Location: Downtown Providence
Top Things to do in Downtown Providence
Top 10 Things to do in Downtown Providence, Rhode Island (RI)
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. Experience Rhode Island Tours & Transportation
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 434 reviews
Our mission is to help you enjoy life by giving you exceptional tour and transportation experiences.
2. Providence Tour Company
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 17 reviews
Providence Tour Company offers specialty walking tours and scavenger hunts of downcity Providence in order to foster community and build an appreciation for the Creative Capital.
3. Market Square
4. La Gondola
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 473 reviews
Experience Providence from a new perspective! Benvenuto! We invite you to revel in the sights of the City from a unique vantage point that captures the heart of Providence. Enjoy an excursion along the Woonasquatucket and Providence Rivers and witness the revitalization of the City, river walks, and waterfront parks. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary or birthday, looking to propose to that special someone, or just on a vacation to the city, a gondola trip is a great way to make your visit to Providence memorable and unique. La Gondola operates three authentic Venetian gondolas along the Providence Riverwalk, accommodating up to six passengers at a time on each gondola. Reservations are highly recommended and are always exclusive to your party. We are open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Our season is from 1 May to 31 October, and of course trips are always subject to availability and the weather. La Gondola Providence: For Lovers, For Families, For Everyone.
5. The Vets
6. The Great Escape Room
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 285 reviews
The Great Escape Room is a real-life room escape game. Escape games are the newest craze sweeping the nation – a fun, team-building, brain-busting experience! The door is locked behind you and 60 minutes are on the clock! You must work together in order to find clues and solve puzzles that will lead you to your escape. Only about 20% of groups are able to meet the challenge and escape in time!
Reviewed By 978coltonm - Houston, United States
My son and I traveled from Texas and we did two rooms tonight. Our game master was great and we really enjoyed our time there. We liked the Escape Artist the best but the Presidential room was good as well. Thank you for a great time!
7. Providence Visitor Information Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
The Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau's Visitor Information Centers are open to answer questions and provide expert advice on how to make the most of your stay in the Providence area. Our information specialists can assist you with planning either an entire trip - from accommodations to transportation - or a fun-filled day.
8. 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!
9. 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.
10. 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!
