places to visit in providence rhode island

32 Best & Fun Things To Do In Providence (Rhode Island)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: May 21, 2022  - Last updated: May 12, 2024

Bonfires on the river. Three-cent candy shops. Ritzy movie palaces.

These are just a few of the attractions that you’ll find in Providence, Rhode Island, a fun and quirky destination in New England.

Originally settled in 1636, Providence has always been different.

Its founder was exiled by Puritans for his so-called “radical” ideology, so he decided to start his own city founded on his own principles.

The citizens, too, delight in being unique.

For example, many of them call downtown Providence “downcity” Providence.

What does all of this mean for you as a traveler?

It means that you’ll have a ball in Providence!

Far from being a stuffy, old-fashioned New England town, it’s a place where there’s always something new to discover.

Whether you’re into exciting adventures or leisurely explorations of new places, you can experience it here.

Are you ready to pack up and see the city for yourself?

Here are just a few fun things to do in Providence, Rhode Island.

Table of Contents

1. Roger Williams Park

Roger Williams Park

Covering more than 400 acres, Roger Williams Park is one of the major points of interest in Providence.

It’s full of tourist attractions for visitors of all ages, including a zoo, planetarium, botanical garden, and natural history museum.

Established in 1872, the park is dedicated to the founder of Providence, Roger Williams.

His spirit is kept alive through the many activities drawing travelers to the land like a beacon.

There are greenhouses and boathouses; there are carousels and bandstands.

If you like history, you can take a historical tour of local landmarks, including an 18th century cottage once owned by Roger William’s family.

If you enjoy nature, there are numerous ponds, flowers, gardens, and trails, including one that ends in a waterfall.

All things considered, Roger Williams Park is one of the top attractions in Providence.

Go ahead and channel the spirit of Mr. Williams to take a look.

He would approve of your curiosity and discovery.

Address: Pine Hill Ave, Providence, RI 02907, United States

2. Providence Performing Arts Center

Providence Performing Arts Center

The Providence Performing Arts Center is one of those cool vacation spots that you’ll talk about for years to come.

How many times in your life will you get the chance to visit an authentic, old-fashioned movie palace?

Built in 1928, the building has all of the razzle-dazzle style of the era, including a gigantic marquee that lights up the whole sidewalk on the outside.

Inside, your eyes will be just as awed; there are marble columns, crystal chandeliers, plush red seats, and cathedral-style patterns and mosaics on the ceilings.

As for the entertainment on offer, you’ll find everything from plays to music concerts to comedy routines.

One night might have Les Miserables or My Fair Lady while another night hosts Jersey Boys or the Blue Man Group.

Take a step back in time with the Providence Performing Arts Center.

It’ll offer a lavish experience for everyone with a bit of flapper spirit in them, which is why it’s one of the best destinations in Providence.

Address: 220 Weybosset St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

3. WaterFire

The aptly-named WaterFire is one of the most unique things to see in Providence.

In fact, it might be unique in the entire world.

Where else can you watch 100 bonfires crackling on top of rivers?

Though it looks like magic, it’s actually art.

A series of burning art installations are put on boats and floated down the three rivers that flow into downtown Providence.

Between them, other boats carrying mimes, musicians, and fire twirlers provide entertainment for spectators strolling down the riverbanks.

One thing to know about WaterFire is that it takes place on a schedule: 1 – 2 times a month on Saturday nights between May and November.

In other words, you’ll need to be in Providence on a non-winter weekend to see it.

Ultimately, however, it’s worth arranging your travel itinerary to see WaterFire this weekend.

Not only is it one of a kind among Providence attractions, but it’s an experience that you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else on the planet.

Address: 4 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

4. Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy

Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy

You don’t have to spend money to have a good time in Providence.

There are plenty of free things to do in and near the city, especially if you enjoy the outdoors.

One such option is the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy .

Located almost 300 feet above sea level, Neutaconkanut Hill offers some of the highest aerial views that you can get without taking a helicopter tour, making it a top sightseeing destination for hikers, trekkers, and wildlife trackers.

It’s also a beautiful destination in its own right, one filled with forests, meadows, tree groves, and freshwater springs.

Visitors can explore a number of trails or enjoy park amenities like a playground and a multipurpose athletic field.

In the winter, there are hills for sledding and snowshoeing; in the autumn, there are observation spots for admiring the changing colors of the leaves.

Enjoy Providence without spending a dime when you visit the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy.

It’s fun, beautiful, affordable, and memorable, so it’s easily one of the best locations in the city.

Address: Legion Memorial Dr, Providence, RI 02909, United States

5. RISD Museum

RISD Museum

Run by the Rhode Island School of Design, the RISD Museum is a massive collection of photos, paintings, sculptures, wood blocks, silk prints, and more.

Whether you’re into Chinese calligraphy or ancient Egyptian pottery, you’ll find something to admire in works that span the globe.

Permanent exhibitions include everything from Spanish coins to Tibetan Buddhas to Greek and Roman busts.

Special exhibits have names like “Striking Chords: Music in Ukiyo-E Prints” and “A Changing Reflection: Silver, Metalwork, and Jewelry in the 19th – 21st Centuries.”

There are a number of events held at the museum as well, and they generally reflect the same civic engagement and commitment to diversity and cross-cultural understanding that the museum was built on.

For example, there might be musical performances with traditional instruments or disability seminars to raise awareness about issues in contemporary society.

All in all, if you’re wondering what to do in Providence during a vacation, you won’t want to miss the RISD Museum.

It’s a wonderful place that can teach you a lot while also deepening your understanding of art.

Address: 20 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

Exploring other parts of Rhode Island? Why not check out some of the things to do in Newport, RI ?

6. West Side Diner

West Side Diner

Did you know that the concept of a “diner” was invented in Providence?

Established in the 1800s as a way for nighttime workers to scarf down a quick meal, the idea quickly spread throughout New England and, later, the United States as a whole.

The West Side Diner isn’t one of the originals, but it’s a near-perfect replica, so it’s a great way to pay tribute to history.

Its design includes everything from vintage neon signage to red-topped stools pulled up at the countertops.

Its menu is equally nostalgic, serving burgers, shakes, and bottomless cups of coffee at all hours of the day.

If you’re wondering what to do in a city like Providence, grab a bite to eat at the West Side Diner.

It’s not just delicious.

It’s tradition!

Address: 1380 Westminster St, Providence, RI 02909, United States

7. Providence Children’s Museum

Providence Children’s Museum

With a large, colorful dragon wrapping around its brick building, you can tell with one glance that the Providence Children’s Museum isn’t like other museums.

It’s a treasure trove for fun, hands-on activities that will also encourage a child’s interest in STEM.

Places to visit in the museum include an “Innovation Lab” where kids can build crafts and simple machines, a “Water Ways” where they can splash around while learning about the natural world, and a “Thinkspace” where they can challenge themselves with riddles, puzzles, and other cognitive games.

There’s even a garden that includes an underground section for education on everything from burrowing animals to the science of sounds and echoes!

If you’re traveling to Providence with kids, you won’t want to miss the Providence Children’s Museum.

It’s a top 10 destination for the young and the young at heart alike.

Address: 100 South St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

8. Rhode Island Seafood Festival

Rhode Island Seafood Festival

Nicknamed “The Ocean State,” Rhode Island has a long and proud history of fishing, crabbing, and general seafaring.

Nowhere is this legacy more apparent than the Rhode Island Seafood Festival .

Held every fall, the Rhode Island Seafood Festival is a multi-day celebration of everything that can be caught in the water and served with tartar sauce.

The food is served from stalls, booths, and trucks, and it ranges from shrimp tacos and clam chowders to lobster grilled cheeses and fish filet sandwiches.

There are many local inventions as well, so if you’ve ever wanted to try maple bacon scallop skewers or Cajun crab nachos, here’s your chance!

When you’ve gotten your plate, wander the grounds and check out other fun attractions of the festival, including music, beer, and various games and contests.

Don’t visit the ocean without taking full advantage of what it offers, including a delightful assortment of seafood.

Go to Providence during the Rhode Island Seafood Festival and enjoy!

Address: 201 India St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

9. Roger Williams Park Zoo

Roger Williams Park Zoo

As one of the oldest zoos in the country, Roger Williams Park Zoo has been delighting visitors for more than 150 years.

However, it’s come a long way from its roots as a small animal show in the park.

Today, it’s among the biggest and most celebrated of Providence’s attractions, and it offers a rollicking good time for “kids aged 2 – 102.”

The animals are the biggest draw of the zoo, of course, and you’ll find everything from Flemish giant rabbits to Amazonian poison dart frogs.

The critters are free-roaming in natural habitats and not cages.

Most are divided by geographic region, so you’ll go to “Fabric of Africa” to see elephants and giraffes, “Faces of the Rainforest” to see toucans and tarantulas, and “The Wetlands Trail” to see fish, turtles, and waterfowl.

Other activities at the zoo include sky trams, train rides, carousel rides, petting zoos, kids’ camps, and animal encounters.

Special events range from food truck days to Asian lantern festivals.

Ultimately, the Roger Williams Park Zoo is a destination that you won’t want to miss.

It’s fun for the whole family, and it offers so much stuff to do that you won’t even know where to start!

Address: 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907, United States

10. Providence Ghost Tour

Providence Ghost Tour

Get a little spooky with a Providence Ghost Tour .

It’ll take you on a journey through “the dark side of the East Side,” offering all kinds of gory tales and ghastly sights that serve as the basis for local legends.

Halloween tours are the most fun; you can dress in costume and join a group of like-minded revelers as you walk the streets on the most haunted night of the year.

Treats are also provided for your own version of trick-or-treat.

Even if it isn’t Halloween, however, you can still get thrills and chills: Tours are conducted by lantern light, and you’re encouraged to snap photos of any shadows or apparitions that you see around buildings, landmarks, and tombstones.

If you’re trying to decide between different places to go in Providence, why not go to them all?

With a Providence Ghost Tour, you can learn about the city’s history, see some of its most interesting landmarks, and give yourself some hair-rising scares.

It’s a win-win-win!

Address: 60 Congdon St, Providence, RI 02906, United States

11. John Brown House Museum

Filetime , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Hailed as “the most magnificent and elegant private mansion (…) ever seen on this continent” by one of the country’s earliest presidents, the John Brown House was the first residence of its kind in 18th century Rhode Island.

It’s been carefully preserved since then, so even though it’s registered as a National Historic Landmark, visitors today can tour it like it was built yesterday.

What makes it so impressive?

For starters, it has three stories of grand old architecture that includes columns, porticos, marble busts, and ornate staircases and balustrades.

It’s also furnished with authentic antiques ranging from silvers and textiles to paintings and wall maps.

Other places to visit at the museum include a fully restored 18th century carriage as well as a lovely garden on the grounds.

Tours are available year round, though hours will vary depending on the season.

History comes alive at the John Brown House Museum .

If you’d like a glimpse of high society life in the late 1700s, book your tickets and walk a mile in Mr. Brown’s shoes.

Address: 52 Power St, Providence, RI 02906, United States

12. Federal Hill

Federal Hill

Known as the “Little Italy” of the city, Federal Hill is a neighborhood known for its Italian and Italian-American population.

Between the food, drink, art, theater, and overall culture, you’ll feel like you stepped into Rome as soon as you hit the block.

Atwells Avenue is the main street that runs through Federal Hill, and it’s famous primarily for its cuisine: There are more than 20 restaurants in a quarter mile.

Whether you’re in the mood for hearty pasta or light and fluffy gelato, you can find it here.

Follow the Italian flags strung up on the streetlights to explore more of the neighborhood, including markets, bars, bakeries, bistros, and specialty shops.

A centrally-located plaza will let you sit or stroll among the crowds.

During the summer months, you might be serenaded by buskers playing traditional Italian violins.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in and near Providence, consider enjoying authentic Italian culture in the heart of New England.

It’ll definitely make a story for when you get home!

Address: Providence, RI, United States

13. Gallery Night

Gallery Night

Held on the third Thursday of every month from March to November, Gallery Night is a city-wide event that celebrates art, culture, and history.

It’s a coordinated effort where galleries and museums open their doors to all at no charge.

You can even take a free trolley tour to the hot spots of the evening!

Including tours of the participating sites, you can also enjoy music and refreshments provided at the stops.

Some sites even hire guides, including local celebrities, to lead you from one attraction to the next.

You’ll wander through exhibits, galleries, workshops, demonstrations, landmarks, and more.

Gallery Night can be an unforgettable evening for those visiting Providence.

Not only is it one of the best free things to do in the city, but since it’s filled with sights from all over the world, it can be a globetrotting experience contained within a single trolley ride.

14. Lincoln Woods State Park

Lincoln Woods State Park

Located a few miles north of Providence, Lincoln Woods State Park is a great place to get away from it all.

It’s far from the commotion of the city, so you’ll be able to enjoy fresh air and sunshine in a natural landscape, but it’s also developed enough to offer a wide range of outdoor activities.

In the summer, you can go swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, or horseback riding.

In the winter, you can go sledding, snowmobiling, or ice skating.

Places to visit range from freshwater beaches to deeply forested trails to cliffs that are perfect for bouldering.

You can bring your own equipment or rent whatever you need from the concessionaire; they even offer lessons in things like kayaking and canoeing if you’re a first-timer!

Recharge your batteries with a trip to Lincoln Woods State Park.

It’s beautifully rugged, so it’ll heal your soul, but it’s also conveniently modern, so you won’t have to be totally off the grid while you get relaxed and refreshed.

Address: 2 Manchester Print Works Rd, Lincoln, RI 02865, United States

15. Providence Place

Providence Place

Covering more than 1.4 million square feet, Providence Place is the largest shopping mall in Rhode Island, and it feels even bigger thanks to its skybridges, glass ceilings, and open-air architecture.

You’ll get lost in the very best of ways as you fall down the rabbit hole of retail therapy!

Stores range from inexpensive kiosks and knickknack shops to high-end fashion boutiques and technology hubs.

A food court serves cuisines from all around the world, and an IMAX theater plays all of the latest blockbusters.

You’ll also want to see the mall’s “winter garden.”

It’s an elaborate, four-level structure with glass walls, and it provides breathtaking views of the city.

It also makes the mall a great place to visit during inclement weather since it’ll keep you warm and dry no matter what kind of storm is raging outside!

If you’re wondering what to do on a rainy or snowy day in Providence, this could be your best bet.

Grab your wallet.

Put on your most comfortable pair of sneakers.

It’s time to hit up Providence Place.

Address: One Providence Pl, Providence, RI 02903, United States

16. Downtown Providence

Downtown Providence

Downtown, or “downcity,” is a great destination in Providence.

Not only does it offer tons of activities for the intrepid adventurer, but it’s also just as unique as the rest of the city, offering an eclectic blend of old and new.

Parts of downtown date back centuries, including the historic homes and theater palaces that make up the Downtown Providence Historic District.

Other places are newer, including the shops, bars, restaurants, malls, and markets that line the retail and business plazas.

One iconic landmark is the Industrial Trust Company Building, also known as the “Superman Building” thanks to its resemblance to Daily Planet headquarters.

It’s a skyscraper of dizzying height and amazing art deco architecture.

Other well-known sites include the Rhode Island Convention Center and the Rhode Island School of Design.

If you don’t know where to start during your vacation, start downtown.

From craning your neck at skyscrapers to walking down sidewalks dotted with boutiques and bakeries, there are many things to do in downtown Providence.

17. Candy4pennies

Candy4pennies

Candy4pennies is exactly what it sounds like: a store where you can buy chocolates, gummies, toffees, and lollipops for literally pennies on the dollar.

It’s one of the last remaining candy shops that sells “by the piece” rather than “by the pound,” so not only is it budget-friendly, but it’ll also give you a feeling of nostalgia for the good old days.

Aside from its attractive prices, it’s a fun place to visit, too.

The shelves are lined with jars and jugs of every color.

Stuffed animals are propped up on the countertops.

Posters are everywhere.

You’ll definitely feel like a kid again as you explore.

All in all, Candy4pennies is one of the best things to do in Providence.

It doesn’t matter if you’re stretching your budget or just looking for unique experiences in the city.

Before you leave, you’re sure to be popping bubblegum and layering candy necklaces around your neck.

Address: 280 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907, United States

18. Swan Point Cemetery

Swan Point Cemetery

Do you hear the call of Cthulhu?

His creator, gothic horror writer H.P. Lovecraft, is buried here.

His grave is often visited by fans.

You might be surprised to learn that Swan Point Cemetery is a tourist attraction.

Why would people want to spend their leisure time among the dead?

But Swan Point Cemetery is no ordinary cemetery: It’s a stunning collection of gardens, gazebos, sculptures, fountains, and burial sites that cover a wide range of cultures and time periods.

Many visitors come to the cemetery just to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the area.

There’s even a two-mile walking trail that curves around the riverbank!

Other things to see at the cemetery include the graves themselves.

From simple headstones to elaborate tombs and burial vaults, you could spend hours exploring all of the monuments, statues, stone markers, crypts, and sarcophagi.

It might not be listed among the travel guides of the city, but if you’re looking for cool, unusual things to do in Providence, go exploring in Swan Point Cemetery.

It’ll remind you to appreciate life even as it honors death.

Address: 585 Blackstone Blvd, Providence, RI 02906, United States

19. Rhode Island State House

Rhode Island State House

It would be a shame to visit Rhode Island without visiting Rhode Island’s state capitol, but thankfully, it can be found right on the crest of downtown.

You’ll know the state house when you see it: Its white neoclassical marble is topped by a gigantic dome, and on top of that, a golden statue called The Independent Man raises his arm over the city.

He’s a representation of Roger Williams and the independent spirit that led him to found Providence back in the 17th century.

Today, the state house is a place where you can take both guided and self-guided tours to see how Rhode Island’s politicians operate.

There are also cool things to see like a replica of the Liberty Bell and a gun from the battle of Gettysburg .

Did we mention that there’s no charge for admission?

If you’re looking for free things to do in and near Providence, the Rhode Island State House can be a fun afternoon trip that doesn’t cost a dime.

You might even learn a thing or two about law, history, or government while you’re there!

Address: 82 Smith St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

20. Waterplace Park

Waterplace Park

Have you ever dreamed of taking a romantic gondola ride with your significant other?

Well, you don’t have to travel to Venice to do it.

Waterplace Park is located in the heart of Providence, and they offer gondola rentals down the river both day and night.

Gondolas aren’t the only way that the park embodies the Venetian spirit, either.

From cobblestone streets to arched pedestrian bridges over the water, you’ll feel like you’re in a classic Italian painting even though you’ve never left Rhode Island.

Foodies can indulge in the many eateries lining the riverwalk.

Shoppers can check out tons of stores and boutiques.

Even sightseeing is amazing when you plan your trip during WaterFire; the park offers amazing views of the blazes on the river!

If you’re looking for romantic things to do during your trip to Providence, you’ve found one.

Book a gondola for tonight and say buongiorno!

Address: Memorial Blvd, Providence, RI 02903, United States

21. Thayer Street

Thayer Street

A ramble down Thayer Street can be one of the most fun things to do in Providence.

It’s the main avenue of a young, trendy neighborhood geared towards college students, so there’s always something new to see, and there’s always a lively audience to appreciate it.

Businesses range from quirky tearooms and smoke shops to vintage bookstores and secondhand clothing boutiques.

Local hot spots include an old-fashioned cinema and a diverse range of food options from all four corners of the globe, including many “hole in the wall” types with cheap menus catering towards the young folk.

You’ll find plenty of regular brands, too, so don’t worry if you start craving Chipotle, Shake Shack, or other favorites.

They’re well-represented here.

Tourist attractions aren’t always listed in travel brochures.

Sometimes, they’re places known only to the people who are actually living in Providence, and that includes Thayer Street.

Go and live like a local for awhile!

Address: Thayer Street, Providence, RI 02903, United States

22. Verde Vineyards

Verde Vineyards

Though it’s located a few miles east of Providence, Verde Vineyards is such a beautiful sight that it’s worth a short trip outside of the city.

You’ll exit the cold gray freeways and enter a land of lush, vivid greenery that includes rolling hills, sun-dappled trees, and glittering views of the local lake.

Once you’re at the vineyard, you can choose how to spend your time.

Some folks just come for the tours and tastings; others like to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the wine over the course of a long afternoon.

If you fall in love with any of the bounty, you can purchase it by the bottle at the shop.

If you’re looking for great places to visit near and around Providence, go for a scenic drive that ends at Verde Vineyards.

It’ll get you drunk on fine wine and even finer scenery, making it a feast for all of your senses, not just your taste buds!

Address: 50 Hopkins Ave, Johnston, RI 02919, United States

23. Providence Atheneum

Providence Atheneum

Established in 1836, the Providence Atheneum is among the oldest libraries in America, and it has a collection to reflect that.

You could spend days wandering among its shelves of dusty, yellow-edged books that span a wide range of fictional and nonfictional topics.

It isn’t all ancient history, however.

It’s a modern library with plenty of contemporary books as well as digitized archives of art, music, film, poetry, and other forms of media.

It even has designated sections with themes like “pamphlet section,” “travel and exploration collection,” and “natural history collection.”

If you decide to visit the Providence Atheneum, you should know that you’re in good company, too.

Edgar Allen Poe once courted Sarah Whitman in secluded alcoves of the library!

An afternoon at the Providence Atheneum is one of the best things to do in Rhode Island .

Whether you’re interested in a 1482 edition of Ptolemy’s Cosmographia or the complete eight-film collection of Harry Potter, there’s a lot to be discovered here.

Address: 251 Benefit St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

24. Museum of Natural History and Planetarium

Museum of Natural History and Planetarium

Look up at the night sky.

Do you see all of those glittering stars?

It’s possible to count them one by one when you visit the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium .

Located within Roger Williams Park, the museum is dedicated to the natural history of not just Rhode Island but the entire world.

Exhibits cover a broad range of social, cultural, and scientific topics such as seismic shifts, urban wildlife, oceanography, space exploration, and prehistoric civilizations.

The planetarium is a must-see as well.

It offers shows every weekend that will dazzle you with gigantic dome displays while also educating you on celestial matters.

The Museum of Natural History and Planetarium is one of the best things to do in Providence.

Whether you’re interested in the dirt beneath your feet or the twinkling planets far above your head, this is the place to explore them, so go ahead and book your tickets for this weekend.

25. Harry’s Bar and Burger

Harry’s Bar & Burger

If you like thick, juicy burgers with oozing cheeses and finger-licking sauces, you’ll want to leave a notch on your belt for Harry’s Bar and Burger .

Their burgers have been ranked first in America by CNN.com and first in the world by Burgered.com.

What’s their secret?

It’s a combination of fresh ingredients and natural, home-grown beef… and that’s it.

Rather than relying on any gimmicks, they make everyday burgers with high-quality ingredients, and the results speak for themselves.

Other menu items include chili, chicken wings, hot dogs, and sliders.

The bar offers a variety of craft beers and hard shakes.

Don’t forget a side of cheese fries with your order!

A visit to Harry’s Bar and Burger is one of the most delicious things to do in Providence.

When you’ve worked up an appetite during your vacation, this is the place to go.

Address: 121 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

26. Brown University

Brown University

Brown University is another one of those places that might not strike you as a tourist attraction, but curious, broad-minded travelers can find plenty of fun things to do on campus.

The libraries, for example, have extensive collections of books, maps, films, and U.S. postage stamps, so they’ll be a delight for collectors, history buffs, and cartography enthusiasts.

The environmental center has glass greenhouses filled with amazing jungles.

The art gallery hosts four or five exhibitions a year, and the anthropology museum hosts even more than that.

The campus itself is also worth a tour.

You don’t have to be an aspiring undergraduate to schedule one.

Brown is so old that some of its buildings have been around for centuries, including its University Hall, which served as both barracks and a makeshift hospital during the Revolutionary War.

Brown University can be one of the most interesting places to go for folks with intellectual curiosity.

If you want to get more out of your vacation than just beers on the water, consider a visit.

Address: Providence, RI 02912, United States

27. Providence River Boat Company

Providence River Boat Company

Pretend like you’re an European settler coming to Rhode Island for the first time when you take a trip with the Providence River Boat Company .

They offer a variety of boat tours for travelers of all types, and their trips are catered towards the coolest, most interesting things to see around the city.

Explorers, for example, might like a tour of the Green Jacket Shoal, a notorious “ship graveyard” where many vessels have come to a watery end.

Romantics might enjoy a vineyard voyage or a twilight river cruise that takes place during sunset.

Grown-up kids can treat their parents to a Mother’s Day Mimosa Tour or a Father’s Day Boat Tour.

There are also plenty of tours that will put you right on the river during WaterFire!

