bigtravelbuzzProvidence is the capital city of Rhode Island, located in the northeastern part of the state. Here are some things to see and do in Providence:
WaterFire Providence – This award-winning public art installation features over 80 bonfires that light up the three rivers that run through downtown Providence. It’s a must-see when visiting the city.
Roger Williams Park – This 435-acre park is home to a zoo, botanical center, and numerous walking trails. It’s a great place to spend a day outdoors.
Providence Performing Arts Center – This historic theater hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances throughout the year.
Providence Flea – This outdoor market features local vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to vintage finds. It takes place on Sundays during the warmer months.
Rhode Island School of Design Museum – This museum features a wide range of art and design exhibits, including works by Monet, Degas, and Picasso.
Federal Hill – This historic neighborhood is known for its Italian cuisine and has a lively dining scene.
Providence Children’s Museum – This interactive museum is designed for kids and features exhibits on science, art, and culture.
Benefit Street – This historic street features some of the city’s oldest homes, many of which date back to the 18th century.
Providence is a vibrant and cultural city that offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to art lovers.
Places to Visit in Providence
Here are some places to visit in Providence:
Rhode Island State House – The Rhode Island State House is an impressive building located in the heart of Providence. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building to learn about its history and architecture.
Providence Athenaeum – The Providence Athenaeum is a historic library that was founded in 1836. It features a collection of rare books and manuscripts, as well as regular events and exhibitions.
Brown University – Brown University is an Ivy League research university located in Providence. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the campus to see its historic buildings and beautiful architecture.
Waterplace Park – Waterplace Park is a beautiful public park located in downtown Providence. It features a series of waterways and pedestrian bridges, as well as a popular outdoor amphitheater.
RISD Museum – The RISD Museum is an art museum that is part of the Rhode Island School of Design. It features a collection of over 100,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
Providence Performing Arts Center – The Providence Performing Arts Center is a historic theater that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances throughout the year.
Benefit Street – Benefit Street is a historic street located on the east side of Providence. It features a number of well-preserved colonial homes, as well as the John Brown House Museum.
Roger Williams Park Zoo – The Roger Williams Park Zoo is a 40-acre zoo located in Providence. It features over 100 species of animals, as well as a botanical center and a carousel village.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Providence. The city is full of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a great destination for visitors of all interests.
Best Time To Visit Providence
The best time to visit Providence depends on your preferences and what you want to do. Here are some factors to consider:
Weather – Providence has a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters. The summer months (June to August) are warm and humid, with average temperatures in the mid-80s (Fahrenheit). The winter months (December to February) are cold and snowy, with average temperatures in the 20s.
Crowds – Providence is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the summer months and around major holidays. If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November).
Events – Providence hosts many events throughout the year, such as WaterFire Providence in the summer, the Providence International Film Festival in the fall, and the Winter Festival in the winter. Check the calendar of events to see if there are any festivals or events that you would like to attend.
Activities – The best time to visit Providence also depends on what activities you want to do. If you want to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities, the summer months are ideal. If you prefer indoor activities, such as visiting museums or attending performances, any time of year is suitable.
Overall, the best time to visit Providence is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. However, each season has its own charm and attractions, so it ultimately depends on your interests and preferences.
How to get around in Providence
Here are some ways to get around in Providence:
Walking – Providence is a very walkable city, particularly in the downtown area. Many of the city’s top attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance of each other.
Public transportation – Providence has a public transportation system called Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), which operates buses throughout the city and surrounding areas. Fares are reasonable, and there are discounts for seniors and students.
Taxis and rideshare services – Taxis and rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Providence. They are convenient for getting around the city and are usually reasonably priced.
Bicycles – Providence has a bike-sharing program called JUMP, which allows riders to rent electric bicycles to get around the city. The city also has many bike lanes and trails, making it easy to explore on two wheels.
Car rental – If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located in Providence. However, parking can be challenging in the city, so be prepared to pay for parking or use a parking garage.
Overall, getting around Providence is relatively easy and convenient. Walking and public transportation are the most affordable options, while taxis, rideshare services, and car rentals offer more flexibility and convenience.
Where to eat in Providence
Providence is known for its vibrant food scene and offers a wide range of culinary experiences. Here are some popular places to eat in Providence:
Al Forno – Al Forno is a classic Italian restaurant that is famous for its grilled pizza. The restaurant has been a Providence institution for over 35 years.
The Grange – The Grange is a vegetarian restaurant that offers creative, plant-based dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
Hemenway’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar – Hemenway’s is a seafood restaurant that serves fresh seafood, including oysters, lobster, and clam chowder, in a chic and elegant setting.
The Duck & Bunny – The Duck & Bunny is a cozy café that offers sweet and savory crepes, as well as a selection of cupcakes, coffee, and tea.
Los Andes – Los Andes is a Peruvian and Bolivian restaurant that offers a range of flavorful dishes, such as ceviche, empanadas, and grilled meats.
