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It’s one of New England’s biggest mysteries. It is a deep question about one of our time-honored traditions. For decades, in various cities and towns throughout the region, people have sat huddled together in the winter and wondered aloud to their friends and family:

Hm. What happens on Block Island in the winter anyway?!

Well, search no more! We put together a couple of tips to guide and enlighten you. Here are a few bits of information that you need to know regarding the winter “down” months on your favorite Island!

It’s All About the Locals

First and foremost, the winter months make for the perfect hibernation time for the hardworking locals of Block Island! During the summer season, the Island runs on tourist visits and welcomes folks from the mainland and beyond. The population has been known to increase as much as 20 times over in the peak summer months! With that boom in economy from restaurants, shops, and services, there is a lot of work to be done! Locals and business owners usually work around the clock to keep the Island lively!

That means when it gets a little colder and things slow down, locals like to take that time to enjoy the quiet and relax. Visitors are still welcome, of course, but Block Island takes on a much more relaxing vibe. Evenings are quiet and community oriented. Events have a slower pace and allow for people to really interact with one another. Winter visitors should head over with the intention of taking it nice and easy!

Yes! We’re Still Open

Many of the great businesses, restaurants, and services close up when autumn hits—but a ton of them stay open! This list of dedicated establishments changes depending on the year, but you can do your research before making a trip to see if your favorite still has its doors open. The winter months on Block Island take a little more planning—but offer some of the best rewards as you truly get to take your time exploring those who are there for the long haul.

Many great restaurants and lodging businesses say that the winter offers up a chance to treat customers to a different type of service. Without the rush, staff can truly get to know patrons and have more in-depth conversations with them. If you’re looking for a more personable stay, winter is the time for you!

Besides, February means catching the Super Bowl at one of the great Block Island establishments that are still open! Spend this Sunday cheering on the Pats at McAloon’s with some of the most passionate fans on or off the mainland! There’s a $20 Buffet and kids eat free!

The Still Life Getaway

Since those select businesses and restaurants are still opening their doors and offering up services, Block Island in the winter makes for the perfect getaway for a smaller sized group. Let’s say—for two? With the summer rush, it can be kind of tough to find a nice place to hideaway with your significant other. Rooms are booked and a little more pricey and restaurants fill up fast. You can still get quality alone time in—you may just have to work for it and plan ahead!

The winter months are virtually worry free when it comes to this! You could plan a quiet getaway and have it be just that. Planning that romantic surprise stay in July is an option. But if you want to spend some true, slow-paced quality time with someone special—on Valentine’s Day, maybe—give the winter a chance. Trust us!

The 1661 Inn is open through the winter and is one of the more rustic and romantic options. Book an ocean view room with no minimum stay this February!

Icy Island Activities

With beach volleyball out of the question—how do you find fun and stay active during winter on Block Island? Make no mistake; there is a still ton of fun to be had. You just might need a coat and scarf! Classic winter activities are in play around this time. The Island is covered with many gorgeous freshwater ponds and when it’s cold enough, they are perfect for skating and hockey. Snow isn’t very common but when you’re lucky, sledding also makes for a great time.

Block Island is possibly at its most beautiful in the winter, as well, making it the perfect season for a nature walk or bird watching. With less foot traffic, the wildlife is a little more available and the scenery is a little more picturesque. Get out on the snowy trails and keep your eyes peeled for bright plumage.

Winter Community Spirit

The winters on Block Island have a way of truly introducing you to the people of Block Island. We mentioned the locals above and a second mention still doesn’t do them justice. Sure, the summers are a great way to check out the establishments and have a great time—but visitors in the winter get to really meet the people who make it all go.

The events calendar during the winter is a little less festive and a little more community oriented. Things like school plays, music recitals, and yoga for the whole family are more likely to fill your schedule when the temperature drops. Block Island’s welcoming identity is truly made in the off-months. There is nothing like the island when it’s hot and festive—but anyone who really wants to know the place, and the people, spends some time there in the winter.

Those are our tips and tidbits about what happens on Block Island in the winter! But don’t just take our word for it. Book yourself a quiet stay and sail away for yourself!