Roger Williams Park Zoo Tours and Activities

Rhode Island featuring a garden
Providence which includes a park
Providence showing a pond, a bridge and a garden
Providence showing a park as well as a small group of people
Roger Williams Park Zoo featuring land animals and zoo animals


Discover the many delights of this historic park, which features ponds, rolling landscapes and numerous attractions, including a museum, zoo and botanical gardens. 

Roger Williams Park serves as an outdoor playground for Rhode Island residents. In summer, join them for rest and relaxation, strolling along the pretty lakeside paths and gardens. Besides ponds and green space, the park is also home to several historical and cultural attractions including museums, century-old landmarks and statues.

The 435-acre (176-hectare) park was designed in 1878 by Horace W.S. Cleveland, the landscape architect partially responsible for several other notable park systems in the U.S., including the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway along the Mississippi River. As you explore this park, try to identify evidence of Cleveland’s design philosophy, which placed a strong emphasis on preserving natural space and employing naturalistic design.

Take a guided tour on an amphibious vehicle to find out more about the park, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Step aboard the amphibious vehicle near the Queen Anne-styleDalrymple Boathouse and enjoy views of and commentary about the Japanese Gardens, the historic Betsy Williams Cottage and the Temple to Music, where musicians occasionally perform. Look for the Colonial Revival-style Casino building, which dates back to 1896. The venue now hosts weddings and other functions.

For more outdoor fun, rent swan-shaped paddleboats and kayaks from the Dalrymple Boathouse and set off into the water for a self-steered adventure. For a simple bit of relaxation pack a picnic and enjoy lake views from dry land.

The park is packed with family-friendly attractions. Take the kids to the Roger Williams Park Zoo to view exotic animals and to the Carousel Village to ride the carousel, a real pony or even a miniature train. Don’t leave without visiting the greenhouses of the Roger Williams Park Botanical Center and the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, whose collection includes 25,000 fossils, minerals and archaeological artifacts.

Find Roger Williams Park about a 15-minute drive south of Downtown Providence. Buses connect the downtown area to the park. The park is open daily and entrance is free, though fees do apply to some of the individual attractions.

Plan a trip to see Roger Williams Park Zoo

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Wayfinder Newport
Neptune House Block Island Resort
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Best Lodging Options Near Roger Williams Park Zoo

Omni Providence Hotel

Omni Providence Hotel

4 out of 5
1 W Exchange St, Providence, RI
Omni Providence Hotel
Cozy & Spacious home next to Gorgeous City Park - Outdoor Dining, Hot Tub & Gym!

Cozy & Spacious home next to Gorgeous City Park - Outdoor Dining, Hot Tub & Gym!

Providence
Cozy & Spacious home next to Gorgeous City Park - Outdoor Dining, Hot Tub & Gym!
Lovely private Carriage House on Historic Property

Lovely private Carriage House on Historic Property

Cranston
Lovely private Carriage House on Historic Property
Neptune, an Ash Hotel

Neptune, an Ash Hotel

3.5 out of 5
122 Fountain Street, Providence, RI
Neptune, an Ash Hotel
Edgewood Manor

Edgewood Manor

3 out of 5
232 Norwood Ave, Providence, RI
Edgewood Manor
The Royal Oak of Rhode Island

The Royal Oak of Rhode Island

Cranston
The Royal Oak of Rhode Island
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Warwick Providence Airport

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Warwick Providence Airport

3 out of 5
36 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick, RI
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Warwick Providence Airport
Beautiful Providence Apt Near Dtwn & Federal Hill!

Beautiful Providence Apt Near Dtwn & Federal Hill!

3 out of 5
Providence
Beautiful Providence Apt Near Dtwn & Federal Hill!
Hotel Providence

Hotel Providence

4 out of 5
139 Mathewson Street, Providence, RI
Hotel Providence
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Roger Williams Park Zoo

At Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including sports, festivals, and wildlife encounters. Don't miss the chance to explore the beautiful golf course nearby and take advantage of the zoo's admission options for a delightful day out. This family-friendly destination offers a wonderful blend of nature and entertainment for all ages.

Shopping

Only 4.8km from Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence Place Mall offers a vibrant shopping experience with a variety of stores. The Brown University Bookstore, also 4.8km away, is perfect for unique gifts. For more options, Garden City Center is another great spot, just 4.8km from the zoo.

Recreation

The Providence Bruins, located 1.3km from the zoo, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. Enjoy live performances at Lupo's Heartbreak Hotel, 3.2km away, for a vibrant night out. For relaxation, Triggs Memorial Golf Course, 6.4km away, provides a serene outdoor golfing experience.

Adventure

For an adrenaline rush, visit Seekonk Speedway, located 9.7km from Roger Williams Park Zoo, where you can experience thrilling motor racing. For water sports enthusiasts, the East Providence Yacht Club, 4.8km away, offers exciting outdoor activities. Finally, enjoy scenic views along the Blackstone River Bikeway, situated 16.1km from the zoo.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Roger Williams Park Zoo with a visit to the Providence Performing Arts Center for captivating shows. Enjoy family fun at the nearby Roger Williams Park Carousel Village, or immerse yourself in the artistic flair at Trinity Repertory Company, both just a short distance away.

Find the best attractions near Roger Williams Park Zoo

When visiting Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island, you'll find plenty to explore, including urban parks, historic colleges, and libraries. The attractions cater to families and those seeking outdoor experiences. Additionally, if you're considering a broader adventure, a trip to New York City could be a delightful option during your stay.

  • Brown University: Experience the rich history and vibrant culture at Brown University, a prestigious Ivy League institution located 4.8km from the zoo. Stroll through its picturesque campus, admire the historic architecture, and enjoy art exhibits that reflect its academic atmosphere.
  • Rhode Island Convention Center: Situated 3.2km away, the Rhode Island Convention Center is a hub for conferences and events. Immerse yourself in the business vibe and explore the dynamic environment that attracts professionals and visitors alike.
  • Amica Mutual Pavilion: Just 3.2km from the zoo, this lively arena offers a variety of entertainment options. Attend a concert or sporting event, making it a perfect family outing filled with excitement and fun.

Best time to go to Roger Williams Park Zoo

The best time to visit Roger Williams Park Zoo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January29.8°F (-1.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February31.1°F (-0.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April48.2°F (9.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June66.2°F (19.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September65.3°F (18.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
October55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
November44.1°F (6.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December36.1°F (2.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Roger Williams Park Zoo

When visiting Roger Williams Park Zoo, consider saving money by exploring nearby free attractions like Brown University and Providence Place Mall. For accommodation, aim to visit between January and March for lower rates, particularly on Tuesdays, while avoiding the pricier summer months and Saturdays. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels, filter by eco-certified options, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities. Keep an eye out for special offers and flexible booking options to maximize your savings during your trip.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Roger Williams Park Zoo are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Roger Williams Park Zoo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Roger Williams Park Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, preferred location, and various other criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Roger Williams Park Zoo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.