Newport

Rhode Island

United States

North America

Providence

Destinations

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the union, but it has an extensive shoreline of beaches and rock cliffs, dotted with moneyed towns where mansions and historic districts await. There are parks and gardens to explore as well as opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, and more.

Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the union, but it has an extensive shoreline of beaches and rock cliffs, dotted with moneyed towns where mansions and historic districts await. There are parks and gardens to explore as well as opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, and more. Rhode Island has a lot of history and beautiful scenery that make it an essential stop for anyone traveling to New England.
<h2>1. Newport</h2>
Newport, Rhode Island, is a famous seaside resort town with a rich sailing history. It was founded way back in 1639 and, today, many of the historic mansions are open to the public. These tours are always interesting, but visit during the holiday season for something extra special. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Newport, too, including sailing, sandy beaches, and the three-mile Cliff Walk where you can take in gorgeous views of the ocean and rocky beaches.

[caption id="attachment_26284" align="alignnone" width="2138"]<img class="size-full wp-image-26284" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-182187869.jpg" alt="Coastal Home in Newport, Rhode Island" width="2138" height="1402" /> DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Benefit Street</h2>
Known as the "Mile of History," Benefit Street on the East Side of Providence features gorgeous homes and buildings that transport you back to the Victorian and Colonial eras. If you're an Edgar Allen Poe fan, stop by the home of Sarah Whitman, whom the writer courted when he spent time in Providence. Head to the Athenaeum, the fourth oldest library in the country, for a glimpse at rare books, work by local artists, and a card catalog dating back to the 1800s. Guided and self-guided tours are available.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-26593" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/shutterstock_1337051768.jpg" alt="Townhouses on Benefit Street in Providence, Rhode Island" width="1000" height="750" />


<h2>3. Narragansett Bay Beaches</h2>
One of the best things about Rhode Island is its shoreline, and there's no better way to experience it than visiting the Narragansett Bay beaches. Visit Narragansett Town Beach, or check out Watch Hill, a grand resort destination with beaches, a lighthouse, antique stores, and the oldest operating carousel in the country. If you're looking for something a little more laid back, check out Mantunuck Beach State park, Scarborough State Beach, or Roger W. Wheeler State Beach.

[caption id="attachment_26285" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-26285" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-663826976.jpg" alt="BreakWall on a Rhode Island Beach in Narragansett along Atlantic Ocean" width="2121" height="1414" /> Chelsea Rose / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Block Island</h2>
Block Island sits 10 miles off the southern coast of Rhode Island and can be reached by ferry. Visit Mohegan Bluffs for amazing views of the ocean from 200 feet above. If you're feeling adventurous, climb down the 151 steps to the beach below. This is a great place for bird watching, too. More than 150 species stop here in the fall and there are miles of trails to explore when trying to spot them.

[caption id="attachment_26286" align="alignnone" width="2753"]<img class="size-full wp-image-26286" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-92371460.jpg" alt="Mohegan Bluffs, Block Island" width="2753" height="2202" /> <br />randydellinger / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Providence WaterFire</h2>
WaterFire is both an art installation and a public festival complete with street performers and local vendors. The strike of a large gong officiates the start of the evening. Dozens of bonfires are lit in large iron pans sitting in the river while music from all over the world plays against the backdrop of the city. This family-friendly event is truly a feast for the senses.

[caption id="attachment_26287" align="alignnone" width="2309"]<img class="size-full wp-image-26287" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-944285834.jpg" alt="Crowds enjoy the glow of the WaterFire display" width="2309" height="1299" /> <br />Scott F Smith / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Fort Adams State Park</h2>
Fort Adams State Park is located in Newport Harbor and was an active fort from 1799 until 1945. In addition to touring the fort, you can play soccer or rugby, take a dip in the water, and go fishing or boating. The 2.5-mile Fort Adams Bay Walk provides breathtaking sunset views and is a great place for photo ops worthy of social media. The fort is also home to the Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival.

