Portsmouth
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Located at the tip of the island known as Rhode Island, Portsmouth claims to be none other than the “birthplace of American democracy.” The claim is a strong one; founded in 1638 by religious heretics banished from Massachusetts Bay, the town was the first to be ruled by its own members instead of the crown of England—at least until Rhode Island colony was consolidated under royal charter. A bronze tablet erected on a pudding stone rock at Founders Brook memorializes the so-called Portsmouth Compact that founded the independent community.
Green Animals Topiary Gardens
A peaceful coexistence between the worlds of humanity and shrubbery is on display at Green Animals Topiary Gardens (380 Cory’s Lane, off Rtes. 114 & 24, 401/847-1000, www.newportmansions.org, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. daily Apr.–mid-Oct., $12 adults, $4.50 children 6–17), a menagerie of some 80 shrubs and trees sculpted into whimsical shapes, some of which have been intriguing visitors for almost a century. Among them are teddy bears, a giraffe, a unicorn, and an elephant.
© Michael Blanding and Alexandra Hall from Moon New England, 2nd Edition
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Moon Travel Guides make independent travel and outdoor exploration fun and accessible. With expert and adventurous travel writers delivering a mix of honest insight, first-rate strategic travel advice, insider travel tips and an essential dose of humor, Moon Travel Guides ensure that travelers have an uncommon and entirely satisfying experience. Each travel book is filled with unique trip ideas, easy-to-use maps, and detailed information on sights, restaurants, and accommodations. Moon Travel Guides not only point you in the right direction, they inspire new ideas and adventure. Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach trip to Hawaii, or an adventure travel trip to the rainforests of Costa Rica, Moon guidebooks—and Moon.com—are with you every step of the way. Founded in 1973, the Moon Travel Guides series includes Moon Handbooks, Moon Outdoors, Moon Metro, Moon Living Abroad and Moon Spotlight travel books. Moon is based in Berkeley, California and is a proud member of the Perseus Books Group.