Location: Providence
Top Things to do in Providence
What to do and see in Providence, Rhode Island (RI): The Best Points of Interest & 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. Yellow Peril Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
3. Temple Beth-El
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
Reviewed By JohnBJ_13 - Providence, United States
Designed by a prominent architect, with its magnificent dome the sanctuary in Temple Beth-El is an example of cutting-edge religious architecture of any denomination. In addition to its Friday evening and Saturday morning religious services, Temple Beth-El offers a broad spectrum of educational and cultural events of interest to anyone, Jewish or not, some in conjunction with Rhode Island's Lifelong Learning program. Recently it offered a short-story writing workshop and a concert of American popular songs with lyrics by immigrant Jewish songwriters since the turn of the 20th century.
4. Benefit Street
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 217 reviews
A mile of history is packed onto this cobblestone street lined with historic buildings. The Nightingale-Brown House, built in 1792, home to five generations of the Nicholas Brown Family (of Brown University) is a "must see" on the block.
Reviewed By MayLehmannNYC - New York City, United States
Shy of two miles long, Benefit street is a veritable "stroll" back in history as the street highlights 18th and 19th architecture. Modern street lights are replaced by faux gas lights which only add to the charm of this street. A walk at dusk when the lights come on is a must!
5. DePasquale Plaza
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 106 reviews
Romantic area with a fountain.
Reviewed By lrv21 - Miami, United States
Live music and a piazza reminiscent of Italy. I fell in love with this town. The food was delicious and we enjoyed dancing it off after with the live music.
6. Thayer Street
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 199 reviews
Students from Brown University, and other schools in the area, congregate on this funky street that boasts vintage clothing shops, bookstores, music shops and cafes.
Reviewed By searchingforsand - Lexington, United States
Awesome street filled with shops and restaurant. Definitely check this street out if your in Providence looking at schools. The perfect street for college kids to gather, eat, etc. the Brown University Book Store is in Thayer Street. The best place to go grab a bite to eat while exploring the beautiful campuses of RSID and Brown. Everything from Ben & Jerry’s, Shake Shake, Chipotle, pizza, pita, smoothies, fro yo, Starbucks. I know my kid would have plenty to choose from while in college here.
7. Wickenden Street
8. Atwells Avenue
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 49 reviews
Providence street home to many restaurants.
Reviewed By jerb2014 - Bristol, United States
Atwells Avenue is the main street in the Federal Hill Italian neighborhood and it is lined with a large number of international restaurants, including several very good Italian one. There are bars, coffee shops, Italian specialty groceries, and shops. It is definitely a place to visit when in Providence and most of the restaurants provide very good food in general.
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.
