The beautiful city of Providence, Rhode Island, has a rich history and a vibrant culture. It is home to beautiful architecture, world-renowned universities, and a thriving arts scene. Many things to do in Providence will appeal to all travelers, from history buffs to art enthusiasts to foodies.
If you are planning a trip to Providence in 2024, be sure to add these 9 things to your itinerary. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or a week, you will have plenty to keep you busy in this charming city.
Here are the 9 Top Things to Do in Providence in 2024:
1. Visit the Rhode Island School of Design Museum
The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum is one of the most comprehensive art museums in the United States. The museum’s collection spans over 60,000 works of art from all over the world, including paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and decorative arts. The museum is also home to a world-renowned library and research center with over 100,000 volumes.
The RISD Museum is a must-see for any art lover visiting Providence. The museum offers a wide variety of exhibitions, programs, and events throughout the year. Admission to the museum is free for RISD students and faculty, as well as for members of the military and children under 12. For everyone else, admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $8 for students.
2. Explore the Roger Williams Park Zoo
The Roger Williams Park Zoo is home to over 100 species of animals from all over the world. The zoo is divided into several different zones, including the African Savanna, the Australian Outback, and the South American Rainforest. Visitors can see animals such as lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, kangaroos, and monkeys.
The Roger Williams Park Zoo is a great place for families to visit. The zoo offers a variety of educational programs and activities throughout the year. Visitors can also take a ride on the carousel or the train. Admission to the zoo is $19.95 for adults, $17.95 for seniors, and $14.95 for children ages 3-12. Children under 3 are free.
3. Visit the Brown University Campus
Brown University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. The university campus is located in the heart of Providence and is home to a variety of beautiful buildings. Visitors can take a guided tour of the campus or explore on their own.
Some of the most popular attractions on the Brown University campus include the Van Wickle Gates, the John Hay Library, and the Brown University Museum of Art. Admission to the campus is free, and guided tours are available for a fee.
4. See a Show at the Providence Performing Arts Center
The Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) is a world-class performing arts venue that hosts a variety of shows throughout the year. PPAC is home to the Tony Award-winning Trinity Repertory Company and also hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, and dance performances.
PPAC is a beautiful venue with a rich history. The theater was built in 1928 and has been renovated several times over the years. PPAC is located in the heart of downtown Providence and is within walking distance of many restaurants and shops.
5. Visit the WaterFire Sculpture
WaterFire is a unique public art installation that takes place on the Providence River. The installation consists of over 100 bonfires that are lit on the riverbanks. WaterFire is a beautiful and moving experience that is not to be missed.
WaterFire is held on select nights from May through October. The installation is free to view, and visitors can enjoy the bonfires from the riverbanks or from one of the many bridges that cross the river.
6. Take a Walk Through Federal Hill
Federal Hill is a historic Italian-American neighborhood located in the heart of Providence. The neighborhood is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and churches. Federal Hill is a great place to go for a walk and experience the Italian-American culture of Providence.
Some of the most popular attractions in Federal Hill include the DePasquale Square, the Atwells Avenue Flea Market, and the Federal Hill Walking Tour. Federal Hill is also home to several excellent Italian restaurants.
7. Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame
The International Tennis Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to the history of tennis. The museum is located in Newport, Rhode Island, which is just a short drive from Providence. The International Tennis Hall of Fame is a great place to learn about the history of tennis and see some of the greatest players of all time.
The International Tennis Hall of Fame is open every day of the year. Admission to the museum is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $8 for children ages 6-12. Children under 6 are free.
8. Go for a Bike Ride on the East Bay Bike Path
The East Bay Bike Path is a 14-mile paved path that runs along the shore of Narragansett Bay. The path is a great place to go for a bike ride, a walk, or a run. The path is relatively flat, making it a good option for people of all ages and fitness levels.
The East Bay Bike Path is open year-round, but it is most popular during the summer months. The path is well-maintained and has several rest stops along the way. The path is also well-lit, making it a safe option for those who want to ride at night.
9. Visit the Providence Children’s Museum
The Providence Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum that is perfect for families with young children. The museum has a variety of exhibits that are designed to teach children about science, art, and culture. The museum also has a large play area where children can run, climb, and explore.
The Providence Children’s Museum is open every day of the week. Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $6 for children ages 1-12. Children under 1 are free.
Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, Best Hotels, and Conclusion
Providence is a city with a rich culture and history. The city is home to several museums, theaters, and art galleries. Providence is also known for its vibrant culinary scene and has a variety of restaurants serving everything from Italian to American to Vietnamese cuisine.
The best months to visit Providence are May through October. The weather during these months is mild, and there are many outdoor activities available. Providence is also a great city to visit during the winter months, when the city is decorated for the holidays.
Providence is easily accessible by car, train, or plane. The city is served by T.F. Green Airport (PVD), which is located just a few miles from downtown. Providence is also a stop on the Amtrak Northeast Regional line.
There are many great hotels in Providence, including the Graduate Providence, the Hotel Providence, and the Omni Providence Hotel. These hotels are all located in the heart of downtown and are within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions.
Overall, Providence is a great city to visit for a weekend or a week. The city has something to offer everyone, from history buffs to art enthusiasts to foodies. Whether you are visiting for the first time or the tenth time, you are sure to find something new to love about Providence.