29 Fun and Unique Things to do in Providence, Rhode Island

After living in Rhode Island for nearly 25 years, I’m still often surprised and delighted by our Creative Capital. Providence is ever evolving with new boutique hotels, innovative restaurants and food halls, green spaces and public art, and fun ways to explore. I’ve put together some of my favorite things to do in Providence for first-time visitors looking for a weekend getaway or locals looking for new ideas.



I’ve started off with some of the must-do Providence attractions and events, like Waterfire, and then added in some more unique activities. There are even some free options for those on a tight budget!







Things to do in Providence



Providence really has something for everyone, from history buffs to outdoor lovers. Home to a number of colleges, you have the academic pursuits of Brown University, the creative artists and makers from Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), and the culinary creations coming out of Johnson & Wales, along with the sports of Providence College and Brown.



Experience Waterfire







Waterfire  is a public art installation created by Barnaby Evans, which has been running annually since 2001. The sculpture features 81 braziers placed in the rivers that run through the heart of the city. At various lightings, typically from May through October, these braziers are filled with wood and lit at sunset. Music is piped up and down the river banks and the walkways and surrounding areas are filled with visitors taking in the sights. 



There are many ways to enjoy Waterfire, from bringing a picnic to enjoy on the lawn in Waterplace Park near the river basin, to booking a gondola to get up close to the burning fires. There are also typically side events taking place, from live music and street performers to ballroom or salsa dancing. 



We like to book dinner at a restaurant downtown that offers valet parking or a parking lot, like Hemenways, and then take a stroll along the river after. However, you can also park in the large garage at Providence Place Mall and grab food from some of the food trucks and street vendors. 



Explore College Hill







Providence is claimed to have been built on seven hills, just like Rome, but the most prominent is College Hill. This is where you will find the campuses for Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design. Take a stroll along historic Benefit Street, to see the houses dating back to the 18th and 19th century. The country’s first Baptist Church can be found between Benefit Street and North Main Street, connected by one of my favorite streets in Providence, Thomas Street, which is worth checking out for the unique architecture and the Providence Art Club.



If you are exploring the Brown campus, be sure to take a selfie with the Brown Bear, outside of the recreational center and hockey stadium on Hope Street. You can then enjoy lunch and some boutique shopping on Thayer Street. Den Den Korean Fried Chicken is one of my favorite spots, as is the original Den Den Café Asiana on Benefit Street. Kabob & Curry on Thayer would be my pick for Indian food and you can try Tribos for some Portuguese-style peri peri chicken.



Prospect Park



Finish up your College Hill stroll with some freshly baked cookies at Feed the Cheeks and take in the view, especially at sunset, from Prospect Park on Congdon Street.



Visit Historic Sites







If you have come to Providence seeking history, you won’t be disappointed. Start off at the  Roger William National Memorial , where you can learn the history of the founder of Rhode Island and his flight from the Massachusetts colony seeking religious freedom.



In addition to the First Baptist Church, the other famous historic landmark is the  Providence Athenaeum . Opened in this location in 1838, this member-funded library offers self-guided or staff-led tours, as well as engaging salon events during normal times. You can learn the story of Edgar Allen Poe and his romantic entanglements in the Athenaeum, and even see his signature on an old Charging book.



Check with the  Providence Preservation Society  to see what walking tours or events might be taking place during your visit. You can also stop and see the  John Brown House  and the  H.P. Lovecraft Square . In Downcity Providence, you can also find the country’s first indoor shopping mall,  The Arcade . Here you will want to stop for lunch or brunch at Rogue Island.



Get Spooked on a Ghost Tour



Who doesn’t love a good ghost story? Grab your flashlights and join  Providence Ghost Tours  for a venture through time. Or, hear about the city’s dearly departed on a  Haunted Boat Tour  with Providence River Boat Company.



With over fifteen years of research and expertise, Providence Ghost Tours reveals the shadows lurking through the East Side. Led by lantern, knowledgeable tour guides will walk you through College Hill, telling tales of past residents whose spirits continue to live on in Providence, including literary icons like Eager Allen Poe, H.P. Love Craft, and Sarah Helen Whitman. 