The best way to see Providence is on the water, and the Providence River Boat Company will take care of all of the logistics.

All that you have to do is book a boat, slather on some sunscreen, and enjoy a great time this weekend.

Address: 101 Dyer St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

28. First Baptist Church in America

First Baptist Church in America

Built in 1775 and dating back to 1638, the First Baptist Church in America is one of the oldest of its kind in all of New England.

It’s so old, in fact, that it’s been designated as a National Historic Landmark.

What to do at the church depends on your areas of interest.

If you’re religious, you can attend weekly mass and worship services.

If you enjoy spiritual music, you can drop by for Sunday morning concerts, choir practices, or demonstrations of the authentic 1800s organ.

If you’re completely secular, there are things for you to do, too.

For example, you can tour the church, marvel at its architecture, and appreciate its history.

Did you know that it was designed by an astronomer?

The First Baptist Church in America isn’t just for Christians.

It’s a Providence landmark that can be admired by travelers from all over, especially those who enjoy throwbacks to older times.

Address: 75 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

29. Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort

Bally’s Twin River Lincoln Casino Resort

This is another attraction that’s just a little outside of the city, but if you’re willing to drive about 15 minutes out of your way, you can enter a whole new world at Bally’s .

Thousands of slot machines are jingling and jangling at any given moment.

Dealers are constantly shuffling at poker, blackjack, and baccarat tables.

The event center is never without a new simulcast or thoroughbred or greyhound racing.

Other cool things at the casino include bars, lounges, cigar shops, concert stages, and steak and seafood restaurants.

It’s an adult playground with all kinds of fun and games for those old enough to play.

Are you feeling lucky?

Toss down a few chips at Bally’s.

It’s one of the most exciting things to do in Providence, and if you hit the jackpot, it’ll also be one of the most lucrative.

Address: 100 Twin River Rd, Lincoln, RI 02865, United States

30. Federal Hill Summer Festival

Federal Hill Summer Festival

Held every summer when the last of winter has faded and the sun is shining high in the sky, the Federal Hill Summer Festival is a celebration of good food, good company, and good weather.

It lasts an entire weekend at the end of June, usually after Father’s Day, so it’s the perfect way to kick off the season.

Food is offered from more than two dozen stalls and trucks.

Music is played nonstop from three different outdoor stages.

Carnival games are aplenty, and on some years, there are amusement park rides to go along with them.

Kids and adults will both have plenty of opportunities for fun.

The Federal Hill Summer Festival is one of the biggest and brightest of Providence attractions, especially if you’re a sun baby who loves being outdoors when the weather is nice.

Are you headed to the city in the summer?

Celebrate your trip in style with a festival of fun.

Address: Providence, RI 02909, United States

31. Moniker Brewery

Moniker Brewery

Date night doesn’t get better than this.

If you’re looking for the coolest and most contemporary of Providence’s attractions, look no further than the Moniker Brewery .

Brimming with industrial chic, this brewery is small enough to have indie charm but developed enough that its menu is top notch.

Whether you’re looking for a cold canned beer or a classic draft, they’ve got you covered.

They also have a small selection of non-alcoholic drinks including coffee and kombucha tea.

Aside from its menu, you might also enjoy its location.

Between its tap room and its beer garden, you can have a “choose your own adventure” date night in terms of ambience.

Impress your sweetheart with one of the most fun places to go in Providence.

Between its menu, atmosphere, and staff, Moniker Brewery will definitely make you a date to remember.

Address: 432 W Fountain St, Providence, RI 02903, United States

32. Prospect Terrace Park

Prospect Terrace Park

Say goodbye to Providence with one last look at the skyline via Prospect Terrace Park .

Nicknamed “the jewel of the city,” it’s a picturesque destination that offers sweeping views of the entire downtown Providence area, so it’ll be perfect for your final selfies.

Elevated by a hill, Prospect Terrace Park is an observation point for many things to see, including famous tourist attractions like the Providence Place Mall and the Rhode Island State House.

It’s also the final resting place of founder Roger Williams.

Just as you started your vacation with a trip to his park, you can end it by saying farewell to his tomb and to a granite statue bearing his likeness.

Finish your trip in style with a trip to Prospect Terrace Park.

It’ll have meaning, and it’ll serve as the backdrop for some stunning sunset pics of the city skyline.

What more could you want?

Start Planning Your Trip To Providence

From gondola rides to ghost tours, these are just a few of the best things to do in Providence, Rhode Island.

It’s a lively place filled with history, legacy, and personality, so no matter where you choose to go, you should have a blast.

Happy travels!

18 Awesome Things to Do in Providence RI

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Providence, Rhode Island has so much more to claim for their fame beyond just their capital city designation. With nicknames that include The Renaissance City and the Creative Capital, this vibrant Ocean State city has developed its own brand of artistic industry and historical preservation that is well-reflected in both the cultural offerings and historical landmarks of this hip East Coast town; in short, there are many awesome things to do in Providence RI!

For the ultimate guide in tourist attractions Providence Rhode Island is most known for, check out this list of the best things to do in Providence RI!

Oh, and don’t forget to check out our weekend in Providence post if you’d like a 2 day itinerary of PVD fun.

Table of Contents

When is the Best Time to Visit Providence RI?

Winter in Rhode Island has plenty to offer, but if you’d like a Providence RI vacation that positions you in the best possible way to see all the top Providence sights, you should probably shoot for spring through fall for your PVD getaway. Fall in Rhode Island is especially delightful!

PS if you’re looking for things to do in Providence RI this weekend or wondering what to do in Providence today, scope out this local events calendar for things happening in Providence while you’re visiting.

Explore Roger Williams Park

This sprawling, well-protected outdoor space has 435 acres of gorgeous scenery, activities, and attractions. You can take in the fantastic view by walking one of the many trails or by floating around the lakes and connected waterways on a jumbo swan paddleboat .

Then there’s the Botanical Center —New England’s largest public indoor display gardens—with indoor and outdoor gardens that include five greenhouses, a rose maze , and 150+ different types and varieties of plants.

Next, you can head on over to the Roger Williams Park Zoo , where over 160 animal species are waiting to say hello! An accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and American Humane Certified, this zoo takes good care of all of their animal friends.

The Carousel Village near the zoo is one of the top Providence things to do with kids, so be sure to swing by and take a ride if you’ve got kiddos in tow!

After you’ve had your fill oohing and ahhing over the flamingoes and the sloths, you can head over to the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium and explore the many exhibits and events available to the public. As you can see, Roger Williams Park offers plenty to do and see on your visit to Providence. 

Scope out Hocus Pocus 2 Filming Locations

Did you know that Hocus Pocus 2 filmed in several areas in Providence? It did! You can read all about it here.

See a Show in Downtown PVD

Known locally as the “Jewel of Weybosset Street,” Providence Performing Arts Center is l isted on the National Register of Historic Places and this gorgeous theater is a must-see in PVD. Of course, that’s not the only place to see a show in Providence Rhode Island, so be sure to check out the Providence Theater guide to see what’s onstage during your trip to Providence!

Take a Providence River Boat Company’s Vineyard Voyage

There is plenty to see in Providence, and what better way to see it than to enjoy a floating wine tasting from the downtown Providence waterways? Providence River Boat Company has partnered with Rhode Island-based Gooseneck Vineyards to offer a fun and informative 75-minute open-air voyage that showcases a selection of wines served with light refreshments.

The Captain of the boat will guide you through historical points of interest and a representative from Gooseneck Vineyards will be on hand to discuss the wines you are tasting. Non-wine drinkers, great news! Providence River Boat Company has no problem allowing you to BYOB on their Vineyard Voyages; add this to the list of fun things to do in Providence for adults!

Visit a PVD Brewery

There are some fantastic breweries in Providence, so if you’re a fan of New England craft beer, there are some great options for you in Rhode Island’s capital city! You have plenty of Providence breweries to choose from, but if you’re looking for a PVD brewery with great food, consider Trinity Brewhouse , one of the first brewpubs in New England. Their Scallop Po’ Boy is a popular menu item, and honestly, just typing that makes me want to try one!

 The 12 Best Breweries in New England You Need to Visit

New England Brewery Road Trip: Perfect for Craft Beer Lovers

Visit the Site of an Edgar Allen Poe romance

The Providence Athenaeum is not just a local treasure, but a revered spot for all literary lovers lucky enough to have made their way through its doors! This independent library is almost 200 years old and houses some incredible collections and rare editions from literary greats such as Louisa May Alcott, Walt Whitman, and Herman Melville, in addition to a robust selection of contemporary works.

A historic gathering place for writers and readers alike, Edgar Allen Poe had his engagement broken off by his fiancée within the walls of the Providence Athenaeum. With collections that include paintings, sculptures, maps, historical documents, and more, anyone even mildly interested in art, history, or books must add this beautifully maintained gem to their list of things to do while visiting Providence RI!

Take a Walk Down Thayer Street

This funky thoroughfare is a favorite Providence destination for both the college kids and the townies of Providence! With over 71 unique businesses that include everything from thrift shops to bookstores to ethnic cuisine, there is plenty to do on Thayer Street for Providence fun. There is a wide variety of food options that include Thai, Greek, Vegan, Middle Eastern, French, Indian, Korean, and more.

After you eat, take in a movie at the Avon Cinema , a Thayer Street favorite since 1938, or go get a henna tattoo at the metaphysical shop,  Spectrum India. If you’re looking for things to do in Providence RI in September, you could check out the Thayer Street Arts Festival. A day spent wandering around on Thayer Street is a day well-spent!

Stop by the Stephen Hopkins House

Okay, this one is for the serious history buffs in PVD! Stephen Hopkins was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and governor of the colony of Rhode Island, and his home, built in 1707, has been expertly maintained over its lifetime and is well-appointed with historical furnishings, artifacts, and heirlooms. George Washington even visited this distinguished colonial home twice.

Check the website for details about tours, but if you love history, be sure to put the Stephen Hopkins House on the list of things to do while visiting Providence Rhode Island. 

Enjoy Classical Music

The Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra and Music School is a prestigious music school that attracts the best and brightest from all around the world, and you can hear them perform on Friday night open rehearsals. Incredible musicians and timeless music make this one of the best places to go in Providence RI for music lovers.

Take a Providence Walks Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour

The city of Providence is extremely walkable, which is why the Providence visitor’s bureau has created the Providence Walks series with multiple options for self-guided walking tours that offer local history and insight into Little Rhody’s capital city. These are some of the tours of Providece RI you can choose from: Downtown Historic Walking Tour, Early Black History Walking Tour, East Side Historic Walking Tour, Jewelry District Historic Walking Tour, and West Side Historic Walking Tour.

The best part about the Providence Walks series is that being self-guided, you choose the pace of the tour. Spend as much or as little time at each Providence tourist attraction as you’d like, you are the one calling the shots on this one! These are some of the best tours in Providence Rhode Island and are an excellent way to get to know a little bit more about PVD.

Check out America’s Oldest Indoor Mall

Did you know that The Arcade Providence, built in 1828, is a National Historic Landmark that has managed to reinvent itself to fit its city’s modern needs? This indoor mall still has retail and restaurant options open to the public (check out Lovecraft Arts & Sciences Council and their “weird emporium” while you’re there!), but it also now has micro-lofts available for purchase on the upper floors! A part of the global micro-living trend that promotes and supports a more efficient, minimalist way of living, The Arcade Providence’s creation of micro-loft space demonstrates how this city earns its nickname “The Renaissance City” by creatively reinventing itself while still preserving its rich historical heritage.

Check out The Providence Flea

This isn’t your grandma’s flea market; Going to The Providence Flea is more like going to a street festival than going to a flea market. If you’re looking to really get the PVD vibe and check out some of the unique and inventive art and goods that their flourishing creative scene offers, The Providence Flea is the place to be. It’s open on Sunday afternoons outdoors in the summer and fall, but be sure to check ahead to see winter and spring dates and locations. 

Stroll the grounds of Brown University

Founded in 1764 and situated in the historic College Hill neighborhood, the campus of Brown University is a cool Providence sight to see! One of the most prestigious research universities in the country, Brown has a lot to geek out about, and there are plenty of things to do near Brown University, too.

If you happen to be in to plant life, for example, not only is the campus beautifully landscaped, but Brown University is also home to the Brown University Herbarium, which houses around 100,000 plant specimens, dating back to the early 19 th century. If you’re going to geek out about old plant specimens, Brown University is the place to do it!

If you’re looking for more than just plant specimens, there’s The Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology, Brown’s teaching and research museum. Whether you check out the herbarium, museum, or just the gorgeous grounds of this Ivy League campus, a tour of Brown University is one of the top things to do in Providence for anyone who appreciates historic architecture and academic prowess!

Discover Federal Hill

As you enter the historic neighborhood of Federal Hill , you will be greeted with a large bronze pine cone attached to a giant archway that guards Providence’s “Little Italy.” This gorgeous neighborhood is known for both its phenomenal selection of authentic, old-world style Italian eats and its bright and welcoming energy; a visit here is definitely a must do Providence RI activity!

The neighborhood often hosts live entertainment in Depasquale Square near its gorgeous fountain, and it isn’t uncommon to see the plaza filled with people simply relaxing back and enjoying the space. There are so many remarkable Providence restaurants to choose from in this historic neighborhood, but there are plenty of other things to do here as well! Shopping, art galleries, and more can be found in Providence’s “Little Italy.”

Visit the RISD Museum

Pronounced “Riz-Dee,” RISD is short for Rhode Island School of Design, and the RISD Museum is a fantastic Providence thing to do even if you’re not on one of the RISD college tours. With over 100,000 works of art and design in their collection, RISD has got to be a part of your visit to Providence. RISD even offers free admission days, so be sure to check the website and plan accordingly so you can see for yourself what puts RISD at the top of so many lists of best things to do in Providence RI!

PS if you’re looking for things to do at night in Providence, the 3rd Thursday of the month is Gallery Night at multiple art galleries around town where visitors can enjoy free tours!

Take a Venetian-Style Gondola Ride

La Gondola brings a little bit of Venice to you for the ultimate Renaissance City experience! Personalize your journey by choosing between packages that include a singing gondolier, a musician to play your choice of mandolin, guitar, or violin, and yummy treat packages that include handmade Italian wine biscuits and chocolate truffles.

Some packages are seasonal, like the Viaggio di Fantasme, or the “Trip of Ghosts,” that fills you in on all of the haunted local lore; definitely one of the fun things to do in Providence in October. There is even a Waterfire package that allows you to enjoy the fiery art installations from up close. La Gondola will provide glassware and a corkscrew, but it’s BYOB so bring your favorite bottle to enjoy on your Providence Gondola cruise. 

Eat your Way around Town

If you’re looking for what to eat in Providence RI, there are many, many options! Providence has a bit of a reputation as a New England foodie paradise, so be sure to check out this guide to the best places to eat in Providence to learn the lay of the land and where the best restaurants in PVD are!

When looking for things to do in Providence Rhode Island, there will always be one major attraction that will top them all: Waterfire . As unique, artsy, and inventive as the town itself, Waterfire is an annual art installation event that includes scores of braziers that are lit at dusk along the three rivers downtown on select weekends throughout the year. Ethereal music accompanies the fire installations and performers, vendors, and musicians line the streets to add to the revelry of the experience.

Waterfire has been happening since 1994 and is now a regional favorite. Waterfire has even been referred to as the “crown jewel of the Providence renaissance,” which is an incredible compliment for Waterfire’s creator Barnaby Evans. When you’re planning your Providence trip, try to plan it for one of the Waterfire weekends. Rest assured, you will not be disappointed!

Read these next:

• 50 Things To Do In Rhode Island: Your RI Travel Guide
• 10 of the Best Hikes in Rhode Island
• 10+ Best Day Trips from Boston
• 15 Best Restaurants in Rhode Island: Where to Eat in RI
• 10 Incredibly Romantic Getaways in Rhode Island
• 12 Free Things to do in Providence RI
• Where to Go for Breakfast in Providence RI
• 12 Fantastic Antique Stores in Rhode Island: Antiquing RI

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Providence Area Attractions

A visit to Providence offers easy access to many attractions , universities , shops, sporting event venues and restaurants . The city is home to several museums, including the RISD Museum , part of the famed Rhode Island School of Design; the John Brown House Museum , a landmark from the 18th century; and the Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum , an American National Historic Landmark. For families, we have the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium , the state's only natural history museum and public planetarium; the Providence Children's Museum , a hands-on museum for children; and the Roger Williams Park Zoo , home to scores of animals in naturalistic settings. Theaters, galleries, outdoor adventures and more make Providence a place to get up and go.    

Free Things To Do

All area attractions.

What To Do In Providence: Perfect One Day In Providence Itinerary

Looking for a one day itinerary for visiting Providence Rhode Island. Look no further!

In 24 hours, this Providence travel guide covers the must visit attractions, landmarks, charming neighborhoods, and museums in Providence.

You’ll get a step by step itinerary for exploring Providence. I tell you all the best things to see, do, and eat in Providence. The city is very walkable, so you can certainly get a sampling of its culture in one day.

Nicknamed the “cooler city” by GQ, Providence is one of the best towns on the East Coast . Providence is home to an Ivy League college, design schools, and a culinary institute.

The city is a hodgepodge. It combines big city sophistication with small town charm.

It has a vibrant local culture, celebrated restaurants, and sparkling waterfront parks. Providence is full of historic Yankee monuments, but also has a young and funky vibe.

READ : Guide To Wright’s Masterpiece, Fallingwater

Providence was founded by Roger Williams. He was a rebel and creative thinker who dared to defy the rules and define his destiny. 400 years later, Providence maintains this ethos with a thriving arts community.

Providence is a town of innovative writers, painters, musicians, sculptors, dancers, architects, and fashion designers. The art work of local and national artists is shown in approachable galleries throughout city.

A Short History of Providence

Providence is a historic city, one of the oldest in the United States. The capital of Rhode Island is located in the northeast part of the state.

Providence was founded in 1636 by the renegade preacher Roger Williams. Williams was forced to flee the Massachusetts Bay Colony due to religious persecution. After landing in Providence, he embraced a willingness to accept every element of society.

Under his leadership, Providence became a place for religious refuge and free thinking. It was one of the original 13 colonies. And Providence was the first colony to declare independence from England.

Because Providence is set on the water, it became a New World seaport and manufacturing center. With trade booming, affluent merchants built some of the beautiful brick mansions on College Hill.

During the Civil War, Providence supported the Union cause. The city also developed a transit system and industry continued to prosper.

Today, Providence is the largest city and capital of the tiny state of Rhode Island. It’s the third largest city in New England , after Boston and Worcester. Yet, with only 200,000 residents, Providence still has a small town feel.

One Day In Providence Itinerary

Here’s what I think is the best way to spend one day in Providence. I’ve included all the top attractions in Providence.

You may not be able to fit them all in just one day. But this list of things to do in Providence will at least give you some destination inspiration and a plan of attack.

You start your one day in Providence in Federal Hill, cross the river to Downtown, and then head to beautiful College Hill.

You may want to book a welcome to Providence walking tour to get oriented.

1. 8:00 AM Breakfast At The Grange

Start your one day in Providence off with breakfast at The Grange . It’s a hip vegetarian breakfast and brunch spot. The restaurant has a seasonal menu that feature locally-sourced fresh produce.

The restaurant has a salvaged and upcycled decor. Aside from scrumptious food, the Grange has both a cocktail bar and a juice bar.

If you don’t want to sit down to eat, you can grab a delectable pastry at Scialo Bros Bakery instead. It’s a nearly century old family run bakery.

2. 9:00 AM: Federal Hill

Federal Hill is dubbed “One of the Five Best Little Italys in the U.S.” Just called “The Hill,” it’s main drag is Atwells Avenue. Federal Hill is a must visit and must dine destination on your Providence itinerary.

You’ll find loads of knockout eateries there. More than 100 restaurants, boutiques, and galleries show off the city’s Italian influence with an inventive spirit.

The main square is DePasquale Plaza, where people are always dining alfresco. If you’re in Providence in early June, you can eat and enjoy live music during the Federal Hill Stroll.

Head to the East Side to encounter Providence’s Colonial past. You’ll be greeted by grand 18th and 19th century homes, cobblestone streets, and flickering street lamps.

3. 10:00 Plant City

If you skipped breakfast on Federal Hill, on your way across the river to downtown, stop for brunch or a coffee at Plant City on Water Street.

Or just pop in to check it out. This place is fantastic.

Plant City is the world’s first plant-based vegan food hall and marketplace.

There are four restaurants and three bars. They were created by internationally-acclaimed chef Matthew Kenney. There’s also a coffee bar, bakery, and market.

4. 11:00 PM: Downtown or “Downcity”

At noon, head to downtown Providence. In this area of Providence, you find some gorgeous Art Deco, Beaux-Arts, and late Victorian buildings.

The Arcade is the most prominent landmark. It was America’s first shopping mall, built in 1828. The Greek Revival building is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Arcade is a retail hub and loft complex. It’s home to “micro lofts” (small living spaces) on the two upper levels and “micro retailers” on the bottom floor. The retailers are mostly independent with local roots.

There are also several restaurants, which get especially busy at noon. And the Arcade is home to the Providence’s Winter Farmers Market. Downcity is the perfect place to take a guided food tour to sample the local cuisines.

5. Downcity Arts District

Then, head to the Arts District. This area is home to Providence’s performing art venues and visual arts destinations. It’s also home to some beautiful street murals.

The Arts District is a great place to shop and eat as well. Westminster Street is the most eclectic shopping area. It’s a charismatic, brick-lined metropolitan street bedecked in trees and string lights

If you need a coffee or cool drink, pop into Small Point Cafe or Sydney . They’re both adorable cafes.

Small Point Cafe

6. Rhode Island State House

If you’re interested in architecture, tour the Rhode Island State House . It’s one of the grandest statehouses in the United States.

Built from 1895-1904, this majestic Neo-Classical domed building is clad in white Georgia marble. It was constructed during Rhode Island’s industrial prosperity.

A Providence landmark, the state house has the world’s fourth largest self-supported dome. It was inspired by the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome .

You can visit the state house on your own or via a free guided tour. You’ll see The Four Freedoms painting by James Allen King, inside the dome.

Gilbert Stuart’s famed Portrait of George Washington (shown above) hangs in the Governor’s State Room.

There’s also a gun from the battle of Gettysburg and a replica of the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia.

READ : 2 Day Itinerary for Philadelphia

7. 12:00 PM: College Hill

At midday, head to the next stop on your 2 day in Providence itinerary, beautiful College Hill. This is Providence’s showcase neighborhood. Its name comes from being home to Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.

College Hill is an amazing example of historic preservation. It’s one of the country’s finest urban strolling areas. You’ll find pristine mansions and period gas lamps.

The main drag is Thayer Street. Thayer is an eclectic shopping and dining area. It’s home to plenty of eateries, from casual to chic.

If it’s lunchtime, settle in for a meal at Kabob and Curry . Or, get a falafel to go at East Side Pockets .

8. Fleur de Lys Studio

Be sure to see the Fleur de Lys Building on Thomas Street on College Hill.

This home is a historic first example of Arts & Crafts architecture in the United States. It’s a nice change from the intense Colonialism of College Hill.

The facade is covered with hand carved faux reliefs in bright yellow and beige. There’s a sunken doorway and bulging window bays.

The eccentric building was founded by Sydney Burleigh as a studio and workplace for himself and the Providence Art Club. Today, it still houses artists studios.

There are plenty of other beautiful historic homes along Thomas Street.

9. Benefit Street

Just a few steps from Thomas Street, you arrive at Benefit Street . It’s a postcard perfect street that runs for 1.2 miles next to the Brown University campus. The locals refer to it as the “Mile of History.”

The cobblestone lane lays claim to one of the highest concentrations of Colonials in the United States.

This most inviting street in Providence is rich in period architecture from the Colonial and Victorian eras. It’s effectively an outdoor museum for architecture lovers, with well-preserved homes from the 1700s and 1800s.

The Providence Preservation Society has a walking tour booklet you can pick up for a self-guided tour. If you can’t walk down Benefit Street, at least drive down it.

10. The John Brown House

The magnificent John Brown House was the first mansion built in Providence. The house is named after the original owner, the merchant and statesman John Brown.

It’s a textbook example of the Georgian Colonial style of architecture.

A visit to the house-museum is like a walk through Rhode Island history. You’ll find period artifacts, original furniture, antique maps, and an 18th century carriage known as “Washington’s Chariot.”

11. Governor Henry Lippitt House

The Lippet House is Providence’s premiere Victorian house museum.  A National Historic Landmark, the Italianate-style Lippitt House was built for textile magnate and Rhode Island Governor (1875-1877) Henry Lippitt. 

