Providence is filled with ways to support locally owned businesses, from great restaurants and cocktail bars to quirky shops and boutique hotels. Whether you're looking for a family adventure or a night out with friends, we've got you covered! Check out our list of ways to Buy Local RI in Providence below.
401-785-3510 / If you're looking for a fun fresh air outing, head to Roger Williams Park Zoo. Don't miss the African elephants, giraffes, zebras, snow leopards, moon bears, and so many more amazing animals in naturalistic settings.
401-563-3333 / Stop into Ellie's and grab yourself something yummy for breakfast or lunch. Choose from freshly baked breads, pastries, sandwiches, goodies and more. As a bonus, Ellie's sources ingredients from area farmers and producers, so you can really keep it local.
With local goodies like Aunt Carrie's Clam Cake & Fritter Mix, Catanzaro's Egg Biscuits, Dave's Coffee and more, you can pick up a taste of home to send to those far-away friends and family who are missing their Little Rhody favorites.
Enjoy a beer at any one of the capital city’s craft breweries or pick up some cans to go. There’s something for all types of beer lovers from Long Live Beerworks, Trinity Brewhouse and Union Station Brewery. Beer not your thing? Pick up a bottle of red or white at Eno Fine Wines or Gasbarro's Wines. Or, hey, why not grab one of each?
The Providence Children’s Museum, Rhode Island’s only hands-on museum for kids and their families, never ceases to entertain the little ones. Visitors are inspired to learn through interactive exhibits and programs that explore the arts, culture, history and science. Be sure to check out the museum’s playfully reimagined “Coming to Rhode Island” exhibit, where you can take off on a time-traveling adventure through Rhode Island’s history.
"Gwendolyn the Graceful Pig" and "Cinderella" will enchant both children and adults. Whether you're attending "Up Close on Hope" at their Black Box Theater or enjoying the more spacious theater at The VETS, you'll love this year's Ballet RI season.
Need a gift for that hard-to-shop-for person on your list? Something handmade from Gather Glass is the way to go, whether you make it yourself or buy a one-of-a-kind item from the studio. Better yet, get them a gift certificate for their own glass blowing class!
Shop local at The Providence Flea on Sundays (11 a.m.—3 p.m.), featuring unique and affordable gifts from 75+ rotating vendors at each market. Cocktails, craft beer, coffee and food trucks add to the fun atmosphere.
If you’re looking to discover some local Black-owned businesses, our friends at Providence Monthly have a great online directory to get you started. Order up some delicious sugary confections from Sarcastic Sweets, relax with a calming tea blend from The Black Leaf Tea & Culture Shop, or pamper yourself with organic bath products from Soulita Soap.
With events like RI VegFest and ongoing exhibits by local artists, there is always something going on at the WaterFire Arts Center. Shop for unique gifts and WaterFire apparel in the store while you're there.
Grab a coffee or a bubble tea and take a stroll down Hope, Thayer or Wickenden streets. You'll find lots of cool stores like Frog & Toad or Books on the Square.
Treat yourself to a hearty dinner at your favorite spot on the Hill. Enjoy comfort food for the whole family from Angelo’s, or assorted apps and savory entrees from Pane e Vino. The options are endless — and delicious.
401-272-4285 / This iconic, quirky shop on Westminster Street in Downtown Providence is filled with unique handmade items, including clothing, jewelry, housewares, artwork and so much more. Shop in-person or online for cool gifts or something fun for yourself.
401-666-0088 / Relax with seasonal cocktails (or mocktails) and Middle Eastern dishes like Smoked Tahini Eggplant or Lamb Flatbread. Or meet your pals for an end-of-day round of Espresso Martinis.
FoodTrucksIn runs a full schedule of food truck events throughout RI from spring through fall, including Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village, featuring locally owned food trucks, local beer from Trinity Brewhouse and live music.
401-312-4250 / The Farm Fresh Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. at their Sims St. location in Providence. The weekly market features a variety of local farm and food vendors. Check their site for special happenings throughout the season. Photo: Courtesy of Farm Fresh RI
A change of scenery may be just what you need. Plan a staycation in the city and enjoy some of the little extras included in the variety of getaway packages available. While you're visiting, pop into Bobbles & Lace for a wardrobe update. Here for an event? Schedule a personal styling session and let them find you the perfect outfit!
401-369-8427 / Cupcakes and cocktails. Need we say more? Whether you've got a daytime sugar craving or feel like indulging in an after-dinner drink and dessert, you'll surely find something wicked to tempt your sweet tooth at Sin.
Author
Tara Rugg
Tara Rugg is the marketing manager at the Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau. She lives in Warwick with her husband, and loves spending time in Providence for dining, theater and concerts. In her free time, she can usually be found with her nose in a book.
