BIKE PATH

Places to Drop Your Kickstand

Rest your legs and mingle with East Bay locals

Mike Cevolo

Posted Monday, May 19, 2014 3:16 pm

Bristol
Bristol is home to more than just killer water views; it also has super clean and convenient bathrooms right off the path (a rare luxury.) Directly across from the entrance of the path before Independence Park is a facility equipped with clean bathrooms and water fountains for both you and your pooch.

The town offers many choices when it comes to dockside drinking, but the locals will be found above sea level at Thames Waterside’s (251 Thames St.) rooftop bar, open all summer with live music on the weekends. You can also dine up there on request.

Warren
Switch up your mode of transportation when you hit Warren. Rent a kayak and paddle out to Tom’s Island (accessible from the end of Market Street), a Warren Land Trust parcel on the Palmer River accessible only by water; there are no docking fees. Steve’s Boat Rentals (294 Market St.) can help you out with the equipment.

Do the kids need a break from all that pedaling? Head down Campbell Street (right off the path) and you’ll hit Water Street. Taking a right will lead you to shopping and dining, but take a left and find a playground with an unmatched view. Hit up the Wooden Midshipman (146 Water St.) for a great book and relax while the kids enjoy the park.

Barrington
Don’t let the traffic on Main Street deter you from seeing Barrington - it’s more bike-friendly than you think. Heading north, take a right off the path before Shaw’s and you can access the County Street restaurants and shops from their back parking lots, which are equipped with bike racks and separate entrances. The town hall in Barrington is more than just beautiful architecture; it’s also home to one of the biggest playgrounds around. The Barrington Public Library is also in the same lot, so you can exercise your body and your mind.

Veterans Memorial Park is right off the path and has bathrooms (score), picnic benches and grills. Fishing is also allowed at Brickyard Pond in season. If you don’t have any luck catching your lunch, there’s a grocery store right off the path to salvage your plans.