Photographed and Written by Carrie Hanrahan
Providence, Rhode Island, is a quirky, vibrant town celebrating its history, people, arts and culture. A visit to this beautiful New England town will have you learning about its humble beginnings while catapulting you into the modern century with its dedication to the arts and education. This top 10 list will take you to places that explain the importance of its founder, Roger Williams, to the prestigious art and design school. Let’s go!
Be sure to download your free PDF copy of the Top 10 Things to do in Providence, Rhode Island by clicking here! Join in on the fun as Randy, Caly and Carrie talk about Providence on the RVD Podcast by clicking here!
10. Federal Hill—Known as Little Italy, this is where to head for that authentic Italian dinner. With many dining options, you’ll find incredible food and a celebratory atmosphere. From June to September, on Saturday nights, dine al fresco on the closed street for a fun and delicious experience. Be sure to stop at DePasquale Square and toss a coin into the fountain at the center of the Italian piazza.
9. Brown University and The John Brown House—Located on a hill on College Street after a steep climb up from downtown Providence, you’ll find the historic Ivy League Brown University. Walk to the lush grounds to view the magnificent architecture and relax on the Quiet Green. A few blocks south of campus, you can tour the impressive home of John Brown. An early supporter of the University, his family has deep ties to the school and a fascinating history you’ll want to explore.
8. Murals and Public Art—Be on the lookout when visiting Providence for all the public art and mural displays. Walking in almost any direction, you’ll see artwork created by incredible artists that connect the city and its culture. From painted walls and street art to works done in steel, there’s plenty of eye candy for everyone. Head to The Avenue Concept website to view a map and see all the locations to plan out your stroll.
7. The Providence Athenaeum Library and Benefit Street—Who knew you could put excellent books into a stunning Greek Revival structure and create a place everyone wants to visit? The interior of this member-supported library is worth the visit alone, but then add in the art collections, exhibits and its connection to Edgar Allen Poe, and you’ve found a couple of hours of wonder at the library. Head out of the library onto Benefit Street and explore one of the most beautiful streets in Providence. Lined with large and small Colonial Era homes, these homes represent an era of wealth from the Merchant Trade. Just above Benefit Street, you can view the statue of Roger Williams looking out over Providence from Prospect Terrace Park, standing above the tomb that holds his remains.
6. Providence Riverwalk—Stroll the trail beside the Providence River while exploring the city. Along the way, you’ll see public art displays, historic monuments and grand views of the river and city. During the summer and fall, you can see WaterFire Providence, an ethereal nighttime bonfire art installation. Plan an authentic Venetian gondola ride on the river for a romantic evening. Book a tour at the Providence River Boat Company to learn more about Providence.
5. Have a Hot Wiener—No visit to Providence is complete without a stop at Baba’s Original New York System for one of their famous hot wieners. This is no ordinary hot dog. Instead, it’s a Rhode Island staple deliciously served with a steamed bun, wienie, meat sauce, mustard, onion and celery salt. It all comes with a glass of coffee milk, which tastes like chocolate milk. Even Guy Fieri said it was one of the best hot dogs he’s ever eaten.
4. Museum of Natural History and Planetarium—Travel through the Victorian past, learn about the International Space Station and see how seismic shifts have altered our natural world, all at this fantastic museum in Roger Williams Park. Though not a large building, you can view a significant assortment of wildlife and insect specimens and then finish with a night sky show in the Planetarium.
3. Roger Williams Park—The beautifully maintained Roger Williams Park is located about a 10-minute drive from downtown Providence. Named after the founder of Providence, there are so many things to do here that it could take half a day. The grounds are lush with ponds, a rose garden and an indoor botanical center. Explore the zoo, Japanese Garden and hiking trails. Around Roosevelt Lake, enjoy the views of the historical Bandstand, Casino and Seal House. Then go for a relaxing swan boat ride before walking to Carousel Village to ride the indoor carousel.
2. Rhode Island State House—Stunning both inside and out, taking a tour of the State House is the best way to see this building. With its self-supported marble dome, the Italian Renaissance structure sits on a hilltop with the “Independent Man” at its peak. As the first colony to separate church and state, you’ll learn all about the building and government’s history while gazing at the incredible and ornate interior. Be sure not to miss the State Library, styled after an old-fashioned gentlemen’s lounge—it’s fantastic.
1. Rhode Island School of Design Museum—The RISD Museum is one of the most unique art museums you’ll ever visit. Modern works, a Victorian-era house and even an ancient mummy are on display. This maze-like museum will take you through galleries of paintings, sculptures, textiles, metalwork and so much more. Due to its unique layout, check in with one of the many employees to find your way around. Upon completing the main museum, check out the student galleries to see assignment work and then stop by the store to pick up a piece to take home.
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