Who doesn't love a WaterFire? With thousands of visitors every year, it's no surprise to find you can't get a last-minute reservation at one of the restaurants with a view of the river. But with a little planning, you can still have a fabulous night and skip the crowds.
Spend the Night in Style at The Beatrice
To really do it in style, book the WaterFire & Thrill package at The Beatrice. In addition to your overnight stay, the package includes a Chef's Tasting Dinner for two at Bellini and two passes to the WaterFire Circle reception, featuring locally catered treats, live performances, and even the opportunity to ride in one of the WaterFire boats.
Providence Place Parking and Dining
Worried about where to park for WaterFire? The Providence Place Mall parking garage is open 24/7 and best of all, your first two hours are free. You could take a stroll along the river, take in the spectacle of WaterFire, and still have time for dinner at Fogo de Chao. For just $2, you can park a little longer and have some fun at Level 99 (also home to Night Shift Brewing) or Dave & Busters.
Experience WaterFire from the River
While everyone else is gathered along the river, you could be on it. Providence River Boat Company's WaterFire Boat Tour includes an option to add a locally sourced charcuterie box. The Viaggio dei AcquaFuoco tour from La Gondola seats up to six and includes handmade Italian wine biscuits, an ice bucket, glasses and a bottle opener. All you have to do is bring your favorite wine. But be sure to book ahead — these boats fill up fast on WaterFire nights!
WaterFire Dining Without the Wait
Just across Memorial Boulevard from Waterplace Park, Union Station Brewery's Rhode Island-themed brews are the perfect accompaniment to their menu. (Try the Kennedy Plaza Pilsner or the Biltmore Blues.) Or check out newly opened Track 15, home to seven different local restaurants. With a wide variety of cuisines and ample seating, you won't have to wait long for a table. Don't feel like being inside? Grab a drink at their walk-up bar window and enjoy the outdoor seating.
On the other side of the river, you can explore restaurants like Bacaro, Parkside Rotisserie & Bar and Mill's Tavern. For a more low-key meal, try Harry's Bar & Burger. Just a walk down the hill puts you right in the center of the WaterFire fun.
Downtown Dining and Parking
Just a short walk from the basin, Downtown Providence is filled with dining options ranging from upscale (think The George and Rosalina) to a casual spot to meet up with your crew before sunset (Malted Barley and Durk's BBQ come to mind). You're rarely more than a 10-minute walk from the WaterFire action, no matter where you are in the city.
Pro Tip: Reserve your parking spot in advance with ParkWhiz. See our WaterFire page for details.
With these crowd-free dining options and activities, you can enjoy everything WaterFire has to offer without the stress of competing for reservations or dealing with packed restaurants. From luxury hotel packages to casual brewery hopping, there's a perfect WaterFire experience waiting for you beyond the basin.
