With three popular universities, diverse outdoor activities, miles of beaches, excellent dining options, riverboat rides, brilliant street art, and interesting history, Providence is a perfect destination for a weekend outing. It is a blend of small-town charm and sophistication of a big city. Here are the top 10 things to do in Providence this weekend.
Best Things to Do in Providence This Weekend
1. Unwind at Waterfire
This award-winning art sculpture created by local artist Barnaby Evans attracts millions of visitors every year. Imagine more than eighty bonfires floating on water. The warmth of the fire, the beautiful reflection on the water, the crackling sound of flames, the sweet smell of burning wood, and the melodic music floating in the air will help to activate all senses in your body and relax your stressed mind. Take a riverboat tour to enjoy the thrill and pleasure of sailing amidst the burning torches. Walk along the river banks enjoying the street food and live music. The entire stretch is a treat to your eyes and ears.
2. Read and Relax at Providence Athenaeum
This unique library has an interesting history dating back to 1753. It was started by a group of people who couldn’t afford to buy lots of books. They paid a small subscription to buy the books for the library and share them with the members. The current building of the library was designed by architect William Strickland. Today the library is also a cultural center promoting the community’s vibrant culture and conserving the rare collection of books. If you love reading books, you can spend a whole day here. There is a separate section for the kids.
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3. Enjoy a Variety of Adventures at Roger Williams Park Zoo
The zoo is home to hundreds of species and the park is home to diverse outdoor activities including boating, hiking, zip riding, walking, tennis, baseball, and many more. There is a playground for little kids where they can have fun. Take the walking trails to admire the views, the Japanese garden, Carousel Park, the botanical garden, etc. Have a relaxed picnic with your family on the sprawling green grassy lawns. Let the kids feed the ducks, geese, swans, and other wading birds. Go paddle boating in the small pond. This gorgeous park has something to offer for people of all ages.
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4. Appreciate Art at RISD Museum
This deceptively large museum displays more than 1,00,000 artworks from all over the world. There are more than 80,000 exhibits in the permanent collection. You can see 18th-century caricatures from Europe, Asian art, ancient Egyptian sculptures, contemporary and modern paintings, Roman exhibits, ancient textiles, and many more. The 12th-century Japanese Buddha has a separate room with benches to meditate in peace. There is a small cafe that serves delicious snacks. It is one of the top museums in the world with a top-notch collection.
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5. Visit the Rhode Island State House
If you love history and ancient architecture, the Rhode Island State House is a must-visit place in Providence. The house designed by the famous architecture firm McKim is a fantastic example of American Renaissance architecture. It is home to the principal offices of the Governor, Secretary of the State, Lieutenant Governor, and General Treasurer. It is made of marble and is the fourth-largest self-supported marble dome in the world. Take a guided tour to see the beautiful interior decorations, artworks, and memorials. There is a lot to explore and learn about the state.
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6. Enjoy the Best Italian Food at Federal Hill
The place is a haven for Italian food lovers. The place was occupied by Italian-American immigrants in the 1900’s. You can find the influence of Italian culture and food even today. Talk to the restaurant and shop owners, and you will hear an interesting story about their family’s immigration and settlement. You can see many Italian boutiques, wine shops, delis, etc. apart from restaurants and coffee shops. Although the place screams Italian everywhere, today a few restaurants also serve Chinese, Mexican, Lebanese, and other cuisines.
7. Take a Boat Tour
The best way to explore the Providence River, Waterplace Park, Providence Harbor, and other historic places is with a boat tour. You can go on a cocktail cruise, a guided city tour, a paddle voyage, WaterFire rides, etc. You will be spoilt with choices. Enjoy the serenity of the town and its stunning architecture. You will have a memorable boat cruise whatever option you choose.
8. Go on a Self-Guided Street Art Tour
Providence is home to numerous street art. The walls of the city are painted with murals by local artists. The painted walls are a reflection of the local history and culture. The art makes the walls colorful, bright, and artistic adding to the beauty of the city. The Art of Life, Shepherd Fairey’s OBEY, Bezt’s She Never Came. Georgia’s Garden of Journey and Jonathan’s Crown of Thunder are a few examples of splendid art murals adorning the city walls. New paintings keep on propping up every year giving chance to new artists. You will surely enjoy this tour if you are an art lover.
9. Explore the Stephen Hopkins House
This 1707 home is the residence of a Colonial Governor and a signer of the Declaration of Independence, Stephen Hopkins. This is the oldest home in Rhode Island. You will be impressed to learn about him. You will be fascinated by the spectacular artifacts and heirlooms. Visit the room where George Washington slept when he stayed here. Join the one-hour-long free tour to learn about the interesting history and details of the house. The tour guides are knowledgeable and you will surely enjoy the visit.
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10. Shop at Providence Place Mall
With five levels of shops and restaurants, you can have the ultimate shopping and dining experience at Providence Place Mall. The wide variety of shops will attract the whole family. This massive mall is a hangout for local teens. The kids will love the food court and the toy shops, especially the Lego store.
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Final Words
Providence is a fantastic place to escape from the stress and traffic of big cities. If you are looking forward to spending a peaceful weekend exploring history and eating delicious food Providence is the perfect place. Plan your next weekend trip to Providence.
