Whether you’re a native to the state or not, Rhode Island most certainly holds a special place in the hearts of millions. Like all states, we aren’t perfect-- the infrastructure may be falling apart in some places, the economy might not be the greatest, and some of us may not be toohappy with our state government, but despite these downfalls, there’s so much more to our little state that we often take for granted. As if you needed any, here are 41 reasons to love the Four-Oh-One:

1. The Beaches

Rhode Island wouldn't be "The Ocean State" without its 400 miles of gorgeous coastlines.

2. Coffee Milk

As the official state drink, it's rare to come across someone who doesn't love this delicious beverage.

3. We’re close to everything

Sure, Rhody may be small, but we're just a short drive away from Boston and New York City. Additionally, it takes an hour to drive from one end of the state to the other-- talk about convenience!

4. The Diversity

Rhode Island is home to people of so many different backgrounds. The various cultures that the state (and just the city of Providence) holds sets us apart from so many other cities and states.

5. Festivals and Fairs

From the Scituate Arts Festival to the Newport Folk Festival, there is so much to look forward to at all times of the year for people of varying interests.

6. Dunkin Donuts...everywhere

You don't have to drive more than a mile on Rhode Island roadways before spotting those familiar purple and orange letters.

7. We only need one area code

The four-oh-one, in case you weren't aware.

8. The Seafood

It's safe to say that Rhode Island seafood is to die for. We certainly make up for our lack of state size with the many seafood establishments throughout the state.

9. You can give directions off of old landmarks

"You know where the old Almacs used to be? Turn left there."

10. All four seasons are beautiful

Whether it's Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter, Rhode Island scenery is picturesque at all times of the year.

11. The Potholes

Okay, maybe we don't love this, but it's part of what makes Rhode Island home.

12. The State Parks

Need I mention Lincoln Woods, Colt State, and the Blackstone River?

13. Newport Creamery

We live for Awful Awful Monday's in the summer!

14. Thayer Street

A trip over to Thayer Street brings a variety of things to do that will keep even the oldest of Rhode Islander's busy all day.

15. ...and the East Side in general

The East Side of Providence is gorgeous, to say the least. Simply walking up and down the streets and admiring the old architecture and narrow city streets is a great way to spend a couple of hours.

16. Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House

Rhode Island wouldn't be Rhode Island without Iggy's (and their doughboys, of course).

17. The Landscapes

Driving through the state, you can pass through the hustle and bustle of city life, the lands of rural life, and the sandy coastlines within the course of an hour.

18. Everyone knows everyone

For some reason, it feels like everyone knows someone who knows someone else in Lil' Rhody.

19. Del’s Lemonade

Stop at the sign of the lemon, amirite?

20. ...and Mr. Lemon

In an epic battle for who reigns supreme, Mr. Lemon is another Rhode Island frozen lemonade specialty.

21. Waterfire

Saturday nights in Providence wouldn't be the same without the Providence river illuminated by dozens of floating fire pits and the smell of fresh popcorn in the air.

22. The Music

From the WBRU Summer Concert series in the Summer to the Newport Folk Festival, Rhode Island is home to so many music events that are sure to build lasting memories.

23. The History

Rhode Island wouldn't be Rhode Island without a Mr. Roger Williams who founded our tiny state for the reason of desiring religious freedom for all.

24. The Big Blue Bug

Nibbles Woodaway is another Rhode Island staple. With a look for every time of the year, Rhode Islander's are always sure to look over at the Big Blue Bug on their next drive over I-95.

25. Newport

Newport is truly a Rhode Island treasure. From the gorgeous beaches to its incredible restaurants, Newport is a "road trip" that never gets old.

26. There’s always something to do

There are always events going on in our tiny state. From PVD Fest in the early Summer to other events in the city and surrounding areas, your weekends will always be jam packed with fun things to do!

27. Dropping your R’s

Cah keys, Chowdah, Pahking...you name it, Rhode Islander's say it.

28. Haven Bros. Diner

You're not a true Rhode Islander unless you've been to Haven Bros. in Providence. It's the perfect place for some late night grub after a night out in the city.

29. We're "nor a road, or an island"

Has anyone ever actually answered this?

30. The Education

Rhode Island has some of the best schools in the country-- Brown University, Salve Regina, and Providence College, just to name a few.

31. The Sports

I don't just mean the Pawsox. Rhode Islander's are fortunate enough to root for some of the best teams in professional sports, too!

32. The Restaurants

Rhode Island has so many incredible restaurants just waiting to be discovered.

33. Providence

How does one even begin to describe Providence? Sure, with the beautiful parts of the city comes the not so beautiful parts, but that just makes the city what it is. It's hard not to love it.

34. The Providence Flea

My favorite part about Sunday's in Rhode Island is taking a trip to the Providence Flea where foodies, antiquers, and crafters alike all come together on the Providence River Greenway to share their craft.

35. NY System Wieners

"Can I get 3 wieners all the way and french fries with vinegar?"

36. Clamcakes and Chowdah

In certain parts of Massachusetts, asking for clamcakes and chowder will get you a few stares. As a native treat to Rhode Island, you can't go wrong ordering this.

37. Federal Hill

Located in the center of Providence, Federal Hill is best known for a large Italian American community and SO many Italian restaurants that are sure to leave you with a full, yet happy, stomach.

38. The @RIProbz Twitter account

If you don't follow @RIProbz on Twitter, you're seriously missing out. There's no better place to poke fun at our tiny state than in the thousands of tweets found on the account.

39. The Coastline

Four. Hundred. Miles. Us Rhode Islanders are blessed to have such gorgeous lands so close to home.

40. Family Guy

For the last time, a quahog is a clam.

41. Never wanting to leave

As if points 1-40 weren't enough to make you want to stay in Rhode Island, there's truly so much to love. Nine times out of 10, if you leave the Ocean State, you'll find yourself desperate to return back to the place you call home.