The museum captures the brilliance of Victorian design during Providence’s “Golden Age.”

The interior is high Victorian in decoration. Visitors choose between a self-guided tour and a guided tour offered on the hour. 

Providence Athenaeum

12. Providence Athenaeum

Who doesn’t love a beautiful library? The Providence Athenaeum is a historic Victorian membership library that’s open to the public. 

The Greek Revival style building was once frequented by the likes of Edgar Allan Poe, who courted poet Sarah Helen Whitman there.

Browse its beautiful stacks or curl up in a cozy reading room. Say hello to the bust of H.P. Lovecraft, the master of American horror fiction. The athenaeum also has a collection of Whitman’s stories and writings.

READ : Guide To the Boston Athenaeum

13. 2:00 PM: Brown University

Next, head up College Street to Brown University’s Van Wickle Gates. Dedicated in 1901, the iron and brick gates are the ornamental entrance to the college.

Brown was founded in 1764. It’s one of the the nine Ivy League colleges, founded before the American Revolution.

You can lounge under the big trees on the Main Green or admire the John Hay Library’s stunning reading room. After touring the campus, mingle with the crowds on bustling Thayer Street.

Just a few blocks from campus is Wickenden Street. It’s a quirky neighborhood, packed with cafes and restaurants. Its much quainter than Thayer Street.

14. 4:00 PM: Rhode Island School of Design Museum

The Rhode Island School of Design Museum (pronounced RIZ-dee) is a must visit attraction in Providence for culture vultures. It could easily consume a chunk of your day.

The acclaimed museum gives you a crash course in art history. RISD houses everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary works by notable masters of the art world.

The museum has more than 100,000 art works. About 1/4 of that total is on display at any given time.

You can admire paintings by luminaries like Monet , Manet, Turner, Picasso , Degas, and other Impressionists.

You’ll also find Egyptian and Asian artifacts, a 12th century 10 foot Buddha, midcentury modern Eames furniture, and Frank Lloyd Wright stained glass.

15. 6:00 PM: Waterplace Park or Boat Ride

If you have time before dinner, take a stroll down the RiverWalk to Waterplace Park. The riverfront has seen a dramatic change, with a significant reclamation effort. Now, slim elegant bridges lit up with candelabras cross the river.

There’s a network of cobbled trails. Along the way, you’ll see plaques noting historic events or buildings that used to be there.

If you’d like a luxurious ride on the water, find  La Gondola Providence at One Citizens Plaza. You can ride in an authentic Venetian gondola. These stunning black vessels are adorned with hand-sculpted ornaments. The gondoliers dress in traditional striped uniform. 

READ : 2 Days in Venice Itinerary

Rides along the river last approximately 40 minutes. You can bring along wine or prosecco. Advance reservations are mandatory. This is a popular thing to do in Providence.

Alternatively, you can book a twilight river cruise .

16. 7:00 PM: Restaurants for Dinner

Where should you eat with one day in Providence? Providence has a diverse and innovative restaurant scene. But Italian cuisine reigns supreme.

If you’re in the mood for Italian, head back to Federal Hill. Try Siena , Enoteca Umberto , or Trattoria Zooma . Federal Hill is also home to Bucktown , which serves up comfort food with southern flair.

There are loads of good restaurants on Hope Street — Ran Zan , India , and Three Sisters .

If you want views, try Skyline at Waterplace. If you crave French cuisine, check in at Chez Pascal , where you’ll find traditional French food with Rhode Island ingredients.

For an unpretentious place with great seafood, try Oberlin in downtown Providence. The chef is a James Beard Award nominee.

17. Evening Art Performance

End your one day in Providence with a quality theater performance.

Providence has several cultural venues — Providence Performing Arts Center (“PPAC”), the Veterans Memorial Auditorium (called the “VETS”), Trinity Repertory Company , or the Columbus Theatre .

The PPAC is a gorgeous theater. This is where you’ll find the traveling Broadway shows. The arena only seats 3,000, so you need to book in advance.

The Columbus Theater opened in 1926. It was modeled after an 1880s Italian opera house. Chubby cherubs float in the ceiling above red carpeted aisles. The theater features folk and indie acts.

WaterFire in Providence

18. WaterFire

If you are in Providence between May and November, you’ll be treated to Providence’s signature attraction: WaterFire .

During WaterFire, the river is lit with over 80 bonfires that sit on braziers anchored in the middle of the water. The fires stretch from Waterplace Park to South Main Street Park.

WaterFire takes place twice a month. It’s basically a big street party. There will be live entertainment and food trucks. You’ll also see fire spinners and living statues.

If you want to skip the crowds, have dinner with views of WaterFire. One good place is Hemenway’s .

If you miss WaterFire, you can still take an evening cruise down the river.

Roger Williams Park

More Time in Providence?

If you have ore than one day in Providence, there are some other splendid things to see and do near Providence.

1. Roger Williams Park

Head to Roger Williams Park , a true people pleaser. You can’t walk there. But buses run there frequently from downtown Providence.

The park spans an impressive 435 acres of land in Providence. It’s covered in beautiful gardens, lakes, walking trails, and greenhouses. All this loveliness makes the park one of the nicest green spots in the city.

As well as the flora and fauna here, you will also find period buildings. They include the original bandstand from 1915 and the Betsy Williams Cottage built in 1773.

For young children, the park has a carousel as well as train rides. The park is also the home of the Museum of Natural History and the Roger Williams Park Zoo . In October, there’s a Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular.

2. Gilbert Stuart Museum

Another good option is a visit to the Gilbert Stuart Museum , about 40 minutes outside Providence. Gilbert Stuart was one of 18th century America’s master portrait artists.

Stuart is best known for his unfinished Athenaeum portrait of George Washington. This is the image seen on the U.S. one dollar bill. The famous portrait is in the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C.

The Stuart house-museum is set in an authentically restored and furnished 1750 house. It was the home of the Stuart family.

In the Bell Art Gallery, you can view original works by Stuart, his daughter Jane Stuart, and changing themed exhibits of original artwork.

The Tony coastal town of Newport is just 40 minutes from Providence. Newport is a  one of the most beautiful towns in New England . Founded in 1639, Newport is a treasure trove of historic European-style mansions set against ocean views.

Think the Gilded Age’s Astors, Vanderbilts, and Kennedys — the families who built the first palatial mansions in the US. Most of the mansions are on Bellevue Avenue and a few are on the waterfront.

Built by Cornelius Vanderbilt,  Breakers Mansion  is Rhode Island’s #1 attraction. It’s located on the scenic  Newport Cliff Walk , which combines mansions and ocean views. You can take a 3 hour trolley tour of the mansions , with admission to Breakers.

The  Newport Art Museum  is the core of the creative community. The Artists’ Open Space serves up local and regional shows year round. There’s a dozen commercial galleries in town as well. Island Art is the best, noted for its contemporary pieces.

4. Plimoth Plantation

If you want to really step back in time, head to  Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth Massachusetts. It’s approximately one hour from Providence.

The plantation is a living museum that aims to explore the daily lives of the Colonial Americans. The village has been carefully recreated, with thatched roofs and giant open fireplaces.

The actors in the museum are in period costume and never step out of character. You can watch them performing 17th century tasks including building, gardening, and military exercises.

Click here to book a ticket and guided tour of the plantation.

READ : Best Places To Visit in Massachusetts

Tips For A One Day In Providence Itinerary

1. how to get to providence.

There’s not an airport in Providence. if you’re flying, the nearest airport is the T.F. Green Airport in Warwick. The airport is a 10 minute drive from Providence.

2. How To Get Around Providence

Providence is a very walkable city. You can access the main site sites on foot. Click here to book a guided walking tour of Providence.

But you may want to have a car to cross the river to or from Federal Hill.

I drove around Providence. It was was fairly easy to find parking. There’s also a bus system.

3. Where To Stay In Providence

If you plan to stay overnight in Providence, check into the centrally-located Renaissance Providence Hotel . It’s a stately Neo-Classical building with some rooms overlooking the Rhode Island State House.

Another good option is the legendary Biltmore Hotel. Once a magnet for celebrities, the hotel has gotten a makeover as the  Graduate Providence . It has an ornate lobby and a glass elevator that provides great views of the city.

You can also check out the Hilton Garden Inn , the Marriot Providence Downtown , and Aloft Providence Downtown .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one day itinerary for the top attractions in Providence Rhode Island. You may enjoy these other New England travel guides and resources:

• 25 most beautiful towns in New England
• 3 day itinerary for Boston
• 1 day itinerary for Portland Maine
• 35 Landmarks in Boston
• 35 Day Trips From Boston
• 1 day itinerary for Cambridge
• 10 day itinerary for New Hampshire
• Berkshires Road Trip
• 10 day itinerary for coastal Maine
• 7-10 day itinerary for Vermont
• Fall foliage road trip in New England

​If you’d a Providence itinerary, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on June 23, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

The 15 Best Things to Do in Providence, Rhode Island

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Providence, Rhode Island , is one of the oldest cities in New England, located in one of the oldest states in America. It makes sense, then, that in Providence, you might dine in centuries-old mansions or stroll through bicentennial Ivy League college campuses.

This vibrant city has a population of less than 200,000. Local art and craftsmanship remain at the core of Providence life, but the students and visitors passing through help maintain the city’s cutting-edge attitude.

As one of the country’s first industrial cities, you’ll see plenty of historic textile and steel mills, now home to boutique hotels and trendy restaurants. These days, illustrious schools like Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design keep Providence magnetic, and for good reason, considering their vast collections and the world-class educations they offer!

This core of bright young things fuels the arts and performance culture of the city, enabling tours of amazing Broadway shows, fine dining establishments, and centuries-old libraries and museums. This picturesque collegiate town has a lot to offer visitors of all ages and interests.

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Providence, Rhode Island, for you. Stick to these fun, historical, and unique Providence bucket list recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this gorgeous landmark location!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to Do in Providence, Rhode Island

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Providence, RI

1. witness the annual waterfire exhibition.

WaterFire is an annual celebration of community and art in Providence. It’s a public art installation, an urban festival, and a Providence bucket list item for locals and visitors alike!

Each year, 86 burning braziers are lit on the waterfront. Some float on the surface of Woonasquatucket River and Providence’s other rivers. Others are perched on the city’s piers, and the effect is a glow that transforms downtown Providence.

The famous WaterFire brazier lightings happen every few weeks from April through December. On those days, the Arts Festival Plaza also opens up with a showcase to support local artists and artisans. You’ll be able to find everything from photography and sculptures to textiles and jewelry.

You’ll love the festival’s fun attractions, like the installation of glowing stars hanging from the trees in Memorial Park, the living statues, and the many food stalls that set up shop around the river. You’ll find plenty of things to do in Providence during this magical annual affair!

2. Explore Roger Williams Park

The 427-acre Roger Williams Park is an idyllic, relaxing locale perfect for a stroll around the lake. But there are plenty of Providence attractions here, too – like the botanical gardens, the zoo, a museum, a carousel, and even a park train and swan boats.

If you’re traveling with little ones, this is the perfect place to go. They’ll love the carousel rides and the train, and the Roger Williams Park Zoo is a great place to take them. Plan to spend at least two hours here to see everything. You’ll find over 150 species at the zoo, including red pandas, elephants, and camels!

The real highlights at the Roger Williams Park Botanical Center are the greenhouses, which are open year-round and contain all sorts of tropical and desert plants, plus beautiful ponds and fountains. This is a great place to get a respite from the frigid Providence winters, too!

We’d recommend a visit to the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium , too. This is the only public planetarium in Rhode Island, and the planetarium shows are always a fun way to start an evening out on the town.

3. Admire unique works at the RISD Museum of Art

Providence is home to many acclaimed schools, and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is one of them. So it’s not surprising that the RISD Museum of Art houses impeccably curated artwork from across eras and countries.

Standout exhibits include the Asian Art and European galleries, where you’ll find many unique pieces. Although the gallery isn’t massive, you can easily spend over three hours on a single visit and still have more to discover when you return. This is a museum that rewards multiple visits and an eye for detail.

For art lovers, you’ll find rare pieces like van Gogh, Picasso, and Monet originals alongside artifacts like mummies, furniture, textiles, and a student gallery on the second floor. RISD attracts impressive talent, and the student galleries are proof!

If you want to see everything, budget a fair amount of time earlier in the day. Otherwise, going during the free hours near closing might whet your artistic appetite just enough. If you’re looking for artsy things to do in Providence, this is your best bet.

4. Wine and dine in historic Federal Hill

To really experience the beating heart of Providence, head to Federal Hill. This historic district is a hotspot for the best shopping and dining in Rhode Island!

As one of the country’s top culinary destinations, Federal Hill is particularly famous for its Little Italy. You’ll have plenty of options, between homestyle classics at Constantino’s Ristorante , riverside wine and cheese boards at Bacaro , or traditional dishes at longtime local favorite Andino’s !

If you’re looking for an extra-special Italian experience, head to Camille’s , which has been around for over 100 years. This upscale dining room is housed in a historic mansion with a gorgeous patio. 

Expect elevated Italian fare and an extensive wine list. On weekends, there’s even a bit of dancing in the lounge, perfect for a date night!

If you’re not in the mood for Italian but want to enjoy East Coast seafood, head to Providence Oyster Bar . This is an unassuming spot with a great vibe and the freshest oysters, sushi, and fish you’ll find in Providence.

Skip the dessert menu and just head straight to Pastiche Fine Desserts after your meal (or before!). This intimate European-style cafe serves cakes and pastries made fresh every day.

5. Stroll through the historic Brown University campus

Providence is home to several historic institutions, and Brown University is the most famous. It’s the seventh-oldest university in the United States and an Ivy League university to boot. But the real reasons to visit are the beautiful architecture and walking paths.

The old brick buildings, rolling green lawns, and vast libraries make this the perfect place to explore. The collegiate atmosphere at Brown is the beating heart of Providence’s youthful, bookish energy.

We’d recommend starting with a stroll down College Street, a historic and pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare. Go through the ornamental Van Wickle Gates, a symbol of the university’s 250-year history.

The beautiful John Hay Library is a must-visit as the exhibitions are open to the public. After that, swing by the Annmary Brown Memorial, which exhibits European and American paintings and artifacts.

Other landmark Providence attractions include the Faunce House, once known as Rockefeller Hall, and University Hall, which is the oldest building on campus. The modest Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church is another notable historic site.

You might never want to leave this gorgeous campus, so take along a few snacks and enjoy a picnic on the lawn after you’re done exploring!

6. Catch a world-class show at the Providence Performing Arts Center

The Providence Performing Arts Center is one of the best venues for theater productions in the world. As a piece of art in and of itself, that isn’t surprising. Neither is the fact that Broadway shows regularly tour through this 3,100-seat venue.

We’re not kidding – this is one of the largest theaters in New England. Established in 1928, the Jewel of Weybosset Street, as it is called, is an important cultural landmark in Providence’s historic downtown. The dome ceiling, delicate wall molding, marble columns, and opulent chandeliers in this building constitute an exhibition already.

You’ll find a good mix of classic and contemporary productions on the schedule, from Mean Girls to Les Mis . Famous comedians frequently come through, too. Think John Mulaney, Amy Schumer, and Tom Segura, to name a few.

No matter what show you end up catching, you’re sure to have a fabulous night on the town. Afterward, you’ll be spoiled for choice with all the amazing nearby restaurants and lounges like The George and Rooftop at the Providence G .

7. Paddle the Woonasquatucket River

Waterways are always an underestimated way to explore a different place, and Providence offers the ideal conditions to hop into a kayak or canoe and paddle through the urban centers and lush forests of Providence.

The Woonasquatucket River has been restored and revitalized by the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council (WRWC). This community organization is dedicated to helping people discover a heritage river through paddling, hiking, and biking trips.

From June to October, you’ll find the WRWC hosting paddle tours , perfect for anyone looking for fun things to do in Providence. Canoes, kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are provided, and everyone is welcome. Check out their upcoming trips for a dose of Providence community and conservation!

If you have or want to rent your own equipment (we’d recommend Providence Kayak ), there are plenty of self-guided routes to explore the waterways. We’d recommend Downtown Providence and Stillwater Pond . If the urban hustle and bustle is for you, stick to downtown. Otherwise, Stillwater Pond offers peace in a slow, remote part of town.

8. Peer at rare manuscripts in the Providence Athenæum

The Providence Athenæum has been in operation for nearly 200 years. This was a library before public libraries, and it has welcomed the likes of Edgar Allen Poe, Ann Patchett, and Colson Whitehead over the course of its lifetime.

This independent library, one of the few remaining organizations of its kind, was founded in 1836. The stacks speak for themselves: this library has been beautifully preserved and renovated throughout its centuries of life. The mezzanine upstairs offers a bird’s-eye view of the literary tradition this library has kept alive.

The Athenæum operates on small donations and memberships. There are self-guided tours that will take you through Edgar Allen Poe’s reading list, stolen paintings, and the art pieces displayed throughout the library.

If you’re interested in lectures from scholars, authors, and historians, take a look at EX LIBRIS , a series of talks exclusively offered at the Athenæum throughout the academic year.

9. Grab a midnight hot dog at Olneyville New York System

Providence is full of fabulous fine dining, but one of the real institutions in the city is Olneyville New York System – a hot wiener shop that’s been around since the 1930s and stays open from 11 am until the early morning hours.

This family-owned business began in Brooklyn in the 1920s, where the founders had a candy shop. A move to Olneyville Square in Rhode Island in the 1930s kicked off the restaurant, and since a big move to its current location in 1953, it’s been a Providence staple.

Now, there are two locations – one on Plainfield Street in Providence and another in Cranston. A visit to Olneyville New York System is one of the top things to do in Providence. It’s been featured on many lists of US culinary mavens, but the acclaim hasn’t changed the restaurant’s values: this hot wiener place is still a local neighborhood haunt.

Come here for simple food: fresh hot wieners topped with onions, mustard, and beef. The coffee milk is also a favorite: cafe con leche with a bit of malt. The vinegar fries? Plain but perfect.

It’s a great spot to visit if you’re in the mood for a midday meal or a midnight snack. There’s a reason it’s been around nearly a century!

10. Find unique wares at The Providence Flea

The Providence Flea is not your typical no-holds-barred flea market. This is a juried vintage and artisan market dedicated to selecting small and micro-businesses from in and around Rhode Island.

Vendors at The Providence Flea are usually small-batch, handcrafted, and carefully selected. Not just for shopping, you can also expect live music up and down the boardwalk and food trucks and carts in the area.

Local markets are essential for supporting new and small businesses, and the Providence Flea knows that. Take a look at Friday Night Fleas throughout fall, holiday markets and events, and openings throughout the summer.

Keep an eye out for local vintage and antique purveyors, produce fresh from nearby farms, and one-of-a-kind jewelry and apparel. And before you ask, parking and admission are totally free of charge, so that you can peruse to your heart’s desire.

Standout experiences at The Providence Flea – outside of its many vendors – include the craft beer garden, tarot card readers, and craft cocktail pop-ups.

11. Bring the kids to the Providence Children’s Museum

The Providence Children’s Museum is an ideal place to go if you’re traveling with little ones. Creativity, play, and exploration are the name of the game here.

The Water Ways exhibition is one of the coolest things to do in Providence with kids. It’s the perfect place to splash around and explore the nature of water in all its forms: liquid, gas, and solid. You can send boats through vortexes, design fountains with pipe pieces, or create watery paintings on the slate wall!

Water is one thing, and the earth is another. In the Children’s Garden, kids will find root systems, worm tunnels, and burrows. They can dig for fossils, climb the sculptures, or make a song. This whole place offers a hands-on connection to the world around us.

If the earth and the sea aren’t enough, the Innovation Lab will give you a chance to create the future. You’ll be able to tinker with 3D printers, laser guides, sewing machines, and other tools that reveal the hidden potential hidden in everyday objects.

12. Visit Swan Point Cemetery

Swan Point Cemetery is a 200-acre garden and reflection point for all visitors. The grounds offer a peaceful place to seek inspiration, quietly reflect, or commune with the abundant nature of Providence.

The Swan Point Cemetery Company was incorporated in 1847, but the site has been a burial ground since 1722. As a result, you’ll find opulent 19 th -century obelisks, crypts, and monuments throughout this beautiful Providence sightseeing spot. The Lockwood Sarcophagi are elaborate centerpieces set among many other historic plots.

The grounds also house an Italian marble fountain, which is a great place to rest and reflect. The fountain was moved to Swan Point in 1961, but it was initially imported to the John Brown House in 1941.

This cemetery is also home to several beautiful sculptures, like the Lownes Monument , which depicts an angel in bronze, and the Boy and Girl Fountain , which stands in the Historic Chapel courtyard alongside the marble Little Sarah statue.

Even the chapel is a historic Gothic Revival structure. Granite and limestone form the edifice, making this a must-see spiritual artifact. The Redwood Mausoleum complex provides a similar atmosphere of calm and quiet.

13. Drink local at The Industrious Spirit Company

Located a mile from downtown Providence, the Industrious Spirit Company is Providence’s first distillery since Prohibition. Living up to that local calling, the vodkas, gins, and bourbons the company produces are sustainably sourced and made on-site in small batches.

Taking a distillery tour is easily one of the most fun things to do in Providence. After that, pay a visit to the tasting room’s patio. This former steel mill complex sits along the river, and the entire area is alive with artsy and independent businesses.

The Blue Velvet Bourbon is a unique spirit – blue corn from Kentucky and Mexico is carefully cooked and fermented, then distilled and aged in oak barrels. With a flavor profile like caramel, chocolate, vanilla, and blue corn tortillas, this local creation is not to be missed – in fact, it’s often sold out!

New England is known for its oysters and shellfish. Naturally, that led to an oyster-distilled vodka. What’s special about that? The salt of the sea and the distillation of sea-fresh oysters creates briny goodness in a small-batch bottle.

14. Check out local art at AS220

AS220 is the home of Providence’s local art scene. This forum, studio, gallery, and performance space is always open to the public. Creativity, community, freedom of expression, and racial justice are the main causes this space champions.

AS220 has been around for over three decades. Throughout its history, it has evolved and become what it is today – a local institution for Providence’s artists and a unique Providence attraction that happens to serve amazing food and drinks!

The main spaces are the AS220 Project Space and Reading Room, which rotate exhibitions from local artists and writers, respectively. Meanwhile, the AS220 Main Gallery brings in outside avant-garde artists, while the Aborn Gallery carries out the community and racial justice aspects of the organization.

AS220 also hosts exclusive workshops for mediums like cyanotype printing, silk-screening, and etching pressing. These are bucket list items for artistic folks, and you won’t regret learning from some of the best artists in the medium.

15. Relax at Waterplace Park

This lovely park happens to be the site of WaterFire, but on its own, it offers a relaxing stroll through Providence’s most picturesque districts. It’s a great way to spend an evening after an amazing dinner topped off with lovely desserts in Little Italy.

This urban park is situated on the Woonasquatucket River and was established in 1994 in a Venetian-style, complete with pedestrian bridges and cobblestone paths. Take a seat on one of the park’s many benches and just let time pass by. Across the river, you’ll see the downtown Providence skyline – historic, small, but still full of personality.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Providence, gondolas run along the river from sunrise to sunset. We’d recommend going on a sunset tour to really soak in the romance of the area.

We’d recommend bringing a blanket to stay warm in Providence’s spring and fall seasons. Dogs are very welcome, so you can bring your entire human and fluffy family to spend a day at the park!

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Providence, RI. What’s your favorite thing to do in Providence?

Planning a trip to Rhode Island? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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12 Best Things to Do in Providence, Rhode Island

Yiming Chen / Getty Images

If you're road tripping your way around New England or doing a day trip from Boston just an hour away, visit Providence , where history and art are everywhere and there's an Italian dish to please even the pickiest palate. Spend your days touring world-famous art museums and strolling along historic city streets, and your nights sailing down the river during WaterFire or taking in a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center. Even if you're short on time in this vibrant capital, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here's how to make the most of your time there.

See a Show at One of Providence's Historic Theatres

Providence Performing Arts Center

Providence Performing Arts Center  first opened as a movie palace in 1928 and now is a popular venue featuring everything from comedy shows and concerts to Broadway musicals like "Wicked," "Hamilton," "Jesus Christ Superstar," and "Jersey Boys," among others. 20 national Broadway tours have launched in this impossibly beautiful theater, listed on the National Register of Historic Places today despite nearly being destroyed by two horrific hurricanes in 1938 and 1954. Following a rough patch in the 1970s when it mainly served as a concert venue and fell into disrepair, it was revamped in the 1980s and is now better than ever.