In just 90 minutes, the tour offers an extensive overview of the city’s history. Regardless if you believe in ghosts, the tour is an engaging experience for tourists and Rhode Island locals.



Get Artsy at the RISD Museum







Art lovers can hop on board the Art Trolley during  Providence Gallery Nights , but if you aren’t in town when these tours are running, a visit to the   Rhode Island School of Design Museum  is a must. The RISD Museum collection contains more than 100,000 works of art and design dating from ancient times to today including paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, costume and textiles, and furniture from all over the world. 



Take a Boat Tour







The Providence River runs through the heart of the city and is a perfect way to explore. You can stroll along the pathways and under the bridges that line the river, or get out on the water.  Providence River Boat Company  offers narrated tours on a pontoon boat that tell the history of Providence.



Ride in a Gondola







Of course, the most romantic way to explore the river would be on a gondola ride with  La Gondola , especially during Waterfire. Just remember to make a reservation in advance! Afterwards, you can enjoy a lovely lunch by the water at The River Social, or fine dining with a view at Cafe Nuovo.



Kayak the River



Kayakers in downtown Providence



If you prefer something more active,  Providence Kayak Company  offers both kayak rentals and guided tours. Paddle under bridges, along the riverwalk and through Waterplace Park on the Providence and Woonasquatucket Rivers.



Eat Your Way Around Providence



Rhode Island Red Food Tours offers 3.5 hour food tours through Providence’s vibrant Downcity Arts District. In additon to great food, your guide will also point out hidden art, historic architectural gems, and share local stories along the way.



Go Shopping







Unlike some cities, Providence isn’t a big shopping destination. If you are looking for name brands and designers, the three-story Providence Place Mall has some favorites, just don’t expect to find high-end designers here. 



If it is boutiques and locally-owned shops that you are looking for, you will find some scattered in various pockets throughout the city. On the East Side of Providence,  Wayland Square  is home to Books on the Square, West Elm, and clothing boutiques. Stop for lunch at Red Stripe, grab a coffee at Madrid Bakery, or enjoy a glass of wine at Providence Wine Bar.



Hope Street  between Rochambeau and 5th Street is another shopping district packed with local toy stores, craft stores, and boutiques like Frog & Toad, J. Marcel, Rhody Craft, Stock Kitchen, and Kreatelier. Stop for coffee and pastry at Seven Stars Bakery or a light lunch at Little Sister.



In  Downcity , you will find more restaurants and shops lining Westminster Street. Homestyle is a great little gift shop where you can find uniquely Rhode Island products. Modern Love is a good boutique with home goods and clothing. Book lovers will enjoy browsing the shelves of Symposium Books. Stop for a beer and pretzel at Malted Barley or enjoy Korean hotpot at Wok & Pot.



On Saturdays, you can also enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, and other foods at the  Hope Street Farmer’s Market at  Lippitt Park  or  Farm Fresh RI Market  on Sims Street.



Last but not least, enjoy indoor shopping at  Providence Place Mall  and stop for a meal at Fogo de Chao or enjoy some entertainment at Dave and Buster’s.



Stroll Along the Providence Pedestrian Bridge



Providence Pedestrian bridge



Providence recently installed a  Pedestrian Bridge  which spans the river at the end of South Water Street that has become a gathering place for locals and food trucks. It is also a perfect time to check out  Plant City , Providence’s only plant-based food hall. In the warmer weather you can enjoy pop-up beer garden from  The Guild .



Check out Providence Street Art



Still here by Gaia



If you are a fan of street art, you will want to wander the streets and side alleys of Downtown Providence. One of my favorites is Still Here, by Gaia, which adorns the side of a building on Custom House Street. This features Narragansett tribal member Lynsea Monatari, surrounded by natural elements like flowers, berries, and blackbirds. She holds a Black and white photo of tribal elder Princess Red Wing, founder of the Tomaquag Museum.



