rays, hop on The Strand–the 22-mile bike path that leads all the way to Will Rogers State Park in Malibu. There are bike rentals available from local hotels, as well as a few spots on the beach. Make a day of it or stop along the way for an impromptu game of volleyball or sandcastle building.

It’s all unbelievable but true. You’ll just have to see it for yourself. Visit DiscoverTorrance.com to learn more about this Southern California hidden gem and start planning your foodie getaway today.

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While much of the country is battling snowstorms, Sierra Vista, Arizona, is enjoying mild winter weather with picture-perfect, snow-topped peaks as a reminder that winter is in full swing. But with valley temperatures in the low 60s, tire chains and wooly under things are as mysterious as Chupacabra*.

While “going south” is usually associated with rising temperatures, Sierra Vista, at 4,633 feet, enjoys a comfortable climate all year long. In winter months, visitors can still explore without bundling up. Spring starts in late February with mercury rising to the low 70s. Blazing summer heat is unusual; June’s high 90s are broken with seasonal rainstorms.

The Huachucas (say “Waa-CHOO-kuhs” to sound like a local) are the southern most range of the Sky Islands, fast-rising peaks surrounded by radically different low lands, that create an ecosystem that is among the most diverse in the world, with narrow valleys, steep canyons, and soaring peaks that invite biodiversity seen nowhere else in the United States. In fact, the area attracts myriad avian life, more than any other place in the United States, giving Sierra Vista the nickname of “Hummingbird Capital of the United States. ”Here, you can find up to 15 species of hummingbirds—one found nowhere else north of Mexico—and more than 300 different bird species during the year.

Whether you road cycle or mountain bike, Sierra Vista is surrounded by miles of rolling, two-lane roads, bike lanes, and single-track mountain trails. The Huachucas reach a soaring 9,465 feet with some pretty steep trails for hearty hikers, although plenty of gentler trails still rate high with mountain bikers and hikers alike. One of the easiest routes (and perhaps most peaceful trail) is the path along the San Pedro River. This 54-mile trail is relatively flat (just 100 feet of elevation change) and offers multiple access points along the river.

Sierra Vista is big enough for the best amenities, but small enough for a charming getaway. The city has earned a reputation for culinary diversity, thanks to the international restaurants tucked in plazas throughout the city. Offerings include flavors from around the world, attributed to nearby Fort Huachuca, whose soldiers returned from overseas with a hunger for world flavors. Drop into any of the eateries in jeans and hiking boots for a flavor-packed meal. Don’t let the unassuming (and sometimes kitschy) décor fool you into low expectations. The chefs won’t compromise when showcasing their homeland favorites. And luckily, reservations aren’t needed unless you have a big group.

Southeast Arizona grows about 80 percent of Arizona’s wine grapes at more than two dozen vineyards. Exploring nearby wine country and sampling the gold medal-winning wines produced there is a must. Along the way, the scenery will knock your socks off, especially if you are traveling at sunset: blasts of orange, pink, and purple light up the sky. Have your camera ready, the light changes quickly.

Find out more and start planning your getaway at SierraVistaAZ.com or download the interactive guide on your smart phone at your favorite app store. Just search“Sierra Vista Guide.”

*What is a Chupacabra you ask? An urban legend, a mythological question mark that roams the Southwest and Latin America attacking livestock under the cloak of darkness. Don’t worry, Chupacabraare as elusive as Big foot and you’re more likely to spot a coatimundi than this “goat sucker.

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The Road Trip. It’s what Americans do. It’s what we’ve always done. There are entire shelves of books devoted to hitting the road. And jukeboxes full of songs about riding out to case the promised land. We’ve all gone to look for America at one time or another. But what are we usually looking for? A great place to eat, of course. A classic hot dog stand. A roadside scoop shop. Barbecue joints. Diners. Bake shops. The corner café with hamburgers sizzling on an open grill all night and day. These are the places that fuel our trips and spark the stories we share with family and friends when we get back home.

So, you’re ready to roll down your window and let the breeze blow back your hair—now what? Easy. Point your car in the direction of Upstate New York and some of the country’s best bakers, sandwich makers and chicken wing shakers. There may not be another cluster of regional specialties in the entire country like the one you’ll find along the highways that connect Binghamton, Syracuse, Rochester and Buffalo. The menu includes culinary traditions going back generations to a time when the region boomed with the opening of the Erie Canal and the flood of immigrants who followed. Chicken spiedies. Hot pies. Salt potatoes. Snappy grillers. Garbage plates. White hots. Buffalo wings. Beef on weck. Frozen custard. Sponge Candy.

It’s a legacy of comfort food that’s affordable, delectable and unforgettable.

www.upstateeatstrail.com

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Plumas County is more than just another winter resort. With the historical and unique hotels, B&Bs and lodges, the enchanted evenings of sparkling stars, brisk morning walks and runs, the quirky towns of this county always have something to offer their guests that makes Destination Plumas County out of the ordinary. From events to activities to relaxation, there is something for everyone to enjoy and make a lasting memory.