Nearby, the Trinity Repertoire Company makes its home in the Lederer Theater Center, which used to be the Emery Majestic Theater, a major center for vaudeville back in the day. It's currently made up of the Elizabeth and Malcolm Chace Theater and the Sara and Joseph Dowling, Jr. Theater, offering a mix of stage plays and musicals meant to entertain and thrill guests of all ages.

Take the Kids to the Providence Children's Museum

Providence Children's Museum

If you're traveling with little ones in tow, ideally between the ages of one and 11, spend a few hours at the Providence Children's Museum , where they can blow off some steam climbing and crawling their way around tree houses and a "bear cave" in Littlewoods, and creating their own works of art in the Maker Studio. Other hands-on play-centric exhibits let them float boats, learn about plants and the power of water, try their hand at puzzles and brainteasers, do arts and crafts, and hear stories of people from all different cultures who now call Rhode Island home.

Interact With the Animals at Roger Williams Park Zoo

Kyle Bedell / WikiCommons 

There's always something new at the third-oldest zoo in the U.S. More than just a place to observe the diversity of life on our planet, Roger Williams Park Zoo offers Providence visitors once-in-a-lifetime interactive encounters with animals, although most are for a small additional fee. Feed a giraffe. Ride a camel. Book a behind-the-scenes tour of the harbor seal exhibit. Feed exotic birds when they swoop down and land on your arm. With species from alpacas to zebras, the zoo appeals to animal lovers of all ages.

Families with young children will especially enjoy mingling with the sheep and goats in the Alex and Ani Farmyard and exploring Hasbro’s Our Big Backyard, one of the coolest playgrounds in New England. If you're planning to visit in the fall, don't miss the Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular , a must-see display of elaborately carved pumpkins.

Tour the Rhode Island State House

 Shobeir Ansari / Getty Images 

One of the city's highlights won’t even cost you a penny, but'll you have make sure you get there Monday through Friday. That's when the Rhode Island State House —the capitol building designed by the famed architectural firm of McKim, Mead, and White—is open to the public for free guided or self-guided tours.

You won't just see the chambers where state legislators meet, this government building is also home to treasures like Rhode Island's Royal Charter, handwritten in 1663. Even more significant is Rhode Island-born artist Gilbert Stuart's original portrait of George Washington, the one you know well from the one-dollar bill. You'll also be able to look up and appreciate the fourth-largest self-supported marble dome in the world.

Experience WaterFire

 Yiming Chen / Getty Images 

WaterFire , held on select evenings along the rivers that converge in the heart of Providence, is a soul-stirring work of art. Sculptor Barnaby Evans has been the creative force behind this installation since its inception in 1994, and this creative fusion of fire, water, and music has become the city's signature. It's New England's most romantic experience and the region's best free event. As bonfires crackle and sparkle, they cast a shimmering glow on the water. Evans changes the haunting soundtrack each time WaterFire is staged, which only adds to the magic.

Tour Providence by Boat

 Marc Dufresne / Getty Images

When you see Providence from the water, you'll feel as if you're touring a European—not a New England—capital city. This is especially true if you book an excursion with La Gondola . The charming gondoliers who steer authentic Venetian gondolas along the city's rivers even sing to passengers, who are allowed to bring their own wine or Champagne aboard.

If you prefer a history lesson to a serenade, ​ Providence River Boat Company offers informative narrated tours by day and relaxing sunset cruises by night. Note that both boat tour operators book reservations months in advance for WaterFire nights, so be sure to plan ahead. Seeing WaterFire from a boat is an absolutely unforgettable experience.

Enjoy an Italian Feast in Federal Hill

 aimintang / Getty Images 

Providence's Italian neighborhood, Federal Hill, is home to restaurants old and new, plus gourmet tours, a cooking school, and a ravioli shop, among other indulgent attractions. Don't miss the braciola and other favorites your Italian nonna used to make at Angelo's Civita Farnese , where some menu items haven't changed in more than 90 years. DaVinci Ristorante & Cigar Lounge  is another favorite for its burrata .

Chef Cindy Salvato leads Savoring Federal Hill gourmet tours, which are tasty and informative, while Chef Walter Potenza, of Guy's Grocery Games fame, will teach you how to prepare authentic Italian fare at his cooking school . Meanwhile, Venda Ravioli​​ sells more than 150 kinds of fresh and frozen pasta, plus every Italian culinary product imaginable. Don't leave without stopping at ​ Scialo Bros. Bakery for Italian cookies.

Take a Guided Tour of Benefit Street

Shinya Suzuki / Flickr

It's known as the "Mile of History," and whether you explore on your own or join one of the Rhode Island Historical Society's guided Benefit Street walking tours , offered mid-June through October, this architecturally significant stretch is a Providence must-see. Colonial business owners began building homes along Back Street—now Benefit Street—in 1758 and you won't find a larger concentration of houses from the pre-Revolution period anywhere else in America. The street also has excellent examples of Federal and later architectural styles. Fans of horror writer H.P. Lovecraft, a Providence native, will want to keep their eyes out for ​135 Benefit Street, his inspiration for "The Shunned House."

Visit the City's Many Museums

Providence's colleges and universities operate many impressive museums. The RISD Museum at the Rhode Island School of Design has more than 91,000 creations in its collection, ranging from ancient Greek and Roman sculptures to contemporary works. The Culinary Arts Museum at Johnson & Wales University is a repository for all things cooking and restaurants, including more than 30,000 cookbooks. And don't overlook Brown University's Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology , especially if you'd prefer something free to do in Providence. Exhibits feature highlights from the museum's collection of more than one million artifacts from around the world.

Admire the View From Prospect Terrace Park

kickstand / Getty Images

Petite but exceptionally scenic, Providence's Prospect Terrace Park on Congdon Street is known for its immense statue of Rhode Island founder Roger Williams. What you might not realize if you've only seen photos of this iconic spot is that it's also where Williams' remains are parked. Shoot panoramic pictures of the Providence skyline, or simply spread out a blanket or claim a bench and treat yourself to a picnic on a sunny day.

Peek Inside the Big Nazo Lab

TripSavvy / Kim Knox Beckius

Providence brands itself as "The Creative Capital," and there are art galleries, performance venues , and cultural organizations galore—far more than you'd expect to find in such a small city.

One of the wildest workshops you've ever seen is located on Fulton Street across from Providence City Hall. So hideous they're adorable, the giant, wearable "puppets" that come to life inside Big Nazo Lab have become a city signature as well as an international sensation. Don't miss the chance to gawk at the creatures displayed in the windows. You can wander inside to observe if artists are at work, or check the website for special appearances.

Explore Brown University

 DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

Brown University is an Ivy League college located in the heart of Providence that was founded in 1764—before the American Revolution—which makes it the seventh-oldest university in the country. Besides having one of the most beautiful campuses on the East Coast, it is set in a vibrant part of town with tree-lined streets full of cozy coffee shops, trendy boutiques, and laid-back bars. Thayer Street is the main artery and home to the annual Thayer Street Arts Festival, which showcases local crafters and street performers. Around the corner on Angell Street, you'll find outdoor movies and art exhibits at the Perry and Marty Granoff Center for the Creative Arts .

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The Open Road Travel

• Sep 25, 2022

The 10 Best Things To Do In Providence, Rhode Island

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

In today’s article, we are going to be looking at the 10 best things to do in Providence, Rhode Island. While the city is known by multiple names, many people will know very little about what it actually has to offer visitors who do decide to spend their vacation in the northeast United States.

From iconic buildings and historic sites to sprawling parks and beautiful natural areas, Providence is a city that has something to offer for everyone. Our guide aims to help you plan the perfect travel itinerary to ensure you enjoy every second when you visit Providence for yourself.

So, if you are planning on visiting Providence and want it to be a dream vacation from start to finish, I highly recommend reading on.

Providence, Rhode Island At A Glance

Providence is the capital of the state of Rhode Island, as well as its most populous city, with just over 190,000 residents. It is also the 3rd most populous city in the entire New England region, behind Boston and Worcester, and largest outside of Massachusetts.

Located at the mouth of the Providence River, on the Narragansett Bay, the city of Providence was founded in 1636 by author and minister Roger Williams as one of the original Thirteen Colonies.

This makes it Rhode Island’s second oldest city and one of the oldest in both New England and the U.S.

Much like the rest of Rhode Island, Providence is famous for its love of coffee, and the city boasts more coffee and donut shops per capita than anywhere else in the United States. It also boasts one of the largest LGBT communities and largest gay bathhouse in New England.

Well known for its various performance art centres and groups, Providence also hosts the WaterFire environmental art installation each summer. With 100 bonfires set just over the surface of the city’s three rivers, it is a truly unique sight to behold.

Best Time To Visit Providence, Rhode Island

The best time to visit Providence, Rhode Island is from late May to mid-September. This is because it is the period when Providence experiences its warmest, driest stretch, as well as when the WaterFire art installations are held.

This makes it the perfect time to visit for those who don’t want to worry about the weather ruining their trip and who want to see one of the city’s most unique and famous events.

Best Things To Do In Providence, Rhode Island

As we move to our list of the 10 best things to do in Providence, Rhode Island, I am going to suggest a broad range of options.

These will include things to appeal to travellers of all different interests, while ensuring you have something to cover everything that Providence is known for.

Explore Roger Williams Park

Roger Williams Park is named after the city’s founder and can more than stake a claim to being one of the biggest and best city parks in the United States. Opened in 1872, it covers 427 acres and has been designated as its own Unites States National Historic District.

It is filled with beautiful natural features like lawns, ponds, lakes, gardens, and plants, as well as a wide array of features such as hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sporting facilities. What really makes it stand out though is its collection of slightly grander attractions.

The Roger Williams Park Zoo was established at the same time as the park as a temporary attraction, before blossoming and developing into a permanent feature.

Home to 150 animals, covering 100 species from around the world, nature lovers simply can’t pass up seeing its incredible collection.

The Roger Williams Park Museum Of Natural History And Planetarium was built in 1896 and features stunning, historic architecture.

Home to archaeological artefacts, exhibits on the Earth and Sea and their wildlife, as well as regular shows on our solar system, its is a great stop for fans of history, nature, and astronomy.

The Roger Williams Park Botanical Center was added in 2007 and houses 12,000 square feet (1115 square metres) of indoor gardens inside 2 interconnected greenhouses. With over 150 different species of plants, it is the largest collection of its kind in New England.

Throw in attractions like the Roger Williams Park Casino, Williams Family Cemetery, Carousel Village, Betsy Williams Cottage Museum, Dalrymple Boathouse and boat rentals, Temple To Music, Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and historic walking tours, and it is a destination that can be enjoyed by all.

Roger Williams Park, Pine Hill Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island, 02907

Soak Up The History & Architecture Of The Rhode Island State House

The Rhode Island State House was constructed between 1891 and 1901 and has served as the Rhode Island Capitol building and the home of the Rhode Island legislature since its completion.

Designed with Neoclassical architecture, the iconic building features a gilded statue known as “The Independent Man” and the fourth biggest structural stone dome on Earth. This makes it a must visit location for fans of architecture and art.

The building houses the offices of the Rhode Island General Assembly, House Of Representatives, Senate, Governor, General Treasurer, Lieutenant Governor, and Secretary Of State.

With guided tours available of both the building and grounds, it is ideal for those looking to learn about the history and politics of Rhode Island. The whole site has been listed on the U.S. National Register Of Historic Places since 1970.

82 Smith Street, Providence, Rhode Island, 02903

Take A Trip To Swan Point Cemetery

Swan Point Cemetery is a historic, 60 acre cemetery that was first established in 1846. Filled with stunning graves and sculptures and located on the west bank of the Seekonk River, it is a great place to take a stroll to enjoy historic works of art and stunning views across the water.

Home to more than 40,000 internments, Swan Point Cemetery houses the graves of many prominent figures, such as numerous Governors Of Rhode Island. This helped it to get listed on the U.S. National Register Of Historic Places in 1977.

Among the most popular sights are the Grave Of HP Lovecraft, the legendary American horror author, Grave Of Sullivan Ballou, Grave Of Elizabeth Buffom Chace, and Remington Family Memorial (1866).

With these and many more, Swan Point Cemetery allows you to soak in the art, history, and landscape of Providence all in one place.

585 Blackstone Boulevard, Providence, Rhode Island, 02906

Step Back In Time In At The Old State House

Built in 1762 with a stunning Georgian style, the Old State House was home to the governments of the state of Rhode Island and the Colony Of Rhode Island And Providence Plantations for almost 150 years, until 1901.

It was then added to the U.S. National Register Of Historic Places in 1970.

Located just half a mile from the current Rhode Island State House, it gives you the chance to learn about one of the state’s most historic buildings while seeing how the architectural styles in the region have changed through the years.

150 Benefit Street, Providence, Rhode Island, 02903

Uncover The History Of The Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum

The Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum is a historic building erected in 1862. Built by former Governor Of Rhode Island Henry Lippitt, it was lived in by him and his family for over 100 years.

It is considered among the best examples of Italianate architecture and Victorian décor in the region.

Features like gas light fixtures, stained glass windows, Corinthian columns, an ornate fireplace, and historic plasterwork, stencilling, wallpaper, and woodwork help transport you back in time.

It still even contains a collection of perfectly preserved textiles and furniture belonging to the family. With exhibits dedicated to his life and times, it is a great place to learn about both Henry Lippitt and the state of Rhode Island.

Listed on the U.S. National Register Of Historic Places, it is also surrounded by other buildings in the Hope-Power-Cooke-Streets Historic District for you to explore.

199 Hope Street, Providence, Rhode Island, 02906

Go For A Stroll Along The Providence River Walk

The Providence River runs for 8 miles (13 km) from the Narragansett Bay to the confluence of the Moshassuck and Woonasquatucket rivers. The Providence River Walk is a walking route that traverses part of the river and is a great way to explore the city.

With bridges to cross, sculptures to see, and gondola and boat rides to take, it gives you a fabulous opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors and take in some truly stunning views of the city.

US Route 44, Providence, Rhode Island, 02903

Learn About The Growth Of The City At The John Brown House Museum

The John Brown House was the very first mansion to be built in Providence, having been erected between 1786 and 1788. Named after original owner, local statesman, merchant, and slave trader John Brown, his descendants donated it to the Rhode Island Historical Society in 1942.

It has since been fully restored and still features much of the original furniture and the family’s personal effects, which have all been refurbished, as well as various artefacts dedicated to the early history of Rhode Island and the growth of both the state and the city of Providence.

A must visit destination for anyone interested in local history, it was declared a U.S. National Historic Landmark and added to the U.S. National Register Of Historic Places in 1968.

52 Power Street, Providence, Rhode Island, 02906

Embrace The Spirit Of Providence At The Roger Williams National Memorial

The Roger Williams National Memorial is a national park built on the site of the original Colony Of Rhode Island And Providence Plantations settlement that honours the life of its founder.

While the 4.5 acre park itself was created with the city in 1636, the memorial was established in 1965.

The visitor centre is located in the historic 1736 Antram-Gray House and is filled with free exhibits and videos to educate visitors on Roger Williams, as well as many of the historic sites throughout Providence.

The park then boasts various other beautiful natural features like Bernon Grove and historic attractions the likes of The Tree Of New Hope, The Hahn Memorial, and the Historic Providence Well, the spring that caused the area to be settled in the first place.

Added to the United States National Register Of Historic Places in 1966, it was the only site in the national park system in Rhode Island until Blackstone River Valley National Historic Park was added in 2014. It is a must visit location for any fans of history or the great outdoors.

282 North Main Street, Providence, Rhode Island, 02903

Visit The First Baptist Church In America

The First Baptist Church In America, also known as the First Baptist Church Of Providence, Rhode Island, was established in 1638, making it the oldest such congregation in the United States.

While the original building has since been demolished, the current church was opened in 1775 and has been designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark since 1960. Known for its iconic white steeple and Georgian architecture, it is one of the most stunning buildings in the city.

Those interested in either religious history or architecture will enjoy exploring the church both inside and out. For those who aren’t, the wide range of concerts, lectures, and talks by world famous performers it hosts may be more to your liking.

75 North Main Street, Providence, Rhode Island, 02903

See The Superman Building

Officially known as the Industrial National Bank Building, as well as at least 4 other names through the years, the “Superman Building” gained its nickname thanks to its similarity to the Daily Planet newspaper building from the Superman comics.

Built between 1925 and 1927 with a steel frame encased in Deer Isle Granite and Indiana Limestone, it features a collection of different architectural styles.

Despite never having been used in any live action Superman adaptations, fans still flock in their droves to take snaps of the building.

Standing 428 feet (130 metres) tall, it is the highest building in the state of Rhode Island. While it has internally fallen into a state of disrepair since the last tenant left in 2013, it is more than worth stopping by to appreciate and snap a photo of when you visit Providence.

111 Westminster Street, Providence, Rhode Island, 02903

Best Hotel To Stay At In Providence – Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel

The Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel is a fabulous, 4 star hotel, set in a grand, historic building right in the heart of Providence. Built in 1929, it combines amazing architecture with lavish modern décor, to provide an experience that screams style and sophistication.

All the rooms are spacious, offer stunning views, and are filled with luxury furniture and amenities. The rest of the property then boasts facilities like a bar, 24 hour fitness centre, ATM, business and meeting facilities, and a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the site and private parking is available for an additional fee. Dry cleaning, ironing, and laundry services are all available on request, as are bicycle rentals and room service.

Providence is a fabulous city that doesn’t get nearly the attention it deserves. Our guide to the 10 best things to do in Providence, Rhode Island will hopefully have given you all the information you need to plan a perfect travel itinerary for when you decide to see it for yourself.

From when to go and where to stay to all the best things to do and see when you arrive, you are all set to enjoy a dream vacation in one of New England’s biggest and best cities.

All you have left to do is start getting things booked, so you don’t risk missing out on any of your top hotels or attractions.

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18 Top Things to Do in Rhode Island

From coastal mansions to unique museums, discover the Ocean State's best attractions.

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Catching beautiful views on Block Island is just one of many things to do in historic Rhode Island.

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the U.S., but it's also a gem favored by celebrities and those in the know. The affluent summer crowds of the early 20th century have left a lasting impression with their sprawling, extravagant estates – not to mention the secluded beaches, sailboats and seaside resorts that make Rhode Island a playground for the elite. But this tiny coastal state is not just defined by the moneyed mansions of Newport or the seasonal yachting crowds that head to Providence, Narragansett or Block Island.

Rhode Island is also a welcoming destination for families looking to meet exotic creatures or gaze upon topiaries that simply look like animals. Many attractions are budget-friendly or free, including fiery public art installations, a hotspot for birdwatching or bathing in nature, and a museum dedicated to sharks. In fact, the drive from the northern city of Woonsocket to the town of Westerly at the state's southern tip is less than 60 miles, making it possible to drive across the entire state in about an hour, depending on traffic. And, of course, a simple day at one of the Rhode Island beaches is always sought after by jet-setters and locals alike.

The Ocean State packs a lot of culture into its small frame, with art museums that date back 150 years or performing arts theaters with a rigorous schedule of stage shows. The Newport Folk Festival began in 1959 as one of the first modern annual music festivals in the country, and it's still going strong, attracting visitors from around the world.

Filmmaker Wes Anderson used locations in Rhode Island as the stage for his movie "Moonrise Kingdom," which is considered a love letter to New England. When you visit, you too will understand why the state has been immortalized in film, in history, and even in the haunting sci-fi novels of famous resident and author H.P. Lovecraft. It's a place that leaves an impression, and the following top things to do in Rhode Island will help you find your own favorite memory.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Block Island

In the Outer Lands, a region that also includes Martha's Vineyard and Long Island, you'll find Rhode Island's Block Island. This quintessential New England island is covered in bluffs and rocky beaches, and it features a lighthouse from the mid-19th century. Block Island is an hourlong ferry ride from the mainland (30 minutes by high-speed ferry) and offers 17 miles of free beaches, as well as a wildlife refuge where migratory birds can be found along their journey. Bikes are an ideal way to traverse the island – which is 7 miles long and 3 miles wide – and can be rented from several locations. Famous residents of Block Island include actor Christopher Walken.

Newport's Cliff Walk and The Breakers

The irony of the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path with stunning views of the sea below, is that it's free to the public — far from the cost of the opulent Gilded Age mansions it traces. This Newport walkway has various entry points, and a map is available online to guide you. Along the path you'll pass through the grounds of 64 private residences and find points of interest like the 40 Steps: As the name suggests, it's about 40 stone steps to the water below and used to be a popular meeting place for servants of the surrounding estates.

No matter how scenic you find Cliff Walk, there is no substitute for a tour through one of the Gilded beauties with an exclusive address in this part of Newport. You have plenty of magnificent mansions to choose from, but none is as notable as The Breakers, once a lavish summer home to the Vanderbilt family. Self-guided tours are available year-round, but a 45-minute family-friendly tour has also been developed by the Preservation Society of Newport County to engage children and their imaginations in the life of the wealthy residents — including young inhabitants — who used to occupy these elaborately decorated halls.

[See more of Newport: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Stroll down Bellevue Avenue

Dave Hansen | Courtesy of The Preservation Society of Newport County

Lined with history, Bellevue Avenue is a 2.5-mile stretch parallel to the Cliff Walk that some locals refer to as "The Avenue." The street was home to many famous residents, including the Astors, Vanderbilts, Morgans and other elites who had summer homes in Newport. Take a stroll along this renowned stretch for a different angle of some of the Gilded Age mansions overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, including Rosecliff – where the 1974 "Great Gatsby" and 1994 "True Lies" were filmed – as well as Beechwood and the Marble House. In addition to the homes, the Newport Art Museum, Newport Tower and Redwood Library (one of the nation's first libraries) are located along this opulent avenue.

International Tennis Hall of Fame

Courtesy of International Tennis Hall of Fame

If you've got love for the game, Newport's Tennis Hall of Fame spans 150 years of gameplay with nearly 2,000 noteworthy objects in the massive collection on display. The museum is on the grounds of the former Newport Casino, a social club for the elite. A theater with a hologram of Roger Federer is found alongside interactive exhibits like a touch table and tennis trivia. A museum dedicated to tennis of course features a number of indoor and outdoor tennis courts bookable by the hour for an additional fee. The International Tennis Hall of Fame is open on select days, and the 7 acres of grounds are open during museum hours. Check the website for up-to-date admission times. Recent visitors appreciate the grand architecture, picturesque grounds and variety of exhibits; many noted it as an interesting stop for tennis novices and enthusiasts.

Address: 194 Bellevue Ave., Newport, RI 02840

Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village

Courtesy of Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village

The Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence , named after the state's founder and celebrating its 150th anniversary, is not your average zoo. Of course animals are the main attraction, with creative exhibits that follow the trek of explorer Marco Polo or highlight the importance of the Amazon Rainforest and how to help preserve it. But families will also find unique experiences like "Explore and Soar," a ride along a zip line 115 feet in the sky followed by a train ride on the Woodlands Express. Past patrons enjoyed seeing the animals – including giraffes, elephants and red pandas – though some cautioned several exhibits were closed due to the time of year they visited. Timed entry tickets are currently required for the zoo.

Also in Roger Williams Park, located about a half-mile to the south and managed by the zoo, you'll find Carousel Village, another fun-filled destination for the kids with playgrounds, food trucks and the namesake carousel.

Address: 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, RI 02907

[See more of Providence: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

WaterFire Providence

WaterFire is based on a simple concept and results in a tremendously transfixing art experience. On select nights throughout the year, more than 80 braziers (portable heaters) are lit atop the Woonasquatucket and Providence rivers along a stretch between two city parks, creating a fiery display floating on water. Partial lightings, which typically focus on a smaller section of river, are no less impressive to take in than the full display. This spectacular show of the elements occurs shortly after sunset and remains burning until about midnight. The demonstrations, which are free to the public, are staged by members of the WaterFire Arts Center, located in Providence's Valley neighborhood.

Recent spectators say WaterFire is a one-of-a-kind sensory event, perfect for a variety of ages and a unique way to experience Providence. While fire typically invites you to sit and be mesmerized, fire marshal regulations rule against folding chairs on the riverwalks, so you're encouraged to enjoy the show with an evening stroll; live music and other events sometimes coincide with the flames, so you can plan accordingly.

RISD Museum

Courtesy of RISD Museum

The Rhode Island School of Design is a renowned institution in Providence dedicated to the arts, and the public can enjoy its fine arts museum with a timed ticket. This attraction houses more than 100,000 works of art and design spanning the globe and the centuries. Though the museum's approach to diversity and inclusion is contemporary, both the school and museum were founded in 1877. Visitors to the museum have likened it to a "mini Met," explaining that they were surprised to find it houses an eclectic but top-notch collection, ranging from ancient art to works by more modern masters like Picasso or Van Gogh. Check the museum's hours to see when it offers free admission.