You can find the latest murals and where they are located at  The Avenue Concept  site.



Brewery Hop







Like many cities, Providence and nearby Pawtucket have become a hot spot for craft beer. Pick up a Brewery Passport and sample a few. Narragansett Beer is always a popular spot, as is The Guild in Pawtucket (or The Guild Beer Garden at the Pedestrian Bridge.)



Long Live Beerworks has a beautiful space and you can usually find either a pop-up restaurant inside or food trucks nearby. Moniker Brewing and Foolproof are other good choices.



Eat Your Way Along Federal Hill



Federal Hill is Providence’s “Little Italy”. You will know you have arrived when you drive under the pineapple at the beginning of Atwells Avenue. While no longer a bastion of just Italian restaurants and markets, it is still the place to go for a delicious ravioli or veal parmesan. During the warm weather months, DePasquale Square is bustling with outdoor dining and live musical performances encouraging festive dancing around the square’s fountain.



Pick up prepared foods at Venda Ravioli, enjoy coffee and dessert at Pastiche, or fill up on the gnocchi al forno at Pane e Vino. For classic Italian-American dishes, try Angelo’s, Andino’s, or Cassarino’s.



Play at Providence Children’s Museum







If you are visiting with little ones, the Providence Children’s Museum offers an afternoon or morning of exploration and fun. Kids can enjoy water play, strengthen their muscles on the outdoor climbing structure, or practice building skills where learning feels like playing.



Bike Along the East Bay Bike Path







The East Bay Bike Path stretches 14.5 miles from India Point Park in Providence to Colt State Park in Bristol. Many stretches of this lovely path run along the water, offering beautiful views. Stop off in Warren for one of the best lobster rolls in Rhode Island at Blount’s Clam Shack on the water, just one block off the bike path. You can also stretch your legs for a short hike at the Audubon Society’s Environmental Education Center, or have a picnic and a Del’s frozen lemonade at Colt State Park before attempting the return trip.



See The Animals at Roger Williams Park & Zoo







Stretching over 435 acres, the “People’s Park” is reminiscent of New York’s Central Park and offers miles of walkways, recreational ponds, public gardens, tennis courts, ball fields, playgrounds, public art, and several historic buildings. Families will enjoy the carousel at the Boathouse and feeding the geese at the Temple to Music.



We love strolling through the Japanese Gardens, taking a Swan Boat paddleboat, or exploring the indoor gardens at the Botanical Center. There is a small Museum of Natural History, but if it is animals you are interested in, spend half a day at the newly updated Roger Williams Park Zoo , home to over 150 animals from giraffes to elephants to the adorable red pandas.



See a Show







You can catch a traveling Broadway show at the historic Providence Performing Arts Center, enjoy a play at Trinity Rep, or relax to the movements of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra at The Vets.



Tour the Rhode Island State House







Want to learn more about the state government? Plan a visit to the  Rhode Island State House  and join a free, hour-long informative tour offered at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. from Monday to Friday. Self-guided tours are also available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by scanning QR codes conveniently placed throughout the building. These tours provide valuable insight into the building’s architecture and Rhode Island’s role in American history. 



Learn at the Museum of Natural History & Planetarium



Be prepared to get transported from the Earth to Space with  The Museum of Natural History and Planetarium . This Providence gem doesn’t get the attention it deserves and is a great way for the whole family to do something together, have fun, and learn! Explore more than 250,000 objects that narrate tales of the natural and cultural worlds, stroll among extinct creatures, and admire the various shapes, sizes, and hues of the minerals that may be found on our planet.



If you are a Providence resident, you can get in for free on the first Saturday of every month and children four and under can also get in for free any day of the week.  



Play Games at the Free Play Bar & Arcade



Enjoy a blast from the past with old-fashioned arcade games like pinball, skeeball, and air hockey at the  Free Play Bar Arcade (for those over 21). With over 160 games ranging from Pacman and Mario Kart to The Simpsons and Star Wars, the arcade offers something for everyone. Free Play also serves up beer and craft cocktails, as well as pizza from the kitchen, and you can find live music on Friday nights and karaoke on Saturdays. 



