Providence, The Creative Capital, combines the accessibility and friendliness of a small town with the culture and sophistication of a big city. Discover our vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, thriving arts community, outstanding hotels, renowned restaurant scene, and memorable experiences.
Post Date:
October 22, 2026
Providence was founded as a home for free thinkers, and that creative spirit is still present nearly 400 years later. From the RISD Museum's world-class collection to jazz in a speakeasy-style social club, art here isn't confined to museum walls. It spills into the streets, the waterways and every corner cafe. Providence is a city where makers, performers and dreamers converge, and where a single weekend can leave you genuinely inspired.
If you're searching for the perfect family getaway, Providence might just be your new favorite destination. It's absolutely packed with things to see, eat and do with kids in tow. From a world-class children's museum to one of the most unique outdoor experiences you'll find anywhere, Providence delivers the kind of visit your family will be talking about for years. Trust us, the whole crew is going to love this trip.
Providence is the rare destination that rewards visitors who travel smart. World-class art museums, one of the most storied food neighborhoods in New England, a calendar full of free community events, and a dining scene that ranges from food trucks to fine dining. None of it requires deep pockets. Downtown's compact layout means you'll spend your money on experiences rather than transportation. Solo travelers, couples, weekend trippers and families will all find that Providence has a way of overdelivering, even on a modest budget.
A small city with a big culinary reputation, Providence has spent decades building one of the most distinctive dining cultures on the East Coast. Italian roots run deep in the Federal Hill neighborhood, the farm-to-table scene is thriving, and local chefs have earned national recognition. The city is also home to Johnson & Wales University, one of the country's top culinary schools, and the generations of graduates and working students who have passed through its kitchens have shaped Providence's dining scene in ways you can taste on every block.Whether your style is fine dining or food truck, we've got you covered. Bring your appetite.
Planning a weekend trip to Providence, but can't find the time to do everything on your list? Extend your stay through Sunday night and discover why an extra day in The Creative Capital makes all the difference. From Sunday brunch to Monday morning coffee shops, we've got your complete itinerary for making the most of a PVD Sunday overnight.
Providence is ready for its close-up! With the release of "Ella McCay" — the first film directed by James L. Brooks in over a decade — The Creative Capital is shining on the big screen after hosting an all-star cast, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Emma Mackey and Woody Harrelson, to name a few. Filmed across our neighborhoods and landmarks, the movie captures what makes Providence so special: diverse architecture, walkable streets and that perfect blend of city energy and neighborhood charm.Brooks himself summed it up best: "What I need for this film is to represent America ... in sort of the best sense possible. And we looked at a lot of places and I'm so glad we're here."And Jamie Lee Curtis? She fell in love with Providence, too — whether grabbing her daily sticky bun at Seven Stars Bakery or hosting a cast dinner at New Rivers. Now you can follow in her footsteps with this "Ella McCay" inspired weekend itinerary.
Some vacations you come home with a tan. Others you come home with a stack of books and a head full of stories you can't stop talking about. Providence is the second kind of trip. The bookstores are the kind worth lingering in, the literary history runs deep (and a little bit weird), and you can find a spot to curl up with a good book around just about every corner.
The Parasols and Pocket Watches Tour is a 90 minute (+/- 10 minutes) walking tour of historic Benefit Street, known as "The Mile of History." Get to know the people and events that have shaped this street, our city, and our state. It is an elegant stroll through time!Benefit Street is a fairly flat street. We will not ascend or descend College Hill on this tour. It is appropriate for people of most activity levels and mobility needs. Please note, the sidewalk is uneven, so please wear stable, comfortable footwear.This tour meets at the gates of the Tillinghast Cemetery, beside Barker Playhouse on Benefit St.
Stroll with the creators of Providence Ghost Tour as we share the history of Christmas celebrations in Providence, RI! From pious observance to carousing caroling, discover the many ways Christmas has been celebrated in our little city. Your costumed guide will lead you down one of the most beautiful streets in town and share with you tales of Providencers throughout the ages who have decked the halls (or not…).This tour shares factual information in a fun and festive way! Don't worry, we uphold the magic of the holiday and a certain bearded fellow in a red suit. Little ears will be just fine!
