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Providence, RI: Free Travel Planner

Weekend getaway in New England's second-largest city

by Polly Bannister

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Photograph of Providence, RI
Submitted by Matthew Ellsworth

Photograph of Providence, RI
Submitted by Leo Labossiere

Photograph of Providence, RI
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]

Dolce Villa

Hotel Dolce Villa is a high class modern inn with many accomodations, including lush, decorative suites that have fully stocked kitchens, whirlpool tubs and even flat-screen TVs. If you find yourself with a growling stomach between TV shows, the hotel offers room service: the Caffe Dolce Vita provides Italian, and if you're in the mood for pizza, Geppetto's is also a great culinary selection. Concierge services, event catering, and dry cleaning are all offered here, as well. So come to Hotel Dolce Villa and rejuvenate your spirit! [DETAILS]

Hotel Providence

Hotel Providence is a cozy yet sophisticated destination in close proximity to the best shopping street downtown has to offer. Set inside a restored 19th-century building, this luxurious boutique is a traveler's gem. Nancy Friese, chairman of nearby school RISD, provides her beautiful artwork to each of the 80 oversized rooms, which offer robes, CD players, and bathrooms with rain showerheads. The hotel's restaurant, Aspire, is a new feature that serves Mediterranean food. Don't miss your opportunity to stay at Hotel Providence! [DETAILS]

Renaissance Providence Hotel

Initially intended to be a Masonic temple, the hip, swinging Renaissance Providence Hotel in Providence, Rhode Island has found its own style after being restored: in the hotel one can find vintage graffiti in its deserted corridors, lush, mammoth rooms complete with flat screen TVs, and a unique artistic vibe. When lodging here, make a point to dine in Temple Downtown, a wonderful restaurant within the hotel. More than providing a good night's rest, Renaissance Providence Hotel will be an experience to remember. [DETAILS]

Westin Hotel

The city's largest hotel, Westin Providence has recently expanded and added 200 rooms to its already large, 25-story hotel. Half of the rooms, which have reproduction period furniture, also have king-size beds. Adding a nice touch, many rooms have views of the city, as well. And if you're in the mood for some good food, Westin boasts a wonderful steakhouse and American bistro within the hotel. Come on by and stay the night--heavenly beds (and a great experience) await! [DETAILS]

Radisson Hotel Providence Harbor

Along with a harbor setting within walking distance of downtown and College Hill, a warm and family-friendly atmosphere, good cafe, restaurant, attractive rooms, and low prices add up to the city's best in-town buy. [DETAILS]

Providence, RI: Restaurants

Local 121

Local 121 in Providence provides fresh food from the dedicated farmers who supply it. Raised locally, the delicious choices include vegetables harvested in season and carefully raised meats. Fine dining and a welcoming, cozy ambience make Local 121 a great place to eat. [DETAILS]

Tazza Caffe

This open, airy restaurant situated in a renovated building in the city’s arts and entertainment district, offers an award-winning interior design created by a Rhode Island School of Design professor. The hanging lights look their jauntiest during the day and the fabulous resin bar glows at night. As much a community meeting spot as a restaurant, Tazza draws in big crowds of all ages. The place just makes you want to hang out. [DETAILS]

La Laiterie

Farmstead, an acclaimed artisanal cheese shop, forms the backbone of its adjacent sibling restaurant, La Laiterie, which uses Farmstead cheeses and other local sustainable food in menu items such as cheese plates, Kate’s rustic biscuits, “small plates” (including cheesemonger’s mac-and-cheese), and “larger plates” (including a half-pound Vermont burger with house-made cranberry “ketchup” and artisanal cheese served with polenta fries). Wines and beers are selected to pair well with the seasonal menu. [DETAILS]

Venda Ravioli

Costantino's Venda Ravioli is authentic Italian cuisine in Providence, Rhode Island. In this quaint and charming store you will find anything from tortellini, to fine Italian cheeses, to delicious wine. Make sure to stop by and explore the taste of Italy! [DETAILS]

New Rivers Restaurant

Best Local Flavor Over the course of two decades, this award winning restaurant has set the mark that others try to reach, using local and organic ingredients to venture into new culinary territory, all the while offering warm, welcoming service. Chef/ owner Bruce Tillinghast’s background in art and his interest in world cuisines are reflected in the cosmopolitan ambience and the menu, from the Tagliatelle pasta filled with mushrooms, grated asiago, thyme, and olive oil, to delicious native cod. [DETAILS]