Go Country at Moonshine Alley



Experience a taste of the south in the northeast at  Moonshine Alley . Their Nashville-inspired menu features classic comfort dishes like chicken pot pie and bourbon steak tips, paired with desserts like tableside s’mores. At the bar, indulge in a variety of cocktails including moonshine flights ranging from sour watermelon to banana pudding.



And of course, no Nashville experience is complete without live country music. Moonshine Alley hosts live bands every Friday and Saturday night as well as acoustic performances by local musicians on Tuesdays and Thursdays. 



Shop Vintage at the Providence Flea



Visit the  Providence Flea  for a not-so-traditional flea market experience. Operating for more than a decade, this unconventional marketplace showcases a variety of goods, from locally produced to antique treasures. Browse through hand-picked selections of homemade crafts with no mass-produced products. Every Sunday, independent vendors gather to grow their businesses and connect with community members. Enjoy food trucks, live music, and a range of prices, promising something for every budget and taste. 



Unlock Adventure at Level 99



With more than 50 interactive rooms,  Level 99  brings new excitement to the Providence Place Mall, offering a mix of physical and mental challenges, from navigating your way through laser mazes to solving puzzles. Each challenge takes 1 to 4 minutes to complete and tests different skills including your memory, strength, and problem-solving abilities.



Sessions range from 2 to 4 hours, or you can get an all-day pass. Most challenges are designed for teams of 2 to 6 players, so bringing a plus one is highly recommended. Level 99 is a great bonding activity for couples or friends who enjoy escape rooms and group work.



Unleash Your Creativity at The Steel Yard 



An art organization that believes in handmade craftsmanship,  The Steel Yard welcomes individuals to explore courses in industrial arts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, the school offers access to workspace, tools, and training needed to succeed. From classes in blacksmithing and welding to jewelry and ceramics, The Steel Yard encourages guests to try something new and potentially discover an underlying passion. 



Choose between taking a single session or enrolling in a workshop for a hands-on educational learning opportunity. This unique experience is perfect for DIY enthusiasts or art lovers eager to explore new techniques.



Celebrate Creativity at PVD Fest







Support local businesses, artists, and cultures from around the globe at  PVD Fest . Since its start in 2015, this three-day outdoor arts festival has worked to bring the community together through musical performances, food trucks, and dancing. The festival has grown from its earlier years, now attracting thousands of people to celebrate what makes Providence the Creative Capital. From craft vendors to Grammy-Award-winning musicians, PVD Fest welcomes everyone to join the festivities. 



Walk Through Swan Point Cemetery



Spanning across 200 acres,  Swan Point Cemetery  stands as one of the nation’s oldest garden cemeteries. Surrounded by trees and many species of birds, the cemetery draws visitors to stroll along its winding pathways and admire the view of the Seekonk River. Its beautiful gravestones mark the final resting place for many prominent historical figures, including politicians, artists, and Olympians.



Swan Point Cemetery remains a popular destination for walkers, bird watchers, and history buffs, who wish to pay their respects to those who came before us. Among the cemetery’s notable sites is the grave of American writer H.P. Lovecraft, whose grave can be found using the  interactive map  on the website.



Discover Justine’s Hidden Speakeasy



Disguised as a lingerie store, Justine’s transports you back to the roaring twenties. Upon entering and passing the bouncer at the “checkout counter,” guests are invited to slip behind the curtain to reveal an elegant bar setting. Offering craft cocktails made with fresh ingredients at reasonable prices, Justine’s exudes the charm of an old speakeasy, with its dark lighting and quiet ambiance.



Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening out or a laid-back hangout with friends, this cocktail bar offers the ideal setting. Don’t miss the opportunity to try new drinks while immersing yourself in the old era. Afterward, satisfy your late-night cravings at  Olneyville’s New York System  for burgers, fries, and signature hot wieners.



