This historic New England city, founded in 1636, is home to prestigious universities, the nation's first art museum, and America's inaugural subway system.
Providence, Rhode Island's capital city, is an urban center with a long history dating back to 1636. This compact city has unique architecture, well-known universities like Brown and RISD, an active arts community, and a respected food culture. In Providence, you can see the Rhode Island State House with its large dome, watch the WaterFire installation on the downtown rivers, and walk through neighborhoods with colonial-era homes.
Exploring Downtown Providence
Downtown Providence, known locally as Downcity, forms the center of the city. Here you'll see the white marble Rhode Island State House, topped with the world's fourth-largest self-supported dome. Walk through Waterplace Park, where WaterFire, an art installation of nearly 100 bonfires, lights up the rivers on select evenings from May to November. The park's cobblestone walkways and Venetian-style bridges make it an interesting place for a walk any time of year.
Discovering College Hill
College Hill is home to Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). As you walk along Benefit Street, often called the "Mile of History," you'll see well-preserved colonial and Federal-period houses. Visit the RISD Museum to view a wide-ranging collection of art from ancient times to the present, including works by Monet, Degas, and Andy Warhol.
Savoring Federal Hill
Federal Hill, Providence's Little Italy, centers around Atwells Avenue and its surrounding streets. This neighborhood has many Italian bakeries, markets, and restaurants. You can try traditional dishes like pasta e fagioli or Rhode Island-style calamari, typically served with hot peppers. Consider visiting Scialo Bros. Bakery, a family-owned establishment that's been serving cannolis and Italian cookies since 1916.
Exploring Providence's Parks
Roger Williams Park, named after the city's founder, covers 427 acres and includes a zoo, botanical center, and museum of natural history. You can go boating on the park's seven lakes in summer or ice skating in winter. For a view of the city skyline, head to Prospect Terrace Park on College Hill, where you'll also find a statue of Roger Williams overlooking the city he founded.
Navigating Providence
You can easily walk around Providence, especially in the downtown area and College Hill. For longer trips, use the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) bus network. The Providence LINK, a trolley-style bus, connects many downtown locations. If you're driving, be aware that parking can be limited in some areas, particularly during events or university move-in days.
