Providence, RI
This trip reminded me that it’s not just about the destination, it’s about the people you’re with. We came together to celebrate a huge milestone for Patrick, and along the way, we created new memories we’ll laugh about for years.
We explored, toasted, walked, ate (so much), and even stuck out a little in our Southern best. But we embraced every minute and if a trip ends with a full heart, full belly, and a group text full of photos, I’d say it was a success.
Friday: Coffee, Campus & Champagne
After touching down in Providence on Friday, we hit the ground running - literally. Fueled by caffeine and sugar from Poindexter Coffee (a charming little cafe that feels like stepping into a Wes Anderson film), we made our way to a special veterans’ graduation ceremony honoring Patrick and others who had served. It was touching, powerful and the perfect start to the weekend.
After the ceremony, Patrick gave us a brief, but spirited tour of Brown’s historic campus. It’s hard not to be impressed by the beautiful ivy-draped buildings, green quads and shaded brick walkways. One of our favorite stops was the Brown bookstore, where a few of us (proudly) bought way too much Brown merch. Once a Rebel, always a Rebel… but this weekend we were honorary Bears. The evening brought a reception and dance where we got to meet many of his classmates and feel the camaraderie that carried them through their intensive program.
Later that evening, we got dressed up and headed to Cafe Nuevo, one of Providence’s most upscale and elegant dining spots, right on the river. The atmosphere was celebratory from the start - champagne flowed freely, and the table was full of laughter and toasts to Patrick. I ordered the beef tenderloin risotto, which was absolutely decadent. But in group trip fashion, we all passed plates and sampled everything. The food, the company and the setting made it an evening we won’t soon forget.
Saturday: Sightseeing, Seersucker & Seafood
Saturday morning, Zoe and I set out to explore Providence on foot. This little city surprised us - far from flat, it’s full of hills and charm. We climbed up to Prospect Terrace Park, where we were rewarded with a quiet moment and a stunning view over the city’s rooftops. We also wandered around the Rhode Island State House, a stately and beautiful building that made us feel like we were in a postcard.
Meanwhile, back at the hotel, it apparently took all three boys to get Patrick properly suited up for his big day - a team effort, and honestly, a hilarious one to imagine. By the time graduation rolled around, they were all looking sharp and unmistakably Southern in their matching seersucker suits. Let’s just say, it definitely made us stand out (in the best way).
By the time we arrived at the main green at Brown for the graduation ceremony, the sun was out briefly. The weather was classic New England, sunny one minute, raining the next, then somehow raining while sunny. But surrounded by the historic halls and the buzz of hundreds of proud families, it didn’t matter. We were dry enough and full of pride.
That night, we headed to Rooftop at Providence G, where we snagged a spot on the patio near the fire pits. It was one of those perfect cool evenings where you never want to leave. The seafood was unforgettable - giant shrimp, salty oysters, and fresh tuna - paired with cocktails and lots of laughs. It felt like the true celebration of the weekend, and the views over the city only added to the magic.
Sunday: Walking & Weiners
Sunday brought one of the most memorable parts of the weekend: joining in one of Brown University’s oldest traditions. Every student begins their journey by walking into campus through the Van Wickle Gates, but superstition warns against walking through them again until graduation. On commencement day, students walk out through the gates, joined by alumni from years past.
It’s a moving tradition - watching new graduates walk shoulder to shoulder with generations before them. It connects the past to the future in a way that few schools do so well. We felt honored to witness it.
For lunch, we headed to a funky, new local joint called Wally’s Wieners. Their menu is a hotdog-lover’s dream, from classic dogs to offbeat combos like “Girl Dinner”, a hotdog topped with french fries and Caesar salad. Yes, you read that right. I went all in and paired it with a chai espresso martini, because why not? The place was decked out with colorful dog-themed decor and had a playful, laid-back vibe we all loved.
Next stop: Boston Bound
Our New England adventure wasn’t over yet - we boarded an Amtrak train to Boston, which was shockingly smooth and easy. It was my first train ride in the U.S., and now I’m wondering why this isn’t the go-to travel option everywhere.
In less than 90 minutes, we were off on our next adventure, but Providence definitely left its mark.
All is well,
H