Location: Downtown Providence
Top Things to do in Downtown Providence
Things to do in Providence, Rhode Island (RI): The Best Concerts & Shows
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. The Vets
2. Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Bring your Group to the RI Philharmonic! Whether you’re planning an outing for an organization, corporate clients, school, club, or tour group, the Rhode Island Philharmonic experience can open new doors and create memories for a lifetime. We have eight Saturday evening concerts per season, Friday evening Open Rehearsals, informal Rush Hour concerts, and special events throughout the season!
3. WaterFire
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,856 reviews
WaterFire Providence is an independent, non-profit arts organization whose mission is to inspire Providence and its visitors by revitalizing the urban experience, fostering community engagement and creatively transforming the city by presenting WaterFire for all to enjoy. This award-winning sculpture by Barnaby Evans installed on the three rivers of downtown Providence, has been praised by Rhode Island residents and international visitors alike as a powerful work of art and a moving symbol of Providence’s renaissance. WaterFire’s over eighty sparkling bonfires, the fragrant scent of aromatic wood smoke, the flickering firelight on the arched bridges, the silhouettes of the fire-tenders passing by the flames, and the enchanting music from around the world engage all the senses and emotions of those who stroll the paths of Waterplace Park. WaterFire has captured the imagination of over ten million visitors, bringing life to downtown, and revitalizing Rhode Island’s capital city.
Reviewed By pattih409 - Providence, United States
The firelight at dusk, the river of music floating from unseen outdoor speakers playing off the sound and silence of first enthralled and then reverently attentive crowds, the heat of the lit cauldrons and all the smells sweet and savory, exotic and familiar from invited street vendors combine to create a beautiful sensory experience. Weather you like to be in the thick of a crowd or observing from a distance, Waterfirer provides a memorable night in for people of all ages to come together under the backdrop of the City of Providence.
4. Providence Performing Arts Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 607 reviews
Reviewed By johncS9798FD - Slatersville, United States
Over the years we have seen some wonderful productions at PPAC. Among our favorites: Les Miserables, Jersey Boys, Miss Saigon, Phantom of the Opera, Book of Mormon and so many more. We have never been disappointed!
5. Trinity Repertory Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 110 reviews
"American Theater at its best" - Boston Globe. 1964: professional theater is born in Rhode Island. The rest is history: the Tony Award, 54 world premieres, education programs, films and tours. Laughter, insight, magic, tears, and passion, for three generations of audiences. A world of theater experiences waits for you at Trinity Rep. New plays, classics, and musicals spring to life with our resident actors, directors and designers.
Reviewed By debrad328
Really enjoy this Repertory. They have parking next to the repertory company. The plays are fabulous. There is not a bad seat in this place. Restaurants in walking distance. Depending on the play couples, family, teens, family or solo. This place is for everyone. My husband took his department here to see Christmas Carol couple years ago. We see the Christmas Carol every other year. I enjoy the plays and I buy the flex package so I can pick the plays I wish to see. If you join their newsletter you can get deals on tickets.
6. Murder On Us Dinner Theater
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 4 reviews
