Are you looking for fun and unique things to do in Providence? Rhode Island’s capital city is about to wow you with its amazing restaurants, museums, fun cultural events, entertainment options, and historic attractions.
Of course, you may need help putting together an itinerary full of hidden gems. Check out a few of our favorite things to do in Providence that will take you from downtown to the water!
A tour we think you'll love
1) Book A River Boat Tour Of Downtown
The Providence River is formed by the junction of the Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck Rivers.
As you can imagine, the city’s waterways make for some incredible sightseeing. Providence River Boat Company offers our guests an opportunity to see the city’s architecture, bridges, and landmarks from a unique perspective that nobody else can. Climb aboard our 18-passenger touring vessels to embark on a narrated journey today!
Here’s a look at our most popular tours:
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Historic Narrated Tours – Enjoy a casual, open-air tour that brings you deep into the city’s history and culture while enjoying amazing views.
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Haunted Boat Tours – Immerse yourself in the spooky side of Providence’s history! Allow our Captains, along with special guest guides from the Providence Ghost Tours, to introduce you to some of Providence’s longest-lingering residents as you cruise throughout our waterways.
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Twilight River Cruises – Perfect for date nights or outings with friends, this 16+ experience shows off stunning sunset views.
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WaterFire® Boat Rides – WaterFire® is full of motion—fire tenders stoke the fires, rivers flow quietly beneath the braziers, sparks whirl through the night air, and flames reflect off the dark surface of the water, animating the architectural fabric of the city.
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Providence Architecture Tour – Settle in for a comprehensive look at the city’s iconic buildings and architectural styles with local experts.
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Wine & Brine Coastal Cruise – We partner with West Passage Oyster Company to bring you an amazing oyster-tasting experience featuring freshly shucked oysters farmed in the West Passage of Narragansett Bay.
Providence River Boat Company also offers additional specialty tours including Brews Cruises with Narragansett Beer, Vineyard Voyages with Gooseneck Vineyards, and Sip & See Mimosa Cruises.
Don’t waste another minute wondering how to spend a great weekend in Providence. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard for an unforgettable experience on the water! Book your adventure with us today and see Providence like never before!
2) Tour Local College Campuses
Providence is one of the top college towns in America. Why not plan a self-guided walking tour of one of the campuses here? Take a look:
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Brown University – This private Ivy League University was founded in 1764. Situated on the eastern side of the city, Brown’s campus offers lovely views of downtown and the historic East Side neighborhood.
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Roger Williams – Located in Bristol, Rhode Island, about 25 miles from Providence, this top-ranked university makes for an excellent day trip from the city.
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Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – Founded in 1887, RISD is one of the country’s most prestigious colleges for art, design, and film. Stop in for a tour of the Rhode Island School of Design Museum.
Good To Know: Head to Thayer Street on College Hill to get a real taste of student life in a historic neighborhood known for its eclectic cafés and dining places.
3) Tour Providence’s Jewelry District
Did you know that Rhode Island was once considered one of the major jewelry manufacturing centers in the United States? One of the most unique things to do in Providence is take a self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood where significant jewelry manufacturing took place following the Civil War.
Here are the landmarks to put on your route:
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Kendall Manufacturing Company (90 Friendship Street)
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Hedison (Champlin) Building (116 Chestnut Street)
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Imperial Place (Imperial Place, Elm Street, and Bassett Street)
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Sarah and Thomas Doyle House Doyle House (137 Chestnut Street)
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James Doran and Sons Building (150 Chestnut Street)
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Chestnut Street Methodist Church (Clifford Street and Chestnut Street)
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Irons and Russell Building (95 Chestnut Street)
Fun Fact: While most of Providence’s jewelry factories are no longer in business, the Jewelry District made more than a quarter of the country’s jewelry during the 19th and 20th centuries.
4) Visit the RISD Museum
The RISD Museum collection currently contains more than 100,000 works of art and design dating from ancient times to today, including paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, costume and textiles, and furniture from all over the world.
5) Check Into the Providence Athenæum on Historic Benefit Street.
Over its nearly 200 years of existence, the Athenæum has welcomed illustrious writers, spirited thinkers, and engaged community members through its doors to read, learn, gather, and debate. Our mission is to enrich the mind, inspire the spirit, and elevate the public discourse.
The Athenæum was founded in 1836, and predates the establishment of public libraries. All are invited to join as members, visit the building, explore our history, engage with the collections, participate in programs, and be part of the Athenæum’s ongoing story!
6) Tour Providence’s “Little Italy”
Historic Federal Hill is famed for its outdoor cafés and Italian restaurants. Enter the neighborhood through it’s bronzed pinecone archway before settling by the DePasquale Square fountain to enjoy a world-class espresso.
Stay after dark to watch DePasqule Square come alive with music, dancing, and special cultural events. Live concerts and outdoor entertainment take place most weekends during the summer and early fall.
Plan A Great Time With Family And Friends In Downtown Providence
While there’s no shortage of museums, restaurants, and landmarks throughout downtown, there’s something about getting on the water that truly makes a visit special.
Whether you’re with family, friends, or flying solo, our river tours promise unforgettable memories and stunning views. Come aboard and let the city’s stories and beauty sweep you away! Book your adventure with us today and see Providence from a whole new perspective!
