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 7 incredible 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 stunning Providence River is formed by the junction of the Woonasquatucket River and Moshassuck River. Providence is often called the city of three rivers because the Providence River eventually carries the Seekonk River after meeting at the head of Providence Harbor.
As you can imagine, the city’s waterways make for some incredible sightseeing. Providence River Boat Company lets guests see the city’s architecture, bridges, and landmarks from the perspective of the water. Climb aboard our pristine 18-passenger touring vessels to embark on a narrated journey.
Here’s a look at our most popular tours:
-
Historic Narrated Tours – Enjoy a casual, open-air tour that brings you deep into the city’s history and culture while enjoying amazing views.
-
Sip & See Providence – Sip mimosas in a relaxing atmosphere while the architectural, nautical, and historical charms of downtown Providence unfold all around you.
-
Twilight River Cruises – Perfect for date nights or outings with friends, this 16+ experience shows off stunning sunset views.
-
WaterFire® Boat Rides – Experience the magic of the WaterFire® lighting as fires illuminate the river.
-
Providence Architecture Tour – Settle in for a comprehensive look at the city’s iconic buildings and architectural styles.
-
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.
We, at Providence River Boat Company also offer additional specialty tours including brew cruises, vineyard voyages, and haunted boat tours. We also provide tours of Green Jacket Shoal, Mother’s Day cruises, and private charters, with most of our tours available for all ages.
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:
-
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.
-
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.
-
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 College Street to get a real taste of student life in a historic neighborhood known for its eclectic cafés and dining places.
3) Experience Food Truck Friday At The Roger Williams Park Zoo
This is one of Providence’s most beloved events! Food Truck Friday runs from April through September each year in the zoo’s Carousel Village. The event starts at 5 p.m. More than 15 food trucks arrive each week. In addition, there’s usually live music.
There is no entry fee to attend; simply pay for what you order, but seating is limited, so consider bringing a chair or blanket to sit on while feasting!
Pro Tip: Visit Food Truck Friday early to secure a good spot, especially if you’re bringing kids. This event is vibrant and diverse, attracting locals and visitors alike, so arriving before the crowds is key.
4) 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:
-
Kendall Manufacturing Company (90 Friendship Street)
-
Hedison (Champlin) Building (116 Chestnut Street)
-
Imperial Place (Imperial Place, Elm Street, and Bassett Street)
-
Sarah and Thomas Doyle House Doyle House (137 Chestnut Street)
-
James Doran and Sons Building (150 Chestnut Street)
-
Chestnut Street Methodist Church (Clifford Street and Chestnut Street)
-
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.
5) Head To Newport For A Beach Day
With the greater Providence area offering so many miles of coastal views, it would be a shame to come here without peppering in a little beach time. Newport is just 34 miles from Providence’s downtown. Here’s a quick itinerary to fill your day with wonder:
-
Step back into the Gilded Age by touring the Breakers Marble House, Rosecliff, and the Elms.
-
Enjoy scenic ocean views and peeks of Newport’s most iconic mansions on the Cliff Walk.
-
Dine at one of the highly rated seafood restaurants at Bowen’s Wharf.
-
Stroll cobblestone streets and enjoy unique shops on Thames Street.
-
Explore the tidal pools at Brenton Point State Park.
Pro Tip: No car? No problem. There is a one-hour ferry service running between Providence and Newport.
6) See Shows Or Special Events At The Providence Performing Arts Center
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977, this stunning venue from the 1920s is known as the Jewel of Weybosset Street. It is now considered one of the best places in town for weekend events. The box office offers opportunities to see bands, Broadway performances, family shows, comedians, and much more!
Fun Fact: While originally built as a movie palace, this entertainment venue was used primarily for music concerts during the 1970s. The Bee Gees, The Doors, Queen, The Kinks, Lou Reed, Jackson Browne, Van Morrison, Fleetwood Mac, and Aerosmith all performed here during that span!
7) Tour Providence’s “Little Italy”
Historic Federal Hill is famed for its amazing outdoor cafés and Italian restaurants. Enter the neighborhood through a large archway with a bronzed pinecone before settling by a fountain to enjoy a world-class espresso. Of course, dining on yummy pizza makes a visit truly official!
Stay after dark to watch DePasquale Square in the center of Federal Hill come alive with music, dancing, and special cultural events. Live concerts and outdoor entertainment take place most weekends in the summer.
Pro Tip: Stop into Gasbarro’s Wine to pick something out from a wine seller that’s been operating in the neighborhood since 1898!
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. That’s why booking a river tour with Providence River Boat Company is one of the best things to do in Providence.
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!
