Outer East Bay - East Providence, RI

Upon being established as a suburb of Providence, Outer East Bay gained positive public attention with the construction of the Crescent Park Amusement Park, referred to as the "Coney Island of New England," in the early 20th century. The park remained open from 1886 to 1979 and was famous for the busy midway and historic Alhambra Ballroom. The preservation of the Charles I.D. Looff Carousel, the last existing remnant of the once popular entertainment attraction, has had a lasting impact on the area.

Annual events such as the Naragansett Beer Neighbor Days Block Party brings residents from all areas of Providence together to enjoy live music, exciting giveaways, friendly and entertaining vendors and a variety of top-notch craft beers, while the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium in downtown Providence has an impressive collection of oceanic and historic treasures from various eras, making it a prime rainy-day activity.

When you want to dine out or enjoy a weekend filled with exciting nightlife, Outer East Bay provides plenty of options.

If you like a little spice with your meal, head to Pattaya on Willet Avenue for some traditional Thai food made with fresh, authentic ingredients. Don't let the small location fool you; locals consider this a hidden gem due to the quality of food and generous portions. The friendly staff greets and seats you as soon as you walk in the door, before serving up fresh appetizers such as the tod mun pla, which consists of Thai fish cakes made with minced shrimp, fish, string beans and curry paste and a side of crushed peanut and cucumber dipping sauces. Order the signature seafood madness entrée made with shrimp, scallops, fish and mussels that have been stir-fried in a basil chili sauce or the red coconut curry with duck before finishing off with the kanom mor gaeng Thai custard dessert, topped with fried red onions.

For a taste of Italy without the travel, head to Italian Corner on Boyd Avenue. This casual deli, which also serves as an Italian market, has been featured on the popular show "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives" hosted by world-famous chef Guy Fieri, and you won't find better Italian food in the area. Make reservations in the gourmet room to try the ravioli cacio e pepe or cod livornese for a classic night out, or the barsato or caprese sandwich for a more casual experience. Dine-in, take-out and patio seating options make this the perfect place to sit back and relax as you treat your taste buds to an authentic "old-world" meal.

When in the mood for some tasty sushi, try Yama Fuji on Willet Avenue. The modern decor and quiet setting lets you enjoy a mix of Asian fusion whether dining with the family or a group of friends. Begin your meal with the sweet potato salad or miso soup made with fresh, local ingredients, then move on to the sushi deluxe entrée or Yama Fuji special for two, which includes 10 pieces of sushi, 15 pieces of sashimi and soy paper rainbow and dragon rolls. If you prefer different Asian dishes, order the red curry, Thai mango chicken or basil curry duck. Yama Fuji provides a special kids menu for the picky eater in your life, allowing everyone in your party to enjoy a favorite dish.

A typical dive-bar setting mixes with high-quality, modern technology at Lucky's Bar & Grille on Warren Avenue when you feel like catching the latest game after a long week. The cabin-like decor provides a comfortable setting as you choose from one of 14 flat-screen televisions to cheer on your favorite team. Bring your friends for trivia night or some great live music as you relax with a cold one on special. The friendly staff always makes you feel welcome, while the laid-back crowd reminds you why you stopped by.

If you like dancing to live punk, metal, or rockabilly tunes, head to downtown DUSK on Harris Avenue. The unique decor, Gothic-style chandeliers, and leather couches situated throughout give the club an almost dungeon-like feel, where the small dance floor located near the stage puts you up close and personal with the band. The lively crowd and excellent drink specials allow you to let loose on the weekend.

You have many choices when it comes to navigating your way through Outer East Bay. The scenic East Bay Bike Path runs through multiple towns, totaling 14.5 miles, for those who prefer an outdoor commute to downtown Providence, in addition to numerous walking paths. Easy access to Interstates 95 and 195 make travel by car a breeze, whether you prefer to use your own vehicle, or hire a taxi or shuttle service through the convenient, easy-to-use Uber app. If you'd rather travel by bus, you can purchase a day pass to ride the Rhode Island Public Transportation Authority, which runs a number of routes throughout the neighborhood. The purchase of a day pass also allows you trolley access, letting you explore the city as you please.

Downtown Providence has plenty of public parking garages to choose from when you need to park for a few hours or the entire day. Each garage provides safe, secure spots in well-lit facilities to give you peace of mind while at work or out for a day on the town.

For a relaxing day outdoors with the family, make your way to Sabin Point Park. Bring the fishing poles and let the kids try to catch tonight's dinner as the dog explores the beautiful, wide-open space. Take a leisurely walk or a brisk jog on the paved trails as you take in the breathtaking aquatic views of Providence. Come enjoy fireworks on the water at the annual Fourth of July fireworks show at this charming, admission-free park.

For a more exercise-centric experience, visit Rose Larisa Memorial Park on Bullocks Point Avenue. Enjoy the scenic stretch of beach as you run with the dog, or enjoy the lush greenery and ocean views as you take a stroll with the family. Cross the street to delight in the kids riding the historic Crescent Park Carousel as you marvel at the beauty and history of Outer East Bay.

Life in Outer East Bay carries a moderate price and can be classified as middle-class. Averaging 4 percent less than the rest of Providence, a standard one-bedroom apartment costs $958. You can expect to pay around $4 for a pint of beer at the local pub, while the price of gas runs about 3 percent more than the national average. Public transportation on the RIPTA will set you back $6 for a day pass, which includes transfers and trolley rides.

For a day of shopping, head to downtown Providence to find one-stop malls or specialty boutiques.

Pick up a new summer dress and matching flip-flops at Old Navy before heading to Nordstrom to purchase your favorite scent at Providence Place. Find the perfect comforter set at Bed, Bath & Beyond, then grab a bargain on a stellar pair of heels at DSW, then end the day with a trip to Dave & Buster's and give your wallet a rest as you earn enough tickets for a fun, retro prize.

For the best in current and vintage women's fashions and accessories, head to Shoppe Pioneer on South Main Street. Affordable prices and exceptional customer service make this a must stop. Get to know the owner as she gives you expert tips on which vintage pieces of jewelry go with the latest in casual-chic clothes made from environmentally-friendly fabrics.

When you feel particularly health-conscious, head to Pawtuxet Village Farmers Market on Rhodes Place during the open season to find the best in locally grown and produced whole foods. Pick up some organic honey as you learn how to grow your own fruits and vegetables from the knowledgeable vendors. Browse the fresh flowers and plants with the kids, as the dog delights in a day at the market.

Do your weekly grocery shopping at the Shaw's grocery store on Taunton Avenue for a great selection of meats, cheese snacks and dairy items. Sample some of the free foods to help plan your next meal, before picking up the kids' favorites for their school lunch. The friendly staff and budget-friendly prices help keep your family full and happy.