A Rhode Island True Crime Experience Paired with Providence’s Best Brews Looking for the most unique beer tour in Providence, Rhode Island? On Clues & Brews: Murder Mystery Beer Tour, you’ll visit three of Providence’s top craft breweries, enjoying a curated flight at each stop as you travel through the city in our comfortable tour van. The Providence beer scene is excellent and rapidly growing, making for an incredible tasting journey.But here’s where things get interesting: you don’t just go to the breweries, you have to uncover them. Through interactive puzzles and games, you and your group will solve clues that reveal your next destination. Each challenge moves the story forward and keeps the experience fun and immersive.At the center of it all is a real 19th-century Rhode Island murder case. You’ll step into the mystery of Josephine Barnaby, a wealthy widow, poisoned in what became known as the first murder by mail in U.S. history. As you piece together evidence, interrogate suspects, and follow the twists of the case, you’ll work to uncover the truth and finally answer the question: who did it?Can you and your crew crack the case before the final round?HighlightsSolve a real 19th-century murder mysteryPlay interactive mini gamesStop at 3 breweriesEnjoy a beer flight at each breweryA food tasting at one of the stops
The Viaggio di Rapsodia is a 40-minute gondola ride that builds on the basic trip package by adding a live musician to the experience. A seasoned gondolier guides the boat along the Providence and Woonasquatucket Rivers, gliding past historic sites, through city parks, and beneath scenic bridges, while a musician you select plays a private serenade.It's an ideal choice for a date night, an outing with friends, or marking a milestone.What's IncludedA live musician of your choosing, with options including mandolin, guitar, violin, accordion, and saxophone. Availability varies by day, so not every musician can be booked on every date.A wine bucket, glasses, and an opener. Guests bring their own wine, prosecco, juice, or other drinks. Bottled water is usually available at the dock, but it isn't guaranteed.Handmade Italian wine biscuits.Italian songs from your gondolier. Every gondolier sings during the ride, and special song requests are welcome.
The Viaggio dei Sogni, which translates to "Trip of Dreams," is the signature 40-minute gondola ride and a great fit for just about any occasion. Guests settle into an authentic Venetian gondola and take in the calm, quiet beauty of the Providence riverfront.A skilled gondolier rows at an easy pace along the Providence and Woonasquatucket Rivers, passing historic landmarks, winding through city parks, and slipping under charming bridges. It's an experience that stays with you long after you step back onto the dock.What's IncludedWine glasses, a wine bucket, and an opener. Bring along your own wine, prosecco, juice, or other beverages. Bottled water is often on hand at the dock, though availability can't be promised.Housemade Italian wine biscuits.A serenade from your gondolier. Every gondolier sings Italian songs during the ride, and they're happy to try any special requests.What to BringSomething to sip. Wine, beer, prosecco, juice, or whatever you prefer, and everything needed to chill and pour it will be ready when you board.Food if you'd like it, from light snacks to a full picnic. Pack your own napkins and utensils, as those aren't supplied. Wine biscuits are included with every ride.Layers or rain gear as the forecast calls for. Blankets and umbrellas are also available on the boat.A camera for the memories. Just ask, and staff will take photos of your group at the dock before or after the ride.
Immerse yourself in the spooky side of Providence’s history! Allow our guides to lead you by lantern light as we introduce you to Providence’s longest-lingering residents. As we creep among the shadows, we walk in the footsteps of local literary giants and humble servants alike, their restless souls still stirring among the living. Learn the tales that keep college students at Brown University and RISD jumping out of their beds at night as we weave history and mystery into a fine tapestry of spine-tingling delight.As you explore the university campuses and admire the beautiful architecture, your guide tells you about the fascinating and sometimes chilling history of the area. Your guide is an excellent storyteller, and their tales are sure to give you goosebumps. If you’re a fan of the supernatural, you can’t miss this ghost tour!Be sure to wear your walking shoes to explore the hills and streets of Providence. And don’t forget your camera! You might capture a ghostly presence during your tour.
