The Ocean State may be the smallest in the nation but it is full of amazing people and places. From the beaches to the city and beyond, there are so many wonderful things to experience. There are, however, a few things that cause issues for some people who live in this great little state. Here is a list of 12 things everyone in Rhode Island avoids.

1. Beach traffic

We've all been stuck on Route 4 heading towards Narragansett during the peak of beach season. There are only so many times we can listen to our favorite summer playlist in a traffic standstill before we lose it.

2. All other traffic

Who are we kidding? The Ocean State is one of the most densely populated states, meaning traffic is pretty much a daily occurrence. Living in Rhode Island means we all have have our own traffic avoiding tricks, including detours, and times of day we just simply don't drive.

3. Tourist hangouts

The locals tend to avoid places like Scarborough Beach and downtown Newport during tourist season.

4. I-95 in Downcity, Providence

Between the I-95/195 split, exit only lanes, and intense turns, highway driving through Downcity is usually best avoided.

5. Any frozen lemonade that isn't Del's

So maybe Mr. Lemon makes the cut, but most other frozen lemonades are just sad impostors compared to a Del's. Our intense love of Del's is one of those Rhode Island stereotypes that is absolutely true. There's really nothing better than Del's on a hot summer day, or any time of year really.

6. Clear clam chowder

Did you know Rhode Island has its own clam chowder? Clear chowder originated in Rhode Island, but the locals tend to avoid it.

7. Snow

The snow might not always be avoidable, but it's certainly worth trying.

8. Driving in the snow

Driving in the snow in particular should be avoided at all costs. We all know how well the state takes care of its roads, after all.

9. Less than amazing seafood

With so many options for amazing fresh seafood, anything less than the best is simply a waste of time in little Rhody. This is the Ocean State, after all, and we have some of the best seafood in the country.

10. Potholes

This pothole on Dean Street is a great example of what Rhode Islanders have to deal with. And it takes a long time for any pothole to get fixed, if ever.

11. Certain people from your past

Living in the smallest state means you will run into familiar faces pretty much everywhere you go. Avoiding the people you've had a falling out with is near impossible and takes some extra work. And if you don't run into that person, there's a good chance you'll run into that person's family somewhere.

12. Inauthentic Italian cuisine

There are so many amazing Italian restaurants with the best pizza and pasta in the country. Avoid the chains and go local for real Italian food in Rhode Island.

Can you think of any other things everyone in Rhode Island avoids? Please mention them in the comments! And if you do want to visit a beach but avoid the crowds, check out these low profile beaches in Rhode Island.