Address: 20 N. Main St., Providence, RI 02903

Take a walk down Benefit Street

Courtesy of Providence Warwick CVB

The center of society in Providence during the Colonial and early Federal periods, Benefit Street remains a vibrant, tree-lined city street with fine examples of Victorian architecture, earning its nickname as the "Mile of History." Among the most notable homes on this stone- and brick-paved stretch is the one built for 18th-century merchant John Brown, who was the first to build away from the Providence waterfront, opting instead for a high hill. Former President John Quincy Adams called it one of the most magnificent mansions he'd ever seen. The John Brown House is now a museum open to the public and includes some of the original furnishings, which feature the renowned cabinetry work of Rhode Island's early craftsmen. Museum patrons can also view a carriage George Washington supposedly rode in and an extensive collection of artifacts. Recent travelers state that both the home and Benefit Street are worth a visit for the architecture and history.

Take in a show in Providence

Courtesy of Trinity Repertory Company

Affectionately known as the Trinity Rep, the Trinity Repertory Company in Providence is a Rhode Island institution of local theater. Dramatists can stage Sondheim, Shakespeare and something more modern − and original − in a single season. Each season is themed and typically includes a mix of production premieres alongside perennial crowd favorites like "A Christmas Carol." Trinity Rep's theme for the 2022-23 season is "Lasting Legacies," as the program strives to examine how legacies are passed through generations. Four productions each year are staged in conjunction with students from Brown University's MFA program, so you might have the chance to witness a star in the making. Single show tickets vary in price and are available online in advance.

The Providence Performing Arts Center is another hub for staged drama, housed in an original Beaux-Arts building from 1928. As a 3,100-seat theater designated a National Historic Site, the PPAC hosts touring Broadway performances. Recent theatergoers appreciate the beautifully restored theater, along with its acoustics, sight lines and variety of productions.

Green Animals Topiary Garden

Andrea Hansen | Courtesy of The Preservation Society of Newport County

The dozens of topiaries at Green Animals in the town of Portsmouth constitute a veritable circus of landscaped creatures like elephants and giraffes, along with geometric shapes. Long before "Edward Scissorhands," Joseph Carreiro was a gardener and superintendent of the property from 1905 to 1945, making Green Animals the oldest topiary garden in the country. The once-private estate belonged to Thomas Brayton, treasurer of the Union Cotton Manufacturing Company; when his daughter Alice died at the age of 94, she donated the property to The Preservation Society of Newport County for all to enjoy. Beyond sculpted bushes, the garden offers floral floods of tulips, lupines, hydrangeas and more. Featuring tens of thousands of bulbs, Green Animals also received official recognition by the American Daffodil Society for its array of daffodils, which span 49 varieties. The garden is open daily, in warm weather only, with prime flower viewing during May and June. Visitors say the gardens and flowers are worth a visit, though many find the admission fees a bit steep.

Address: 380 Corys Lane, Portsmouth, RI 02871

Visit Narragansett

If you're looking for a seaside resort town bursting with charm, program your GPS to Rhode Island's Narragansett. Families have summered here for more than two centuries, and the town's iconic Towers − marking the former entrance to the Narragansett Pier Casino, which burned down in 1900 − evoke a bygone era. The main draw is the beaches, from Narragansett Town Beach to Scarborough State Beach. Head to the Coast Guard House (not surprisingly, a former Coast Guard headquarters) to see and be seen, likely with a Narragansett beer in hand. U.S. Route 1 offers scenic Sunday drives along the coast. The well-to-do towns of Watch Hill and nearby Westerly are a worthwhile destination, about 25 miles down the road, and boast celebrity fans and residents including Taylor Swift.

Go sailing on Goat Island

If you're a fan of sailing, Rhode Island has the chops, and Goat Island Marina is where you'll want to head to get on the water. Located within Newport Harbor, the island on the Narragansett Bay has hosted the Tall Ships Festival, sailing regattas and of course private getaways. Goat Island was once a torpedo manufacturing facility for the U.S. Navy and even a military fort during the American Revolution. Its purposes are far less serious these days, with a deep-water marina and shuttles that will whisk you into downtown Newport. Consider a stay on Goat Island at Gurney's Newport Resort & Marina to enjoy its variety of amenities, as well as the raw bar and lounge with glass-enclosed fire pits. Recent guests appreciated the spa and marina views, though many noted the rooms are ready for refurbishment.

Beavertail Lighthouse & Museum

Perched above Narragansett Bay, the Beavertail Lighthouse and Museum combines history with maritime science, technology, art and culture. Set on the southern tip of Jamestown, the lighthouse was first built in 1749 – making it the third oldest lighthouse in North America – and rebuilt in 1856. Travelers say the museum offers a great glimpse into history and the grounds provide panoramic ocean views. The lighthouse is adjacent to Beavertail State Park, which boasts hiking trails, a naturalist program and some of the area's best saltwater fishing.

Address: Beavertail Road, Jamestown, RI 02835

Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge

Courtesy of Visit Rhode Island, Rhode Island Commerce Corporation

Birders rejoice at the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge in Middletown, one of five wildlife refuges in Rhode Island. A number of featured species that visitors can spot include the saltmarsh sparrow, the harlequin duck and the New England cottontail. The site serves today as a protected 242 acres for migratory birds, kicked off in 1970 with a donation from the Audubon Society of Rhode Island. From the 17th to 20th centuries, the area was used for farming and sheep grazing; during World War II it became a rifle range center for the U.S. Navy. Visitors praise the nearly 3 miles of well-marked trails, variety of birds you can see in their natural habitat, and benches along the routes to sit and take in the ocean views.

Address: 769 Sachuest Point Road, Middletown, RI 02842

Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum

Developed as a summer estate in Bristol, Blithewold is an authentic example of the Country Place Era of architecture. Set amid 33 acres of land with sweeping views of Narragansett Bay, the 45-room home and outbuildings showcase an array of family heirlooms, 18th- and 19th-century styling, and the 1909 garage with its fueling and repair station. Visitors can tour the home with its kitchen and laundry facilities, as well as the surrounding gardens, complete with meandering pathways, stonework, an extensive collection of unique plants and trees, and a greenhouse. Recent travelers appreciate the historical charms of the home and gardens and say you can find something to explore around every corner.

Address: 101 Ferry Road, Bristol, RI 02809

Living Sharks Museum

America's first shark history and conservation museum is located in Westerly. Living Sharks Museum was founded by Keith Cowley, a shark advocate and educator whose research led him to want to paint sharks in a positive light – both figuratively and literally, since Cowley is also considered a science artist. Exhibits include everything from fossils and records of the commercial fishing of sharks to memorabilia from the 1975 film "Jaws." A small gallery houses art that depicts the story of the shark. The museum is open Fridays and Saturdays, and appointments are suggested for large groups. Past museum visitors say the small but impressive museum is a must-see, and the curator's extensive knowledge adds to the experience.

Address: 47 High St., Westerly, RI 02891

Pay homage to H.P. Lovecraft

Howard Phillips Lovecraft, the science fiction and horror writer who inspired the term "Lovecraftian," was born in Providence in 1890 and lived there almost exclusively until his death in 1937. H.P. Lovecraft's final residence, at 65 Prospect Street, was the inspiration for the house in his story "The Haunter of the Dark." The stately home, once located on College Street but moved after a Brown University expansion, is now a private residence. But fans of Lovecraft's tales of gothic horror need not despair: The Lovecraft Arts & Sciences store was founded in 2011 to keep his one-of-a-kind legacy alive in Providence. This small storefront is located in the historic Arcade Providence mall and sells themed merchandise, "weird" art and of course tons of books. Occasional events are hosted; check the website for details. To learn more about the author before or after your trip to Providence, the HBO series "Lovecraft Country" expertly addresses the vast influence of – and the racism throughout – Lovecraft's storytelling.

Take a brewery tour of South Kingstown

Courtesy of Whalers Brewing Company

South Kingstown is a Rhode Island town featuring more than 300 years of history and dotted with beaches, farmland and historic landmarks. Use pints to tour your way through this South County destination, with stops at four of South Kingstown's breweries and distilleries. Start at Whalers Brewing Company, which will offer you an award-winning pale ale. Then, make your way to the Proclamation Ale Company to taste its heady IPAs and experience the small retro video arcade and custom art on display. At the Shaidzon Beer Co., a globally inspired beer list includes pilsners, saisons and wit biers. End your brewery hopping at Sons of Liberty Beer & Spirits Co., which distills single malt whiskies from beers they love.

To get to South Kingstown for a beer bonanza, railway enthusiasts may want to travel by Amtrak to the Kingston train station, inside of which you can also visit the small Rhode Island Railroad Museum.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Connecticut
• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in Long Island
• The Top Things to Do in Brooklyn
• The Best Weekend Getaways from New York City
• The Top Boston Harbor Cruises
• The Top Duffel Bags
• The Top Travel Backpacks

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , US Vacations

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Blackstone Valley

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Great things to do in rhode island.

For a place with a small geographical footprint, Rhode Island is rich with fabulous things to do on vacation, including lots of hidden gems, like historic homes, bird sanctuaries, a tulip farm, oddball gift stores and much, much more. Most people have heard of Rhode Island’s gorgeous shorelines, from the wide, sandy beaches, like Misquamicut, RI , on the Atlantic Ocean, to the rocky waterfronts, perfect for shore fishing and exploring tide pools. Also well-known are Newport, RI ’s colonial-era houses and its extravagant Gilded-Age mansions and opportunities to go sailing. Good start; keeping exploring! Providence, RI , with its deep communities of Italian, Irish, Portuguese and French Canadian people, offers fabulous restaurants with huge variety. The city has a wonderful park running alongside three canal-like rivers, great for walking and photography. The state’s museums are as varied as the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence and the National Museum of American Illustration in Newport. Historic farms – like Casey Farm in Saunderstown, RI and Watson Farm on Jamestown Island -- are a pleasure to explore, and very welcoming. The state is laced with bike paths, and hiking paths are abundant, especially in the wooded inland areas. For families with kids, foodies, shoppers, history buffs and sailors, Rhode Island offers great things to do on every side.

Roger Williams Park Zoo

1000 Elmwood Avenue Providence, RI, 02907 Phone: 401-785-3510

Happenings at this zoo include visits to animals, zip rides, train excursions

Save The Bay

Multiple Centers & Dock Locations Providence, Newport, Westerly, RI and Fall River, MA Phone: 401-272-3540

From seal tours to touch tanks, Save The Bay has lots of activities for explorers

Paddy's Beach Club

159 Atlantic Avenue Misquamicut, RI, 02891 Phone: 401-596-2610

Fun in t he sun: It’s time to take a trip to popular, lively club on Misquamicut Beach

America's Cup Charters

49 America's Cup Avenue Newport, RI, 02840 Phone: 401-849-5868

A day out on the water on a legendary yacht under full sail? Now that’s a great idea!

Rough Point

680 Bellevue Avenue Newport, RI, 02840 Phone: 401-847-8344

Walk through this mansion and experience the eclectic collection of its last owner, Doris Duke

Riddle Room Escape Games

1150 Bald Hill Road Warwick, RI, 02886 Phone: 401-398-8177

Live inside an adventure story when you book a time in an exciting riddle room

Seekonk Grand Prix

1098 Fall River Avenue Seekonk, MA, 02771 Phone: 508-336-8307

Drive a race car, climb a rock wall, conquer a ropes course at this multi-attraction theme park

Block Island Ferry

304 Great Island Road Narragansett, RI, 02882 Phone: 401-783-7996 Toll-Free: 866-783-7996

Your island adventure is waiting for you when you book the Block Island Ferry

Go Providence

1 Sabin Street Providence, RI, 02903 Phone: 401-751-1177

From great restaurants and shops to award-winning arts venues, museums and zoos, Providence has it all

Newport Vineyards

909 East Main Road (Route 138) Middletown, RI, 02842 Phone: 401-848-5161

Fine food, great wines, craft beer and a fun atmosphere: That’s a perfect day at the vineyard

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212 Westminster Street Providence, RI, 02903 Phone:

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rhode Island

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Aug 1, 2023

For such a small state, "Little Rhody" is packed with some of New England's most popular tourist attractions. Newport, America's best-known playground for the super-rich in the halcyon days of the early 20th century, is the state's major draw, with its fabled mansions built to rival (and often imitate) the grand palaces of European royalty.

But Providence, too, is filled with the historic sights, of an earlier period when its merchants grew rich on the slave trade and other lucrative commerce. Add miles of beautiful beaches – Rhode Island has an extensive shoreline – a rich cultural life, and an idyllic island, and you'll see why Rhode Island should be on any New England sightseeing itinerary.

Perhaps the feature I find most endearing is Rhode Island's unique and quirky food culture. People here are passionate about food, which shows in the quality of local restaurants, but you may see dishes with names like stuffies, coffee cabinets, johnnycakes, and the state's own unique take on chowder. Puzzled? Just ask any local and you'll tap a fountain of information, probably including a list of restaurants you should try.

Rhode Island is an ideal place for families to visit, with one of the country's finest zoos, an engaging children's museum, endless beaches, spacious parks like Brenton Point (great for kite-flying), Fort Adams, and Colt State Park.

You and your family will find lots of places to go and things to do in our list of the top tourist attractions in Rhode Island.

1. The Breakers, Newport

2. cliff walk, newport, 3. roger williams park zoo, providence, 4. waterfire providence, 5. the elms, newport, 6. risd museum of art, providence, 7. marble house, newport, 8. rosecliff, newport, 9. ocean drive, newport, 10. walking tour of bellevue avenue mansions, newport, 11. narragansett bay beaches, 12. colt state park, bristol, 13. block island and mohegan bluffs, 14. providence performing arts center, 15. rough point, newport, 16. blithewold, bristol, 17. beavertail lighthouse and state park, jamestown, 18. benefit street and john brown house, providence, 19. herreshoff marine museum, bristol.

Newport's most celebrated – and showiest – Gilded Age mansion in Newport was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1895 and reflects the unimaginable wealth of the Vanderbilt family. The Italian Renaissance "summer cottage" has 70 rooms, including a grand three-story dining room, and was built using imported French and Italian marble and alabaster.

Ceiling paintings, mosaics, marble columns, fine wood paneling, and carved stucco decorate its rooms lavishly and ostentatiously, as was intended by the Vanderbilts, who never risked being outdone by their wealthy competitors.

While the glitz and showy grandeur of the public rooms where the Vanderbilts lived and entertained are impressive, my favorite place to go in The Breakers is below the stairs, in the cavernous kitchen and pantries. Shining copper stockpots stand on the yards-long stove, and dozens of copper sauce pans and frypans hang from a rack above a marble work island large enough for rolling a dozen side-by-side pie crusts. Credit the Vanderbilts for giving the kitchen staff a well-lighted workspace; a second bank of windows brings more daylight into the high-ceilinged room.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Newport

Despite past efforts of mansion owners on the preferred ocean side of Bellevue Avenue to close off access, Newport's Cliff Walk has remained a public walking path since the days when the great palaces were at their prime.

The pathway along the rocky shore provides walkers with views of breakers crashing on the rocks below, as well as the mansions' gardens and sea-facing facades above, and is one of the most popular – and free – things to do in Newport . The Cliff Walk begins well before The Breakers , the first major mansion it skirts, and after 3.5 miles, it passes by Rough Point , at the end of Bellevue Avenue. The exotic Tea House at Marble House stands just above the path.

Author's Tip: You don't need to walk the entire 3.5-mile length of Cliff Walk, or double back to the starting point if you want a shorter walk. You can begin at the end of Narragansett Ave., at a spot known as Forty Steps, and leave the trail at Ruggles Ave. to return by Bellevue Ave. This shorter route gives you a feel for the oceanside scenery and a look at several mansions, including The Breakers. The next exit point (and the last before the end at Rough Point) is a path connecting to Marine Ave.

Despite its history as one of the country's oldest zoos, Roger Williams Park Zoo is an outstanding example of modern zoo design and ethics. Largely cage-free, the zoo is a place where animals live in environments as close as possible to their native habitat, and where visitors can see them with a minimum of visible barriers.

In the 40-acre zoo, they can watch snow leopards, zebras, alligators, wildebeest, giraffes, elephants, kangaroos, red pandas, and dozens more native and exotic creatures in a setting that encourages kids and adults to learn more about them, their habits, and their habitat. In the newest addition, the Faces of the Rainforest exhibit, you meet the monkeys, birds, reptiles, and amphibians native to the Amazon Rainforest.

Because of its kid-friendly atmosphere and the number of things to do here, Rogers Williams Park Zoo is one of Rhode Island's most popular places to go for families. Exhibits are varied for different ages, with a treehouse for younger children to climb, and engaging exhibits about the animals and their environment for older kids.

The 435-acre park also contains a Botanical Center with New England's largest public indoor display garden, the Museum of Natural History , a planetarium, and a carousel .

Author's Tip: Throughout February, you can visit the zoo with your family at half-price admission, during the zoo's annual Winter Wonder Days.

Address: 1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island

Read More: Top Things to Do in Providence

The four-acre Waterplace Park and Riverwalk border the Woonasquatucket River as it winds through Downcity, Providence. Several times during the spring, summer, and fall, the city celebrates this river, which until late in the 20th century, was completely covered by roadways.

More than 100 bonfires are lit in large iron pans in the river's center and kept blazing throughout the evening as residents and tourists stroll along the brick riverside walkways and footbridges. Street performers, vendors, and world music highlight these family-friendly celebrations.

The atmosphere is easy and relaxed; nobody seems to be in a hurry and strangers smile as they pass. Although the riverbanks are filled with tourists as well as locals, WaterFire is a time when Providence reveals its true nature: despite its size, it's a small town at heart.

For an ultra-romantic view of WaterFire, book way ahead for a ride in the authentic Venetian La Gondola . Floating along the river is a romantic way to see downtown Providence at any time, not just during WaterFire.

Author's Tip: Finding a restaurant for dinner on WaterFire evenings will be difficult. We like to pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the nearby parks: Waterplace Park on Memorial Blvd., Prospect Terrace on Congdon St., or Providence River Park on Bridge St.

Philadelphia coal magnate Edward J. Berwind commissioned The Elms to be based on the mid-18th century Château d'Asnière, near Paris. Completed in 1901, the Berwinds' summer home was embellished with Venetian paintings and furnished in French antiques from the period of the chateau it was modeled after.

Twice daily, Servant Life Tours reveal "backstairs" details about the staff that was responsible for maintaining the house and serving at its elaborate parties. Along with the servants' quarters at the very top of the mansion, you'll descend to the cellar to see the basement kitchens and laundry rooms, and learn about the building's technical systems, quite advanced for their day.

Tours reveal details about the staff that was responsible for maintaining the house, and about the building's technical systems. Be sure to allow time to visit the restored Classical Revival gardens, especially the lower gardens, which feature fountains, a sunken garden, and marble pavilions.

One of the 20 largest art museums in the United States, the Museum of Art at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence is remarkable not only for the staggering numbers of its collections, but for their breadth of scope. The historical and contemporary textiles and dress collection alone totals more than 26,000 objects, from ancient Egyptian clothing fragments and Elizabethan needlework to 20th-century American designers and Japanese Noh theater robes.

Other collections are equally impressive, including Decorative Arts and Design; Asian Art; Contemporary Art (which includes pioneering video arts); Ancient Art (complete with a mummy and coffin); and a Painting and Sculpture collection featuring works by Copley, Homer, Manet, Monet, Degas, Cézanne, Rodin, Picasso, Matisse, Maxfield Parrish, and Georgia O'Keeffe.

With such a wealth of art in its collections, it is impossible for the museum to display more than a small fraction of it at any time. Special exhibitions spotlighting different themes keep the museum fresh for return visits, and some of the most popular collections are always on view in their own galleries: Ancient Greek and Roman, Ancient Egyptian, Asian Art, Decorative Arts and Design, 18th and 19th-Century American, and European Art.

The museum's shop is always a good source of gifts and household items that are unusual and reflect cutting-edge design. I always try to stop by before the holidays to find unique gifts.

Address: 20 North Main St., Providence, Rhode Island

Built in 1892, Marble House was designed by the same architect as The Breakers, but pre-dates it. Modeled on the Petit Trianon at Versailles (French palaces were the model of the day), the house has an opulent gold-encrusted ballroom, inspired by the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. The rest of the house is equally lavish in its detail and is widely considered to be the most tasteful of the Belle Epoch mansions in Newport.

The elegant dining room, an almost exact reproduction of a salon at Versailles, is faced in pink Numidian marble. The solid bronze dining chairs were custom-made and, at 75 pounds each, must have been a challenge for the brawniest of footmen.

In 1913, Alva Vanderbilt added a red Chinese teahouse to the grounds, which you can see from Cliff Walk.

Address: 596 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island

Designed by Stanford White, after Louis XIV's Grand Trianon at Versailles, Rosecliff belonged to one of Newport's most legendary hostesses, the flamboyant Tessie Oelrichs. The mansion is no less flamboyant, but of all the mansions, it's the most livable.

The ceiling of the 80-foot-long grand ballroom – Newport's largest – is a cloud-studded blue sky surrounded by plaster swirls and painted medallions. The ballroom was the setting for scenes in the films The Great Gatsby and True Lies . Another highlight of the house is the graceful grand staircase that rises in sweeping Baroque curves, emphasized by a filigreed wrought-iron railing at either side.

The extensive rose gardens, with wood trellises, a pergola, urns, and statuary, have been restored, using the horticulture records of the estate's original owner, the noted 19 th -century rose grower George Bancroft, who created the gardens.

Note that Rosecliff has recently undertaken major renovations, the largest restoration project in the Preservation Society's history.

Address: 548 Bellevue Avenue, Newport, Rhode Island

If you're up for more mansion viewing after Bellevue Avenue, follow it to the end at Coggeshall Avenue and continue left to follow the shore past Bailey's Beach. The next 10 miles take you past more Gilded Age "cottages," as well as some of the newer Newport mansions. The most sumptuous will be on the left, the ocean side, as the route curves around the southern shore of Aquidneck Island.

Brenton Point State Park is a good place to stop for a picnic or just to sit and watch the sea. The usually steady breeze on the point makes it a favorite place to fly kites.

The road turns right at Brenton Point, and you'll pass the U.S. Coast Guard Station, then see Hammersmith Farm on a hillside (this is where President Kennedy's wedding reception was held in 1953).

At Fort Adams State Park , you'll find several things to do, including a beach and President Eisenhower's summer White House . The Newport Folk and Jazz Festivals are held in the park.

The grandest and most famous of Newport's mansions spread majestically in a row between Bellevue Avenue and the ocean, with a few others facing them from the opposite side of the avenue. Cliff Walk gives views of the ocean side, while a stroll down Bellevue reveals the mansions' facades and grand entrances.

The scene today looks much as it did to the fashionable ladies who rode their carriages in the late afternoon ritual of a promenade along Bellevue Avenue.

Beginning at Memorial Avenue and walking south along Bellevue Avenue, the first of the mansions, Kingscote , is on the right. More modest than the others, it is also one of the oldest, built in 1841, and a beautiful example of a Gothic Revival-style villa.

Also on the right, is The Elms , built in 1901. These and other mansions mentioned here are open to the public, and standing between them, you'll see many more that can be admired from the street.

Chateau-Sur-Mer , on the left, is another of the earlier mansions, and was later renovated in the Arts & Crafts style, so the interior is a compendium of Victorian through early 20 th -century decoration. Also on the left, the 1901 Vernon Court is now home to the National Museum of American Illustration , displaying works by Maxfield Parrish, Howard Pyle, Norman Rockwell, and others .

Rosecliff, Beechwood (no longer open to the public), and Marble House sit in a row overlooking Cliff Walk, and after several other distinguished mansions, you'll see the newly restored Belcourt Castle on the right. Built in 1894, it is a combination villa and stable reflecting an eccentric mix of Medieval Revival and stick style.

Where Bellevue Avenue turns at the beginning of Ocean Drive, you'll see the fanciful Gatehouse of Rough Point , with its witch-hat turrets. Rough Point was lived in as a home until it was bequeathed to Newport Restoration Foundation by its owner, Doris Duke. The reclusive heiress furnished it with her personal collections of art and antiques, and visitors see it as she left it.

If long stretches of fine white sand beckon you, head for the towns of Narragansett and South Kingstown, south of Providence, to find a string of public beaches on the protected waters of Narragansett Bay. These beautiful strands are among the best beaches in the entire Northeast .

Matunuck Beach State Park , East Matunuck State Beach, Roger W. Wheeler State Beach, Scarborough State Beach, and Narragansett Town Beach all have changing facilities and parking. The latter is within walking distance of the old beach resort town of Narragansett Pier, where you'll find both lodging and restaurants.