Chester has just opened an ice-skating rink at Chester Community Park. The rink offers 45-minute skating sessions for $5.00 per person, including skate rental: Fridays, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 4:00p.m. Heat lamps and a firepit keep you toasty warm between turns on the ice while roasting marshmallows for ooey-gooey s’mores—a must for every outing. In the evenings, they offer another way to stay warm—with cocktails and other beverages. January through March. www.lakealmanorarea.com

Join a ranger-led off-trail snowshoe hike and explore the wild and wintry Red Fir Forest at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Ranger-led snowshoe hikes cover one to two miles of moderately strenuous terrain and last approximately two hours. The exact route can vary with snow and weather conditions. Meet at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, at Lassen Park, located at the Southwest Entrance via Hwy 36 to get a free ticket (first come). Hikes begin at1:30 p.m. Snowshoes (and how to put them on) are provided. To schedule a group hike, visit https://www.nps.gov/lavo/planyourvisit/ranger_led_programs.htm. January through March. 530.595.4480 for more information and conditions.

The Historic Longboard Racing Revival Series takes a vintage spin on skiing at Johnsville Historic Ski Bowl! The sport of downhill ski racing began in 1861 in Onion Valley, between Quincy and La Porte. The goal is to beat the 1st-speed skier record set in 1867 of 88mph set by Cornish Bobon 12-foot-long wooden skis. This must-see (and participate-in) event is dependent on snow and weather conditions and happens at noon on every third Sunday in January through March. 530.832.4309. www.plumasskiclub.org.

Quincy, the annual Groundhog Day hosted by the Quincy Chamber of Commerce, begins at 1:00p.m. with several mini-contests, complete with prizes, throughout the afternoon. This includes“TheBach,” a bachelor/bachelorette auction; a chili cook-off; beer and wine poured; homemade goodies to taste; and vendors galore to delight any shopper. World-famous groundhog, Chuck Wood, delivers his winter prediction at 4:00 p.m. February 4, 2023,1:00p.m. www.quincychamber.com

The Chilly Chili Cook-Off, hosted by The Almanor Foundation, is a must with 15+ chilis to sample. See an ice carver turn 200lbs of ice into a fabulous sculpture; enjoy adult beverages; s’mores kits for $1 to roast over firepits; live music from the local singing dentist; a toque contest, and more. Monies to benefit the town ice skating rink. February 18, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. $10/adults; $5 for kids. For more information, visit https://almanorfoundation.networkforgood.com/events/49522-chilly-chili-cook-off

Snow, snow and more snow activities are aplenty. Not to be missed, we offer cross-country skiing through most of the county to include across beautiful Chester Meadow in the shadow of Lassen Peak, or along the west shore trail at Lake Almanor with open vistas of the lake and Dyer Mountain. We have family-friendly budget downhill skiing at Coppervale; sledding and with the“just right” snow conditions, we have dog sled races and action-packed snowmobiling. Just like frolicking in the snow?Many places you can just step out the front door of where you are lodging and make snowmen, snow angels, or have a fast-and-furious snowball fight.

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Natchitoches has been a destination for travelers since 1714. Located in Central Louisiana on Interstate 49, you will find the original French Colony in Louisiana. For more than 300 years, tourists have come to Natchitoches from across the country and the globe . Today’s travelers learn of Natchitoches’ evolution through tremendous changes–from the course of a river to the traditions on Southern plantations and more. While paying homage to the past, the vibrancy of this city and region attracts many to explore both the stories of yesterday and the treasures of today.

In the heart of Natchitoches lies the “National Historic Landmark District,” which is home to the famous Front Street, a brick thorough fare where wrought-iron balconies, restaurants, and shops face the beautiful Cane River Lake. In this area, you can also find Lasyone’s, the home of the legendary Natchitoches Meat Pie. Made of 80% beef and 20% pork, this local delicacy is fried golden brown and served with a choice of creamed potatoes or fries, a choice of vegetable, and salad.

Another must-stop while in Natchitoches can be found right around the corner: Merci Beaucoup Restaurant. It is located in a building that was once an old gas station. Now, you can find the delicious Cajun Potato here. It is a stuffed potato topped with crawfish étouffée and jumbo fried shrimp.

A short walk down Front Street might lead you to the Pioneer Pub. It is located in what was known as the Sompayrac Building, built in 1840 and was used as a bank for many years. The building was renovated to the style you see now just before World War II and is now home to the Pioneer Pub. It is a wonderful place to hang out and grab a nice cold beer. You can also order the mouth-watering appetizer called “The Wookie.” It is amazing homemade fries topped with brisket and melted cheese. This is something you will definitely be craving after the fact.