[caption id="attachment_26288" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-26288" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-669406854.jpg" alt="Fort Adams State Park" width="2121" height="1414" /> <br />DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. The Ocean Drive</h2>
Most of this 10-mile drive follows the coastline, so it's a great way to see many key Rhode Island destinations, including Fort Adams State Park, Ocean Drive, and the Newport mansions. The Ocean Drive also takes you past long stretches of sandy beaches, inlets, and coves. Make sure you leave time to get out of the car and do some exploring.

[caption id="attachment_26289" align="alignnone" width="2122"]<img class="size-full wp-image-26289" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-176158155.jpg" alt="Ocean Drive Living in Rhode Island" width="2122" height="1412" /> jmoor17 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Neutaconkanut Hill Park</h2>
Neutaconkanut Hill Park is an 88-acre urban park in Providence. The lower section of the park offers ball fields, a playground, a skateboard park, and rec center but it's the hill that is the big draw for outdoor enthusiasts. At its peak, it's 296 feet high and offers breathtaking views of downtown Providence and the Narragansett Bay. On the way up to the peak, you'll find freshwater springs, walking trails, ravine, boulders, and steep treks up to the peak.

[caption id="attachment_26594" align="alignnone" width="3840"]<img class="size-full wp-image-26594" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-182690907-1.jpg" alt="A beautiful beach after a steep cliff on Block Island at the Mohegan Bluffs" width="3840" height="2560" /> nico_blue / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Purgatory Chasm</h2>
One of the coolest geographical features on the coast of Rhode Island is often overlooked. Located near Second Beach in Middleton, Purgatory Rock is a large fissure formed by glaciers thousands of years ago. The 10-foot wide gap was made even more foreboding as seawater slowly wore it away over millennia. It's an easy hike to get there. Once you do, take a look down the 150-foot chasm to the sea below for a spectacular view you won't find anywhere else.

[caption id="attachment_26291" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-26291" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/GettyImages-1166813009.jpg" alt="Sunrise along rock formations in Purgatory Chasm State Reservation" width="2121" height="1414" /> Arthur Hamling / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Green Animals Topiary Garden</h2>
Green Animals Topiary Garden has been around for more than 300 years and is the oldest of its kind in America. This seven-acre estate in Portsmouth sits above the Narragansett Bay and the grounds are full of whimsical topiary art. More than 60 sculpted trees guide you along the estate's paths, through the pristine gardens. Living sculptures include giraffes, elephants, camels, and unicorns. There's even a topiary of Don Quixote.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-26595" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/11/shutterstock_303080951.jpg" alt="A regal topiary lion surrounded by colorful annuals at Green Animals Topiary Gardens" width="1000" height="664" />

