Meshanticut State Park, Cranston, RI

Looking out at Meshanticut Lake, you’d never guess that you were in a city.

Meshantitcut State Park in Cranston, Rhode Island, is a welcome oasis of peace in the Providence metropolitan area.
The state park boasts a mile walking path around Meshanticut Lake. There, you’ll find locals strolling, sitting on one of the benches, jogging, and fishing.
This park is a favorite go-to place for my wife. As a native Cranstonian, she loves visiting the lake, watching the ducks, and making sure her husband doesn’t get too close to the overly friendly, yet jittery, squirrels.

These squirrels let you get closer to them than any other squirrels I’ve seen.

The walking path, which is part pedestrian only and partly shared with a local neighborhood road, provides you with the opportunity to have a nice, low-key stroll around the pond. Or, if you prefer, you could jog or run around the path.

The shady path is just right for a warm day.

As we strolled around the path, we stopped several times, allowing ourselves to enjoy the peaceful ambience and look at wildlife.

My wife enjoying her favorite look-out spot along the pond.

This duck posed for a picture shoot. Once I was done, he waddled into the water.

These Canadian geese, on the other hand, weren’t having it. They saw me and quickly waddled into the water.

Along the walk, you’ll also see other forms of wildlife, including butterflies and a variety of birds. There are plenty of places to stop and relax along the way. When you have free time and are looking for something to do, get your travel cap on and check out this hidden gem.

Obviously, posing with the sign is a must.

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Meshanticut State Park is easy to get to. When you go, park on Metropolitan Ave in the Cranston West High School parking lot.