One of the most known restaurants in Natchitoches is The Mariner’s. It is located right off Sibley Lake and is known to have the best sunsets in town. They have also received a Wine Spectator’s Award in less than one year of being open with new owners. Mariner’s is also home to what they call “Chef’s Island.” It is an island located a few hundred feet from the main restaurant that houses a chef’s table and is only accessible by boat. Here you can enjoy a wonderful glass of wine with a sunset you won’t forget.

An additional must-stop is Flying Heart Brewing & Pub. It is housed in a refurbished cotton gin building that is nearly a century old. Whether you want to unwind after work or catchup with friends, Flying Heart Brewing & Pub is the perfect place to be. Here you can find mouthwatering food, signature cocktails, and unique craft beers that are a must-try. The overlap between this historic space and the birth of a new business is a perfect representation of what Natchitoches is all about: rooted in history but constantly evolving.

On your way out of Natchitoches, don’t forget to stop at the French Market. It is located right off I-49. What looks like an average convenience store from the outside, you’ll realize it is much more once you go inside. Here you can find a Cajun restaurant and bakery. The bakery is known for their delicious yam cakes and beignets. But that’s not all they offer. You can also find fine wines and souvenirs, making it the perfect stop for all ages.

If you’re looking for a quiet weekend with the family or a romantic weekend with a loved one, historic Natchitoches offers a dynamic atmosphere for everyone.

Visit Natchitoches.com or call (800) 259-1714 to plan your trip today.

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Since America’s Gilded Age, visitors have flocked to the special seaside enchantment of Narragansett, Rhode Island. The community’s signature stone Towers from that era, which call to mind a castle’s turrets, span Ocean Road and symbolize this welcoming town’s enduring appeal. (In fact, the Town’s Welcome Center is tucked inside one of the turrets.)

As you drive along Ocean Road, the west passage of Narragansett Bay is your constant companion, a continuous Instagram-worth vista that flows into the Atlantic. Along the way are restaurants beloved by locals, the majority family-owned, that serve up not only good food but the flavor of the town’s neighborhoods. Visitors quickly discover that Narragansett is a resort town with a hometown charm.

In the picturesque fishing village of Galilee, George’s and Champlin’s serve up clam cakes, chowder (say“chowdah” and order the Rhode Island clear broth version) and the world-famous Point Judith calamari, all within the sound of the foghorn at Point Judith Light. Farther north is Monahan’s Clam Shack, where the line for fried clams (get the whole bellies) and lobster rolls often trails down to the adjacent fishing pier. It’s al fresco dining only, and there’s no extra charge for the million-dollar view of the bay with the Newport Bridge in the distance. In the north end of Narragansett is Twin Willows, the kind of friendly burger-and-bar destination that would make Sam Malone of Cheers envious. You can eat inside, but order those generous Bill Burgers and Mert Burgers out on the patio for another swoon-worthy view of the sea.

These are just some of the spots where budget-friendly meets family-friendly, in seaside settings like the ones that the Gilded Age bunch paid a fortune to enjoy. In Narragansett, everyone can partake of it.

More upscale dining along Ocean Road is found at Spain Restaurant also family-owned, and Chair 5, the restaurant within The Break, Narragansett’s only boutique hotel. Head upstairs to The Rooftop for an enviable bird’s-eye view. Go a few blocks in from the beach to sample Italian fare, another Rhode Island staple, at Arturo Joe’s and, in Narragansett’s historic and increasingly artsy Boon Street district, PJ’s Pub.

Right next to the Towers is the Coast Guard House Restaurant, perched literally at the edge of the rocky shore. Go for lunch and a glass of wine, which their knowledgeable sommelier will be happy to help you select. Stay for a moonlight dinner and a late-night specialty cocktail. You’ll swear you can hear the heartbeat of the town, in harmony with the sound of the waves that call to surfers almost daily.

This is the center of Narragansett: the Pier, as locals call it. On one side is Narragansett’s signature seawall for all, a year-round promenade for every age that beckons both sunrise joggers and evening saunterers. On the other is the Town Beach, a kind of sandy town square that hosts summer movie nights for kids, plus fireworks punctuated with the sound of the Rhode Island Philharmonic’s annual surfside concert in July. Just beyond it is access to the Narrow River, which, despite its name, can handle boating, paddleboard and kayak enthusiasts.

Cross the street and straight ahead are specialty shops, including Nana’s Ice Cream and Gelato Café. Like Brickley’s in the north end, it’s one of several spots in Narragansett proudly serving homemade ice cream that, as Rhode Islanders might say, is wicked good.

A few steps away is a village green, complete with gazebo that hosts local bands and sing-alongs in the summer. Grab a lawn chair and you’re set. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself joining the other kids of all ages on the grassy dance floor, the rhythm of the waves just steps away.

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