There must be something in the water in Rhode Island – or maybe it’s just strong Culpo-family genes that keep these stunning sisters’ stars rising.
The former Miss Universe, influencer, actor, and entrepreneur, Olivia Culpo and her little sister, up-and-coming model, Sophia Culpo, are across many ventures – spanning family restaurants, fashion lines, acting, modelling, and more. Sophia has over 123,000 followers (and counting) on Instagram, where she posts about healthy living, and the duo also have a fashion line with their third sister, Aurora – Culpos x INC, in partnership with American mega-store Macy’s.
Between dating NFL hunks, keeping their family businesses afloat, and managing their careers, these ladies always make time to venture home to New England (they’re from Cranston, Rhode Island).
Since summer and autumn are their favourite times to visit, we recently caught up with the siblings to get their tips on what to see and do in their beloved New England.
Essential items to pack…
OLIVIA CULPO: A sweatshirt. The weather changes so often that you should always be prepared. Also, a camera or camera phone on hand – New England has the best scenery.
SOPHIA CULPO: An empty stomach!
The best time to visit is…
SC: Summer or fall. The beaches are amazing, and you can’t beat New England seafood in the summer.
OC: August – October. Rhode Island summers are the best, so August is a great time, but the fall is also amazing because of the foliage.
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Your favourite hotel to check-in at is…
OC: Castle Hill Inn in Newport. They offer cottages right on the beach. It’s stunning.
For an early morning workout head to…
SC: Peter Mollo Fitness SWEAT class, or Raffa Yoga for a more relaxing start to your day.
SC: We are totally bias here since our dad is a restaurant owner, but we do really love his places! Lulu’s Allston in Boston, MA has the best brunch ever. My favourite is the farmhouse omelette and seasonal pancakes. If you’re feeling really crazy, try a breakfast shooter.
OC: Back40 has breakfast, but a RI classic is T’s (there are three locations— Cranston, East Greenwich, and Narragansett). There’s also a café in Cranston I love called Bon Ami. They have the best morning drinks. For coffee, I also love Seven Stars Bakery, Dave’s Coffee, and The Coffee Exchange.
How about for a long, lazy lunch?
SC: The Coast Guard House in Narragansett. Another RI staple, right on the water. Great views and chews. You also can’t beat Back40’s Nashville-chicken sandwich.
And for dinner with friends?
SC: Lolita Fort Point in Boston is my favourite for a night out with friends. They have an amazing ambiance, cocktails, and fun surprises throughout dinner. Try the spicy cucumber margarita – it’s my fave!
OC: Twin Oaks would be a good choice, because they have a large menu and the lounge is a great spot to hangout and catch up with friends.
Credit: Solmaz Saberi
A must-try spot for date night?
SC: Zuma, in the Four Seasons Hotel, Boston. They have amazing cocktails and the best sushi in Boston. The ambiance is perfect for a date night.
Your favourite restaurant in town?
OC: Back40 in North Kingstown, Rhode Island is my family’s restaurant. It has a great menu and atmosphere, or if you are looking for something a little fancier, Al Forno or Bacarro in Providence, Rhode Island are great.
Where should we head post-dinner?
OC: Rooftop at the Providence G. It overlooks downtown Providence.
The drink to order at the bar?
OC: VIDE. Check out the tequila grapefruit, it’s my favourite.
The best place for people watching…
OC: The PARLR in Framingham, MA is the most amazing salon and spa. Treat yourself to a spa day!
For great shopping head to…
SC: Newbury Street in Boston. There are so many great shops to check out as you walk around and enjoy the Boston scenery. And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, the Prudential Center is just a few blocks away. When I get tired of walking, I always love to stop in Tatte Bakery on Boylston Street for lunch and a treat.
OC: Agree on Newbury Street, and also Natick Mall in Natick MA is really good. And Copley Place in Boston. Wrentham Village Premium Outlets also always has great deals.
Credit: Solmaz Saberi
Your favourite neighbourhood(s)…
OC: Cranston, Rhode Island. Nothing will ever compare to my hometown. Newport RI is also really beautiful.
The one place only locals know about…
SC: Twin Oaks is a Rhode Island staple. It has been around forever and it’s family owned. Every time I go in, I am hit with a warm welcome and lots of nostalgia.
For the best views head to…
OC: Definitely the Cliff Walk in Newport, RI or Prospect Park in Providence.
For a change of pace try…
OC: There are some cool places in Portsmouth… you could check out a polo match in the summer.
Great day trips include…
SC: Newport, RI; Mystic, CT; and White Mountains, NH.
Any Questions or Tips to add?