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Providence, RI: Free Travel Planner
Weekend getaway in New England's second-largest city
by Polly Bannister
Submitted by Matthew Ellsworth
Submitted by Leo Labossiere
Submitted by Matthew Ellsworth
VIDEO: WaterFire in Providence
If you are looking for family fun, a romantic getaway, a great vacation, or a perfect day trip, you need look no further than Providence, Rhode Island.
Providence is New England's second-largest city (Boston is first) and in the last decade this Rhode Island city has enjoyed a renaissance.
The centerpiece of rejuvenated Providence is the river which runs through the heart of downtown. Here, Waterplace Park is among the city's many attractions. It is also the site of the multimedia extravaganza Waterfire Providence which is rated among the most popular events in the region.
Green spaces and walkways flank both sides of the Providence River with many top rated hotels located nearby. Other Providence places to stay are bed and breakfasts, inns, and motels. Also within walking distance is Providence Place where shopping reigns. You'll find everything you need (or think you do) at the 100 or so shops here.
Providence restaurants run the gamut from fine dining to everyday home cooking. The hub of the city's ethnic cuisine is Federal Hill, home of Italian food stores, restaurants, and lots of local color.
With all its glorious restoration and urban renewal, much of Providence's charm lies in its history, museums, arts, and culture. For theater lovers, Tony-award winning Trinity Repertory Company is a must.
If beautiful homes are your thing, no visit would be complete without a walking tour of Benefit Street whose concentration of Colonial architecture is breathtaking. The neighborhood includes Rhode Island School of Design with its world-class museum and new permanent exhibit of works by talented and famous alumni. Just up the hill is ivy-league Brown University. The campus, off Thayer Street, has been designated a National Historic Landmark.
With so much to do and see in Providence, you might want to extend your travel weekend getaway to a complete vacation package.
Yankee's picks for Providence:
Click on any destination below for a map and more information.
Providence, RI: Hotels
Providence Biltmore
The Providence Biltmore, constructed in 1922, has what you are looking for in a hotel. Its beautiful exterior, glass elevator that treats you to a view of Providence, luxurious spa, grand ballroom, and an on-site Starbucks are all sure to satisfy. And as if that weren't enough, the Biltmore provides fine dining: the famed McCormick and Schmick's Seafood Restaurant. So if you're ever in the area, you now know a great hotel to enliven your trip. [DETAILS]
Courtyard by Marriott Providence
Courtyard by Marriott Providence is located in the heart of the city. Its reasonable price and lovely redbrick exterior make it a great hotel destination. The Marriott's large rooms are shaded in tan and green with mauve accents. Bring the kids, too, because this hotel boasts a family-friendly environment. So when you're in town, try the Courtyard by Marriott Providence -- you'll love it! [DETAILS]
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