Providence, Rhode Island
Providence is the capital city of Rhode Island, a U.S. state in New England known for its seaside towns and sandy shores. Founded in 1636, Providence is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Providence’s 20.5 square miles of land are broken up by the Providence River and seven small hills. With a population of approximately 191,000, Providence is the third most populated area in New England after Boston and Worcester. The Greater Providence metropolitan area, which includes Bristol County, Rhode Island, and nearby Massachusetts towns, has a population of approximately one million.
Notable Attractions
Providence is home to several attractions that draw tourists and locals alike. Providence’s signature event, is an art installation of nearly 100 bonfires that float on the three rivers running through downtown. The WaterFire events are free and open to the public, and they take place most nights in the summer as well as for special occasions throughout the year.
In addition to its many historical and cultural attractions, Providence is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors. The city has 22 parks that offer a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. Roger Williams Park, located in the center of the city, is the largest park in Providence and features a zoo, an aviary, a botanical center, and a museum of natural history.
Education
Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design are two of the city’s most prominent institutions of higher learning. Brown, a private Ivy League research university, was founded in 1764 and is one of the nine colonial colleges chartered before the American Revolution. RISD, also founded in 1764, is a private art and design school that consistently ranks as one of the top art schools in the country.
Another can’t-miss attraction is the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, which houses American art and silver. Founded in 1877, the RISD Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in the United States. The museum is located in the heart of Providence’s historic district and is free to the public on Sundays.
Architecture
Providence is known for its diverse architecture, which includes everything from colonial-style homes to modern skyscrapers. College Hill, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, is home to a variety of 18th- and 19th-century houses. The Benefit Street Mile, a self-guided walking tour of Benefit Street, showcases some of the best-preserved homes in the city. Downtown Providence is home to a number of high-rise buildings, including the tallest building in Rhode Island, the Superman Building.
NightLife
Providence has a thriving nightlife scene with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bar to grab a drink or a nightclub to dance the night away, you’ll find it in Providence. The city’s many restaurants offer a variety of cuisines to suit any taste, and there are plenty of places to enjoy live music. Providence also has a number of hotels, so you can stay in the city and enjoy all it has to offer.
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions, Providence is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, experience the arts, or just relax and enjoy the city’s many restaurants and bars, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Providence.