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Getting Around Providence

Getting Around Providence

Providence New England, USA Travel Guide

Day 1: History & College Hill Charm

Begin your Providence exploration on College Hill, immersing yourself in colonial history and academic prestige.

Wander through historic streets and enjoy panoramic city views.

Morning: College Hill

  • Explore Brown University campus
  • Walk along Benefit Street's Mile of History
  • Visit the Providence Athenaeum
  • Browse the RISD Museum (free Sundays)

Lunch: East Side Eatery

Enjoy a casual lunch at a cafe or deli on the East Side.

Afternoon: Downtown

Explore downtown riverwalk, Waterplace Park.

Evening: WaterFire

If applicable, experience WaterFire illumination.

Evening Dining

Dinner Choices
  • Federal Hill for Italian cuisine
  • Waterfront restaurants for seafood
  • Farm-to-table options downtown
Nightlife & Sweets
  • Craft breweries
  • Cocktail bars
  • Dessert shops

Local Tips for Day 1

Comfortable Shoes

Wear good shoes for walking College Hill.

WaterFire Schedule

Check official schedule in advance.

Dinner Reservations

Book ahead for popular restaurants.

Explore Side Streets

Discover hidden gems.

Day 2: Culinary Delights & Green Spaces

Dedicate your second day to Providence's renowned food scene and relaxing parks.

Morning: Federal Hill

  • Breakfast at a local bakery
  • Explore Italian markets and delis
  • Enjoy an espresso at a cafe
  • Sample pastries and cheeses

Afternoon: Roger Williams Park

  • Visit Roger Williams Park Zoo
  • Stroll through the Botanical Center
  • Rent a paddle boat on the lake
  • Explore the natural trails

Evening Options

  • Upscale dining downtown
  • Live music venues
  • Catch a show
  • Sports bar for games
  • Dessert and nightcap
  • Quiet evening stroll

Recommended Spots

Pastiche Fine Desserts

Indulge in exquisite cakes and pastries.

Trinity Repertory Company

Award-winning regional theater.

New Harvest Coffee Roasters

Local coffee experience.

Day 3: Arts, Shopping & Hidden Gems

Explore Providence's creative side and discover local boutiques.

Morning Creativity

  • Visit smaller galleries and studios
  • Browse independent boutiques
  • Explore local bookstores
  • Capture unique urban art

Afternoon Exploration

  • Boat tour on Providence River
  • Visit a local brewery/distillery
  • Explore historic buildings

Evening Relaxation

Cozy Dinner

Enjoy a quiet dinner in a neighborhood restaurant.

East Side, Federal Hill, Downtown.

Walk the Riverwalk

A peaceful evening stroll along the Providence River.

Beautiful views, especially at night.

Dessert & Coffee

Conclude your trip with a sweet treat and coffee.

Many cafes have late hours.

Considerations for Day 2

Maximize Your Day
  • Plan your Federal Hill food stops in advance.
  • Allocate enough time for Roger Williams Park.
  • Explore the different areas of the park.
Evening Planning
  • Decide between a show, live music, or a quiet night.
  • Consider transportation for evening events.
  • Factor in travel time between locations.

What to Be Mindful Of

  • Avoid overly touristy spots without local charm.
  • Peak dinner hours without reservations.
  • Unmarked side streets at night.
  • Ignoring weather forecasts.
  • Expecting empty attractions during WaterFire.
  • Forgetting comfortable shoes.
  • Running out of phone battery for maps.
  • Not accounting for tips in your budget.

Local Favorites & Hidden Gems

Beyond the main attractions, discover places beloved by locals.

Favorite Eateries

  • Pizza at Fellini Pizzeria
  • Burgers at Harry's Bar & Burger
  • Ice Cream at New England Ice Cream
  • Seafood at Hemenway's Restaurant

Charming Shops & Boutiques

  • Unique gifts on Benefit Street
  • Independent bookstores
  • Vintage clothing stores
  • Local artisan jewelry

Concerts at The Met

Catch live music at a popular local venue.

Hope Street Farmers Market

Seasonal market with local produce and crafts.

Explore India Point Park

Waterfront park with walking trails and bay views.

Beyond Providence

Coastal Escapes
  • Newport, RI (historic mansions, scenic drives)
  • Block Island (ferry ride, beaches, biking)
  • Explore Narragansett Bay by boat
Nearby Cities
  • Boston, MA (historical sites, museums)
  • Plymouth, MA (Pilgrim history)
  • Cape Cod (beaches, charming towns)

Make It Your Own

Providence invites you to explore at your own pace.

Customize your itinerary with what interests you most, and enjoy the city's unique charm.