Location: Downtown Providence
Top Things to do in Downtown Providence
Things to do in Providence, Rhode Island (RI): The Best Sights & Landmarks
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. Market Square
2. Rhode Island State House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 404 reviews
This imposing marble building houses King Charles' 1663 charter of the Rhode Island colony.
Reviewed By Decaf7
Take the half hour free guided tour, worth your time. See the House and Senate chambers, the library, portraits of former governors, portrait of George Washington painted by our very own Gilbert Stuart and learn about the history of this beautiful building. Dome is a beautiful piece of architecture.
3. Water Place Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 190 reviews
Watch a street artist sketching the city, enjoy a lovely stroll by the river past Venice inspired bridges or see some wonderful public art, all at this well-designed four-acre park and scenic riverwalk, considered to be the heart of the restoration of Providence's downtown area.
Reviewed By travelingirlz - Drummond Island, United States
We were just there a short time but did enjoy the bridges and walkways of the Riverwalk. Sadly we arrived the day after the final FireWater show. Nearby are PF Changs, Panera Bread and other restaurants, the train station is a 5 to 10 min walk (depending on your abilities) so if you arrive for your train really early then it's a nice place to take a walk. Capitol Building is right across from the train station so it too is a place to visit. I. always enjoy when multiple things are near each other, so was delighted to realize the RiverWalk, train station, Capitol Building and restaurants are nearby!
4. Johnson & Wales University
5. 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!
6. Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By CherylP237 - Warwick, United States
If you are staying in Providence, come to church here. The Cathedral is beautiful, the organ is an amazing experience, the Bishop's homilies are always on target and the parishioners welcome all.
7. Dunkin' Donuts Center
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 148 reviews
Reviewed By JudyK288 - Boston, United States
Why go to Boston and literally pay 10x more for tickets for an event when you have this option? If you have young (or older!) children who want to see quality live ice hockey, spend $38/ticket instead of the $400 in Boston. Great restaurants, quality hotels within walking distance, reasonable parking make this a no brainer. Providence Bruins hockey (AHL) is good, fast paced hockey. A 24 oz can of beer cost $13 for reference. We sat in the 6th row behind tunnel for the player for $38. What a deal. Marriott offers two hotels within walking distance for about $200/night, parking $30/night at the hotel (cheaper in some of the parking garages) and you can walk to Federal Hill for an outstanding Italian meal in 5-7 minutes before or after the game. Also a couple of nice pubs outside the venue where you can actually get a seat after the game and sit and talk with a drink (we went to Murphys) - but head right over there because there will be a crowd if you wait too long. Also college hockey, basketball, Globetrotters, concerts. If you can't already tell, I am a huge fan of this venue!!!
8. Providence City Hall
9. Providence Train Station
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 120 reviews
Reviewed By N5092KMjohnw - Gatesville, United States
A nice,convenient location and easily navigable. We train into here from Boston (and back) on the MBTA commuter rail. Small, well-kept and centrally located. Can also catch shuttle bus from here to other locales in Providence.
10. Custom House
Providence's first federal government building.
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