Things To Do
in Providence
Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island, United States, boasts a rich historical tapestry, having been founded in 1636 by Roger Williams. It is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, prestigious institutions such as Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design, and picturesque WaterFire art installation that lights up the rivers.
The city combines colonial charm with a forward-thinking cultural and culinary renaissance, making it a unique hub of creativity and innovation in New England.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local cafe. Then, take a stroll around Burnside Park and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Visit the Rhode Island State House for a tour and admire its stunning architecture. Afterward, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant in the downtown area.
Enjoy a riverside walk along Woonasquatucket River and unwind. Conclude your day with dinner at one of Providence's renowned eateries.
Head to the RISD Museum to explore its impressive collection of art and design. Enjoy a coffee at a nearby cafe to fuel your creativity.
Spend time at WaterFire, where you can see the sculptures lit on the river. It's a great spot for lunch with many food vendors present.
Catch a local theater performance or concert to immerse yourself in the cultural scene. Wrap up with dessert at a local bakery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and vibrant arts scene
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
- Diverse culinary options and local food scene
- Proximity to beautiful natural attractions and beaches
- Strong educational institutions, including renowned universities
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall
- Limited job market in certain sectors
- Higher crime rates compared to national averages
- Public transportation system may not be as extensive or reliable
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
Best Activities in Providence
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful botanical gardens, zoo, and walking trails in Roger Williams Park.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the river, take a gondola ride, or catch a WaterFire event at Waterplace Park.
Engage in outdoor activities like walking, biking, or simply enjoying the waterfront views at India Point Park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Providence with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Providence
Visit one of these nice places.
Overlooks downtown Providence and offers panoramic views of the city skyline
Features picturesque walking paths and pedestrian bridges with views of the WaterFire art installation and the Providence River
Offers beautiful gardens and greenhouse exhibits, providing opportunities for stunning nature photography
Food in Providence
Providence Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A clear-broth style clam chowder made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and bacon.
Must-Try!
Rhode Island's official state drink, made with coffee syrup and milk, offering a sweet and refreshing flavor.
A staple of Rhode Island's food culture, these small, spicy hot dogs are served in a steamed bun and topped with mustard, meat sauce, onions, and celery salt.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Providence better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats from various food stalls.
Known as the 'Little Italy' of Providence, this neighborhood is brimming with Italian bakeries, delis, and street food vendors offering delicious arancini, cannoli, and freshly made pasta.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Providence, it's important to show respect for the city's diverse population, which includes people from various cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds. Embracing diversity and being open-minded is key to interacting respectfully with others.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Providence and are part of the local cultural norms. Using 'please' and 'thank you,' holding doors open for others, and being mindful of personal space are all important aspects of respectful behavior.
Taking an interest in and appreciating local customs, traditions, and celebrations in Providence can demonstrate respect for the community. Being open to learning about the city's history and participating in local events can help bridge cultural gaps and show respect for the city and its residents.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Providence with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Providence
Ensure a smooth experience
In Providence, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip servers at restaurants, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The standard tip is around 15-20% of the total bill.
In Providence, similar to the rest of the United States, cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options are widely accepted for making payments. Most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and service providers, accept multiple forms of payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Providence.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Providence. Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make for a pleasant visit. Enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.
Warm and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's parks and waterfront. Experience festivals and events.
Beautiful foliage and crisp weather. Perfect for enjoying scenic drives and outdoor activities. Festivals and cultural events abound.
Cold weather with possible snowfall. Experience holiday events, ice skating, and cozy indoor activities. Limited outdoor activities due to weather.
Providence at Night
Hiking in Providence
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic waterfront park with walking paths and views of the Providence River, offering a relaxed hiking experience.
A tree-lined boulevard perfect for walking and light hiking, with a paved path running through the East Side of Providence.
A large park featuring various trails, ponds, and gardens, ideal for walking and enjoying nature.
Located a bit farther away, but offers more challenging trails and rewarding views from the summit.
Offers extensive trails and a beautiful natural setting for hiking, biking, and exploring the woodlands.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Providence through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Providence by plane.
The main airport serving Providence, Rhode Island, offering domestic and limited international flights.
Located approximately 60 miles from Providence, this is the largest airport in New England and offers numerous international flights.
Situated around 80 miles from Providence, this airport serves Hartford, Connecticut, and features various domestic and international flights.
Approximately 180 miles from Providence, Newark is a major hub for international travel, providing extensive flight options.
Located about 190 miles from Providence, JFK is one of the busiest airports in the U.S., with numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly non-Hispanic white residents.
Residents identifying as Black or African American.
Residents of Hispanic or Latino origin.
Residents identifying as Asian.
Residents identifying as more than one race.
Residents identifying with other or unspecified demographic groups.
The Soul of Providence
Discover the essence of Providence through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Providence, with local teams participating in school leagues and recreational leagues. The city is home to several college teams, increasing the sport's visibility.
Ice hockey has a significant following in Providence, especially with the presence of minor league teams like the Providence Bruins, attracting fans of all ages.
Soccer is growing in popularity in Providence with numerous youth and adult leagues, as well as community events. The city also supports local soccer clubs.
Baseball is a cherished tradition in Providence, with little league teams as well as a local minor league team, the Pawtucket Red Sox, which has a dedicated fan base.
Running is a favored recreational activity in Providence, with various running clubs and events like the Providence Marathon attracting participants from the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Providence.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Providence's food scene is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering dedicated plant-based menus and options.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs will find numerous eateries providing gluten-free menu items and knowledgeable staff to accommodate their requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Providence with these cultural adventures.
