14 Things You Have To Do Before You’re An Official Rhode Islander

As Rhode Islanders, we all know that our home state is a unique place with strong customs. Things like food and history are taken pretty seriously here, and there are certain things we've all had to experience at least once. Whether you've been a resident Rhode Islander all your life, or are planning to move to the smallest, but most charming state, this list should definitely come in handy. Here are 14 things you have to do before you're an official Rhode Islander.

1. You've had a Del's Lemonade.

You haven't lived until you've had Del's frozen lemonade in Rhode Island. Do you feel a craving for a tall, cold glass coming on right about now?

You can rent a Del's Lemonade Truck for a private event through RestauRent!

2. You've tried a hot wiener "all the way."

Olneyville New York System is definitely the place to be, and hot wieners are a Rhode Island tradition for a reason.

3. You've eaten a clam cake, and it was most likely from Iggy's.

Known for their delicious deep friend and fluffy treats filled with fresh clams, Iggy's is amazing.

4. You've gone apple picking every fall.

Apple picking is a New England tradition for so many reasons and is a perfect way to enjoy the fall. From our favorite farms to orchards, we made apple picking, drinking apple cider, and digging into fresh apple pies a priority every autumn in Rhode Island.

5. You've spent an entire day at the beach.

Entire day? We might want to make that an entire summer. Misquamicut, Scarborough, Third Beach, and the list of fantastic state beaches goes on and on. Rhode Island is the Ocean State, after all.

6. You've explored downtown Newport.

Can you think of a better way to spend a leisurely day in Rhode Island? We think not. The historic city of Newport is home to amazing attractions, fantastic restaurants, charming theaters, art galleries, and so much more! Find this lovely town on Aquidneck Island.

7. You've eaten plain pizza strips at a family party.

Though there are dozens of amazing pizza places throughout Little Rhody, plain strips of pizza are a go-to in the state. Where's your favorite place to get this Rhode Island classic? (And...are you craving some right about now?)

8. You've visited the Cliff Walk and Newport Mansions

The historic gilded age mansions found at the end of the Cliff Walk are as brilliant as they are historically rich. As the former summer cottages to some of the top industrialists in the nation, they are not only ornate, but also stunning.

9. You've gone on a hike just to look at pretty leaves.

New England is the best place to watch the leaves change, and Rhode Island is no different. We've got some of the most striking fall foliage in New England.

10. You've gone to Beavertail State Park.

The several acres of Beavertail State Park possess diverse natural landscapes with cliffs along the Atlantic, hiking trails, and even secluded beaches. The historic lighthouse museum is a perfect place to visit. If you've not been in a while, maybe consider a visit soon.

11. You've driven by the Big Blue Bug.

The Big Blue Bug has become Rhode Island's most recognizable landmark. You might have even snapped a picture of it or posed for a photo in front of it.

12. You've enjoyed an Awful Awful from the Newport Creamery.

These delicious milkshakes are a must-have! The Newport Creamery, which has been around for decades, is a family-friendly perfect place for fantastic ice cream treats and more.

13. You've taken a trip on the Block Island Ferry.

Visiting Block Island in the summer is a perfect choice. Not only is the island beautiful, but it also has tons of things to do ranging from nature sites to fantastic dining. Of course, any trip to Block Island must include a stop at Mohegan Bluffs to marvel at the simply breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

14. You have had coffee milk.

But not only have you had it, you absolutely love it. Rhode Island isn't the only state with an official state drink, but coffee milk just might be the most unique. If you haven't had it, you should as soon as possible.

What do you think? How many of these have you done? Did we miss anything that we absolutely must do to become an official Rhode Islander? Let us know in the comments! Then see if you agree that these are the life lessons everyone learns from growing up in Rhode Island.