Pastiche Fine Desserts

If you are looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, Providence's own Pastiche Fine Desserts is what you are looking for. With a fine selection of desserts to choose from, ranging from Peach Apricot Cake, to a Tangy Lemon Custard Tart, to a delicious Torte, this one-stop-shop is guaranteed to sweeten your time in Providence! [DETAILS]

Basta Italian Restaurant

Basta Italian Restaurant near Providence, Rhode Island, serves delicious, authentic Italian food in a great atmosphere. So next time you're in town be sure to stop in and experience fine dining at its best! [DETAILS]

Aspire Restaurant at the Hotel Providence

As you relax and unwind in The Hotel Providence, you may also indulge and fill up at Aspire Restaurant. Its simple yet well-selected menu, including starters such as clam chowder and three-onion soup, as well as copious entrees like their Veal Bolognese, is sure to satisfy. You might also check out the fine wine selection. With such amazing food right there for you to enjoy, you'll be glad you stopped in. [DETAILS]

Nick's on Broadway

Nick's on Broadway in Providence serves up delicious and varied cuisine, from antipasto and shrimp salad to grilled boneless duck and sauteed seasonal vegetables. If you're hungry, or if you're curious about new hot spots in Rhode Island's capital city, Nick's on Broadway welcomes you to experience its delights. [DETAILS]

East Side Pocket

Next time you're in Providence, come on by East Side Pocket for a hearty meal. Its varied menu includes falafels, Greek veggie pockets, and many kinds of kabob. Life is too short to be hungry--come and eat at East Side Pocket today! [DETAILS]

Haruki East

In the mood for authentic Oriental cuisine? Look no further than Haruki East in Providence, Rhode Island. Delicious food, a wonderful atmosphere, and a great dining experience are calling your name. Come by and see for yourself. [DETAILS]

Haven Brothers Diner

Diners were born in Providence in 1872. At first they were mobile lunch carts. Then they were called “diners” when they lost their wheels. For years, Haven Brothers has continued the earlier tradition by pulling up to the plaza next to City Hall in downtown Providence every night at 5:00 p.m. and plugging itself into a lamp post. The food is plain, to say the least, but the color is extreme as the local night owls come out for coffee and a dog. [DETAILS]

Providence, RI: Attractions

WaterFire Providence

Each evening throughout the season 100 bonfires will float along the darkened rivers of downtown Providence. Watch and enjoy special events alongside the three rivers as they reflect the city's shadows and highlights from sunset until after midnight. [DETAILS]

Federal Hill

Federal Hill, a Rhode Island attraction with a wide variety of fun things to do, including dining and shopping, has been called the "Heartbeat of Providence". Come down and check it out; you'll have a great time. [DETAILS]

Roger Williams Park Botanical Center

Best Rainy-Day Walk New England’s largest garden conservatory is still expanding its outdoor gardens, but its 12,000 square feet of indoor tropical and subtropical plants, complete with palm trees, waterfalls, orchids, cacti, and many other exotic blooms and fragrances, transport visitors to a southern paradise. [DETAILS]

Roger Williams Park Zoo

Roger Williams Park Zoo is the third-oldest zoo in the country, dating back to 1872. The 40-acre zoo is separated into areas that highlight some of the world’s continents, with animals such as the arctic fox from North America and the Parma wallaby from Australia. An entire exhibit is dedicated to the African island of Madagascar, with a focus on lemurs. [DETAILS]

The Chace Center at RISD Museum of Art

Best New Cultural Attraction The six-month-old Chace Center, designed by award-winning architect José Rafael Moneo, has a shimmering facade of clear and etched glass that contrasts nicely with the red-brick and aluminum fins. This innovative four-story structure, set into a steep hill, creates new galleries for an art collection that is one of the jewels of New England. [DETAILS]

John Brown House

For a short stretch of road, Benefit Street has defined much of the story and identity of Providence. Explore it with the Rhode Island Historical Society on a pair of tours starting from the John Brown House. One covers the mansion itself, enlightening guests about one of Providence’s most influential (and controversial) citizens. The other is a 90-minute jaunt to the other famous homes and civic structures lining this idyllic street. [DETAILS]

Providence Athenaeum

The Providence Athenaeum is the city's oldest cultural center, having shaped Providence over the centuries into the city it is today. Included in its delights are a library, a museum, and a bookstore--all sure to enlighten one's mind and broaden one's horizons. When in town, remember to stop by the Providence Athenaeum! [DETAILS]

Trinity Repertory Company

Trinity Repertory Company in Providence has a long tradition of theater. Started in 1963, the theater has a devoted following, serious actor and curious play lover alike. If you love plays and find yourself in Providence, be sure to check this out. [DETAILS]

