15 Extremely Weird Things Only People From Rhode Island Do

From Awful Awfuls to coffee milk, Rhode Islanders have many habits that visitors might find a little different at first. These are 15 things that only little Rhody’s residents do, showing that the people are just as unique as the state.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

1. They give directions based on where all the Dunkin Donuts are along the way. Flickr/Jack Lyons 2. Any drive that takes more than 15 minutes is considered a road trip. Flickr/Amy Meredith 3. While most people are adding milk to their coffee, Rhode Islanders are adding coffee syrup to their milk. Oh yes, it's delicious. Flikcr/Sean Benham 4. It is not uncommon to see Rhode Islanders wearing shorts, flip flops, and a winter jacket in the middle of January. Flickr/Max Wheeler 5. They never use a straw when drinking their beloved frozen lemonade. Flickr/Sarah 6. Quahogs, littlenecks, steamers; Rhode Islanders take their clams very seriously and can name different varieties! Flickr/NOAA Photo Library 7. The left lane isn't really used for passing in this state. Flickr/Bossi 8. All Rhode Islanders have at one point considered trying the Awful Awful challenge at the Newport Creamery. Just drink 3 of the 24 ounce loaded milkshakes and you get a 4th one free and become a local legend! Wikimedia/John Phelan 9. Rhode Island has its very own clear clam chowder, but locals always order the classic white chowder. Flickr/Michiey 10. They have a big blue bug on the side of the highway that is dressed up for special occasions. Flickr/Tom Woodward 11. With such a massive Italian influence there are hundreds of amazing pizza restaurants, but bakery pizza, plain dough with marinara, is still everywhere to be found. Flickr/ChristinaEatsBrains 12. They take away and add the letter R when they feel like it. "I have an idear. Let's pahk ovuh on Westminstuh Street." Flickr/Taber Andrew Bain 13. They set the Providence river ablaze throughout the summer and gather by the thousands to watch it. Flickr/Tony Masiello 14. In Rhode Island, the hotdogs are actually hot weiners and come decked out with meat, onions, and mustard. Flickr/Matt 15. From bubblers, grinders, and coffee cabinets, Rhode Islanders use a "wicked" lot of different words. Flickr/Geoff Penaluna

Rhode Islanders might have a lot of strange habits, but they are also some of the most interesting people you’ll meet. For such a small and densely populated state, locals have developed so many rituals that give them tons of character and set them apart from the rest.