An easy train-ride from Boston, historic Providence, Rhode Island offers a laid-back New England vibe, good food and lots of history. The city is also a great base for exploring the lovely beaches, delicious seafood and charming towns that this tiny seaside state has to offer. Enjoy an easy getaway to Providence or combine your time in the capital with a trip to the historic Newport Mansions, peaceful Narragansett Bay or the stunning Mohegan Bluffs.

Whether you’re just in Rhode Island for the day or kicking off a longer trip, start your visit right at Duck and Bunny creperie and tea room on Wickenden Street, a true Providence gem serving up brunch every day from 10-4 and an all-day afternoon tea in a charming, historic house.  Those with a sweet tooth won’t be disappointed by their delectable cupcakes.   

Next, make your way to the The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum, showcasing the collections of one of the top art and design schools in the country. Home to more than 100,000 objects representing millennia of human art and design history, the RISD Museum offers acclaimed exhibitions and a range of public programs for people of all ages. Don’t forget to check out the museum store — RISD Works — where you’ll find unique works of art and handicrafts by the school’s alumni and faculty.

Head a few streets over to Brown University, where you’ll enjoy a quintessential New England university vibe among the historic brick buildings, scenic green spaces and monuments. Grab a map of campus at the Campus Center, 75 Waterman Street. The John Carter Brown Library has interesting historical exhibits drawing on its collection of 50,000 rare books, manuscripts and secondary sources. One of the university’s best kept secrets, the Plant Environment Center’s Conservatory at 85 Waterman Street is a hidden jungle of exotic plants and flowers that welcomes “artists, gardeners, tinkerers, dreamers, readers, thinkers, general plant lovers, and green and brown thumbs” to visit between 7:30 and 3:30 every day.

Relax with a picnic on the Main Green surrounded by the University’s most historic structures — buildings like University Hall, which served as a barracks and hospital during the Revolutionary War. If it’s a sunny day during the academic year, you’ll likely be joined on the Green by dozens of students reading, tossing a frisbee or just relaxing. Grab some grub for your picnic on nearby Thayer Street, the main shopping street near campus and a student hub for quick, affordable eats. East Side Pockets is a local favorite, serving up delicious, quick middle eastern dishes. Try the falafel sandwich — you won’t be disappointed.

Explore the historic John Brown House, housed in what President John Quincy Adams described as “the most magnificent and elegant mansion that I have ever seen on this continent.” Perched on a hillside overlooking the river, this magnificent building, built in 1788, was home to one of the wealthiest and most influential families in Rhode Island. Choose between a guided tour or a self-guided audio tour.

Visit historic Federal Hill, known as Providence’s Little Italy and the “Heartbeat of Providence.” Stroll cobbled streets, shop quaint boutiques and treat yourself to award-winning Italian food at one of the top restaurants in the neighborhood like Al Forno known for its pizza, or Siena Restaurant, where the flavors of New England merge with the tastes of Tuscany.

Al Forno’s famous pizza

Head back down the hill to take a stroll by the Providence River and enjoy a view of the illuminated State House on your way down.
If you’re in town between April and December, try and time your visit around a WaterFire event — a famous annual Providence tradition. Every two weeks or so, braziers in the middle of the Providence River are filled with dramatic bonfires. During WaterFire, the surrounding Waterplace Park and Riverwalk host an arts and music festival along the banks of the river.

Where to stay

Hotel Providence: Modern boutique hotel in the Business District.
Christopher Dodge House: Historic, luxury bed & breakfast in a central location.
Old Court Bed & Breakfast: Charming inn in a historic house on College Hill.
See more top hotels in the area.