"Wicked Wickendon Street". That's what I always used to call it. Not even sure why, except that I knew that very "different" people frequented the shops and neighboring restaurants. Then, one day, I realized that I was one of those so called "different" people... I was "the artsy type."

So, being the "artsy type" I decided to explore this once-forbidden territory. My loved one and I started out at the Fox Point entrance to Wickendon Street, and made our way down to the 195 merge to 95 exit. We were quite excited, since both of us being of the "artsy" type, were quite curious as to what we would find. Would there be lots of hand holding or people with mile-high purple hair and black fatigues? Or bodies so pierced that it's a wonder they could find that many places on the body to poke holes in. Or, we would find the "normal" crowd that frequents Providence in the late afternoon to evening time?

To our surprise, there were many more "mundanes" on this street than the "artsy" types, though we did find OUR type in many of the establishments.

Among the antique shops and many many art galleries was the Gallery Balleau, which featured art pieces ranging from ceramics to ironware. It looked appealing, but we knew we had a long way to go still.

We found Japanese Restaurants, pizza parlors, and gift shops. We even found a historical house once inhabited by Isaac Peck, dating back to 1796 . We both love old houses, knowing the insides must be filled with exquisite paintings, artifacts, dishes, and cozy little hideaways to snatch a kiss or two. Naturally, we take advantage of that wherever possible!

Further down we found a flower shop which dabbled in unusual flower displays. How about a flower or two to entice your loved one... maybe a red rose, for passion?

Or, how about a really different establishment? I didn't know quite what to expect from ZOG, since the name itself reminded me of something different and scary . Different it was, but scary it wasn't. Cozy little booths, with high backings, which could allow you to snuggle with your loved one, and not even be noticed. Tempting morsels of lemon pound cake, and HUGE homemade oatmeal cookies. How about a ZOG sandwich, complete with roll of choice, ingredients to chose from, and a bag of sunchips. Or, tantalizing flavored coffees and teas, and a cute little veranda to snuggle with your loved one out back. Worked for us!

Or, if you are into Bed and Breakfasts, complete with an art gallery and restaurant, try Ben's Bed and Breakfast, located right along the middle of Wickendon Street. Wicked, if you ask me!

Futon shops, gidgets and gadgets, and ice cream parlors lined the street. And, even an old pub, if you like the flavor of pubs and eclectic music, can be found on Wickendon Street.

There is even a Tai Restaurant with their extensive menu posted outside. Or, how about a wide variety of flavored coffees, and home made bagels and sweet temptations? We found that at the Coffee Exchange. Complete with local artists creations, and lots of the "old flavor" of coffee houses from the 1960's, one can feel quite at home, if you are the "artsy" type like us. We sat and sipped some hot chai, while holding hands and feeding each other macaroons on the outside benches. So romantic!

You definitely would enjoy this stroll. Then, to wind up the perfect evening, jaunt over to the India Point Park which can be accessed by a walking bridge over 195. Be prepared to see motor boats, sailing vessels, children climbing on play ground equipment, and older couples strolling along the walk holding hands. You may even see some young couples squeezing each other tightly while the sun starts to settle down for the night. A nice way to end the evening by enjoying and beautiful colored sunset, and being with the one you love.. A wonderful wrap-up to an interesting stroll down "Wicked Wickendon Street."

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This is Wicked Wickendon. Not so wicked as we thought, but rather quite romantic. It appeals to all types, even the non artisy clan. So, don't be so afraid of the "different and unique" and try Wickendon for a night of fun and laughter. And ENJOY!

About the author, Linda Eagleson: Linda Eagleson has been a writer for as long as she can remember. She has been published in local papers, anthologies, and columns, and participates in poetry slams throughout the state.

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