Free and Oh So Fun: An endless Rhody summer

After surviving the truly menacing phenomenon that is the bomb cyclone and enduring chilly 40-degree weather in May (?!), we deserve some summer fun. And there’s hardly a better way to celebrate the best season than with free events. Sunscreen? $8. Del’s? $4. An out of this-world-summer? Priceless. Art lovers can attend the RISD Museum for free on Sundays and every third Thursday; the zoo is free on first Saturdays; and the library is, of course, easy on the wallet. And almost everyone knows about WaterFire. But if you’re looking for more summer-specific (and free) happenings, check out our roundup.

Movies

Sure, seeing a film in a theater is cool. But have you ever seen a movie outside while being caressed by summer air? According to their Facebook page, PVD’s Movies on the Block will be returning this year, but they have found a new home, with a kick-off screening date TBD. With films like The Big Lebowski and Dr. Strangelove, Movies on the Block has an array of movie tastes covered. If you’re not feeling like a film in the city, you could always check out Mount Hope Farm’s “Flicks in the Field” in picturesque Bristol. Screenings will be June 15, July 20 and August 17.

Music

Beer meets free tunes. Starting on July 12, the Burnside Music Series and Trinity Beer Garden returns. Grab some friends and catch the local stylings of DJ Justin Case every Thursday at 4:30pm for some live outdoor music. Bands like Boo City, Death Vessel and What Cheer? Brigade will all make an appearance. If you’re feeling fancy, the Rooftop at the Providence G will play music throughout the week, from reggae to rock. Westerly Town Beach’s signature free concert series is Tunes on the Dunes. Go for the lineup that features local blues and “Monday Night Jamz” from bands such as The Blues Beatles.

Beach

RI has some of the best beaches in the country — dare I say the world. Beach loyalists have their favorites — Narragansett? Second Beach? Misquamicut, anyone? — but whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong. You can swim, you can kayak, you can even surf. Beaches are magical.

Hiking

RI might not offer high peaks to scale, but we definitely have gorgeous scenery to explore by foot. The Mohegan Bluffs in Block Island offer particularly dramatic and stunning views. Sachuest Point in Middletown is striking for its views of the ocean and general solitude. The Cliff Walk nearby is touristy, but it’s popular for a reason! The views are truly unparalleled. The lush Narragansett Trail will take hikers across state lines — from Connecticut to our very own Hopkinton.

Awful Awful Mondays might not be free, but exploring beautiful RI is. With options like beach days to free music, hiking to art museums, Little Rhody packs a big punch.