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Getting There & Around

Getting There & Around

New England, USA

Air Travel & Connections

Booking Flights

Flight Search Platforms

Airport Information

T.F. Green Airport (PVD) is the main airport serving Providence.

Airport Proximity

  • Located just 10 miles south of downtown
  • Connected via RIPTA bus service (Route 66)
  • MBTA Commuter Rail also serves the airport

Packing Light

Consider carry-on only for shorter trips to avoid baggage fees.

Early Booking

Book flights and accommodation in advance for better rates, especially in high season.

Travel Off-Peak

Traveling during shoulder or low season can lead to significant savings.

Airport Transfers

PVD to Downtown

  • Taxi/Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) typically $20-$35.
  • RIPTA Bus Route 66 directly to Kennedy Plaza.
  • MBTA Commuter Rail also serves the airport.
  • Rental cars available at the airport.

Other Airports

  • Boston Logan (BOS) is an alternative.
  • NYC airports (JFK, LGA, EWR) are further options.
  • Intercity buses/trains connect from these hubs.
  • Check connections for travel to Providence.

Pre-Travel Checklist

Document Check

Confirm passport/ID validity and visa/ESTA status.

Flight Status

Check your flight status before heading to the airport.

Airport Security

Review TSA guidelines for packing and security screening.

Local Transportation Options

Public Buses RIPTA

Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) has extensive bus routes.

RIPTA Benefits

  • Covers Providence and surrounding areas
  • Economical: $2 per ride, $6 for a day pass
  • Route information available online and at Kennedy Plaza

Commuter Rail MBTA

The MBTA Commuter Rail connects Providence to Boston and other Massachusetts towns.

Regional Connections

  • Direct service to Boston South Station
  • Ideal for day trips to Boston
  • Check schedule for weekend service variations

Rideshare & Taxis

Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Providence for convenient point-to-point travel.

On-Demand Travel

  • Easy to book via mobile apps
  • Good for late nights or specific destinations
  • Tipping 10-15% is customary

Walking & Biking

Providence is a walkable city, especially downtown, College Hill, and Federal Hill.

Active Exploration

  • Best way to experience neighborhood charm
  • Dedicated bike lanes in some areas
  • Many attractions within easy walking distance

Driving & Parking Considerations

  • Parking is limited and can be expensive in downtown.
  • Metered street parking requires payment and has time limits.
  • Garages available, but check rates beforehand.
  • Navigating one-way streets can be confusing.
  • Traffic can be heavy during rush hours.
  • Consider public transport to avoid parking stress.

Car Rentals

Renting a Car

A rental car gives flexibility for exploring beyond city limits.

Rental Agency Access

  • Major rental agencies at PVD Airport and downtown.
  • DiscoverCars.com for competitive rates.
  • Book in advance for better availability and prices.

Benefits & Considerations

Assess if a rental car aligns with your travel plans.

Flexibility & Costs

  • Freedom to visit surrounding attractions.
  • Factor in fuel costs and parking fees.
  • Especially useful for group travel or day trips.

GPS Navigation

Use GPS for navigating city streets and highways.

Toll Roads

Be aware of potential tolls on highways outside Providence.

Speed Limits

Observe posted speed limits and traffic laws.

Exploring on Foot

Walkability & Charm

Many of Providence's unique areas are best experienced on foot.

Pedestrian Friendly Zones

  • Downtown's revitalized riverwalk
  • Historic Benefit Street
  • Federal Hill's streets

Walking Tours

Consider guided walking tours for insights into the city's history and architecture.

Guided Experiences

  • Historical tours on College Hill
  • Food tours on Federal Hill
  • Architectural tours downtown

Walk Safely & Smartly

Crosswalks

Always use designated crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals.

Awareness

Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in busy areas.

Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking.

Optimize Your Route

Combine walking with public transport or rideshares to efficiently cover more ground and conserve energy.