If You’ve Experienced These 10 Things, You’ve Lived in Rhode Island for Far Too Long

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., but it’s packed with personality, charm, and a unique brand of humor that only locals truly understand. From the coastal beauty to the delicious seafood, Rhode Island is a place where you never have to look too far to find something interesting, quirky, or downright delicious. If you’ve checked off these 10 things, there’s no denying it—you’ve been living in Rhode Island for far too long.

You’ve Defended the “Biggest Little State” Slogan Like It’s Your Job

As the smallest state in the U.S., Rhode Island gets a lot of jokes. But you’ve spent plenty of time explaining to outsiders that while Rhode Island may be small in size, it’s big in heart, charm, and things to do. You’ve likely embraced the “Biggest Little State in the Union” slogan as a point of pride, knowing that you don’t need to be big to be mighty.

You’ve Tried to Explain the “South County” vs. “North” Divide and Gotten Way Too Into It

Rhode Islanders are fiercely loyal to their respective parts of the state, and you’ve definitely had at least one conversation about the true nature of South County versus North County. Whether it’s the beaches, the culture, or the food, you’ve found yourself passionately defending your region—because, let’s face it, everyone knows the best seafood is south of Providence.

You’ve Been to the Newport Mansions and Thought, “This Is the Best Weekend Ever”

Newport is home to some of the most beautiful mansions in the country, and you’ve likely spent a day exploring them and marveling at the opulence. You’ve felt a mix of awe and envy, wondering how anyone could live like that—before realizing you could probably just visit again next weekend.

You’ve Had a Conversation About Coffee Milk and Thought, “This Is a Rhode Island Classic”

Coffee milk is a state treasure, and you’ve definitely had a conversation about what it is (and isn’t). Whether it’s a childhood drink or a local specialty, you’ve proudly explained that coffee milk is like Rhode Island’s answer to chocolate milk. If someone doesn’t understand it, you’ll kindly (and firmly) give them a lesson.

You’ve Experienced the “Vortex of Mispronunciation” of Rhode Island Place Names

Living in Rhode Island means you’ve learned that the place names here don’t always match their pronunciations. Whether it’s Woonsocket, Narragansett, or Pawtucket, you’ve made your peace with the fact that if you try to explain to someone from out of state how to say it, you’ll probably just end up spelling it out for them.

You’ve Spent More Time Than You’d Like in Traffic on I-95 and Thought, “Well, At Least It’s Short”

Rhode Island’s traffic is infamous for being incredibly congested, especially on I-95. You’ve found yourself stuck in traffic during rush hour, listening to the radio, and thinking, “It’s not that bad… it’s only a few miles.” It might take 30 minutes to travel 5 miles, but hey, at least you’re not in a place where the commute takes hours.

You’ve Enjoyed a Clam Cake and Thought, “This Is Why I Live Here”

Clam cakes are an iconic Rhode Island snack, and you’ve likely had one (or many) while sitting by the water. Whether they’re fried perfectly crispy or served at a local seafood shack, you’ve realized that clam cakes are one of the many things that make living in Rhode Island feel so special. No other state does them quite like this.

You’ve Been to WaterFire and Thought, “This is the Most Magical Thing Ever”

WaterFire in Providence is a must-see event, and you’ve likely wandered the streets on a warm evening, watching as the river is illuminated by bonfires. The combination of art, music, and the spark of the flames dancing on the water has made you fall in love with Rhode Island all over again—every time.

You’ve Heard the Phrase “No, I’m Not from Providence” and Thought, “Oh, I Get It”

Living in Rhode Island means you’ve encountered the ongoing confusion about where people are from. You’ve probably been asked, “Oh, are you from Providence?” and you’ve had to explain that no, you’re from somewhere else—but it’s still close enough. For those in Rhode Island, the geographical politics are very real.

You’ve Seen the Ocean State License Plate and Thought, “That’s a State of Pride”

The “Ocean State” license plate is a point of pride for many Rhode Islanders, and you’ve probably found yourself feeling just a little extra patriotic when you see it. It’s a small state with a big heart, and you know that Rhode Island’s pride is packed into every corner—especially when it’s time to show off that license plate.

If you’ve spent time navigating the small yet spirited towns, savoring clam cakes, and defending Rhode Island’s place in the world, you’ve truly embraced what makes this state unique. From the beautiful coastline to the rich history and quirky locals, Rhode Island packs a lot into its compact borders. And whether you’re cruising down I-95, enjoying a clam cake, or checking out a mansion, there’s nowhere quite like the Ocean State to make you feel at home.

The post If You’ve Experienced These 10 Things, You’ve Lived in Rhode Island for Far Too Long appeared first on When In Your State.

Source link