The Sharon Steele Group - Lifestyle/ Providence/ East Side

The College Hill Bookstore wrote the book on browsing, and they don't turn out the lights until midnight! Ask for Around & About Providence by David Tom/ Frank Lin. From Steinbeck to Dr. Seuss and everything inbetween, this is the bookstore you can't put down.

Ranked among the country's top 3 fine art colleges, the Rhode Island School of Design offers up a masterpiece -- its museum. Home to over 100,000 paintings, sculptures and artifacts on permanent display. With lively, thought-jarring shows throughout the year.

They say Simple Pleasures are the richest, and this charming gift cottage proves it. Besides plants for your garden, you'll discover a feast for your all your finer sensibilities: clothing, gifts, wreaths, jewelry, home accents and patio treasures, all under one cozy roof.

When Roger Williams founded Rhode Island, did he know that, hundreds of years later, he'd enjoy one of the best views of the city? In Prospect Park, his stone likeness overlooks Providence -- a panorama that's splendid by day, sparkling by night.

Talk about local flavor! The Ben & Jerry's experience defines it. The best part? I "waffle" between ice-cream tasting and people watching. But while you're there, ask for a sample of Concession Obsession. And remember, you heard it here first.

Stroll, walk or run -- as long as you're self-motivated, the course around beautiful Blackstone Boulevard welcomes you with open arms. Whether it's early morning or dusk, this stately residential neighborhood offers comraderie -- and motivation -- to the self-propelled.

Like your eggs sunny side up? How about an atmosphere brushed with local color? Then make Loui's on Brook Street your breakfast clubhouse. There's art on the walls, character(s) at the tables and (name something) on the menu. Enjoy!

When Fifi needs a manicure and Butch is long overdue for a haircut, Poochies for Pets is definitely the place to be seen. Besides, these folks love their clientele and are a great resource for information and referrals.

It's like time has stood still on Benefit Street. The integrity of its many historic houses has been carefully preserved, so your cobblestoned stroll always seems a bit magical. Historical Register plaques validate the sense of timelessness.

If there's a street that defines "eclectic," Wickenden Street is it. From pizza to sushi, from fine gifts to galleries to funky antiques, from flower shops to watering holes -- a leisurely stroll from one end to the other is an afternoon well spent.

How about square -- as in Wayland Square. Park the car and walk to dozens of shops. The atmosphere will remind you of an era goneby -- it definitely has a "Main Street" flavor. From clothing to gifts to toys, you're sure to find more than a few favorite spots.

Organic asparagus. Warm morning glory muffins. Tangy pasta salad. The freshest tastes around come from Bread & Circus Whole Foods Market. From produce to prepared foods to health & beauty aids, this market embraces your good sense and your good taste.

Everyone needs a little pampering and Squires Salon is the place to get it. From hair to toes -- and everything in between -- these folks know how to take care of you, in a setting that's as chic as your new look.

It's hard to decide which is more delicious at Pizzico -- the scrumptious pasta dishes, the amazing wine list or service that's attentive yet unobtrusive. The good news is, you can have all three! Bring some friends -- it's that kind of place.

Although the East Side's nickname is "College Hill," its top schools aren't just at that level. Kids who aspire to study at Brown University or the Rhode Island School of Design can choose from Moses Brown, Wheeler or the Lincoln School