Rhode Island’s past is packed with iconic places that once defined its charm and character. From bustling amusement parks to beloved local institutions, these spots may be gone, but their legacies are far from forgotten. In honor of National Retro Day, a time to celebrate the past, let’s take a stroll through six Rhode Island institutions that bring back the spirit of the good old days.
Benny’s
For 93 years, Benny’s was the place to find just about anything: automotive supplies, home goods, toys, bicycles, and seasonal items. This family-owned regional chain was known for its friendly service and practical selection, making shopping both convenient and nostalgic. When the store closed its doors in 2017, it marked the end of an era.
Cable Car Cinema
From 1976 until its closure in 2018, Providence’s Cable Car Cinema offered a movie-going experience like no other. With its intimate, artsy ambiance and signature loveseat seating, this independent, single-screen theater was the go-to spot for hard-to-find foreign films, indie flicks, and documentaries.
Crescent Park
For nearly a century, Crescent Park in East Providence was the go-to summer destination, drawing crowds with its classic rides, boardwalk games, and vibrant atmosphere. Though the amusement park has faded into history, one beloved piece remains: the Crescent Park Looff Carousel. Built in 1895 by Charles Looff, this hand-carved beauty proudly holds its place as a National Historic Landmark and keeps Rhode Island’s nostalgic spirit alive.
Custy’s All-You-Can-Eat Seafood Restaurant
If you grew up in Rhode Island before the early 2000s, chances are you remember Custy’s International, the legendary all-you-can-eat seafood buffet in North Kingstown. At its peak, Custy’s served up lavish spreads of lobster, shrimp, prime rib, and endless seafood delights that drew visitors from all over New England. Though it closed in 2001, Custy’s remains a cherished memory for those lucky enough to have indulged in its seafood splendor.
Shepard Company
For nearly a century, from 1880 to 1974, Shepard Company was Rhode Island’s premier department store, transforming downtown Providence into a shopping hub. Its grand architecture, intricate window displays, and vast selection made it the place to be for shopping. Shepard’s also made history as the first department store in the country to install an escalator. Today, its iconic building is home to the downtown campuses of the University of Rhode Island and the Community College of Rhode Island.
Rocky Point Amusement Park
From the late 1840s to 1995, Rocky Point Amusement Park in Warwick was the ultimate destination for thrills, laughter, and summer fun. Iconic rides like the Skyliner, Corkscrew Loop Roller Coaster, and Freefall delivered heart-pounding excitement, while the famous Shore Dinner Hall served legendary clamcakes and chowder with a breathtaking ocean view. Though the amusement park is gone, the site is now Rocky Point State Park, preserving the coastal scenery and nostalgia of this beloved Ocean State landmark.
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