Kimballs

this is a KIDDIE CONE -- for reals!

If you like ice cream, you need to visit Kimball Farm.  There are 4 locations now (Carlile, Westford, Lancaster, and Jaffrey, NH).  I live closest to Carlile so that's the one I frequent.  The homemade ice cream is delicious, the scoops are generous (big!), and the prices are reasonable.  I've had friends visit and on the way to Kimballs they've said, "You drive THIS far to get an ice cream cone?"  My reply is--just wait!  It's a tradition to go with friends the night of Patriots Day and we often go to Kimballs for our "farewell" parties for friends moving from the area.  The kids LOVE running around the grassy area behind the building, climbing the tree and seeing a few farm animals.  If you haven't gone yet -- GO!

P.S.  Cash only.  :)

Newport Mansions

 The Newport Mansions in Newport, Rhode Island

One sight to see in Newport is the Newport Mansions. These mansions were built as summer homes, in the late 1800's.  To learn more about the mansions and their history click here. Its fascinating to go and see the different architecture and design in each mansion and learn about the history in each mansion. There are 11 total if you want to see them all. This mansion pictured above is called The Breakers, its the biggest and well worth seeing. It has a very large lawn right an ocean view, perfect place for a picnic after the tour.

The tours are audio tours so you can go at your own pace.  They also have special audio tours for kids so they can learn about the mansions from the views of the children that lived in the mansions.

For more information about tickets click here. You can purchase tickets online or at the mansion. Another thing to consider if you're taking your family is a membership.  A per person ticket is $25 for 2 mansions.  A family membership is $90 for all mansions for a year plus a rooftop tour of the Elms mansion. Christmas time at the mansions is also WELL WORTH IT.  They are filled with beautifully decorated Christmas trees and thousands of poinsettias.

If you go see the mansions take some time to walk
along the cliff walk. This is a several mile walk along the coast. Many of the mansions are along this walk. 
It's an easy walk with beautiful views.

The cliff walk is free. If you choose not to see the mansions enjoy the walk on the cliff walk anyway.