The Eddy – The Eddy is a cocktail bar that serves creative drinks and small plates in a hip and trendy atmosphere.
Ken’s Ramen – Ken’s Ramen is a small, no-frills restaurant that serves delicious, authentic Japanese ramen.
North – North is a restaurant that specializes in rustic Italian cuisine, such as wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta.
These are just a few of the many great restaurants in Providence. Whether you’re looking for seafood, vegetarian options, or international cuisine, Providence has something for everyone.
Famous street stalls in Providence
Providence has a vibrant food scene, and there are several street stalls and food trucks that offer delicious food. Here are some famous street stalls in Providence:
Haven Brothers Diner – Haven Brothers is a famous food truck that has been serving burgers, hot dogs, and other classic diner fare since 1893. The truck is located on Fulton Street and is open late, making it a popular spot for late-night eats.
Poco Loco Tacos – Poco Loco Tacos is a food truck that serves tasty, authentic Mexican food. The truck offers a variety of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes, all made with fresh ingredients.
Presto Strange O Coffee – Presto Strange O Coffee is a coffee shop that operates out of a vintage camper. The shop offers a variety of coffee drinks, as well as pastries and other treats.
Like No Udder – Like No Udder is a vegan ice cream truck that offers a variety of delicious and unique flavors, such as maple bacon and lavender.
The Burgundian: Coffee and Waffles – The Burgundian is a food truck that serves Liege-style waffles, which are made with a sweet, brioche-like dough and caramelized sugar. The truck also offers a variety of coffee drinks.
These are just a few of the many great street stalls and food trucks in Providence. Many of these stalls can be found at the Food Truck Friday event, which takes place during the summer months at various locations throughout the city.
Where to stay in Providence
Luxury accommodation
Providence offers several luxurious accommodation options for visitors looking for a comfortable and upscale stay. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Providence:
The Dean Hotel – The Dean Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Providence’s downtown area. The hotel features stylish and modern rooms, a rooftop bar, and an on-site restaurant serving New American cuisine.
The Graduate Providence – The Graduate Providence is a historic hotel located in a beautifully restored 1920s building. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a rooftop bar, and an on-site restaurant.
The Omni Providence Hotel – The Omni Providence Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of downtown Providence. The hotel features spacious and well-appointed rooms, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and several on-site restaurants.
Hotel Providence – Hotel Providence is a charming boutique hotel located in Providence’s arts and entertainment district. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a French-inspired restaurant, and a cozy lounge with a fireplace.
Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel – The Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel is a historic hotel located in a beautifully restored 1920s building. The hotel features stylish and modern rooms, an on-site restaurant serving Italian cuisine, and a fitness center.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodations available in Providence. Visitors can choose from a range of upscale hotels and boutique accommodations, each with its own unique style and amenities.
Where to stay in Providence
Budget accommodation
Providence offers several budget accommodation options for visitors looking for an affordable stay. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Providence:
Hilton Garden Inn Providence – The Hilton Garden Inn Providence is a modern and comfortable hotel located near downtown Providence. The hotel features spacious and well-appointed rooms, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Christopher Dodge House – The Christopher Dodge House is a charming bed and breakfast located in a historic mansion in Providence’s Smith Hill neighborhood. The bed and breakfast features cozy rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and a beautiful garden.
Providence Biltmore – The Providence Biltmore is a historic hotel located in the heart of downtown Providence. While it is a bit pricier than some other budget options, it often offers discounted rates and features elegant rooms and suites, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
Hilton Providence – The Hilton Providence is a comfortable and affordable hotel located near downtown Providence. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Providence Hostel and Guest House – The Providence Hostel and Guest House is a budget-friendly accommodation option that offers shared and private rooms. The hostel features a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy common area, and a convenient location near downtown Providence.
These are just a few of the many budget accommodations available in Providence. Visitors can choose from a range of affordable hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts, each with its own unique style and amenities.
Travel Tips Providence
Here are some travel tips for visiting Providence:
Take a walking tour: Providence is a walkable city, and taking a walking tour is a great way to explore its history and architecture. The Providence Preservation Society offers several walking tours of the city.
Visit the WaterFire festival: WaterFire is a popular art installation that takes place several times throughout the summer and fall months. The event features bonfires on the river, live music, and street performers.
Explore the food scene: Providence is known for its excellent food scene, with a variety of cuisines and price points available. Be sure to check out Federal Hill, which is known for its Italian restaurants and bakeries.
Visit the RISD Museum: The Rhode Island School of Design Museum is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum features a collection of more than 100,000 works of art from around the world.
Check out the local markets: Providence has several great markets, including the Providence Flea, which offers vintage and handmade goods, and the Hope Street Farmers Market, which features local produce and artisanal food products.
Take advantage of public transportation: Providence has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and a downtown trolley. Consider taking public transportation to get around the city and save on transportation costs.
Pack for the weather: Providence experiences four distinct seasons, so be sure to pack accordingly. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.
These are just a few travel tips for visiting Providence. Be sure to also check out the city’s official tourism website for more information and recommendations.