Start Date
End Date
The Rhode Island Seafood Festival is an annual event which began in 2011 that brings together the best local purveyors of seafood and other fine fare as well as beer, wine and spirits from Ocean State producers.Your ticket covers admission into India Point Park for one or both days of the festival, depending on the ticket type you purchased. The ticket price includes a full day of live music from local bands, as well as access to our restaurant and art vendors. Food and drink are not included in the ticket price.
The Flickers’ Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) discovers and empowers filmmakers from around the world. Held in Providence, East Greenwich, Newport, Westerly, Woonsocket and locations throughout the state of Rhode Island, RIIFF has had a total of 98 flms go on to be nominated for Oscars with a total of 15 winning the coveted award. RIIFF is also one of eight festivals in the United States that is a qualifying event for both the BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) and the Canadian Screen Awards. RIIFF is New England's largest film festival and incorporates gala celebrations, premiere screenings, VIP guests, industry seminars, educational programs, music, architecture, history, walking tours, filmmaker Q&A’s and award ceremonies into a weeklong extravaganza. Cited as one of the "Best International and Short Film Festivals in the United States," RIIFF is New England’s largest film festival, screening over 300 films from over 45 countries. The Festival offers countless networking opportunities that advance and enhance careers, and creates a supportive and encouraging environment for the most inquisitive creators and lovers of film. Its innovative programming, cultivated industry ties, and loyal audiences have made the Festival a strategic and desirable platform for film premieres, drawing hundreds of independent filmmakers from around the globe every year. RIIFF is widely recognized as a credentialed industry-friendly launch pad for the work of exceptional emerging talent.RIIFF is truly a place where the stars align!
Juneteenth RI celebrates the June 19, 1865 emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the former Confederate states with a weekend of events across Providence each June. Past celebrations have included a comedy show, a Providence Black History Walking Tour, a free YOUth Day with music, food, and activities for kids, and the free Juneteenth RI Festival at Roger Williams Park’s Temple to Music, featuring live performances, food, and community. Check juneteenthri.com closer to the date for this year’s schedule.
Providence Porchfest — a free, family-friendly, community event — will once again bring music and fellowship to the East Side in a series of outdoor concerts hosted on neighborhood porches (or driveways or lawns).Enjoy more than 150 artists at more than 90 locations around the East Side!
By Aaron Posner and Dendy Magic by Dendy Directed by Aaron Posner Dowling Theater Spring 2027 A Magical New England PremiereMaster illusionist Nate Dendy, whose magic captivated audiences in last year’s sold-out A Christmas Carol, returns to Trinity Rep with a spellbinding new theatrical experience. Part dazzling magic act, part deeply personal journey, Nothing Up My Sleeve…Simple Deceptions for Curious Humans pulls back the curtain on the history of magic while exploring Dendy’s own path to becoming a magician. Featuring captivating storytelling, jaw-dropping tricks, and mind-bending surprises, this exhilarating show will leave audiences of all ages believing in magic again.
The original Broadway sensation returns to the road! Celebrating 20 years - Jersey style! They were just four guys from Jersey, until they sang their very first note. They had a sound nobody had ever heard… and the radio just couldn’t get enough of. But while their harmonies were perfect on stage, off stage it was a very different story -- a story that has made them an international sensation all over again. The show features all their hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Oh What a Night,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “Beggin’” and “Working My Way Back to You.” Go behind the music and inside the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons in the Tony Award®-winning, original Broadway sensation, JERSEY BOYS. From the streets of New Jersey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, this is the musical that’s too good to be true.
Try a Moonshine Flight tasting at Moonshine Alley! Moonshine Flights are available daily for just $15! We have over 13 flavors to choose from, so pick your favorite four and get sippin'! This is the perfect thing to do in Providence if you like good moonshine, good food, and good music!
