One of my favorite things to do on any trip, no matter the destination, is to stop at every point of interest along the way. It doesn’t matter if it’s a kitschy roadside attraction, a natural wonder, or a diner – I will stop. Growing up in northern Rhode Island, I’ve been to just about every corner of my tiny home state and, yet, always seemed to discover something new-to-me on every outing. While most Ocean State road trips are short (it is the smallest state in the country, after all!), there’s still so much to discover, including one off-the-beaten-path diner in Foster. Let’s discover one of the best road trip stops in Rhode Island you probably never heard of – Shady Acres Diner and Apocalypse Cafe.

Why This Stop Is Worth the Detour

If you’re looking for a classic American diner experience right here in the Ocean State, look no further than Shady Acres Diner and Apocalypse Cafe. Located on Danielson Pike, a scenic, rural stretch of Route 6, less than two miles from the Connecticut border, you probably never knew this place existed unless you were driving through Foster on your way to or from Connecticut. But road trippers who have stopped here rave about the menu, friendly service, and the eclectic decor.

Let’s first talk about the menu. While there are some “typical diner” menu items, such as omelets, French toast, and eggs Benedict for breakfast, and chicken tenders, BLT club sandwiches, and burgers for lunch and dinner, there are some elevated and creative takes on diner cuisine. For example, in addition to a standard selection of diner favorites, there’s a Monte Cristo breakfast sandwich of egg, ham, and Swiss cheese between two pieces of French toast, as well as several breakfast bowls with scrambled eggs, home fries, and a variety of toppings.

For creative lunch and dinner options, how about the Big Kahuna Tuna sandwich made with ahi tuna, greens, and chipotle mayo? Regular customers rave about it! There’s also a falafel plate, perfect for sharing, and a fried pickle burger topped with queso and house-made fried pickles. But one of the most talked-about menu items at Shady Acres Diner is the polenta fries. Growing up in the Ocean State, I had my fair share of polenta dishes, but I never had polenta fries – looks like I’ll need to make a stop here to try this standout appetizer.

Shady Acres is open Wednesday through Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. Plan your road trip to this Rhode Island diner accordingly!

Nearby Road Trip Attractions

Foster may be a small, rural Rhode Island town, but there are a few notable sites you may want to discover while here. First of all, did you know that Foster is home to Rhode Island’s highest point? Located off Route 101 close to the Connecticut border, Jerimoth Hill sits at an elevation of 812 feet and is open from dawn until dusk daily if you’re curious to see it yourself. A short 0.3-mile trail leads to the point, which is surrounded by trees.

If you love visiting historic sites, take some time to visit the Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge. Built in the mid-1990s, yet evoking the charm of a historic 19th-century covered bridge, it’s the only covered bridge in Rhode Island.

Open seasonally on weekends starting in May, Nickle Creek Vineyard is a small, family-owned vineyard and winery with a tasting room. Reservations are not required to visit, and guests are welcome to stroll the grounds and bring a picnic to enjoy while sipping Nickle Creek wines. (Please note that those under 21 are not allowed on the property.)

Best Road Trip Stops in Rhode Island

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Shady Acres Diner may be off the beaten path, but it’s absolutely worth it for its hearty dishes that will satisfy any hungry road tripper. Have you taken a detour or gone out of your way to have a meal at this family-friendly diner, one of the most unexpected places in Rhode Island? For a menu and location information, visit the Shady Acres Diner website, and check out the Facebook page for dinner specials.

What are some unexpected places in Rhode Island you would suggest road trippers visit? Please tell us why they are worth a stop when you fill out our nomination form. You can discover more exciting off-the-beaten-path destinations in Rhode Island when you use Only In Your State’s Travel Planner.