Farther south, more beaches face onto Long Island Sound, where the surf can be a bit heavier. My favorite is Watch Hill , a delightfully old-fashioned resort town with an excellent beach, a lighthouse, and a historic carousel. I like to stop for a leisurely meal at the Olympia Tea Room , either lunch at the sidewalk café or dinner in one of the antique mahogany booths inside. The Tea Room has been catering to vacationers here for more than 100 years.

Stretching along one of New England's loveliest shorelines, Colt State Park covers 464 acres overlooking a panorama of Narragansett Bay. Four miles of the East Bay Bike Path border the shore through the park, and inland are lawns, fruit trees, flowering shrubs, stone walls, 10 large play fields, and six picnic groves with tables.

A museum shows the history of the park, which was formerly the country farming estate of the wealthy Samuel Colt and contained a main house, barns, stables, and statuary of mythical Greek gods and goddesses. The barn, one of the only original buildings of the estate still standing, housed prize Jersey cattle.

Address: Route 114, Bristol, Rhode Island

Ten miles offshore, Block Island is reached by ferry from Point Judith (Galilee), on the south coast. From laid-back little New Harbor, where you'll find lodging and dining, you can bicycle or walk to several beaches or to the Victorian Southeast Lighthouse . So solidly does this brick building and its light tower sit atop its bluff, you'll be surprised to hear the story of how it was moved in 1994 to keep it from falling off its eroding bluffs into the sea.

Mohegan Bluffs are a three-mile stretch of coastal cliffs with a 200-foot drop to the ocean. At the foot of these is a beautiful beach, although the prospect of climbing back up the 151 steps might discourage you.

Walkers and hikers will find abundant places to go on Block Island. You could easily spend half a day on the trails of The Maze, beginning at the Clay Head trailhead off Corn Neck Road. Or explore Rodman's Hollow, a depression carved by the retreating glaciers, where trails wind through low-growing forests. A good part of the island is protected by the Nature Conservancy, so stop by their office on High St. or the Chamber of Commerce at the ferry landing to get a map of its 25 miles of island trails.

At the northern tip of the island is the 1867 North Lighthouse , where there is an interpretive center. Miles of trails crisscross the island and are popular with birders who come to spot the more than 150 species stopping here in the fall. A weekend on this island with its far-away feeling is one of the most romantic things to do in Rhode Island.

Tip for Parents: Because this is an island, the surf can be rolling and strong, so most of the beaches are not especially suited to small children. The exception is the southern end of Town Beach, where the sandy shore is shallow for some distance into the sea and the surf is gentle.

You can't miss the magnificent façade of the former Loew's Movie Palace on Weybosset Street, especially at night, when it lights up in all its neon glory. Reborn as the Providence Performing Arts Center in 1982, the authentically restored 1928 Beaux Arts theater is resplendent with marble columns, crystal chandeliers, tiers of balconies detailed in plasterwork, and a magnificent ceiling of medallions surrounding a dome with a multi-tiered chandelier.

Beyond its visual charms, the theater is a world-class performance center, the second-largest theater of its kind in the country. The center regularly presents top-notch national Broadway tours, many of which choose it as the launch stage for their opening performance.

The theater's 1927 Wurlitzer Organ is one of only three five-manual keyboard consoles built by Wurlitzer, and can reproduce the sounds of an entire orchestra. The 3,100-seat theater is on the National Register of Historic Places .

Address: 220 Weybosset Street, Providence, Rhode Island

The last of the Newport mansions to be inhabited, Rough Point was the summer home of Heiress Doris Duke, who bequeathed the estate to the Newport Restoration Foundation upon her death in 1993. Today the house appears just as it did when she lived here, reflecting her own tastes and lifestyle. She lived among her various collections, which decorate and furnish the 105-room mansion – the fifth largest in Newport.

Special exhibitions drawing on the vast collections have frequently featured mid- to late-20th-century couture fashion from her extensive (and expensive) wardrobe, so you may see Courrèges and Gucci pantsuits, or hats by Dior along with the priceless tapestries, portraits, Chinese ceramics, period French furniture, and decorative arts. This combination of artistic treasures and a look at the life of its owner distinguishes Rough Point from the other mansions tours.

Other exhibitions have highlighted Doris Duke's rather notorious life and her work in establishing the Newport Restoration Foundation to preserve some of the city's architectural and historic treasures at a time when many were being sold or destroyed. During her lifetime, the foundation saved 83 historic homes.

Address: 680 Bellevue Ave, Newport, RI

Overlooking Narragansett Bay, Blithewold was built in 1908 for Augustus Van Wickle, and resembles a 17th-century English country manor. Its 45 rooms are furnished much as they were when the family lived here and decorated with their collections of Baccarat crystal, Gorham silver, more than 30 sets of fine china, several Tiffany lamps and dolls, along with objects collected in their travels.

The house was designed with large windows facing the water and overlooking the estate's 33 acres of gardens. Among the finest New England gardens open to the public, those at Blithewold include a water garden, an enclosed garden, display gardens, a rock garden, and a rose garden. The more than 500 different varieties of trees, shrubs, and plants include the East Coast's largest giant sequoia and a bamboo grove.

Address: 101 Ferry Road, Bristol, Rhode Island

Views of Narragansett Bay, nature, saltwater fishing, walking trails, history, and a chance to visit North America's third-oldest lighthouse are among the attractions that bring visitors to Beavertail State Park in Jamestown.

Built in 1856, Beavertail Lighthouse marks the entrance to the vast Narragansett Bay. The first lighthouse was built here in 1749, burned and rebuilt in 1753, then destroyed by British soldiers retreating from Newport in 1779. Rebuilt after the Revolution, the tower was replaced with the current structure in 1856.

The museum, open seasonally, contains artifacts from the lighthouse's past, as well as exhibits on Narragansett Bay's maritime history. On certain days in the summer, you can climb the lighthouse tower.

The rockbound coast and tidal pools of this southernmost point of Jamestown Island are an open-air laboratory for learning about geology, marine life, and shoreline ecology. The Beavertail Naturalist Program offers seasonal marine education programs at the Beavertail Aquarium.

Known today as "The Mile of History," Benefit Street was the social, cultural, artistic, civic, and intellectual heart of Providence in the colonial and early Federal periods. You can immerse yourself in these exciting times for the young country just by walking this mile of stone- and brick-paved street.

What makes Benefit Street especially interesting is that it is not a frozen-in-time museum street but a vibrant neighborhood, where later additions of Victorian and a few 20th-century buildings keep it in the here-and-now. Some of Providence's most interesting architecture is here, and a stroll along it will reveal beautiful gardens, a family burial ground, and churches, as well as period homes.

The most spectacular of these is the John Brown House , built for prosperous colonial merchant, John Brown. He was the first to build outside the crowded waterfront, but from high on this hill he could see his wharves at India Point, from which his ships plied their profitable China trade.

The elegant home is still filled with the original Brown family furnishings, which include some of the finest examples of works by Rhode Island's famed cabinetmakers , as well as early decorative arts. If you can see only one colonial home here, make it this one.

Sailing, and most particularly the America's Cup race, is deeply ingrained into Newport culture and history. To gain a sense of this, and to see models and actual restored boats — including one that's considered the most beautiful hull form ever created — visit the Herreshoff Marine Museum commemorating the Herreshoffs and their boat designs.

Their most legendary feat was designing and building eight consecutive successful defenders of the America's Cup, from 1893 to 1934. The America's Cup Hall of Fame is part of the museum, which features more than 60 sailing and power yachts along with displays and videos on boat building and sailing.

Address: One Burnside Street, Box 450, Bristol, Rhode Island

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Where to Go from Rhode Island: When it comes to planning your trip, there are several options from Rhode Island. To the north and east there are abundant places to visit in Massachusetts , including the many attractions of Boston and Cambridge , historic Plymouth , and the beaches of Cape Cod .

More nearby Places to Visit: Traveling west, you'll find the cities of Hartford and New Haven , home of Yale University and its museums. If you're visiting in summer, you'll likely want to take advantage of the water. On the shore, along with Connecticut's beautiful beaches and top beach hotels, you'll find plenty of things to do in Mystic at its famous maritime museum.

More on Rhode Island

110 Wicked Cool Things to do in Rhode Island (for visitors or locals)

Little Rhody may be the smallest state in the nation, but there are still plenty of things to do in Rhode Island! The Ocean State is packed with history, nature, arts and culture, and, of course, beaches. After living here for more than 20 years, there are still items on my Rhode Island bucket list that I need to check off.

Whether you live in Rhode Island or you are planning a future visit, these are some of the quintessential Rhode Island experiences for every season. The question is, which do you want to do first?

It takes quite a few years of living here to make it through the whole list, so if you are just visiting, here are my top picks:

• Quintessential:  Waterfire, gondola ride, Newport Mansions and sailing
• For history buffs:  Newport Mansions
• For music fans:  Newport Jazz Festival or Newport Folk Festival
• For arts & culture connoisseurs:  PVD Fest, RISD Museum
• For foodies:  Rhode Island Red Food Tour, Newport Wine & Food
• For outdoor enthusiasts:  Biking the East Bay Bike Path, bird watching at Sachuest
• For families:  Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence Children’s Museum, Beavertail State Park
• For couples:  see our  date ideas in Rhode Island

You can also see our favorite things to do in Rhode Island in:

• Things to do in Rhode Island in summer
• Things to do in Rhode Island in fall
• Things to do in Rhode Island in winter
• Things to do in Rhode Island for Christmas
• Best things to do in Providence

Best Things to do in Rhode Island

Even though Rhode Island is a small state and nothing is more than an hour’s drive away, I’ve still tried to mix these up with a variety of recommendations for the different regions throughout the state. 

Tour the Newport Mansions

Picture the height of the Gilded Age with a tour of the  Newport Mansions . Once used as summer homes or “cottages” by the New York elite, these stunning mansions are the U.S. answer to castles and palaces. Start with the Breakers and then continue with Rosecliff, Marble House, or The Elms. 

Experience WaterFire

WaterFire  lights up over eighty braziers from Waterplace Park to Memorial/South Main Street Park in Providence on scheduled evenings throughout the season. The music, entertainment, and ambience make this a must-attend event at least once a year. You will find street entertainers, live music, local makers, food trucks, and side events along the neighboring streets.

Stroll on the Newport Cliff Walk

Take a stroll along the 3.5 mile scenic path overlooking the ocean and backing up against the stunning Newport Mansions. Just go early to avoid the crowds and walk along Bellevue Avenue on your return.

Watch the Waves at Beavertail State Park

Spending a day at Beavertail State Park in Jamestown is one of our favorite  things to do in Rhode Island in the summer . You can visit the lighthouse museum, check out the tiny local aquarium, climb over the rocks and examine the tide pools, or enjoy a picnic. It is also a great spot to fly a kite.

Check Out Providence’s Street Art 

There are a number of large-scale murals across Providence to discover as you walk through the streets of downtown. Take a  self-guided tour  and learn more about the art and the artists who created them. See how many you can find! 

Take a Gondola Ride

Enjoy an authentic Venetian gondola ride through the heart of a Renaissance city, great for a special occasion or romantic night out. Just make your reservation with  La Gondola  far in advance if you hope to go during Waterfire.

Sail Around Newport

Newport is the sailing capital of the world and there are plenty of ways to see the City by the Sea from the water from historic schooner sails to private charters.

Take a Scenic Drive on Ocean Avenue

There are many  scenic drives in Rhode Island , but the best is along Ocean Avenue in Newport, past Brenton Point State Park and then along Bellevue Avenue past the Newport Mansions.

Visit the RISD Museum

We don’t have the same scale of museums as larger states, but the  RISD Museum  (Rhode Island School of Design) offers a small but world class art museum. You can explore galleries with Asian, Ancient Egyptian, and Ancient Greek and Roman art, or focus on modern and contemporary galleries and temporary exhibits.

Play at the International Tennis Hall of Fame 

Visit the Tennis Hall of Fame and explore the museum, or watch a match on the historic grass courts. You can play too — the Hall of Fame is open daily for public play, lessons and clinics. The  International Tennis Hall of Fame  is located at 194 Bellevue Ave in Newport.

Go Wine Tasting

Family owned and operated,  Newport Vineyards  offers tours and tastings daily of its estate-grown white, red, and rosé wines. Not a wine lover, Taproot Brewing is a seven-barrel brewhouse on site, featuring unfiltered hop-forward beers. Check the website for current events or to make a reservation at the restaurant. You can also book tastings at Shepherd’s Run in South Kingstown or Greenvale Vineyards in Portsmouth.

Fly a Kite at Brenton Point State Park

Brenton Point State Park is located on a former grand estate in Newport with a 180 degree view of the ocean. The winds make it a perfect spot for flying a kite, having a picnic, or climbing over the rocks to watch the sunset. Bring a sweatshirt, even during the summer. That wind is no joke. 

Tour the State House

The  Rhode Island State House  features one of the largest self-supporting marble domes in this world. Tours are typically offered Monday – Friday at 10am or 1pm, or you can take a self-guided tour (Monday-Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm). 

Take a Boat Tour Through Providence

Providence River Boat Company  offers narrated tours that highlight historical, nautical and architectural points of interest along the  the Providence River, Riverwalk, Waterplace Park, the Fox Point Hurricane Barrier and the Providence Industrial Harbor.

Sip a Local Brew

From Woonsocket to Westerly, there are nearly 40  craft breweries  to investigate, many offering tasting rooms and special events. Whether you join a beer tour or pick a few to try, see which ones you like best. A few of our favorites are Whaler’s in South County, Grey Sail, the revitalized Narragansett just off Gano Street, and the venerable Trinity Brewhouse.

Visit the Roger Williams National Memorial 

Located at the foot of College Hill in downtown Providence,  the park is tribute to Roger Williams , the founder of Providence, for his “outstanding contributions to the development of the principles of freedom in this country” through his advocacy for the separation of church and state so that each individual can make their choices based on their own conscience. 

Get Spooked on a Providence Ghost Tour

Providence Ghost Tours  explores the spooky side of Providence on a lantern-lit history tour that uncovers the stories of Providence’s longest-lingering residents while walking in the footsteps of local literary giants and humble servants alike. You will explore the campuses at Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design and admire the beautiful architecture while learning the area’s chilling history. 

Ride the Rails with Rail Explorers 

Hop onto the pedal-driven  Rail Explorers , which operates along the Old Colony Railroad, built in 1862. The rails meander alongside spectacular Narragansett Bay offering riders views that include Jamestown, the Mount Hope Bridge, Hog Island Lighthouse, and coastal woodlands.

Get Artsy at PVD Fest

Every year artists from around the globe gather in Providence and live music, dance, food, and visual art installations transform the city in a  four-day, multi-arts take-over  of public spaces, parks and outdoor stages around downtown.

Attend the Oldest July 4th Parade 

America’s oldest July 4th celebration takes place in  Bristol, RI . Locals and visitors line up hours in advance in all their patriotic gear to enjoy this fun time. 

Have Afternoon Tea at Blithewold

Blithewold  is a historic 45-room mansion and 33-acre estate with grand views of Narragansett Bay and a series of lovely gardens. A great time to explore the mansion and its grounds is during Daffodil Days in the spring or Christmastime. Or, spend the afternoon with a lovely winter tea service featuring a three-tiered tray filled with sweet and savory treats such as freshly baked scones with sweet cream.

Hop on the Ferry to Block Island

Sail away on the  Ferry  for a Block Island day trip or a weekend getaway. Rent bicycles or scooters to explore the island or stay close to town and enjoy Bloody Marys on the beach at Ballard’s Beach Resort.

Get a Lobster Roll at Champlin’s 

When you hop off the ferry back from Block Island, take a walk over to Champlin’s.  Champlin’s Seafood Deck  is located at the entrance to Galilee Harbor, home of Rhode Island’s largest fishing fleet. Enjoy one of the best lobster rolls in Rhode Island on their spacious deck and watch local fishermen unload their daily catch or pick up a lobster to go.

Watch the Animals at Roger Williams Park Zoo

Located on 40 acres,  Roger Williams Park Zoo  is home to 160 species of animals including a Komodo dragon, zebras, red pandas, African elephants, Masai giraffes, snow leopards, bears, anteaters, flamingoes, sloths, and more. There are opportunities to feed giraffes and farmyard animals, as well a ride a zip line or train through the woodlands.

Bike the Blackstone River Bikeway

Bike along the 14-mile path  Blackstone River Bikeway  that runs from Cumberland to Woonsocket in Northern Rhode Island. You will bike over dams, past wildlife-filled canals, and alongside railroad tracks. It relatively flat and makes for a nice, relaxing ride. There’s nowhere to stop for food or drinks along the way, so remember to fill your water bottles before you head out. And remember, it’s 14-miles long which means if you want to come back to where you started, it’s also 14 miles back.

See a Movie at the Rustic Drive In

Watching a movie at the Rustic Drive In is a summertime tradition in Rhode Island. Load up the car and bring the whole family for a double feature. The Rustic Drive In is located at 1195 Eddie Dowling Highway Route 146 South in North Smithfield, Rhode Island. It’s open late-April through October.

Eat Family-style Chicken at Wright’s Farm

Winner, winner chicken dinner.  Wright’s Farm  offers no-frills, chicken dinners served family style. Every party is served up platters of baked chicken and steak, rolls, salad and pasta. Wright’s Farm is located at 84 Inman Rd, in Harrisville, RI. If you’re in a hurry, they also offer take-out and support online ordering.

Go Berry Picking

Rhode Island has plenty of farms that offer pick-your-own blueberries and strawberries in the summer, such as Sweet Berry Farm in Middletown and Salisbury Farm in Johnston. Check hours before you go.

Drink Fresh Milk from Wright’s Dairy Farm

A visit to a working dairy is such fun for the kids. Watch the cows and pick up some fresh milk, locally-made ice cream, or a delicious cake from their bakery.  Wright’s Dairy Farm  (not to be confused with the chicken place) is located at 200 Woonsocket Hill Rd, in North Smithfield, RI.

Tiptoe Through the Tulips at Wicked Tulips Flower Farm

Can’t make it to Amsterdam? You can pick up some fresh tulips at the  Wicked Tulips Flower Farm  in Exeter, New England’s largest tulip farm, instead. When the tulips are in bloom it’s the perfect way to welcome spring, walking the grounds and picking tulips to bring back home. But you can’t just show up — tickets must be purchased ahead of time for a specific time and date for any of their specific locations. If it rains, wear your boots and bring an umbrella because tickets are rain or shine. 

Visit the Oldest Synagogue in the U.S. 

Fittingly the Jewish community in Rhode Island is one of the oldest in the U.S., as Roger Williams’ fundamental belief in religious freedom shaped the state that he founded. While the community pre-dated the building by about 100 years,  Touro Synagogue  was built in 1763 and is the only synagogue from the Colonial era and the oldest standing synagogue in all of the United States. Visit the synagogue and the visitor center, but also consider the Colonial Jewish Walking Tour to get a more well rounded history of the Jews of Newport.

Enjoy a Scoop at the Ice Cream Machine 

The Ice Cream Machine in Cumberland has arguably some of the best homemade ice cream in the state. Just be prepared to queue up to order, which will give you time to decide between all the flavors, and bring your appetite because the servings are huge! 

Sip Cocktails on a Rooftop with a View

The Vanderbilt Hotel in Newport offers a seasonal roof deck with views of town and the harbor, a perfect spot to enjoy a sunset cocktail. You can also enjoy seasonal rooftop drinks at The Viking in Newport or head to Providence for sunset sips at the Rooftop at Providence G or Mare Rooftop. 

Walk Across the Providence Pedestrian Bridge

Providence’s pedestrian bridge connects the East Side to Downcity and the Innovation District. Stop for a drink (in season) at The Guild beer garden, sample offerings from the various food trucks that hang out there, and explore the vegan specialties at Plant City, a plant-based food hall. The beer garden is open Wednesday-Sunday weather permitting from May through October.

Attend Newport Folk or Jazz Festival

Each summer Newport’s Fort Adams plays host to two major music festivals — the  Newport Jazz Festiva l and  Newport Folk Festival . Whether you enjoy the show from the park grounds or the water, these are a highlight of the summer season, just be sure to purchase your tickets (and your hotel reservations) far in advance.

Watch the Sunset from the Lawn at Castle Hill Inn 

Castle Hill Inn  is a luxury hotel located on a 40-acre estate in Newport overlooking the ocean. Even if you can’t afford a room to stay overnight, you can enjoy drinks and dining on The Lawn with beautiful sunset views over the water.

Enjoy Drinks with a View at the Coast Guard House

The perfect way to end a beach day in Narragansett is with sunset drinks at the upstairs deck bar of  The Coast Guard House . The Coast Guard House and its iconic stone towers is located at 40 Ocean Rd in Narragansett.

Take in a Polo Match

Wear your fancy hats and channel your inner Thurston Howell III and make your way down to  Newport Polo . Matches are about two hours and the season typically runs from May – September. Tickets are required and there are a mix of Pavillion, lawn and tailgate sections. You can bring your own food or drinks or take advantage of the bar and food trucks. It’s a fun time, especially with friends!

Take a Hike at Sachuest Wildlife Refuge 

If you are looking for  hiking in Rhode Island , you won’t find any mountains but  Sachuest National Wildlife Refuge ‘s many trails offer bird watching and beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding beaches.

Go Kayaking in Wickford

The Kayak Centre  in Wickford offers tours, rentals and sales of kayaking and stand up paddle boards. From their location, you can explore the local salt ponds or the bay. After your paddle you can enjoy the shops and restaurants of downtown Wickford.

See a Show at Theater by the Sea 

Theater by the Sea  in South Kingstown offers Broadway-quality productions and programming for kids in a historic theater and playhouse from May to September. Subscriptions for the entire season and individual tickets are available.

Eat Oysters at Matunuck Oyster Bar 

Matunuck Oyster Bar  and retail shop offers indoor and outdoor deck seating overlooking Potter Pond with some of the sweetest, smallest, tastiest oysters around, along with pond and farm-to-table cuisine. If raw oysters aren’t your thing, the Oyster Trio (grilled, Rockefeller and Bourbon-chipotle) are delish. And don’t miss out on their Bloody Mary’s. 

Look for Trolls at Ninigret Park

Ninigret Park in Charlestown is the latest spot to find the great wooden trolls of Danish artist Thomas Dambo. Erik Rock is located near Ninigret Park and you can follow the clues to find Greta Granite.

Go Bird Watching at Norman Bird Sanctuary 

The  Norman Bird Sanctuary  offers a number of fun public programs, as well as access to seven miles of hiking trails and bird watching. Trail passes are free for members, but are available for a modest fee to the general public and can be purchased online.

Search for Driftwood in Charlestown

East Beach  in Charlestown is one of the least developed of the Rhode Island state beaches, taking up three miles of prime beach shoreline. You will often see driftwood washed up on the beach. Parking is limited so get there early during high season.

Stargaze at the Frosty Drew Observatory 

Up for something different on a Friday night? Head down to the  Frost Drew Observatory  in Charleston for a night of stargazing and discovery. Admission is free, but passes are required to visit the main observatory telescope. Frosty Drew Observatory is located inside Ninigret Park at 61-62 Park Lane in Charlestown.

Sip Champagne in the Gondola Village at Ocean House

This beachfront, luxury historic hotel offers a French Alp-inspired fondue menu in its Gondola Village during the winter. What a perfect way to embrace the winter temps!

Drive Down to the Newport Car Museum 

From classic cars to sports cars, the  Newport Car Museum  satisfies your need for speed with almost 100 cars in their collection. Relive America’s muscle-car era or look at the “fin cars” of the 1950s. The museum, located just a few minutes from downtown Newport at 1947 West Main Road in Portsmouth is open daily from 10am – 5pm. True car enthusiasts should also visit the  Audrain Automobile Museum  in Newport. 

Attend the Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade 

Newport’s sister city is Kinsale, Ireland and Newport has a long history of ties with the Irish, with even a Museum of Newport Irish History. Each year, the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day is the annual  Newport St. Patrick’s Day Parade .

Get Doughboys at Iggy’s

You’re not a true Rhode Islander until you have lined up for doughboys and clam cakes at  Iggy’s Doughboys and Chowder House  in Narragansett or Warwick. When in Narragansett, you can then pop over to Aunt Carrie’s to see whose clam cakes you like better.

Ride the Carousel in Watch Hill 

Take a spin on the historic  Flying Horses carousel , delighting families since 1883. Maybe you will get lucky and grab the brass ring!

Order a Donut Cake from Allie’s Donuts 

Life changing. You haven’t had the best of the  Rhode Island foods  without tasting a donut cake from Allie’s Donuts. Allie’s Donuts is located at 3661 Quaker Lane in North Kingstown.

