Free things to do in Providence over Spring Break

Although the snow would say differently, Spring Break is fast approaching. While it seems as though every Brown student is leaving for a tropical beach, I’m here to tell you that’s not true! A small contingent of Brown students brave the Ratty for a week to finally enjoy some peace on campus. Although social life might be quiet, there are plenty of free activities to take advantage of while you have less work.Newport Cliff WalkThe Cliff Walk is 3.5 mile path that winds past the famous mansions along the coast. It might still be a bit chilly, but the walk is beautiful and the houses are ridiculous. The 60 takes an hour and a half to Newport, and Brown students get free RIPTA rides. Get takeout from the Ratty in the morning and make a day of it!RISD Museum Most Brown students have probably been at least once, but it’s worth another trip. With rotating exhibits and an incredible amount of art in a small space, there is always something new to see (I recommend the Greek jewelry room). The museum is always free to Brown and RISD students, and free to the public on Sundays. The food in Café Pearl is also ridiculously tasty.Lincoln WoodsIt’s a little trickier to get to by bus than Newport, but if you’ve been craving nature, Lincoln Woods is worth it. The state park is over 600 acres, with miles of trails. Rhode Island State HouseWe take it for granted we live in a state with such an accessible government. The State House gives free tours every weekday at the top of the hour from 9-3. It’s a beautiful building with lots of fun artifacts, plus it’s highly likely you’ll run into a representative!Ratty GourmetIf you’re not looking to get off campus, but still have a lot of time on your hands, dedicate yourself to the Ratty for a meal. Although it’s died off, Ratty Gourmet has a vast array of student submitted meals made from Ratty offerings. It might be too time consuming during the school year, but hey, what else are you going to do all afternoon during spring break?Providence Flea MarketStarting March 26, the flea market is back at Hope High School. Just a ten-minute walk from campus, you can grab some friends and wander the aisles of vintage and artisan vendors. Entry is free, and if you are totally fed up with the Ratty, they have food trucks as well.East Bay Bike PathRunning 14.5 miles from Providence to Bristol, the East Bay Bike Path is an easy and beautiful ride. The path starts at India Point Park and follows the bay south. If you don't have a bike on campus, Brown Bike Shares has free week long rentals for bikes Tuesdays and Saturdays.Break at Brown can be just as fun, if not more fun, as going somewhere. With far less people running around and a whole week to do homework, you can finally explore Lil Rhody in its full glory. Images via, via, via, via