Location: Downtown Providence
Top Things to do in Downtown Providence
Things to do in Providence, Rhode Island (RI): The Best Shopping
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. Carmen and Ginger
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Lovecraft Arts & Sciences
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By silinx - Sharon, United States
The Westminster Arcade is home to an odd bunch of little shops. One of these shops specializes in all things H.P. Lovecraft. Looking for a Cthulhu-shaped candelabra? Check. A beautiful rendering of Cthulhu done in charcoal? Check. Call of Cthulhu the roleplaying game? Check. A map of Providence depicting key mythos locations? Check. Elder God-themed jewelry? Check! Furthermore the shop owner seems super knowledgeable and super passionate about the the topic. We witnessed multiple groups of shop patrons engaging in really in-depth conversations during our visit. If Lovecraft is your thing, I highly recommend.
5. Providence Place Mall
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 300 reviews
One-hundred-fifty store mall that is home to New England's first Nordstrom store.
Reviewed By acchapp - Crofton, United States
Made an excursion in Providence to Providence Place. I love that this mall has indoor parking--although finding a spot can be a chore. There are so many stores in this place and I don't believe we explored the entire property. The food court was okay; a bit disappointed that vendors didn't offer trays to carry food; made carrying bags and food a bit tricky & clumsy.
6. RISD Works
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 13 reviews
RISD WORKS encourages us to look at familiar things in a new way: behind every item featured, from mass-produced object to fine original art, is the hand and mind of a RISD artist. RISD WORKS was founded to celebrate the Rhode Island School of Design's leadership in fine art, design, and education and continues that mission today. We inform our patrons of the importance of art and design by retailing only items designed and/or made by RISD alumni and faculty.
Reviewed By CMKNY - Westchester County, United States
What a find: This is a great collection very well curated. In addition to the well known artists displayed along with larger collections (furniture with prints and art, with fashion: great combo) the student work is great to see. You can see masters in the same location as the great artists of the future. Nice way to spend a few hours. Cafe in it is nice too: take a break for some coffee and make for a longer visit. Stop by the shop on your way out and pick a few items created by the students.
7. Cellar Stories
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5 reviews
8. The Arcade
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
