Community Corner

Fun Foodie Day Trips in Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Check out these great culinary-inspired adventures.

Written by Jaretta Konneh

New England is home to some great food. We've compiled a list of the best culinary adventures in Rhode Island and Massachusetts that everyone should enjoy. The best part? You only need a tank of gas (or less) to get there.

Culinary Arts Museum

Johnson and Wales University

315 Harborside Blvd.

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Providence, RI 02905

401-598-2805

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Why Go: If you’re a real foodie, interested in vintage memorabilia, or are looking for something to do during your stay in Providence, this is a great place to visit. There’s a lot to look at: hometown diners in the early 20th century in New England, large and small appliances throughout the centuries, and not to mention a vast array of cookbooks—60,000 to be exact. 

Insider Tip: Pictures are allowed, so feel free to bring a camera.

Must Do: "Food on the Move." This exhibit explores the traditions of hungry travelers over the last 150 years. Be sure to check out the Dinner at the White House exhibit, which features presidential menus and food-related documents signed by U.S. Presidents and First Ladies.

The Fine Print: The Culinary Arts Museum is open Tuesday- Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Closed on major holidays. It’s $7 for adults and $6 for seniors 62 and over. College students with an ID pay $4, and if you’re an AAA member you get $1 off admission.

  

Helen’s Kitchen Cooking School

3 Ingleside Rd.

Natick, MA 01760

(617) 500-0817

Why Go: Helen is a knowledgeable, poised chef who shares all that she knows. The class is at her home, making the atmosphere relaxed. Her classes also are small, ensuring instructor observation and guidance. Don’t be intimidated though, Helen is patient and very funny. If you want to take a class with your significant other or with the whole family, Helen’s Kitchen Cooking School is the perfect place.

Insider Tip: Aside from Helen’s public classes, she offers private classes, as well. This is great for birthday, anniversary, bachelorette parties and team building events. 

Must Do: Helen has many classes, but a popular one among regulars is Tender at the Bone. You’ll never make a bad steak again.

The Fine Print: Prices range from $80-90 per the class. To register for an upcoming class, go to helenrennie.com.

Johnson & Wales University

Chef's Choice

8 Abbott Park Pl.

Providence, RI 02903

401-598-2336

Why Go: Johnson and Wales' culinary program is the top in the country, so who wouldn’t want to learn from the best?

Insider Tip: Bring your own apron, or pay $15 for the ones they provide. 

Must Do: Chef’s Choice Cooking Class. In three hours you can learn knife skills, make pastries, or make global cuisines.

The Fine Print: Price is $200 per person.

City Wine Tours

1 Mifflin Pl.

Ste 400

Cambridge, MA 02138

(855) 455-8747

Why Go: City Wine Tours' motto is “learning about wine should be as much fun as drinking it.” Not only do you get acquainted with Boston’s vibrant wine selections, but you visit the city’s top restaurants. Whether you’re new to Boston, already knowledgeable about wine, or just want to learn more about it, City Wine Tours gets you the most bang for your buck.

Insider Tip: Check out Groupon or Yelp for discounted rates.

Must Do: South End tour. Many tourists have said the stops on the tour—and the tour leaders—are great.

The Fine Print: One to two tours run each week in each location. Tours last about two hours, $66 per person. If you want to bring children, check out the tours of Harvard University and the Freedom Trail.


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