What are the Top 10 Things to Do Providence? Let us answer that from a local point of view!
You’re visiting one of the oldest cities in the United States. Whether you are just coming to the city from Warwick RI (did you pack a lunch?) or joining us from another country, here are the top 10 things to do in Providence, RI!
- Providence Ghost Tour- Yes, we are biased, but biased doesn’t mean wrong. This tour offers such a comprehensive exploration of the College Hill neighborhood. Also known as “the East Side,” you will discover both well-known places and hidden gems. Your tour will explore the hauntings and the history if this historic section of town! PRO TIP– Bring a camera and take pictures throughout. You never know who (or what) will pop up in your photos!
- Parasols and Pocket Watches– We know- still biased! We can’t help but brag, though- this tour is an elegant stroll through time down Benefit Street. It skips the hauntings and peeks into life on the East Side and stories that have shaped our city. Would you like to stroll with a parasol to add an new level of elegance to your tour? Just ask! We’re happy to share. PRO TIP: Purchase tickets to multiple tours (ex. Providence Ghost Tour and Parasols and Pocket Watches; Christmas on Benefit Street Tour and Haunted Benefit Street Tour; Investigation Tour and Parasols and Pocket Watches) and save on tickets!
- The Ladd Observatory– The Ladd Observatory is a beautiful building at the corner of Doyle Avenue and Hope Street. Constructed in 1891, this building has served the star-gazing community for two hundred and thirty-four years. Its hours are irregular, but check out their website for dates open to the public. It is an incredibly photogenic site, so evening can’t use the telescope, you’re sure to appreciate the architecture and landscaping.
- The Providence Art Club– Founded in 1878 by a progressive group of artists who included males, females, and a gentleman of color, the Providence Art Club has been a cornerstone of the Creative Capital’s art scene for nearly 150 years. Providence Art Club is committed to ensuring that art is accessible to everyone. The Club eliminated entry fees so that all people, regardless of financial means, can be moved by fine art.
- Ives and Wickenden Streets- Take a walk to Wickenden and Ives streets. These gems are home to quirky shops, delicious independently owned restaurants, and nice architecture. They intersect, so start on one and roam to the next.
- Wayland Square- Don’t overlook this gem of a neighborhood! You will find mouth watering food (Madrid European Bakery and Patrisserie is a must-stop), local shops, and a pleasant, off-the-beaten path atmosphere. Stroll down side streets and enjoy charming neighborhood energy. This can be a great place to take respite if Downcity is very busy and you want a little calm.
- Providence Riverboat Company– We are yet again biased, because they are our dear friends! Yes, we operate “Haunted Boat Rides” with them and that is a wonderful way to see the city, but all of their rides are worthwhile! Twilight Cruises are beautiful, Architectural Tours are informative, and every ride is a nice way to see the city from a different angle.
- Swan Point Cemetery– Head on over to Swan Point Cemetery and walk amongst Providencers past and present. This gorgeous burial ground was founded in 1846 and is referred to as a “garden cemetery.” It is natural, full of trees, and welcomes the living to commune with the dead. There is a self-guided walking tour available and will lead you to the gravesites of artists, authors, suffragists, politicians, activists, and veterans. Swan Point is an active cemetery, so please be respectful as there are people grieving their loved ones here.
- Blackstone Blvd Bike Path- Once you’ve visited Swan Point, stroll along the Blackstone Boulevard Bike Path. This long-stretching park is lush greenspace and offers calm in the city. There are farmers markets, summer concerts, and community events that occur regularly in this lovely public space. Blackstone Boulevard intersects with Hope Street, home to great dining, fun stores, and great energy.
- Downcity- Park Downcity and get out and walk! Fall in love with art deco architecture housed beside colonial buildings. Sit along our riverfront (or on it if you take a boat ride with Providence River Boat Company). There are restaurants, college campuses (Johnson and Wales University delivers us some of the finest culinary minds in the world!), and little shops (head to Westminster Street- shout out to Symposium Books!). Providence is a highly walkable city, so you can just park you car and get to it.
This is just a little list! Providence also includes the West Side, which is home to some amazing breweries, eateries, and cultural experiences. All sides are valuable, all sides will give you an experience to remember. We will be sure to point out more sites to see on your next trip to Providence.
We hope this helps as you plan your visit to Providence and can’t wait to see you on a tour!
