Your Providence Summer Bucket List: 14 Things to Do Before September
Published: August 5, 2025
August is here, and while the days are still warm, there's an evening chill that is starting to remind us that fall isn't far away. The good news is that there's still plenty of time to get in all of those summer activities you've been planning to do. Want to make sure you don't miss anything? We've got you covered with 14 ways to experience the perfect downtown summer. Start checking off your summer bucket list today!
Explore Downtown with the Providence Foundation's Legacy in Motion Scavenger Hunt
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Explore the city, learn about the history of The Providence Foundation's impact on Downtown and enter to win prizes. Every check-in earns points toward prizes like PPAC tickets, restaurant gift cards and more. (For bonus points, post a selfie from the hunt and tag @provfoundation on Instagram and Facebook.)
Head to your favorite downtown cocktail bar and order something fruity and fun. Or head to a local beer garden for a pint on the patio. Having a sober summer? Grab a summer mocktail!
What better way to enjoy a summer day than a boat ride? Whether you're booking a tour with Providence River Boat Company, enjoying a taste of Venice on a gondola or prefer paddling at your own pace in a kayak, you're sure to keep cool on even the hottest of days.

With seven different restaurants to choose from, you can have a different meal every day for a week at Track 15!
Take a trip back to the '80s with daily Roller Disco at The Providence Rink. Big hair and legwarmers are optional.
With everything from coffee and books to quirky gifts and home goods, the shops and cafes on Westminster Street have something for everyone. And since they're all locally owned small businesses, it's a great way to Buy Local RI!

Whether you're into the art and architecture, the history of the city or just want to sample some fabulous local food, there's a tour for you! Prefer to go your own way? Try one of our historic walking tours.

Speaking of art, you can find it just about everywhere you turn, from building murals and sculptures to utility box murals around the city. The Avenue Concept's app provides a guided tour of all current artwork, along with details about each piece.

Head to the 195 District Park and the Providence Pedestrian Bridge, where there's always something happening. Whether you're in the mood for a brew at the Guild PVD Beer Garden or you're looking for live entertainment, a chess game or a yoga class, you're covered. Stop by on Sunday evening and you can even take a Swing Dance Lesson.

The summertime Providence Flea, held on Sundays in 195 District Park, is always bustling! With 75 local vendors, artisans and makers, you're sure to find the perfect way to treat yourself. Or, hey, it's never to early to start your holiday shopping.

Head to Grant's Block on Aug. 28 for a screening of "Clue," with food and drink specials from area businesses. Hang on to summer a little longer and save the date for September's screening of "Wizard of Oz."

September is jam-packed with concerts, comedians and "Harry Potter and The Cursed Child" at PPAC and The VETS. From musical evenings featuring David Byrne, The Indigo Girls and ZZ Top to favorite comedians like Kevin James and Kumail Nanjiani, tickets are going fast. Get yours today!

Ok, this one's technically September, but summer doesn't really end until later in the month, so we're counting it. This annual festival celebrates the creativity and diversity of Providence. PVDFest should absolutely be on your summer bucket list!
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.