Learn About Art and Science at the Edna Lawerence Nature Lab



As part of the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), the  Edna Lawerence Nature Lab  houses an extensive collection of over 100,000 specimens. Founded by RISD faculty member, Edna Lawerence, the lab started with skeletons, taxidermy, and butterflies. Today, it has a variety of equipment for studying both living and non-living organisms, along with microimaging technology for examining biological structures and tissue. 



The Edna Lawerence Nature Lab works to connect art and science through interactive learning experiences. It’s home to living plants and animals, including small reptiles and fish offering a hands-on approach to education. While admission is free to the public, visitors are required to call ahead to access the building. This unique activity is great for science and nature enthusiasts, especially those with an interest in the environment.



Best Restaurants in Providence



As I mentioned, Providence’s culinary scene has put the city on the map and while it has had some struggles of late, the food options have evolved from its Italian and Portuguese roots. Don’t miss trying some of Rhode Island’s must try foods .



Margherita pizza at Bacaro



Italian: Italian restaurants put Providence on the map, especially the grilled pizza at Al Forno. There are many options from classic to modern Italian but my favorite is Bacaro. Although for a special occasion, I enjoy the formal atmosphere at Capriccio.



Seafood : For the Ocean State, you would expect more seafood options in Providence, but alas, some of the better choices are closer to the beach. However, for special occasions when I want to splurge for a great lobster or fish dish, I head to Hemenways. When a lobster roll or clam cakes are calling my name and I don’t feel like driving to the beach, Dune Brothers Seafood is where it is at.



New American : Nick’s on Broadway never disappoints with a locally-sourced, seasonal menu. Oberlin is also a fan favorite with a small but innovative farm-to-table menu. I also love some of the small plates at Persimmon on the East Side.



Vegetarian: Vegans and vegetarians can rejoice at the options in Providence. While it used to be a very steakhouse heavy city, there are some fantastic vegetarian options now including the aforementioned Plant City, plant-based food hall. I also love the General Tso’s Tacos at The Garden Grille and sister vegan bakery Wildflour are top choices.



South American: Peruvian and Bolivian restaurant Los Andes has received many accolades for its Latin flavors. I’m also a fan of casual Venezuelan La Arepa, although technically that is in nearby Pawtucket.



Mexican: When we first moved to Providence we thought we couldn’t find any good Mexican but it turns out, we just didn’t know where to look. Eventually we discovered the delights of El Rancho Grande, but it was so tiny and busy that we rarely went. Luckily the owners have recently opened Dolores on Providence’s East Side for more options. The casual take out or outdoor dining of nearby Tallulah’s Tacos is also a favorite of ours along with Diego’s East Side in Wayland Square.



Asian: The Asian options in Providence are a bit of a mixed bag. As I mentioned before, Den Den is a great option for Korean, along with Wok & Pot or Mokban. My family likes the sushi at Haruki and for a new mix of Asian fusion in a beautiful setting, we head to Jackie’s Waterfront. For amazing hand-pulled noodles, check out Jahunger on Wickenden Street.



Casual: I love all the funky casual options that have cropped up in Providence over the years. The lively atmosphere of Ogie’s Trailer Park is great for drinks and comfort food. Bayberry Beer Hall has a robust beer selection, along with a limited but tasty food menu. For delicious burgers and fried chicken sandwiches, Chomp is my pick.



Brunch: We love a good Sunday brunch and I’ve written about some of our favorites, including Rogue Island, Bayberry Garden, and Waterman Grill.



Where to Stay in Providence







The accommodations options in Providence keep expanding, which is a good thing. If you are visiting on a college tour or want a hotel with a local feel, stay at The Graduate Providence, formerly the much more formal Biltmore Hotel.



If funky boutique hotels are more your style, try The Dean Hotel, Providence’s answer to the ACE or Moxy-style hotels. For luxury, try The Beatrice or the Omni Providence.



If you are staying with a family, try the Staybridge Suites for an unbeatable location.



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