Providence, Rhode Island, a city where history whispers from cobblestone streets and art explodes in vibrant displays, offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy. Just an hour’s drive from the bustling metropolis of Boston, Providence serves as an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer New England adventure. Here, even the most discerning traveler will find something to delight in, from world-class museums to tantalizing Italian cuisine. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, family-friendly activities, or a romantic escape, Providence promises an unforgettable experience. This guide will illuminate the best ways to maximize your time in this dynamic capital city.
Immerse Yourself in the Performing Arts at Historic Theatres
Providence boasts a vibrant theatre scene, anchored by two magnificent historic venues: the Providence Performing Arts Center and the Trinity Repertoire Company.
Providence Performing Arts Center: A Glimmering Jewel
The Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), a stunning architectural masterpiece, first opened its doors in 1928 as a lavish movie palace. Today, it stands as a premier entertainment destination, hosting a diverse array of performances, including side-splitting comedy shows, electrifying concerts, and dazzling Broadway musicals. Renowned productions like "Wicked," "Hamilton," "Jesus Christ Superstar," and "Jersey Boys" have graced its stage.
The PPAC’s history is as captivating as the performances it hosts. Designated a National Historic Landmark, the theatre has overcome significant challenges, including near-destruction by two devastating hurricanes in 1938 and 1954. After a period of decline in the 1970s, the PPAC underwent a remarkable revitalization in the 1980s, restoring it to its former glory. Its opulent interior, with soaring ceilings, intricate detailing, and plush seating, creates an atmosphere of unparalleled elegance, ensuring a memorable experience for every attendee. It’s located at 220 Weybosset St.
Trinity Repertoire Company: A Legacy of Theatrical Excellence
Just a short distance from the PPAC lies the Lederer Theater Center, home to the esteemed Trinity Repertoire Company. This historic building, formerly the Emery Majestic Theater, once served as a major vaudeville hub. Today, it houses two distinct performance spaces: the Elizabeth and Malcolm Chace Theater and the Sara and Joseph Dowling, Jr. Theater.
The Trinity Repertoire Company is known for its innovative and thought-provoking productions, encompassing a diverse range of stage plays and musicals. With a commitment to both entertaining and challenging its audience, the company consistently delivers high-quality performances that resonate with theatergoers of all ages.
Engage Young Minds at the Providence Children’s Museum
For families traveling with children between the ages of one and eleven, the Providence Children’s Museum provides an engaging and educational experience. This interactive museum offers a multitude of hands-on exhibits designed to stimulate curiosity and foster learning through play.
A World of Discovery Awaits
Children can unleash their energy in Littlewoods, a whimsical environment featuring tree houses, a "bear cave," and other imaginative structures. In the Maker Studio, young artists can explore their creativity by crafting their own masterpieces.
Other exhibits encourage children to experiment with floating boats, learn about the wonders of plants and the power of water, solve puzzles and brainteasers, engage in arts and crafts activities, and discover the diverse cultures that contribute to Rhode Island’s rich heritage. The Providence Children’s Museum is located at 100 South St.
Connect with Wildlife at Roger Williams Park Zoo
The Roger Williams Park Zoo, the third-oldest zoo in the United States, offers a captivating journey into the animal kingdom. More than just a place to observe diverse species, this renowned zoo provides visitors with unique opportunities for interactive encounters.
Up Close and Personal Encounters
For a small additional fee, visitors can embark on unforgettable experiences such as feeding a giraffe, riding a camel, or taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the harbor seal exhibit. The zoo’s aviary allows guests to hand-feed exotic birds as they swoop down and perch on their arms.
The zoo’s diverse collection of animals, ranging from alpacas to zebras, appeals to animal lovers of all ages. Families with young children will especially enjoy the Alex and Ani Farmyard, where they can interact with sheep and goats, and Hasbro’s Our Big Backyard, a captivating playground.
Seasonal Spectacles
During the fall season, the Roger Williams Park Zoo hosts the Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular, a dazzling display of elaborately carved pumpkins that is not to be missed. It’s located at 1000 Elmwood Ave.
Explore the Rhode Island State House
A visit to the Rhode Island State House offers a fascinating glimpse into the state’s history and government. Designed by the esteemed architectural firm of McKim, Mead, and White, this magnificent capitol building is open to the public for free guided or self-guided tours from Monday through Friday.
Treasures Within
During the tour, visitors can explore the chambers where state legislators meet and view historical treasures such as Rhode Island’s Royal Charter, handwritten in 1663. The State House also houses an original portrait of George Washington by Rhode Island-born artist Gilbert Stuart, the very portrait that graces the one-dollar bill.
The building’s architectural grandeur is further enhanced by its impressive dome, the fourth-largest self-supported marble dome in the world. It is located at 82 Smith St.
