The Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Bridge, also known as the Providence River Pedestrian Bridge, connects the city's Fox Point neighborhood on the East Side to the burgeoning Innovation & Design District.
Opened in August 2019, this pedestrian bridge reuses the existing piers of the old I-195 highway bridge. Stretching 450 feet across the Providence River, the deck of the bridge is constructed from Brazilian Ipe wood and features matching wooden benches, built-in chessboards and illuminated tables. At the end of each side of the bridge are sprawling urban parks often featuring pop-up vendors, entertainment and food trucks.
You'll find restaurants on the east side of the river, including Hemenway's, Dave's Coffee, Bacaro, and Geoff's Superlative Sandwiches, along with shops all along South Main Street. Stroll the area at your own pace with our East Side Historic Walking Tour Map.
On the west side of the bridge is a larger park area with seasonal pop-up vendors and performers from late spring through early fall. The newly opened 195 District Park Pavilion will be home to The Guild's beer garden and Seven Stars Bakery, and will provide a gathering space for year-round events.
Blu Violet, the rooftop bar atop the Aloft Providence Downtown, offers incredible views of the East Side and the waterfront while serving up small bites and masterfully crafted cocktails. Dune Brothers Seafood and Bayberry Garden feature patio dining and favorite New England dishes. In the summer, be sure to stop by the Providence Flea in 195 District Park most Sundays. There's also plenty of history to explore throughout the Jewelry District, much of which is covered in our Jewelry District Historic Walking Tour Map.
Bridge Location:
The west side of the bridge is accessible from Dyer St. near Ship St. The east side of the bridge is accessible from South Water St. near James St.
