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Providence is the capital and most populous city of the state of Rhode Island and is one of the oldest cities in the United States.

A traveler's guide to Providence, Rhode Island

Experience Rhode Island’s unique blend of coastal beauty and historic neighborhoods. This guide provides reliable insights on downtowns, local attractions, and travel tips for a safe and rewarding visit.

Back to BBB Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT Travel Guide page

Why visit?

Providence, Rhode Island is a small capital city with big arts, food, and cultural experiences.

Downtown & main streets

Providence’s historic Federal Hill neighborhood along Atwells Avenue and the surrounding streets. Largely settled by Italian-American immigrants
Federal Hill (Atwells Avenue)

Savor Italian food, bakeries, and cafés along this vibrant neighborhood street.

Buildings relfecting on a canal from Waterfront Park in Providence,Rhode Island .Providence is the capital and most populous city in Rhode Island. Downtown Providence has numerous 19th-century mercantile buildings in the Federal and Victorian architectural styles. Providence is known for its nationally renowned restuarants,great museums, and galleries
Downtown Riverwalk

Enjoy scenic walkways lined with shops and dining options.

The central region of Providence's East Side contains a cluster of important educational institutions, such as Brown University and the Moses Brown and Wheeler Schools.
Thayer Street (College Hill)

Explore a student hub featuring casual dining and unique bookshops.

Top things to do

Crowds gather along Woonasquatucket river in Providence, RI for the summer series known as WaterFire, which consists of fiery wooden blocks placed along the river during the nighttime.
See WaterFire (bonfires along downtown rivers)
University Hall in Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States
Visit the RISD Museum or tour Brown University
People at a theater looking at a dress rehearsal of ballet performing arts
Enjoy the Providence Performing Arts Center

        

Travel tips

Plan around WaterFire dates for the best experience.
The city is compact - walking and rideshares are easiest.