While we think we did a pretty good job of rounding up the best tips and tricks for enjoying this winsome weekend getaway, we always appreciate it when a reader chimes in with his or her experience. And luckily for us, jauntsetter subscriber Amri did just that after visiting this past Labor Day Weekend. Below, she shares her feedback on all the island has to offer, and some very useful throughts on transportation to and around the island.

Thanks Amri! By the way, if you've been on a trip we've recommended, please share your feedback with us at suggestions [at] jauntsetter.com. We always love to hear from you, and you'll definitely be doing fellow readers a huge favor by sharing your experiences.

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I did your trip pick for Labor Day weekend - Block Island, and really enjoyed my extended stay.  The only down side to going to the island during the long weekend was the crowds.  Besides that, it's a charming place, not too far away from NYC for a short trip.

To get to New London, I booked a round-trip ride from Adventure Northeast, it's cheaper than Amtrak at $100 per person for pickup from the Upper East Side or Upper West Side.  Despite mixed reviews on Yelp for this service, I had a good experience. The driver, Eddie, was on time and reliable.  The company calls you back within 10 minutes if you try to reach them by phone.

Despite mixed reviews about the Harborside Inn, I took a chance (for the cheapest accommodation option for Labor Day weekend, for 2) and stayed here for 2 nights.  The hotel is very basic but each room has its own shower/toilet/sink.  We had an analog tv in our room and an electric fan (no A/C) and it worked out fine because the weather was good (in the evening the temperature drops to low 60s). Based on TripAdvisor reviews, I had low expectations for this place but the room and toilet were clean (with free toiletteries, a plus!).  And our floor was quiet, so we didn't have any problem sleeping at night. 

Overall, the Harborside Inn was a pleasant surprise, I hope they keep up their service that way for future travelers.  Moreover, the accommodation rates drop drastically after Labor Day weekend, so for those who are looking to visit Block Island from next weekend onwards will be in luck for good deals around the island.

While some people rent mopeds to get around the island, we found the price too high - a full day is an atrocious $135 - that's equivalent to a daily rental of a Zipcar!  We opted to rent bicycles, a healthy and eco-friendly way to discover places.  Moreover, you cannot access dirt roads that lead to the shore on a moped, so cycling or walking is your best bet.

In terms of eating, we thought the best place for lunch was the Three Sisters.  The shop has a cute backyard with a hammock and a few picnic tables.  They also have the best, freshly made chocolate chip cookies on the island!  The best value for dinner is Sharkey's (opposite of Yellow Kittens on Corn Neck Road).

I truly enjoyed my stay, and hope others had fun here too.

Thanks, 

Amri

PS - One more thing, make sure to visit the Hodge Family Wild Life Preserve (on Corn Neck Road on the way to the Northern Lighthouse). It is magical!