Seek Adventure in Rhode Island

What Rhode Island lacks in size, it more than makes up for in a wealth of interesting activities. The state has over 400 miles of coastline and some truly spectacular beaches. You're bound to enjoy many of the best things to do in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island was the first of the original 13 colonies to declare independence from Great Britain. It is now the smallest state in the U.S., but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in a wealth of interesting activities. The state has over 400 miles of coastline and some truly spectacular beaches. Rhode Island is a popular beach holiday destination for families from nearby New York, and visitors from much farther afield.
<h2>1. The Providence WaterFire</h2>
A group of volunteers designs this truly unique experience in the city of Providence. Fire tenders float down the river on small boats and light more than 80 small bonfires. The result is dozens of flickering lights "floating" on the water. The event includes new age music, and a selection of small bars next to the river, creating a party atmosphere. This art installation takes place on select nights between May and October. Try to get to the river bank early to get a good spot as the shoreline fills up quickly.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/944285834-1024x576.jpg" alt="944285834" width="1024" height="576" /><span class="image-caption">Scott F Smith / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Roger Williams Park Zoo</h2>
This venue draws about 50,000 visitors every year, making Roger Williams Park Zoo one of the most popular attractions in Rhode Island. You can easily spend a full day viewing the more than 100 animals before visiting the adjacent museum of natural history and large indoor botanical garden.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/877843528-1024x683.jpg" alt="877843528" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">Ben1183 / Getty Images</span>
<h2>3. Newport Cliffs</h2>
This clifftop walk takes in the stunning scenery and grand homes of Newport. The entire trek is about 3.5 miles, meandering along the high cliffs of this seaside city. You will require a certain level of fitness to complete the walk as there some steep sections, but the views are certainly worth the effort. Along the path, you'll have great view of some of the grandest mansions.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/177008228-1024x681.jpg" alt="177008228" width="1024" height="681" /><span class="image-caption">sokoziurke / Getty Images</span>
<h2>4. Head to the Beach</h2>
The beach is the main drawcard for many people who vacation in Rhode Island. The state has over 400 miles of stunning coastlines and 100 beaches from which to choose. Those looking for a calm and family-friendly locale should head to Third Beach in the Middletown area. Surfers will love Easton's beach in Newport, which is just under a mile long and has some excellent waves.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/147005220-1024x683.jpg" alt="147005220" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">hartfordphoto / Getty Images</span>
<h2>5. Tour the Newport Mansions</h2>
The wealthiest families of the United States once flocked to Rhode Island for their summer vacations, and they built some seriously grand mansions along the coastline. Nine of these mansions now belong to the Rhode Island Preservation Society, and they open are to the public. One of the most impressive mansions is the 70-room The Breakers, which was built in the Renaissance style in 1893.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/174299198-1024x683.jpg" alt="174299198" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">shunyufan / Getty Images</span>
<h2>6. Fort Adams State Park</h2>
Fort Adams was a military base for the army and navy for more than one hundred years. In 1965 the military left, and the area became part of Rhode Island State. Explore the old buildings, take in views of the harbor, enjoy some fishing, and relax with a picnic on the beach or lawns.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/501169709-1024x643.jpg" alt="501169709" width="1024" height="643" /><span class="image-caption">Pyroe / Getty Images</span>
<h2>7. Beavertail Lighthouse Museum</h2>
The Beavertail Lighthouse is situated at the tip of Jamestown and is the third oldest lighthouse in the United States. The former lighthouse assistant's living quarters, built in 1889, houses the attached museum, which is filled with interesting artifacts from the lighthouse and facts about its history. Spend a few hours exploring the surrounding Beavertail State Park.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/530938009-1024x680.jpg" alt="530938009" width="1024" height="680" /><span class="image-caption">labrlo / Getty Images</span>
<h2>8. Ocean Drive</h2>
Ocean Drive is often called 10 Mile Drive by locals and is a truly scenic tour along the coastline of Aquidneck Island. The drive offers amazing views and key points of interest such as King Park, the US Coast Guard Station, and the New York Yacht Club. Along the way, you will find a few isolated beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/176155319-1024x681.jpg" alt="176155319" width="1024" height="681" /><span class="image-caption">jmoor17 / Getty Images</span>
<h2>9. Touro Synagogue</h2>
This attractive building was built by Isaac Touro in 1763 and is the oldest synagogue in the United States. George Washington famously held a town meeting in the building when he visited Rhode Island. The local Jewish community still uses the Touro Synagogue today. Guided tours are available and are a wonderful way to find out about the history of the synagogue and the surrounding town.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/487673944-1024x683.jpg" alt="487673944" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">Wangkun Jia / Getty Images</span>
<h2>10. Mohegan Bluffs</h2>
The Mohegan Bluffs are located on Block Island. These clay cliffs tower about 150 feet above the waterline and provide spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs are named after a famous 16th-century battle between the Mohegans and the Niantic for control of the island. Spend a day exploring the cliffs and the isolated beaches at their base.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/620409800-1024x641.jpg" alt="620409800" width="1024" height="641" /><span class="image-caption">j76n / Getty Images</span>

10 Best Things to Do in Rhode Island

Newport, Rhode Island is a hub for art, history, and music. The city began as a healthy seafront economy that sought to overcome the challenges of industrialization after the Revolutionary War by reinventing itself.

