What to do in Providence, RI

Activities, attractions and tours

Providence showing a city
Providence showing a city
Providence which includes a city
Providence showing a park, a statue or sculpture and outdoor art
WaterFire Providence which includes a city and a river or creek

Providence Attractions

Take to the east coast and consider a trip to Providence, RI. Expedia.com can help you to sort out all of Rhode Islands must see places in the creative capital. There are plenty of things to do in Providence. View the map and find the best tourist spots and local favorites. Providence is waiting for you.

Providence gives you a tasteful blend of past and present. Consider visiting the Water Place Basin. If you are fortunate enough to come during WaterFire, you'll be able to enjoy an evening in the park, watching the beauty of a pool of water interspersed with glowing flames. You'll be surrounded by the arts and other enthusiasts who want to see Providence and urban development thrive. If you are a history buff, your Providence excursions should include a visit to the John Brown House Museum and a walk along the river bank. Choose from other top Providence tours, such as walking the Independence Trail. You'll be able to follow a green line that runs along the sidewalks of Providence, highlighting great moments in the state's quest for independence in colonial days.

There are more attractions in Providence which are sure to keep you busy during your stay. Take a ride in La Gondola and view the city from above. Pass a pleasant evening at the Rhode Island Performing Arts Center as you take in a show. The Providence Children's Museum will provide your little ones with a hands-on experience, while the Roger Williams Park Zoo gives everyone a chance to talk to the animals. Be sure to catch the Roger Williams National Memorial along the way.

Expedia can assist you in making all of your travel arrangements. Find the cheapest deals on flights and rental cars. Choose from a selection of excellent hotels, providing you with a comfortable place to stay to rest up from all of your Providence activities. Come stay at onr of the best accommodations the city has to offer. Don't procrastinate a moment longer. Have a taste of Providence with Expedia!


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What to do in Providence


Discover the most popular places to visit in Providence

Explore areas of Providence

Providence downtown skyline and buildings at sunset over Providence River Walk, Rhode Island

Downtown Providence

4.5/5(20 area reviews)

Dive into the cultural heart of the city, with historic 19th-century architecture, Burnside Park, and the Westminster Arcade for shopping. Catch a performance at the Providence Performing Arts Center or explore AS220's community arts center.

Downtown Providence
Great city views

College Hill

Historic architecture and charming Thayer Street's cafes, restaurants, and shops await, along with attractions like the Rhode Island School of Design Museum and Providence Athenaeum.

College Hill
Providence

Federal Hill

Federal Hill is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to DePasquale Plaza or Columbus Theater.

Federal Hill
Fox point at night

Fox Point

5/5(1 area review)

Retaining its historical charm, Fox Point boasts 18th and 19th-century housing, with Gano Street Park offering athletic fields and a dog park. Nearby, India Point Park provides picturesque views along Narragansett Bay.

Fox Point
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West End

While visiting West End, you might make a stop by sights like Long Live Beer Works and Knight Memorial Library.

West End
The Rhode Island State House is the capitol of the U.S. state of Rhode Island. It is located on the border of the Downtown and Smith Hill sections of the state capital city of Providence.; Shutterstoc

Smith Hill

4.5/5(4 area reviews)

Smith Hill is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Candace Street Park and Smith Hill Library while you're in town.

Smith Hill

 

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Day trip destinations from Providence

Frequently asked questions

Is Providence worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to discover the local charm and cultural attractions or try unique foods and venture into nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Providence.
How do I spend a day in Providence?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Roger Williams Park Zoo and United Skates of America. Then, tour other areas of Providence for a bite to eat and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Providence?
You can't leave without exploring Roger Williams Park Zoo, rated the top tourist attraction in Providence.
Is three days enough to stay in Providence?
Three days in Providence is more than enough to enjoy the city's main attractions. Many guests stay for two days on average. Roger Williams Park Zoo, Veterans Memorial Auditorium and United Skates of America are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Newport.
Is Providence a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Providence is a great place to discover on foot. Have fun wandering between Roger Williams Park Zoo and Veterans Memorial Auditorium. Then take a stroll around Downtown Providence, located 0.16 kilometres from downtown, and Fox Point, which is about 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Providence with kids?
Planning what to do in Providence with kids has never been simpler. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly sights to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Providence for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Providence, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Bucket Brewery or Rhode Island State Capitol Building.
Are there free things to do in Providence?
From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Providence. If you're in need of ideas, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Twin Rivers Beach East is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their travelling adventures.

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