Run the Blessing of the Fleet Race

If you just ate that donut, you may need some exercise.  The Blessing of the Fleet is a 10-mile road race  in and around Narragansett that’s been held for more than 50 years. It’s a great event and the finish line leads you right to the Blessing of the Fleet Festival which has live music, carnival games and rides, food and drink, including the famous beer tent (which also has wine). If you don’t want to run, meet your friends who do at the Festival to congratulate them! 

Take a Seal Watching Tour 

Bundle up because November through April is the best time to see the “dogs of the sea” on a seal watching and lighthouse cruise with Save the Bay.

Catch the Rush Hour Rhode Island Philharmonic Concerts

If you are new to classical music, the Friday night  Rhode Island Philharmonic Rush Hour  concerts at The Vets in Providence is a great introduction. Shorter than the Saturday night concerts, they also include a discussion about the music with the conductor before and after the show. So much fun.

Hop on the Trolley for Gallery Night in Providence 

On the third Thursday of every month, from March through November,  eighteen of the city’s “art spots” open their doors for  Gallery Night Providence . You can take a free guided Art Trolley tour or choose your own itinerary, visiting the galleries of your choice. 

Satisfy Your Late Night Cravings at Haven Bros. 

The 1930s-era Haven Bros. trailer is the original Providence food truck. Ubiquitous in downtown Providence for decades, they serve up the tastiest, crispiest fries, along with other comfort foods.

Munch Away at a Providence Food Truck Event

Like any good foodie city, Providence is home to a wide variety of food trucks from all types of cuisines. Find a  food truck event  and bring your appetite and some friends to taste test your way through.

Go Duck Pin Bowling 

Well this is something I never heard of until we moved to Rhode Island. It’s like bowling had a baby with skeeball in a lot of ways. The duckpin bowling balls are slightly larger than a softball and the pins are smaller and lighter. It’s fun for the whole family and there are leagues for all ages. Give it a try at places like Dudek Lanes in Warren or Meadowbrook Lanes in Warwick.

See the Big Nazo Puppets

I’m not sure anything like  Big Nazo  exists outside of Rhode Island. Big Nazo is an international performance group of visual artists, puppet performers, and masked musicians who unite to create bizarre and hilarious larger-than-life sized characters, environments, and spectacles. These creatures are far from the cuddly faces on Sesame Street, but they enthrall all ages none-the-less. You can often find them at special events in Providence.

Eat Stuffed French Toast at the Modern Diner 

The  Modern Diner  in Pawtucket is the first diner in the USA to be accepted on the National Register for Historic Places. Located in a 1930s-era Sterling Streamliner, they continue to innovate with some of the tastiest breakfast options around from marscapone-stuffed French toast to a dizzying array of eggs Benedicts.

Attend a Providence Bruins Game

Major league sporting events are a lot of fun, but also terribly expensive. So it’s great when there’s a minor league option. The PawSox may have left, but we still have the Baby Bruins. Head over to ‘The Dunk’ and enjoy local hockey with the Providence Bruins or the Brown University Brown Bear games. Not a hockey fan? How about cheering for the Providence Friars or Rhode Island Rams basketball teams instead? If soccer is your support, we now have the Rhode Island FC.

Eat Clam Cakes from Dune Brothers Seafood

There are many great seafood restaurants and clam shacks around the state but for a long time, Providence was missing a tasty, but casual, seafood joint until  Dune Brothers Seafood  came to town. This permanent (but seasonal) food truck and patio in the Innovation District features traceable local seafood from New England. And their clam cakes are the best — the secret is the beef fat (yes, I said beef fat) they use for frying. It may sound crazy, but it’s just crazy delicious.

Buy Local at Farm Fresh RI 

There are many  farmers markets in Rhode Island  on varying days and locations throughout the state or you can shop on Saturdays year round at Farm Fresh RI. Check one out for fresh produce, fish, meat, juices, cheeses, and other locally-made goods.

Wander Through the Stacks at Providence Athenaeum 

The  Providence Athenaeum  was founded in 1836 as an independent, member-supported library. Today, the Athenaeum seeks to enrich the literary, cultural, and intellectual pursuits of its members and surrounding community with many special events. Plus it is a great place to explore for booklovers!

See a Show at PPAC

The  Providence Performing Arts Center  welcomes traveling Broadway shows, programming for kids, and musical performances. This world-class venue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is a perfect alternative going to NYC to see a show. Individual tickets and season passes are available. For more original programs, check out Trinity Rep or the Gamm Theater instead.

Take a Stroll Through DePasquale Square 

Enjoy an espresso, pasta, or a glass of wine on the patio at Venda or just stroll through this Federal Hill square on a weekend evening to listen to the music, watch the people dancing along, or throw a coin in the fountain (it’s just a wee bit smaller than the Trevi Fountain in Rome). This is the center of Providence’s “Little Italy” on Atwells Avenue.

Indulge in a Red Velvet Cupcake from LaSalle Bakery 

If you are a fan of red velvet cake, you need to try one of the ginormous red velvet cupcakes from La Salle Bakery. It is one of the best desserts in Rhode Island.

Get Thrifty at the Providence Flea

Providence Flea  was launched in 2013 as a juried vintage and artisan maker market. Held outside along South Water Street during the summer, the market has hosted over 500 vendors. The rest of the year, the Flea moves indoors at the Farm Fresh RI Market Hall on Sims Avenue.

Check Out The Arcade

Located in downtown Providence, The Arcade is the first enclosed shopping mall in the United States. Built in 1828, this Greek Revival building has just a handful of stores today (for a bigger shopping spree, head over to Providence Place), but you can enjoy great grub at Rogue Island.

Lions Giraffes, and Bears, Oh My!

Looking for something different to do on a lovely spring or summer day? Take a drive down to Portsmouth to visit the  Green Animals Topiary Garden . Home to more than 80 “animals”, it’s the oldest topiary garden in the nation and is recognized by the American Daffodil Society as one of just 28 official Daffodil Display Gardens in the United States. Bring a picnic basket and make a day of it!

Learn Revolutionary History at Gaspee Days 

Gaspee Days  commemorates the burning of the British schooner, HMS Gaspee, by Rhode Island patriots in 1772. This has become recognized as the first bloodshed of the American Revolution. Since 1965, the village of Pawtuxet, RI has marked this moment in history with its annual Gaspee Days Celebration. This typically includes a parade, arts and crafts festival, a road race, and the symbolic “Burning of the Gaspee.” 

Bike the East Bay Bike Path 

The  East Bay Bike Path  is a 13.8-mile paved rail trail starting in Providence in India Point Park, and crossing the Seekonk River and continuing southeast to Bristol along the shoreline of Narragansett Bay. This crosses the hiking trail at the Audubon Society in Bristol and ends in Colt State Park. (Pro Tip: hop off the path in Warren and check out Blount Clam Shack – see below).

Gobble up a Giant Lobster Roll at Blount Clam Shack

Blount Clam Shack on the Waterfront  is a required pilgrimage at least once a summer if not more. Hands down the best and maybe biggest lobster rolls (a full half-pound of lobster meat) which you can get traditional style or my favorite, Connecticut-style (luxuriously bathed in clarified butter) on a perfectly butter-toasted sandwich bun. I’m salivating just typing this. And if you have any appetite left, The Wright Scoop ice cream trailer (from Wright’s Creamery) is right next door. This is why biking to and from Blount is necessary to burn off all those delicious calories.

Picnic at Colt State Park

Colt State Park  occupies 464 acres on Poppasquash Neck in Bristol. With four miles of paved pathways, hiking trails, historic stone walls, and one of the state’s most spectacular shorelines, Colt State Park is a favorite among visitors and locals alike. It is a perfect spot for a picnic, fishing from the pier, or a walk along the water.

Have a Del’s

Is there anything more Rhode Island than Del’s Frozen Lemonade? Whether you choose lemon, mango, or watermelon, it just tastes like summer.

Drool over the Chocolate Cake from Gregg’s 

You can’t beat the six-layer, Death by Chocolate Cake from  Gregg’s . I dare you to find a better slice of chocolate cake. Bring your appetite or a buddy because one slice is huge! And if you’re not into chocolate (horrors!), their carrot cake is pretty great too. Oh and FYI, they do take out!

Drink an Awful Awful

Newport Creamery  dates back to 1928 and in 1940, they opened a “milk bar” serving ice cream. Since then, generations of Rhode Islanders have been enjoying their signature drink, the Awful Awful, their version of the milkshake that comes in 11 flavors.

Shop the Scituate Arts Festival

The  Scituate Arts Festival  takes place over Columbus Day weekend in October on the charming Village Green in Scituate. You will find juried vendors of art, crafts, and antiques, along with food stands and entertainment, making it fun for the whole family. The Wickford Art Festival in July is also a fun time.

Visit a Pumpkin Patch

Come fall, it is time to visit one of Rhode Island’s pumpkin farms to pick your own pumpkin or take a hayride. See our favorite  pumpkin patches in Rhode Island.

Go Apple Picking

Early September is the time to head to the apple farms before they are all picked out! See our favorite spots to go  apple picking in Rhode Island .

Solve a Corn Maze 

If you like puzzles and escape rooms, you will enjoy wandering through some of the best corn mazes in Rhode Island, looking for clues and finding your way out.

Devour Some Apple Cider Donuts

The other best thing to do in the  fall in Rhode Island  is to search for the best apple cider donuts in Rhode Island. Our favorites are from Hard Pressed Cider Company and Jaswell’s Farm, what about you?

Stroll Through the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

For the month of October, evenings at Roger Williams Park Zoo transform into the  Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular . Featuring over 5,000 intricately-craved pumpkins along a trail through the zoo, this event is a fall favorite for years. Please note that all tickets must be purchased online in advance. 

Go Skiing at Yawgoo Valley 

When winter comes, it is time to head to Rhode Island’s only ski mountain. It may also be the only place I can ski a double black diamond. Perfect for beginners and ski lessons for youngsters,  Yawgoo Valley  is a local favorite for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.

Ride the Ice Bumper Cars at the Providence Rink 

The Providence Rink is the first outdoor rink to host  bumper cars  on ice. One of the best things to do in Rhode Island in the winter, it books up early so be sure to reserve your tickets weeks in advance.

See a Christmas Carol at Trinity Rep 

A Christmas Carol   at Trinity Rep theater has been a Rhode Island tradition for over 45 years. Charles Dickens’ Christmas classic is just magical as the Trinity Rep players bring Ebenezer Scrooge, Jacob Marley, Tiny Tim, and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future to life on stage. 

Watch The Nutcracker

Join Clara and her  Nutcracker  Prince on a magical journey complete with beautiful sets, elegant choreography, and world-class dancers from  Ballet RI  bringing this holiday tradition to the stage.

Take a Cooking Class at Johnson & Wales 

Johnson & Wales University (Jay-Woo) has one of the oldest culinary arts programs in America. Not only does that help churn out great chefs to enhance the Providence food scene, but it also provides locals the opportunity to “chef it up” by taking cooking classes via it’s  Chef’s Choice program . It’s a fun way to spend the day taking small group (up to 16 people) classes and explore various cuisines, techniques and hone your knife skills. JWU also provides Wine and Sprits certifications in partnership with WSET.

See a Concert at the Greenwich Odeum 

Looking for a great night out? Well the  Greenwich Odeum  has you covered. It’s a great small venue that is host to great concerts, tribute bands, comedy acts and other entertainment right in the heart of downtown East Greenwich. 

Test Your Luck at Twin River 

If you’re feeling lucky, head on over to  Bally’s Twin River  in Lincoln where you can play poker, blackjack, craps and more. You can also place bets at the new SportsBook. Or take in dinner and a show as Twin River hosts a variety of musicians and entertainers in their event center.

Go Bouldering in Lincoln Woods

Located right off of Route 146,  Lincoln Woods  is Rhode Islands’s first state park! There’s so much to do from hiking, jogging and kayaking in the lake. But what can be fun is going bouldering on some of the large rock formations in the park. Just make sure you be careful and have the right gear. You can go on your own or take a bouldering tour with nearby Rock Spot Climbing. On belay!

Play a Round at Triggs Memorial 

If golf is your game, then there’s no better place to see if you’re up to par than  Triggs Memorial . Located in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood of Providence, Triggs is considered one of the best Muni courses in the country by Golf.com and Golf Magazine. 

Hike with Goats at Simmons Farm 

Simmons Farm  is a 400-year old family run farm down on the Aquidneck Peninsula that has lovely GMO-free greens, meats and cheeses. But family-run rhymes with family fun and that’s where the animals come in. There is an animal petting zoo, but the goats are where it’s at. They also offer weekend goat hikes and sometimes even goat yoga. Simmons farm is located at 1942 W. Main Road in Middletown.

Celebrate Naval History at the Seabee Museum 

Starting in WWII, it became clear that operating in far-flung theatres like the South Pacific was going to require fast and innovative engineering to build forward-bases and airfields — and so the Fighting Seabees were created by the US Navy. If you’re a fan of the Pacific War or just interested in learning about naval history, the  Seabee Museum  in North Kingstown is worth a visit.

Have a Blast at the Washington County Fair 

If you’re looking for some family-friendly fun before school starts back up, there’s no better place than the  Washington County Fair  in Richmond. Held in the middle of August you can find all sorts of activities for the whole family including midway rides, games and music. They even have tractor pulls. Plus of course all the fried foods and other yummy treats you expect to see at a county fair. 

Take the Kids to the Providence Children’s Museum

If you have young ones with you, head over to the  Providence Children’s Museum  for some educational, interactive play or check out the Innovation Lab or Maker’s Studio. 

Go Climb a Rock (Wall) 

If you’re looking for a workout and have some fun with friends, head over to  Rock Spot Climbing  in Lincoln. Whether you’re climbing for your first time or on the climbing team, there’s routes for everyone with over 100 rope routes and 50 boulders to try. You can buy individual day passes, multi-packs or sign up for youth or adult climbing programs. 

Start Your Engines at RI Indoor Karting 

Whether you’re going with your family or want a night out with friends,  R1 Indoor Karting  in Lincoln has something for you. The eponymous go kart multi-level track is great for drivers of all skill levels and if you want to push it, the go karts can reach 45 mph. Not into racing? There’s also axe throwing bar (adults only), darts and a huge arcade area. Plus there’s a full service bar and restaurant. 

Get Thee to the Smithy

Ever wonder what it would be like to be a blacksmith? Go to the  Steel Yard  in Providence and take a metalworking class — take “Introduction to Blacksmithing” or learn to weld or make jewelry and other decorative items. The Steel Yard also has a number of ceramics and pottery classes too. And if you get hooked, you can rent time in the studio.

Pretend You are in the Hunger Games

Archery Games Providence  is a unique combat archery game that combines archery with a touch of dodgeball. This family-friendly game is suitable for those 10 and up, but bring your energy!

See Newport (From the Air!)

If you are looking for a real Rhode Island bucket list experience, splurge on a  Newport Helicopter Tour . This family-run and operated company uses new aircraft to offer tours from 12 minutes up to 40 minutes.

Visit the Rhode Island Desert

Did you know there’s a desert in Rhode Island? Yes, you heard that right. This unique and unusual landscape spans across forty acres of land with sandy dunes waiting to be explored. It offers plenty of space for walking, bird-watching, or capturing photos. If you’re lucky you could spot wildlife such as deer, fox, or owls.

Visit during the winter months, particularly after a snowfall, when the hills become the perfect spot for sledding. In the summer, invite friends to throw around a football or make a cozy bonfire as the sun sets. The desert gives nature enthusiasts a change of scenery from the typical forests and coastlines found in the ocean state. Please note that the area permits hunting, so exercise caution during hunting months and wear bright orange clothing for visibility. 

Revisit the Past at Fort Wetherill State Park

Used during both the American Revolutionary War and World War ll,  Fort Wetherill  is filled with rich history and rocky coastline shores. Originally built as a military protection fort for Narragansett Bay, the park has hidden abandoned bunkers now decorated with graffiti art. Inside the bunkers are hidden rooms people can explore however, fair warning inside is very dark even on sunny days. 

Aside from its history, the park is surrounded by water and is great for sightseeing, saltwater fishing, and even scuba diving. Take a short hike along the trails with amazing views from all directions. This spot is for history nerds and nature lovers looking to take in the ocean breeze. Summer is the best time to visit giving the chance to cool off in the water. Bring a jacket because it can get chilly at times. 

Search for Treasure at The Glass Float Project 

At seven miles long and three miles wide, Block Island offers some of Rhode Island’s finest scenery and beaches. Now, thanks to artist Elben Horton, the Island offers a thrill. After the economy slowed down in 2011, Horton decided to hide 150 hand-blown glass orbs around Block Island with his newfound free time. Now, thirteen years later, Horton and his team hide 550- orbs in what’s known as “The Glass Float Project”, the state’s largest treasure hunt.

Each orb is numbered and dated according to the year. Most are clear, but the first few (24 in 2024) are colored. The orbs are hidden, only on public land, a few at a time, between early June and mid-October. However, Orbs can be found any day of the year as not all are found in a single season. Take on the challenge by yourself, with family, or with friends in nature, and discover parts of the island you wouldn’t normally see.

Learn at the Museum of Natural History & Planetarium

Be prepared to get transported from the Earth to Space with  The Museum of Natural History and Planetarium . This Providence gem doesn’t get the attention it deserves and is a great way for the whole family to do something together, have fun, and learn! Explore more than 250,000 objects that narrate tales of the natural and cultural worlds, stroll among extinct creatures, and admire the various shapes, sizes, and hues of the minerals that may be found on our planet.

Meet Animals at Peckham Farm

Cows, donkeys, goats, oh my! Come and hang out with the animals of  Peckham Farm . The 300-acre farm, which lies directly next to URI’s Kingston campus on Peckham Farm Road, serves as the heart of the university’s animal science program. It might be the only classroom housed in a barn. The farm is open to the public for visits during regular university business hours from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

You can explore the farm on your own; just remember to abide by the signs that outline the restrictions. If you’re fortunate enough, you might even run into a student who works on the farm, and they can provide you with further information about the names, ages, and other characteristics of the animals.

The springtime at Peckham Farm is especially enticing since adorable piglets, lambs, calves, and more arrive. Whether you’re an adult looking to keep the kids busy or a curious child, the farm serves as a great reminder to take a moment to stop and appreciate the little treasures in front of us.

Test Your Luck at Level 99

Ready for a challenge? Check out the newest entertainment venue to the Providence Place Mall,  Level 99 . This one-of-a-kind drinking and dining experience has over fifty challenge rooms with physical and mental puzzles. You can play with friends to race against the clock to complete obstacle courses and solve riddles before time runs out. All rooms show their difficulty level before entering and can be accessed through a wristband. 

Pamper Yourself at the Bodhi Spa 

What’s better than a self-care day? The Newport or Providence Bodhi Spa  offers a peaceful setting to reset their bodies and minds. You can choose from a range of options like hydrotherapy, massages, and facials to help them relax and release any built-up stress. The spa’s licensed estheticians and massage therapists will help you leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. 

Laugh Away at Comedy Connection 

This East Providence comedy club is great to laugh the night away.  Comedy Connection  hosts a variety of comedians, many of whom have made appearances on Netflix, HBO, and NBC specials. Grab some drinks and snacks like popcorn, chips, or candy and enjoy the show. 

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: June 4, 2024

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• Rhode Island

34 Best Things to Do in Rhode Island — From Stunning Beaches to Historic Mansions

Keep busy in the country's smallest state with these fun activities.

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Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the nation, but it offers something exciting to do at every turn. The Ocean State is packed with activities for the young, old, and young at heart, solo travelers and families, leisure seekers and adventure lovers, and everyone in between. Don't believe it? Here are 34 things to do in Rhode Island, from savoring the best lobster rolls to attending local-favorite festivals.

Marvel at the Newport Mansions. 

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No trip to Rhode Island would be complete without crossing the Claiborne Pell Bridge to see the famed  Newport mansions . Built by some of the most renowned titans of industry (including the Vanderbilts and the Astors), these architectural gems have stood the test of time and remain in pristine condition for you to view, thanks to the Preservation Society of Newport County. 

Soak in the scenery along the Cliff Walk. 

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Newport is one of the most romantic getaways in New England , and no trip for two would be complete without a stroll along the  Cliff Walk . The 3.5-mile trail follows the ocean's edge from Bellevue Avenue to Memorial Boulevard. You'll see the mansions on one side and the Atlantic on the other as you explore this unmissable free attraction. The path can get challenging at times, but an easy, scenic chunk lies between Narragansett Avenue and Ruggles Avenue. This is where you'll see The Breakers , Ochre Court , and Salve Regina University.

Visit the Tennis Hall of Fame. 

Newport's  International Tennis Hall of Fame honors the greats from Maria Bueno to Roger Federer (the latter via hologram). The museum has inducted more than 260 players from 27 countries and celebrates the game with history exhibits, virtual reality experiences, and memorabilia. The hall of fame is in the Newport Casino, a stunning 19th-century building.

Paddle out at Narragansett Beach. 

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The Ocean State has no shortage of beaches to explore, but Narragansett is one that never disappoints. The stretch of shore has long been a favorite of tourists and locals alike, thanks to its soft sand and typically docile waves. Though every now and then, a good swell comes through and lures the surfer crowd in. Keen to try it? Get some instruction from the pros at  Warm Winds , who will happily show you the ropes. 

Meet the residents of Roger Williams Park Zoo.

The  Roger Williams Park Zoo  is more than just a place to see animals (though it's great for that, too). The nonprofit zoo also provides environmental education to guests so they can walk away with both a new appreciation for wildlife and a better understanding of how to conserve it for future generations. Things to do here include zipping through the forest on an open-air cable car, going on an African safari, and watching bird demonstrations.

Watch the flames at WaterFire. 

Make your way to Providence, the state's capital, for a spectacularly fiery scene. For more than two decades, the city has put on a pyrotechnic display — a "fire sculpture installation" called  WaterFire . Every few weeks from April through November, the three rivers that flow through downtown Providence are illuminated with displays of fire on and off the water. The show is free, though donations are welcome, and sometimes accompanied by an art and food market. WaterFire is typically held on Saturday nights.

Check out the local talent at RISD Museum.

The Rhode Island School of Design in Providence is renowned for its talented student body. At the  RISD Museum , you can see their works and then some. The museum, founded in 1877, is home to about 100,000 works of art across media from ancient times all the way to modern masterpieces, including works by Picasso, Monet, and Andy Warhol.

Attend a Trinity Repertory Company performance.

The  Trinity Repertory Company puts on intimate performances of classics, new plays, and, around the holidays, "A Christmas Carol." The nonprofit regional theater company's performances take place at the Lederer Theater Center in Providence. Whether you catch a show at the venue's 500- or 250-seat theater, you'll never be more than 12 rows from the stage.

Explore the boutiques and galleries at Bowen's Wharf.

Hearkening back to pre-revolutionary Rhode Island, Bowen's Wharf on the Newport waterfront is a charming blast from the past now brimming with boutiques and restaurants. With its brick pedestrian walkways and colorful shopfronts, the seaside square is picturesque and always lively, also partly because tourists flock here to board cruises from Bowen's Wharf Marina.

Pedal the Blackstone River Bikeway.

The state's second-longest bike path, the Blackstone River Bikeway stretches 18.2 miles between Cumberland and Providence (the longest is the Washington Secondary Bike Path, extending for about 19 miles). The route provides cyclists with soothing wilderness scenery in the Blackstone Valley and is too beautiful to pass up, though pleasure pedalers might want to stick to the 11.6-mile off-road portion between Cumberland and Woonsocket.

Try the lobster roll at Monahan's.

Coming to Rhode Island and forgoing a seafood meal would be downright criminal. Stay on the right side of the law by paying a visit to  Monahan's  and ordering its famed lobster roll, which comes loaded with meaty chunks lightly sautéed in drawn butter and secret seasoning. The beloved institution provides beautiful waterfront views from Narragansett’s State Pier No. 5, and it has a second location in Charlestown.

Tour the manicured masterpieces at Green Animals.

In Newport, you might be inspired to cut your shrubs into fun shapes after visiting the  Green Animals Topiary Garden . The green space overlooking Narragansett Bay boasts some 80 topiary masterpieces, all depicting different animals. Visitors are welcome to pack a picnic and eat beside their favorite creature. Between May and October, floral displays make the grounds explode with color.

See North America's largest collection of frescoes.

St. Ann Arts and Cultural Center in Woonsocket used to be a Catholic church but is no longer affiliated with any religion. Now, it's all about celebrating and preserving the Romanesque building's artistic, architectural, and historical splendor. The cultural center claims to contain the largest collection of fresco paintings in North America, all created by Guido Nincheri of Italy. It also has more than 40 stained-glass windows to admire.