Experience the Magic of WaterFire
WaterFire, a captivating art installation held on select evenings along the rivers that converge in the heart of Providence, is a truly transformative experience. Created by sculptor Barnaby Evans in 1994, this signature event combines the elements of fire, water, and music to create an unforgettable spectacle.
A Sensory Symphony
As bonfires crackle and shimmer on the water’s surface, they cast a mesmerizing glow on the surrounding cityscape. Evans curates a haunting soundtrack that evolves with each WaterFire event, adding another layer of depth and emotion to the experience. Seeing WaterFire is a quintessential Providence experience.
Discover Providence by Boat
Exploring Providence from the water offers a unique perspective on the city’s architectural beauty and European-inspired charm.
Gondola Serenade
La Gondola offers authentic Venetian gondola rides along the city’s rivers. Charming gondoliers steer the boats while serenading passengers, who are welcome to bring their own wine or champagne aboard.
Historical River Cruise
The Providence River Boat Company provides informative narrated tours by day and relaxing sunset cruises by night. Both boat tour operators require reservations months in advance for WaterFire nights, so be sure to plan ahead.
Savor the Flavors of Federal Hill
Providence‘s Italian neighborhood, Federal Hill, is a culinary haven, boasting a rich array of restaurants, gourmet tours, a cooking school, and specialty shops.
A Culinary Journey
Angelo’s Civita Farnese is a classic Federal Hill institution, serving traditional Italian dishes like braciola and other family favorites that have remained unchanged for over 90 years. DaVinci Ristorante & Cigar Lounge is another popular choice, renowned for its delectable burrata.
Immersive Experiences
Chef Cindy Salvato leads Savoring Federal Hill gourmet tours, offering a delicious and informative exploration of the neighborhood’s culinary treasures. Chef Walter Potenza, known for his appearances on Guy’s Grocery Games, teaches authentic Italian cooking techniques at his cooking school.
Venda Ravioli sells over 150 varieties of fresh and frozen pasta, along with a vast selection of Italian culinary products. Don’t miss a stop at Scialo Bros. Bakery for a sweet treat of Italian cookies.
Wander Through History on Benefit Street
Benefit Street, known as the "Mile of History," is an architecturally significant thoroughfare that showcases Providence‘s rich past. Whether you explore on your own or join a guided walking tour offered by the Rhode Island Historical Society, this street is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Architectural Gems
Colonial business owners began constructing homes along Back Street (now Benefit Street) in 1758, resulting in the highest concentration of pre-Revolutionary War houses in America. The street also features exceptional examples of Federal and later architectural styles. Fans of horror writer H.P. Lovecraft will want to look for 135 Benefit Street, which served as the inspiration for his story "The Shunned House."
Explore Providence’s Museums
Providence‘s colleges and universities operate a number of impressive museums.
RISD Museum
The RISD Museum at the Rhode Island School of Design houses over 91,000 works of art, spanning from ancient Greek and Roman sculptures to contemporary masterpieces.
Culinary Arts Museum
The Culinary Arts Museum at Johnson & Wales University is a repository for all things cooking and restaurants, including over 30,000 cookbooks.
Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology
Brown University’s Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology features exhibits highlighting the museum’s collection of over one million artifacts from around the world.
Enjoy Panoramic Views from Prospect Terrace Park
Prospect Terrace Park, a petite but exceptionally scenic park on Congdon Street, is renowned for its immense statue of Rhode Island founder Roger Williams. The park also serves as the final resting place for Williams’ remains. From this vantage point, visitors can capture panoramic views of the Providence skyline or enjoy a relaxing picnic on a sunny day.
Discover the Fantastical World of Big Nazo Lab
Providence proudly embraces its identity as "The Creative Capital," and Big Nazo Lab exemplifies the city’s artistic spirit. This whimsical workshop, located on Fulton Street, is home to a collection of giant, wearable "puppets" that have become a city signature and an international sensation. Visitors can admire the creatures displayed in the windows, observe artists at work inside, or attend special appearances.
Stroll Through Brown University
Brown University, an Ivy League institution founded in 1764, boasts one of the most beautiful campuses on the East Coast. Situated in a vibrant part of Providence, the university is surrounded by tree-lined streets, cozy coffee shops, trendy boutiques, and laid-back bars. Thayer Street, the main thoroughfare, hosts the annual Thayer Street Arts Festival, showcasing local crafters and street performers. Around the corner on Angell Street, visitors can enjoy outdoor movies and art exhibits at the Perry and Marty Granoff Center for the Creative Arts.
Providence, with its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse culinary offerings, is a destination that captivates and inspires. From the grandeur of the PPAC to the intimacy of WaterFire, this dynamic city offers an abundance of experiences that will create lasting memories.