Thursdays just got a whole lot wilder! Starting September 24th, enjoy $10 daytime admission every Thursday through the end of the year. Fall into savings and come hang out with all your favorite animal friends at Roger Williams Park Zoo for some mid-week fun!Grab your tickets online or in person (discount is automatically applied!)
Known as the Creative Capital, Providence pairs small-town friendliness with big-city culture. It’s famous for its arts scene, acclaimed restaurants, historic architecture, WaterFire and walkable neighborhoods.
Start with Federal Hill for Italian dining, College Hill and Benefit Street for history and Brown University, Downtown for theaters and nightlife, Fox Point and Wickenden Street for independent shops, and the West End for local restaurants and breweries.
Take a guided tour. The Discover Providence bus tour covers neighborhoods from College Hill to Federal Hill in under two hours, narrated boat tours show off the city from the river, and food tours mix tastings with local history.
Don’t leave without trying Rhode Island classics like hot wieners, coffee milk, pizza strips (also called party pizza), clam cakes and Rhode Island-style calamari with hot peppers.
Yes. Check the Providence Deals section of this page for current offers, from restaurant specials and happy hours to discounted attraction admission. Deals are updated throughout the year.
Following a successful 2025 season, Federal Hill's “Al Fresco on the Hill" returns June 13 and will run through Sept. 5, 2026, with restaurant seating expanded onto the street on Saturdays from 5 p.m.–12 a.m. Following a successful 2025 season, Federal Hill's “Al Fresco on the Hill" returns June 13 and will run through Sept. 5, 2026, with restaurant seating expanded onto the street on Saturdays from 5 p.m.–12 a.m.
Read More Read MoreJolly Old Saint Nick is coming to town ... well he's kind of already here. If you think a letter to Santa isn't enough and want to make sure he knows exactly what you want for Christmas, then you'll need to visit with him in person. Jolly Old Saint Nick is coming to town ... well he's kind of already here. If you think a letter to Santa isn't enough and want to make sure he knows exactly what you want for Christmas, then you'll need to visit with him in person.
Read More Read MoreRhode Island's largest craft brewery is now open to the public. Tap Room is open Thursday - Sunday serving pints and flights from some of New England's greatest craft breweries. Rhode Island's largest craft brewery is now open to the public. Tap Room is open Thursday - Sunday serving pints and flights from some of New England's greatest craft breweries.
Read More Read MoreThe Cold Work Studio at Gather Cafe is an ice cream-making experience led by master chefs. Up to 6 people per class will each make their own pint of ice cream in this hour-long Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Making Class. Learn the art and science of how ice cream is crafted, with a dedicated workstation for each participant. Choose from classic options, farm-fresh flavors, or even some boozy twists! Each student will enjoy tastings throughout the class, sampling their own creations and others’. During class, dive into our OVER-THE-TOP-PINGS BAR (get it?) featuring house-made fluff, rainbow whipped cream, waffle cones, creamy caramel, dark chocolate fudge, and classic favorites like chocolate sprinkles and gummy bears. You even get to take home their pint at the end of the session. (We’re happy to hold your pint in our freezer for up to a week if you’d prefer to pick it up later and we promise to do our best not to snack on it!) The Cold Work Studio at Gather Cafe is an ice cream-making experience led by master chefs. Up to 6 people per class will each make their own pint of ice cream in this hour-long Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Making Class. Learn the art and science of how ice cream is crafted, with a dedicated workstation for each participant. Choose from classic options, farm-fresh flavors, or even some boozy twists! Each student will enjoy tastings throughout the class, sampling their own creations and others’. During class, dive into our OVER-THE-TOP-PINGS BAR (get it?) featuring house-made fluff, rainbow whipped cream, waffle cones, creamy caramel, dark chocolate fudge, and classic favorites like chocolate sprinkles and gummy bears. You even get to take home their pint at the end of the session. (We’re happy to hold your pint in our freezer for up to a week if you’d prefer to pick it up later and we promise to do our best not to snack on it!)
Read More Read MoreLooking for information on upcoming events, dining info, promotions and deals? Stay in the know with our GoProvidence e-newsletter.
Sign Up For Our E-Newsletter