Ride a Venetian gondola on the Providence River.

Never mind that it's a teeny bit touristy, cruising the Providence River in a Venetian gondola driven by a gondolier clad in classic stripes and a straw hat is one of the best things to do in Rhode Island. La Gondola tours run for about 40 minutes and allow you to bring your own snacks and wine aboard.

Spot sea critters on the Middletown coast.

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Take a walk through  Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge  in Middletown to see anything from harlequin ducks to salamanders to snapping turtles. The refuge's 242 wild acres are a common stopover for migrating birds. On its plentiful trails, discover how many different species you can spot — maybe a saltmarsh sparrow or piping plover?

Take a spin on the "flying horses" carousel.

Go for a ride on America's oldest continuously operated carousel in Watch Hill. The iconic "flying horses" have been a source of pure joy since the 1880s, and people of all ages still ride the nostalgic beachside attraction while trying their hand at the brass ring game. The merry-go-round runs seasonally and costs as little as $1 a ride. 

Go tide pooling at Beavertail State Park.

See more ocean creatures (of the small variety) by taking a walk along the tide pools at  Beavertail State Park . Go it alone or alongside a park naturalist, who will happily point out all the different species calling these little ocean puddles home, from starfish and sea urchins to crabs and tiny snails.

Taste Federal Hill's delicious Italian fare. 

Federal Hill  is the Little Italy of Providence. Home to a large and vibrant Italian and Italian-American population, this neighborhood has long been known as the spot for a great plate of pasta, a delicious slice of pizza, or the signature "Wimpy Skimpy" spinach pie at Caserta . However, if you have room in your belly for only one plate of carbs, make it one at  Angelo's , family-owned and -operated for four generations.

Get a late-night dog at Olneyville New York System.

If you're craving something absolutely over the top to eat after a long night out in Providence or Cranston, a street cart-style hot dog from  Olneyville New York System will not disappoint. The famed little diner is open until 2 a.m. and serves its "hot wieners" (their words, not ours) fully loaded with onions and the restaurant's proprietary wiener sauce. Order it with cheese fries on the side for a truly indulgent experience.

Shop for souvenirs at a whimsical and one-of-a-kind market.

Visitors can find tranquility, free-roaming emus, and a range of trinkets at the  Fantastic Umbrella Factory tucked away in Charlestown. It's difficult to describe exactly what this tiny enclave is, but you'll find gardens, unusual gifts (both locally made and sourced from around the world), a penny candy station, a candle shop, and more. Everything is housed in a complex of charming buildings for a bazaar-like feel.

Take an oyster farm tour at Matunuck Oyster Bar. 

An absolute must-visit for oyster aficionados is Matunuck Oyster Bar in Wakefield. The restaurant is rather popular, so be sure to make reservations well in advance to try the oysters, plus locally grown vegetables and regionally sourced fish. Those with an interest in aquaculture can even opt for an oyster farm tour to learn how the bivalves are cultivated. 

Delight your kids at the Providence Children's Museum.

Take your kids for a fun-filled day of learning at the  Providence Children's Museum , where youngsters can get their hands on puzzles, science experiments, and art projects galore. Visitors learn through interactive displays and play areas, including exhibits like Water Ways, the Children's Garden, and Coming to Rhode Island, a "time-traveling adventure" that shines light on the state's early immigrants. Little ones will be enchanted by the play area designed to look like a magical woodland.

Sip local varietals at Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard.

Sip and savor at  Carolyn's Sakonnet Vineyard , a Little Compton-based wine producer that makes award-winning vino from chardonnay to rosé to red blends. This place claims to be New England's oldest winery, around since 1975. Stop by to order a flight and some nibbles in the public tasting room and see the 150-acre estate that gives Rhode Island its delicious wine grapes.

Ferry over to Block Island.

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As the ferry jingle goes, "Sail away on the Block Island Ferry, take a trip back to carefree times." Block Island, located 12 miles off the coast of Judith Point, is one of the best weekend getaways in New England . It's just seven miles long and three miles wide, making it entirely possible to fully explore in a single day. Rent bikes and head to the Mohegan Bluffs to get the view of a lifetime, grab lunch at  Three Sisters , and end your day with a boozy drink at  Ballard's Beach Resort . Extend the stay by booking a room at the  Block Island Beach House .

Explore the Southeast Lighthouse.

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While on Block Island, take a moment to visit the  Southeast Lighthouse , one of the brightest beacons on the East Coast. The lighthouse, completed in 1874, sits atop Mohegan Bluffs and is open for both interior and exterior visits, though the museum inside is not open during winter. While you're there, check out the boulder marking its original location. It was moved in 1993 due to coastal erosion. 

Taste Rhode Island's best clam dishes.

Clams are practically their own food group in Rhode Island, where "clear" clam chowder was born. Try the regional favorite at Matunuck Oyster Bar in Wakefield. Then, taste another Rhode Island staple, clams "casino," also on Matanuck's menu and widely devoured at Flo's Clam Shack in Middletown. For golden-brown clam cakes fried to perfection, visit the walk-up window of Iggy's Doughboys and Chowder House in Warwick (and order a round of its famous donut holes while you're at it).

See pufferfish, sharks, and more New England marine life up close.

The Biomes Marine Biology Center is a private education facility, but it's open daily for public walk-ins between noon and 5 p.m. The center claims to have the "largest collection of New England marine life in the world," which includes pufferfish, horseshoe crabs, seahorses, sharks, octopi, and more. Feedings and demonstrations are held every half hour on weekends.

Find a Del's truck on a hot day. 

Del's Frozen Lemonade  may very well be the perfect treat on a summer day. The icy drink originally came from Franco DeLucia, who brought it to Rhode Island when he immigrated from Naples more than a century ago. It can be found in various Del's shops sprinkled around the state (Newport, Providence, Middletown, etc.), though really, it's the most fun to try to spot one of its trucks or carts and grab it fresh. Pro tip: Never, ever drink it with a straw. Trust us.

Get a sense of life in 18th-century Rhode Island.

The  John Brown House Museum in Providence, once home to the U.S. representative, provides a glimpse of what life was like in 18th-century Rhode Island, including for marginalized communities. Refreshingly, the museum doesn't gloss over Rhode Island's participation in slavery and Brown's role in it. Walk through the red-brick mansion to see antique artworks, furnishings, and even a fully restored 18th-century carriage.

Enjoy diner fare from a food truck.

Haven Brothers takes the concept of a classic American diner and puts it on wheels. The stainless-steel facade has the same curb appeal as a fixed restaurant, but Haven Brothers is mobile. The Providence institution is said to be one of the country's original food trucks, serving up loaded hot dogs, indulgent burgers, onion rings, and more diner staples since 1888 (although the original menu might have looked quite different).

Explore the campus of an Ivy League university.

Brown University brings liberal arts and science progressives from all over the country to Providence. See the campus where notable names like Emma Watson, John F. Kennedy, and Ted Turner once studied, taking in the beautiful architecture of the academic buildings and the constant buzz along the adjacent Thayer Street.

Experience a drive-in movie.

Watch the big screen from your car like they used to in the olden days at one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in America, the Rustic Tri-View Drive-in . The theater, which opened in 1951, is still projecting major films weekly from April to September. The movies are always family-friendly — think "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "The Little Mermaid" — and showtimes are always listed on Your Neighborhood Theatre .

Walk through history at Fort Adams State Park.

For history buffs, one of the best things to do in Rhode Island is to visit the Fort Adams State Park in Newport. The park is home to an 18th-century fort used during World War II. You can admire the well-preserved landmark — including its underground tunnels and original cannons — on a guided or self-guided tour of the grounds. The coastal surroundings also beckon outdoor enthusiasts looking to go fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking.

Time your visit with a festival.

Rhode Island is home to several major festivals such as the Rhode Island PrideFest , held in Providence every June, and the Charlestown Seafood Festival and Newport Jazz Festival , both taking place in August. But the  Newport Folk Festival  is arguably Rhode Island's best-known event, featuring a world-class lineup that has in the past included Joni Mitchell, Kacey Musgraves, Patti Smith, and James Taylor. Visit Rhode Island in July to catch some of the greatest musical acts alive strum out their hits.

Related Articles

RI has plenty of quirky and fun hidden gems. Here are a few to visit.

I'm leaving Rhode Island.

But before I go, I want to share with you, reader, my favorite places in this tiny state I've called home.

Some are serene. Some are quirky. Most are filled with history.

After three years in the Ocean State, half of which I spent as a Sunday columnist, I've had no shortage of adventures, from quahog digging to clam cake eating , and, at one point, plunging into a practically frozen Greenwich Bay in January.

But the following spots are the ones that I'll remember the most. If you're a seasoned Rhode Islander, you'll know them all.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

More: New to RI: Despite cold feet, I took the polar plunge

The Cabaret Room at the Providence Art Club

At the 143-year-old Providence Art Club on College Hill, everything is worth seeing. From carvings on the Fleur de Lys building housing private studios artists occupy for life to the dining area warmed with several old fashioned fireplaces, it's all good.

That's my favorite part of the club, which stretches across four buildings along Thomas Street. Inside, you'll find the Cabaret Room, a dimly-lit private nook where Harry Houdini is rumored to have dined.

More: Fine art and forward thinking at the historic Providence Art Club

135 Benefit Street, a.k.a. The Shunned House

The inspiration for H.P. Lovecraft’s horror novella, " The Shunned House ," was somewhat diagonally across the way from my first apartment in Providence on Benefit Street.

As Lovecraft’s tale goes, the eighteenth century home causes its residents death and despair as if it is cursed. In reality, it’s a classic colonial house painted soft yellow with a fenced-in front yard. 

I’m a horror film buff — not a horror novel buff — though I still enjoyed walking past the house and taking in its mystery. My favorite mystery, however, is the sign on the fence that reads, “Attention: chien bizarre,” which, drawing upon my college French, means, “Attention: strange dog.”

Pancake and Gingerbread Islands

Pancake Island and Gingerbread Island sit in the Seekonk River right off East Providence. Visiting them is impractical, as they're merely clods of earth topped with shrubs, but their names have long been a source of local curiosity.

Are these islands formally recognized? Only Gingerbread Island is named on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's navigational map . Pancake Island appears, but is not referred to as such.

No one is sure how these islands were named. But Lovecraft once wrote to a friend speculating that pirates buried treasure there. Based on the size of the islands, it would have to be a small loot.

Blackstone Park Conservation District

This hidden 45-acre forest is located right behind the Lincoln School, and has trails galore. A walk through is the perfect cool-down at the end of a long run. Inside, you'll find two ponds and a meadow, and depending on the season, migrating birds.

According to the Blackstone Parks Conservancy, other wildlife sightings have included salamanders, brown bats, opossums, box turtles and more.

More: This Rhode Island hike was named one of the best in U.S. by USA Today. See why.

The Washington Bridge

Just kidding. Good luck with that one, Rhode Island.

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Al Fresco on the Hill

• Providence, RI 02903
• June 8, 2024 - August 31, 2024

Following a successful 2023 season,  Federal Hill 's “Al Fresco on the Hill" returns May 25 and will run through Aug. 31, 2024, with restaurant seating expanded onto the street on  Saturdays  from  5 p.m.–12 a.m.  Brought to you by the Federal Hill Commerce Association, "Al Fresco on the Hill" features restaurants, retailers, live entertainment and artistic performances. 

Traffic will be open to vehicles from Bradford Street to Dean Street along Atwells Avenue, with participating restaurants in this area setting up parklet dining on the Avenue, right in front of their doors. Atwells Avenue, from Dean Street to Sutton Street, will be closed from 3:30 p.m.– 2:30 a.m. 

"Al Fresco on the Hill" will not take place during  Federal Hill's Annual Summer Festival, June 21–23 .

Reservations are suggested for this popular dining experience. Many participating restaurants offer valet parking. Additional on-street parking is available, as well as in paid lots along Federal Street and Sutton Street.

Participating Restaurants

Afrique D'Lounge Andino's Italian Restaurant Angelo's Civita Farnese Restaurant Bacco Vino and Contorni Bonanno Vinicola Cafe Italia Carrara's Shoes Cassarino's Restaurant Cilanter Constantino's Venda Bar & Ristorante Don Jose Tequilas Restaurant Federal Taphouse and Kitchen Garbolino Boutique Harry's Bar & Burger Mambo Sushi Il Massimo Napolitano's Brooklyn Pizza Ours Pianta Providence Oyster Bar Pure Lounge Rock and Rye Roma Ristorante Saint Saje Kitchen Scialo Brothers Bakery South Beach Restaurant & Lounge Terra Luna Terra Negra Cantina Trattoria Appia Twelve 21 Restaurant & Lounge Venda Bar

Additional Information

• Presented By: The Federal Hill Commerce Association
• Dates: June 8, 2024 - August 31, 2024
• Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Saturday
• Location: Federal Hill
• Address: Providence, RI 02903
• Time: 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM

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Looking to plan your next visit to Rhode Island, check out some of the current special offers and enjoy savings, extra perks and more!

401 Fun: The best things to do in Rhode Island, June 7-14

This week: big pride flea, soccer time, pvd porchfest, block parties, historic homes, and more.

What do Bill Harley, chocolate, “Hocus Pocus,” wood-fired pizza, wine, beer, free museum admission, and a trolley have in common? They’re all in Rhody this week. Yup, as your trusty Fun Columnist, I have hunted and gathered all the fun in the 401 for you, neighbor.

Plan your week with me.

HOP A TROLLEY

Starting June 6, you can ride the Newport Art Trolley for free as you take in art in the City by the Sea. According to billing, the Art Trolley picks up art lovers from Perrotti Park (adjacent to the Brenton Hotel) and tours participating galleries. See a gallery map here. More details here , and here .

42nd ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF HISTORIC HOUSES

History buffs, take note: PVD celebrates its annual Festival of Historic Houses on Saturday, but tickets should be purchased in advance; sales end June 7 at noon, according to the website. Presented by the Providence Preservation Society, the fest — June 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — offers self-guided tours of historic homes and gardens in the Mount Hope neighborhood, including Larch Street, Ivy Street, Forest Street, and Catalpa Road, according to website. GA $70. Details and tickets here .

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BIG PRIDE FLEA

June is Pride Month, and PVD has the second annual Big Pride Flea June 7 from 5:30 -9:30 p.m. According to their Insta , “it’s an opportunity for us as a gay-owned business to showcase our fellow LGBTQ+ vendors and allies, own the joy in our existence, and celebrate our differences and each other during Pride month.” 10 Sims Ave. Details here .

And read our guide for more events across Rhode Island throughout Pride Month .

PACK A SUITCASE

The Suitcase Junket sounds like a four-piece rock-blues band jamming out. But he’s just one dude. Matt Lorenz rocks weird, handmade, found-object instruments: a guitar he rescued from a dumpster — a drum fashioned from a gas can, a salvaged toy keyboard, a box of bones and silverware. See it to believe it June 7 at 7 p.m. at the Jamestown Arts Center presented via Newport Live. 18 Valley St. $35. Details here ; learn more here .

TOM CRUISE AND THREE WITCHES

Stream flix at home anytime. Summer nights are for the drive-in. Misquamicut Drive-In screens cult-classics “Hocus Pocus” June 7 at 9 p.m., and “Top Gun” June 14 at 9 p.m. Just add Junior Mints. Bring your crew — one ticket per carload. $25. Gates open 6:30 p.m, previews at 8 p.m. 316 Atlantic Ave., Westerly. Details here .

SOCCER TIME

Get your Ted Lasso on. The Ocean State now has a pro men’s soccer team, Rhode Island FC, and this week they take on Louisville City FC June 8 at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices vary. At Beirne Stadium at Bryant University. 1150 Douglas Pike, Smithfield. Details here .

2nd ANNUAL PVD PORCHFEST

We’re doing it again. The East Side turns into a full-on campus of concerts June 8 with the 2nd Annual Providence Porchfest. From 11th Street to Angel Street, Camp Street to Freeman Parkway, porches will become stages, and local musicians will rock a neighborhood. From 11:45 a.m. to 6 p.m., catch dozens of shows. The fest is free. The only goal is good vibes. There’s no food or beer stands per se, so they encourage you to support local eateries and pubs. Fest is rain or shine. Let’s rock, PVD: This is how you grow community. Schedule, lineup, map and more here .

BE THEIR GUEST

Be their guest: If you live in Newport County, or work in the hospitality industry, you score free admission to over a dozen Newport attractions June 8-10. Residents of Jamestown, Newport, Middletown, Portsmouth, Tiverton and Little Compton are included in this offer, according to the Preservation Society of Newport County. Participating spots include: The Breakers, The Elms, Rosecliff and Green Animals Topiary Garden, Newport Art Museum, International Tennis Hall of Fame, Greenvale Vineyards, Newport Vineyards & Winery, Redwood Library & Athenaeum and more. Visitors must show proof of residency or proof of hospitality employment. See all details here .

WHOSE LINE IS IT, ANYWAY?

I’m a sucker for improv, so this looks awesome. At the Ocean State Improv Festival, now through June 9 in Wakefield, catch performances showcasing “performers from all over the world.” You can also try it yourself: According to their Insta, there are still spots for daytime classes and workshops. Individual show tickets from $25; workshops from $40. At Contemporary Theater Company, 327 Main St., Wakefield. Details here .

School’s almost out for summer, and if the kiddos are already climbing the walls, let ‘em get their recess on at Kids Con in Cranston June 8 from 4 to 10 p.m. Billed as an evening of fun at “RI Night Market at Mulligan’s Island,” expect activities, games, and entertainment for kids of all ages,” expect “kid and family vendors, interactive workshops… arts and crafts,” food trucks and the like — plus, kids can meet Bluey. $10. At Mulligan’s Island Golf & Entertainment , 1000 New London Ave. Details here and here.

CHOCOLATE AND WINE

Name a more iconic duo, I’ll wait. Greenvale Vineyards in Portsmouth hosts the class of your dreams with “Corks + Cocoa. You’ll taste six combos — perhaps Vidal Blanc and Chocolate & Chèvre Truffle, or Pinot Gris Ramato with Citrus Goddess Orange Cream Chocolate Truffle — to learn “the art of pairing two of life’s most indulgent pleasures…This class is designed to elevate your palate and expand your appreciation for the amazing synergy between wine and chocolate.”…I feel like I’m gonna get an A here. June 8, 1-3 p.m. 21+. $89. 582 Wapping Road, Portsmouth. Details here .

WESTERLY BLOCK PARTY

Westerly’s Grey Sail Brewing kicks off summer with a block party June 8. Expect a new beer release, live music from noon to 7 p.m., free pint glass engraving for the first 24 people, axe-throwing from 1-3 p.m., Vetrano’s wood-fired pizza, and adult and kid-friendly lemonade bar, according to their Insta . Noon to 8 p.m. Grey Sail Taproom. 65 Canal St., Westerly. Details here .

WOONSOCKET PRIDE FEST

Woonsocket Pride Fest on June 9 features six hours of “drag performances and local artistic talent, speeches from community leaders, food trucks and vendors, tables for local organizations, a performance with the LGBTQIA+ flags,” and more, according to billing. Noon to 6 p.m. at River Island Park. 40 Island Pl., Woonsocket. Details here .

TROOPTOP THURSDAYS RETURN

‘Tis the season for our rooftop beer garden season. WaterFire Providence’s TroopTop Thursdays return to rock the top of WaterFire Arts Center starting June 13 and running every week through Aug. 29, except July 4 and July 25. See lives performances and art. There will also be fund-raisers for different nonprofit organizations depending on the night. Each week, you can catch the sunset, and the current exhibition, 5-9 p.m. Expect snacks and local beer and win. The featured nonprofit receives a portion of the profits from Troop’s special cocktail. This week, the nonprofit is Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council; with performances by DJ Olive Girl. In The Gallery: “When I Get Home” by the 2023-24 WaterFire Accelerate Cohort. 475 Valley St., Providence. Details here .

ON THE FARM WITH BILL HARLEY

Yes. I’m in. But if you need more details… Pat’s Pastured in Greenwich hosts “Music + Dinner at the Farm” with Bill Harley June 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Billed as “a celebration of our community, this land, and the food we grow,” the dinners also feature live music and an opportunity to visit with the farm animals. Adult dinners include Pat’s Pastured grass-fed burger, homemade veggie burger, or two Pat’s Pastured hot dogs; seasonal side salad and beverage. Kids dinners include a choice of Pat’s Pastured hot dog or mac and cheese, chips and beverage.

I’m among the legion of Rhode Islanders who grew up on Harley’s music. “ 50 Ways to Fool Your Mother ” and “ You’re In Trouble ” were my ride-to-school staples. A former Providence resident and member of the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame, Harley started singing for kids in Providence some 40 years ago. Along the way, he won two Grammys and wrote 15 books. Bring your kids to either meet their fave musician, or introduce them to this local legend, who lives in Seekonk.

“Seekonk, we don’t quite know where we fit. I lived in the capital, moved five miles, and that got me out of the state,” he told me previously . Kids $15, adults $30. 830 South Road, East Greenwich. Details here .

JUNETEENTH BLOCK PARTY

Kin Southern Table + Bar hosts their 4th Annual Juneteenth Block Party June 14 from 5 p.m to 1 a.m. Expect food, specialty cocktails, games, live entertainment and dancing, according to billing. Admission $5; kids 12 and under free. 71 Washington St., Providence. Details here .

BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE. ONGOING FUN…

‘LA CAGE AUX FOLLES’: Trinity Rep concludes its season with the Tony-winning musical “La Cage aux Folles,” with book by Harvey Fierstein, music by Jerry Herman, and directed by resident company member Taavon Gamble. The play centers on drag club owner Georges, and his husband, Albin, who performs at the club. “Hijinks ensue” when Georges’ son becomes engaged to the daughter of a homophobic politician and Georges tries to hide his sexuality, according to billing. From $24. Through June 30. 201 Washington St., Providence. Details here .

ITALIAN FOOD FEST: Foodies, rev your engines. Federal Hill, Rhody’s own Little Italy, hosts its 5th Al Fresco on the Hill on Saturdays hrough Aug. 31 from 5 p.m. to midnight. People can stroll the avenue and sample food from local restaurants and shop at retailers set up outside. There will also be live entertainment and artistic performances. Details here .

DRAGONS AT THE ZOO: Kids can explore “Dragons & Mythical Creatures” at Roger Williams Park Zoo. Billed as an “immersive experience featuring over 60 life-size animatronic wonders.” Through Aug. 11. Not included with regular zoo admission. $9 ages 2 and up. Under 2 free. 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence. Details here .

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS: Weather permitting, some 15 local food trucks park at Roger Williams Park at 5 p.m. each Friday through Sept. 27. Bring a chair or blanket and soak up live tunes from local artists, jump on the carousel, hop the train ride. Free admission; pay for what you eat. 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence. Details here .

ERIK ROCK, GRETA GRANITE AND THE THUNDERSTONE: In case you missed the unveiling last weekend, it’s officially Troll Time in Rhode Island. Renowned trash artist and recycle activist Thomas Dambo’s two trolls in Ninigret Park are now open to the public. 5 Park Lane, Charlestown.

FOOD AND ARCHITECTURE WALKING TOUR: Food, art, and architecture come together for Downcity Providence Food Tours, noon to 3:30 p.m., on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through November. Get an insider’s view of creative and lively Providence during a tour lasting more than three hours over 1.7 miles. Discover some of the city’s award-winning restaurants, its hidden art and historic architecture. Tickets $76-$94 per person. 1 Ship St., Providence. Details here .

BROWN’S ART WALKING TOURS: Brown University now offers free public art walking tours led by Brown students every weekend. Learn about Brown’s public art collection with a 40-minute student-curated tour, exploring six works of art. All tours are outdoors, rain or shine. No registration required. Meet up at 1 p.m. On Saturdays, meet at the Eli Harvey sculpture, Bronze Bruno, on the College Green (79 Waterman St.) On Sundays, meet at Tom Friedman’s Circle Dance, on the Campus Walk. Tours run weekends through Nov. 17. Map and all details here .

GREEN ANIMALS: Watch out! It’s an elephant! And a bear! And an ostrich! … Sorry, they’re plants. Yup, the Preservation Society of Newport County’s Green Animals Topiary Garden is open for the season, featuring some 80 topiaries in the shape of animals and designs — and loads of flowers — on the 7 acres. BYO Picnic. 380 Corys Lane, Portsmouth. Open daily 10 a.m to 5 p.m. Tickets sold in packages with house tours. Details here.

Until next week, Rhody: Keep rockin.’

Lauren Daley can be reached at [email protected] . Follow her on Twitter @laurendaley1 .