Benefit Street

Stroll through the heart of historic Providence, leaving plenty of time to loiter at each corner and gawk at the 18thand 19th-century homes. The John Brown House (nearby on Power Street) and the reading room at the Providence Athenaeum merit extra time. [DETAILS]

Culinary Archives & Museum at Johnson & Wales University

The Culinary Arts Museum in Providence welcomes you to explore the history of the culinary and hospitality industries. It features a diner museum, a stove museum, a wide array of chefs, and culinary showpieces. If you're in the area, be sure to visit this fascinating museum. [DETAILS]

Providence, RI: Shopping

RISD Works

RISD Works, a gallery and retail store in Providence, Rhode Island, has a wide variety of items to choose from. Whether you want cool clothing, beautiful art, cozy furniture, or fine jewelry, this shop is what you are looking for. Stop in and shop at RISD Works today! [DETAILS]

Providence Place

Next time you're in Providence, make a point to stop at Providence Place Mall. From viewing movies, to buying clothes, to eating in great restaurants, this mall awaits you as a shopper's paradise. Be sure to stop in soon. [DETAILS]

Providence Open Market

Providence Open Market is the capital city's only Open-Air Market that sells fine art and authentic artisan goods. Located in beautiful Lippitt Park, the market features new artists weekly to mix things up. And, as a bonus, this treasured meeting place also offers healthy food. Next time you're in town, stop by and treat yourself to a day well spent. [DETAILS]

Heir Antiques

Heir Antiques is the place to go in Providence for art and antiques. Choosing from a range of items, including not only art and antiques, but also rare home and personal accessories, you might want to spend the entire day here! When you're next in Providence, give in to curiosity to explore this charming antique shop. [DETAILS]

Craftland

Craftland, a unique yearly craft show in Providence, is a great place to spend the day. The works of artists from around the globe are displayed here, giving you a taste of many cultures' aesthetics. When you're in town next, stop by Craftland for a day of fun and culture. [DETAILS]

OOP! Inc.

OOP! Inc., located in Providence, is a great little store with a marvelous collection of independent retailers; the store is right on famous Westminster St., where you'll likely want to spend a lot of time. So come by and see what all the fuss is about! [DETAILS]

Elsa Arms

If you're looking for fashionable clothing, with such designer names as Clu, Manoush, and Inhabit, then you might stop at Elsa Arms in Providence. Its spacious, beautiful atmosphere virtually calls out to shoppers to explore its many pleasures. Stop in today. [DETAILS]

Symposium Books

Are you looking for great books in Providence? Look no further than Symposium Books on famed Westminster St. The store is a reader's delight, with high quality selection and an astounding volume of books. So when you're next in the capital city treat your mind to this wonderful store. [DETAILS]

Design Within Reach

Design Within Reach in Providence offers a wide range of modernistic products. These innovative yet simple products make design within reach. If you're in town and don't know what to do or where to go, keep this store in mind as you strive to make your visit to Providence unforgettable. [DETAILS]

Homestyle

Homestyle in Providence is the place to be if you love fine art, home furnishings and various gift items that add up to a great shopping experience. And, while set in a modern backdrop, Homestyle maintains subtle good taste. It's the perfect way to spend an afternoon, so don't delay and come today! [DETAILS]

Benefit Street Antiques

Benefit Street Gallery is a great shop right in Rhode Island's capital city. If you are looking for art and culture, this may well be the destination for you. [DETAILS]

Simple Pleasures

Maybe it's the building, all tiny and vine covered. The light streams in like ribbons through the old windows giving the interior a dreamy, diffused atmosphere. Supposedly a flower and garden shop, Simple Pleasures is much more. Some of the best local jewelers and potters tuck their wares among the blooms. Buy a mercury ball for the border or a knock-out coral, beach rock and ruby necklace. [DETAILS]

Studio Hop

Proprietors Peter and Nina Tegu put much time and effort into their shop. The result is a worthy mix of fine arts, furnishings, jewelry, antiques, and handcrafted accessories. There may be a display of handblown glass in crayon colors next to a table of chunky pottery or a sleek 1940s bar nestled against a decoratively painted table. Studio Hop is set up like a well-lit gallery. Before you buy, browse until your heart’s content. [DETAILS]

Frog and Toad

Frog and Toad in Providence has just what you're looking to shop for, whether it is for the perfect birthday gift, a wedding present, or something for your baby. Come on by today! [DETAILS]

Creatoyvity

Ah, to be young. Creatoyvity in Providence offers an abundance of neat things (and, of course, toys!) for your little ones to enjoy. Bring them by today, and they will have a grand time exploring the treasures of this unique store. [DETAILS]