One of America’s oldest cities, Providence offers historic attractions and architecture along with a vibrant food scene and unique shopping.
Providence has a long and rich history so a great place to start your visit is on the East Side at Benefit Street’s “Mile of History.” Take a stroll through the colonial thoroughfare, past restored homes, churches and museums, or pay for a guided tour to learn more about the city’s historic waterfront.
The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum is one of the country’s largest art museums. Here, you can browse more than 80,000 works of art that span many cultures, time periods and media. Artifacts include a collection of Paul Revere’s silver. Combine your visit to the RISD with a trip to the nearby Museum of Natural History & Planetarium.
From here, take a short walk to Thayer Street, where you will find eclectic shops filled with quirky souvenir items, gifts, imported clothing, handmade crafts, art and books.
You’ll find plenty of nightlife and restaurant options in Providence. Italian cuisine lovers won’t want to miss dining in the Federal Hill neighborhood. This historic section of the city is also known as Little Italy. Sip a strong espresso at an open-air café or enjoy an upscale meal at number of gourmet Italian eateries. In this same neighborhood you can step into a Middle Eastern-style lounge for an after-dinner drink and dessert.
Head downtown for upscale martini bars and hip-hop clubs, or check out the eclectic bars near the university colleges. For Broadway musicals, concerts and comedy acts, look to the schedule of performances at the art deco Providence Performing Arts Center. Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel is a legendary venue for live music.
Avoid driving in Providence if you can as parking is limited. The best alternative to walking is the inexpensive and reliable public transport.
Visit Providence
Where to stay in Providence
Downtown Providence
Travelers to Downtown Providence praise its popular shops. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to make a stop by Providence Performing Arts Center and Westminster Arcade.
College Hill
You'll enjoy the churches and architecture in College Hill. You might want to make time for a stop at Thayer Street or Brown University Bookstore.
Federal Hill
Federal Hill is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to DePasquale Plaza or Columbus Theater.
West End
While visiting West End, you might make a stop by sights like Long Live Beer Works and Knight Memorial Library.
Fox Point
Unique features of Fox Point include the restaurants and waterfront views. Make a stop by India Point Park or Providence Ferry Terminal while you're exploring the area.
Smith Hill
Smith Hill is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Candace Street Park and Smith Hill Library while you're in town.
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Reviewed on Mar 31, 2025
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Popular places to visit
Brown University
Walk around the campus of Brown University, a top college in Providence. Attend a sporting event or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Discover the many delights of this historic park, which features ponds, rolling landscapes and numerous attractions, including a museum, zoo and botanical gardens.
Amica Mutual Pavilion
Catch an event at Amica Mutual Pavilion during your trip to Providence. Experience the area's entertainment choices and great live music.
Providence Performing Arts Center
See local and international acts performing live music, Broadway shows, stand-up comedy, circus and more at this enormous 1920s movie theater.
WaterFire Arts Center
You can study the exhibits at WaterFire Arts Center, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Providence. Experience the area's great live music and entertainment choices.
Rhode Island State Capitol Building
After visiting Rhode Island State Capitol Building, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Providence. Experience the area's entertainment choices and acclaimed theater scene.
Things to do
