Most websites and films tout the culture, the art scene, or some of the best restaurants in New England.

There are also delights for those who are nature deprived: some of the best river parks and walks in America.

Blackstone Park is a 45-acre natural woodland. It meanders along the Seekonk River.
More details at:
http://www.blackstoneparksconservancy.org/the-parks/blackstone-conservation-district/
Map:
http://www.blackstoneparksconservancy.org/wp-content/uploads/Blackstone-Park-Trail-Map.pdf

A secret Shangri-la is the Swan Point Cemetery. Catherine Hurst has written a beautiful photo essay at her blog:
http://choosing-providence.blogspot.com/2011_08_01_archive.html

Some excerpts:

“Swan Point Cemetery, off Blackstone Boulevard, is a stunning place of rest. Occupying 200 acres on the shores of the Seekonk River, it includes driving roads, walking paths, and areas for contemplation.

Swan Point was founded in 1846, and planned as a “garden” cemetery. Winding carriageways and paths were laid out to give the appearance of a park…

Among the other Civil War veterans buried there is Major Sullivan Ballou, who was one of 847 Union and Confederate soldiers killed in the first major battle of the war, the first battle of Bull Run, on July 21, 1861.

Ballou left behind a letter to his wife Sarah, which was made famous by Ken Burns’ Civil War film.

‘O Sarah! If the dead can come back to this earth and flit unseen around those they loved, I shall always be near you; in the garish day and in the darkest night-amidst your happiest scenes and gloomiest hours-always, always; and if there be a soft breeze upon your cheek, it shall be my breath; or the cool air fans your throbbing temple, it shall be my spirit passing by.’ “

Seekonk River, seen from Swan Point Providence –- photo by Catherine Hurst.