Location: Providence
Top Things to do in Providence
10 Shopping in Providence That You Shouldn't Miss
Years of careful urban planning and meticulous restoration have rendered this former rum and molasses trading town one of the best places to live in the United States, star of an eponymous television show and a swell place to spend a weekend. Historic sites, wonderful museums and theaters seamlessly blend with newer attractions on the block including a modern mega-mall, scenic Riverwalk, outdoor skating arena, convention center, plus new hotels and restaurants. The Roger Williams Zoo, with its updated Tropical Rainforest Building where "spunky monkeys" roam free in a constructed jungle-like environment, remains one of the city's top attractions and offers hours of entertainment for children and adults alike. Wander back in time on Benefit Street, where eminent Federal period homes recall the city's wealthy past. For a modern experience, check out the more than 100 stores at Providence Place. Or tantalize your taste buds on "The Hill," a historic area that boasts many award- winning restaurants, from the Italian and Mediterranean cuisine for which "Little Italy" got its name, to Caribbean, Mexican, Chinese, seafood and baked goods. For a different perspective, take a romantic river cruise on an authentic Venetian gondola. No matter what your vantage point, Providence sparkles.
Restaurants in Providence
1. Providence Art Club
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 22 reviews
This is said to be the oldest art club in the nation, designed to foster an appreciation for local arts.
2. ArtProv Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
ArtProv is a gallery of contemporary art that displays an evocative collection of works centered around color, texture and expression by local, regional and national artists. Please check website as weekly hours change.
3. The Art Gallery at Sprout
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
This is an art gallery in the Sprout Coworking office that is open to the public and a member of Gallery Night Providence. Shows change monthly and feature new, emerging, student and community artists. Open daily from 9-5 and the 3rd Thursday of every months from 5-9pm.
4. WaterFire Arts Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 4 reviews
The WaterFire Arts Center serves as our headquarters, production complex, and multi-purpose arts venue as well as a social enterprise platform strengthening the organization's long-term financial sustainability. One of the unique features of the WaterFire Arts Center is the Main Hall which provides 15,000 sq. ft. of uninterrupted exhibition, performance, and production space with a 40 ft. ceiling.
5. Venda Ravioli
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 84 reviews
Reviewed By 368audreyn
My first visit to Venda’s, but it sure won’t be my last! You walk in and are surrounded by old world charm. The food we had tasted like it was made with love by Nona. I can’t wait to go back and try different meals. The absolute best grocery ever.
6. AS220
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
The Empire Street complex is one of three buildings owned and operated by AS220. The Empire Street complex houses The Bar at AS220, AS220 Foo(d), AS220's Performance Space, AS220 Youth (serving young people 14-20), the Paul Krot B&W Community Darkrooms, 3 of 4 Visual Art Exhibition Spaces, 15 live/work and work studios for artists, and the 95 Empire black box theater, dance studio and classroom spaces. Empire Street is also home to commercial tenants: Roberto's Barber Shop and Muldowney's Pub. AS220's other locations are the Dreyfus, 95 Mathewson St, where you can find the Project Space Gallery, and the Mercantile Block, 131 Washington St, which houses, among other things, AS220 Photo, AS220 Labs, and its publicly accessible Printshop.
7. Carmen and Ginger
8. Mother Mystic Spiritual Apothecary
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
The most mysterious store in Providence! We have been a staple on Historic Haunted Federal Hill for years. Over 100 bulk herbs, roots, resins and powders plus over 50 medicinal grade aromatherapy oils in stock. Candles of many shapes, sizes and intentions. Oils for every purpose. Crystals, minerals and fossils to fit every budget. Statues, jewelry, sprays, smudges, powders, curios, and unusual gifts. H.P. Lovecraft books and tee shirts. Psychic readings and Reiki treatments by appointment only.
9. Hope Street Farmers' Market
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By 334RobertE - Pawtucket, United States
The Saturday Farmer's Market includes many local farmers, but not just veggies. Local fish, beef, lamb, prepared products, and baked goods are all there, and all delish! You can also valet park your bike, get your knives sharpened, and enjoy the best dishes of several local restaurants and food trucks. A growing section of craftsmen and artists makes for some fun shopping too.
10. The Providence Flea
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 39 reviews
Award-winning community market with changing lineup of 50+ local vintage vendors, indie makers, artisans, food trucks, bakeshops, live music and community nonprofits. 2021 Winter/Spring: Every Sunday through May 23, 11am-3pm, at Farm Fresh RI Market Hall, 10 Sims Ave, PVD. 2021 Summer/Fall: Every Sunday, June through September, 10am-2pm, located across from 345 South Water St, Providence, RI. Masks required. Dogs allowed summer/fall only. Check providenceflea.com for latest.
