In need of a daycation right about now, but not feeling especially beach-y yet? Someone just told me that one of the big trends in Gansett this summer is the mismatched bikini. Not sure I'm feeling bikini brave enough for that myself, thought you might wanna know tho. Anyway, don't stress over bathing suits, but do check out this 4 step plan for daycation nirvana by way of Bristol, RI.

1. The Coffeesesh (aka Coffee Session)

Start off at either Angelina's (We would've had so many great photos from Angie's had we not gone on an Art Of DeCluttering/Mary Kondo purge of our phones a while back and deleted a ton.) or The Beehive Cafe for coffee and breakfast, al fresco or not. Angelina's is bright, kitschy, and 21st century hipster, with outdoor seating out front to boot. The Hive has a more low-key crunchy granola meets college English professor vibe, all with a delightful patio and deck space. Love 'em both! 

2. The Manse

Next, it's on to Blithewold Mansion & Gardens. After stopping at the gift shop/cottage where you buy tix (for around $12 each) for admission, make your way over to the 45 room manse and prepare to be wow'ed by the artifacts, history, and absolute grandeur of it all. We've ooh'ed and aah'ed our way thru the first 2 floors. (Pretty sure the third floor is viewable by appointment only btw.) A must visit for any antique, design or history (Rhody and beyond) buffs. And if you're a native and you've never been, add to your list asap.

3. The Summer Cottage 

Now the grounds: Can you say stunning? You don't have to walk the entire 33 acres, but def venture over to the summer cottage in the woods, a rustic one room with a fireplace that the original owners of the property built for their daughter's wedding. (And you thought you were under wedding planning pressure?) One look at the porch, the rocking chairs, and the peaceful surroundings, and you'll be trying to book a stay there on Airbnb.

4. Best Of RI

End your afternoon with a walk down the gravel path (Wear flats!) to the water, aka, Narragansett Bay. The payoff? Views straight out of a postcard or something. (Do people still send postcards?) There's also a tiny beach area, pristine but rocky and not really all that accessible. No matter - We recommend hanging out on the deck and taking some video for Insta Stories or Facebook Live or just soaking up the Vitamin D. Throw your sunnies and sunblock on and enjoy!

Team Patty J

Photo Credits: Photos of The Beehive exterior and menu board/counter are courtesy of Ashley Farney. All other photos courtesy of PattyJ.com.