Newport, Rhode Island is a hub for art, history, and music. The city began as a healthy seafront economy that sought to overcome the challenges of industrialization after the Revolutionary War by reinventing itself. Miraculously enough this idea worked, and Newport became a vacation destination for wealthy tycoons, businessmen, and heiresses that sought an escape from the summer heat. Newport has been amazingly well-preserved, and visitors can experience pieces of history everywhere they turn, from museums and mansions to relatively new additions like the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
<h2>1. Before you go</h2>
Many of Newport’s activities are seasonal and very similar to the way the wealthy tycoons lived when they would visit in the 19th and 20th centuries. Even in the winter off-season, though, there is plenty to do. Seafood restaurants are among the most popular dining spots, and a bustling downtown area is a home to niche shops and high-end stores. Seafront activities should be planned in accordance with the weather. Historic seafront towns and cities, including Newport, often have narrow and cramped roads, so drivers should be careful and keep an eye out for pedestrians on foot or small scooters.

[caption id="attachment_34596" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/150937933.jpg" alt="First Time Newport Rhode Island" width="1200" height="798" /> Marianne Campolongo / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Tour the mansions</h2>
The Newport mansions may be among the most recognizable landmarks of the city. Many were constructed during Newport’s Gilded Age in the late 19th century when moguls and wealthy aristocrats erected summer cottages to entertain dozens of guests. “Cottage” is a relative term, of course, since many of these lavish homes contain more than 100,000 square feet of marble, gold, and velvet grandeur. Self-guided tours are now provided by the Newport Historical Society during the spring, summer, and fall months. Some homes are also open during the winter season.

[caption id="attachment_34597" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/174299161.jpg" alt="Newport Rhode Island Mansions Tour" width="1200" height="800" /> shunyufan / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Visit Rosecliff</h2>
Rosecliff is one of these stately mansions, and its allure extends beyond being a piece of the past. It was the set of <em>The Great Gatsby</em> film adaptation in 2013, and has a similar history. Once used by a Nevadan heiress, it was later owned by philanthropist and businessman J Edgar Monroe, who threw lavish, Mardi Gras-themed soirees. High ceilings, chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling windows are among the most beautiful aspects of this historic home.

[caption id="attachment_34598" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/176011832.jpg" alt="Newport Rhode Island Rosecliff Gatsby" width="1200" height="800" /> stevegeer / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Visit The International Tennis Hall of Fame</h2>
The International Tennis Hall of Fame is located in the Newport Casino complex on Bellevue Avenue. It honors tennis stars and contributors to the sport, and its courts are open to the public. The grounds can be walked without charge and concerts and social events are occasionally held there. The guides at the indoor museum are knowledgable and can leave even uneducated guests feeling like experts on the sport.

[caption id="attachment_34599" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/120430209.jpg" alt="International Tennis Hall Fame Newport" width="1200" height="800" /> Douglas Mason / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Stroll down the Cliff Walk</h2>
The Newport Cliff Walk is a designated National Recreation Trail that’s popular with tourists and residents alike. It’s 3.5 miles long and primarily made up of easy, paved terrain. There are multiple entrance points and benches scattered along the first half of the trail so visitors can sit and enjoy the view over the ocean. The latter half of the trail is more treacherous and should be walked with caution.

[caption id="attachment_34600" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/118357254.jpg" alt="Newport Rhode Island Cliff Walk" width="1200" height="800" /> arenacreative / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Relax on Easton Beach</h2>
Right at the start of the Cliff Walk is Easton Beach. It’s a popular spot for families and surfers and stretches ¾ of a mile long. It includes a boardwalk and a 1950s carousel along with seasonal amenities like showers and a propane gas grilling area. Two parking lots prevent parking from being an issue.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-34702" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/shutterstock_1473888089.jpg" alt="The sky is reflected in the shallow, rippled waters of a Easton Beach in Newport, Rhode Island" width="1000" height="665" />


<h2>7. Visit the museum of Newport History</h2>
Other than maintaining the mansions and numerous other sites, the Newport Historical Society also operates a museum that can educate visitors on the history of the area. Items of daily living and artifacts are on display, and the museum is open daily. There is no cost of admission but a suggested donation is appreciated by the Society. It is open every day from 10 AM to 5 PM and provides guided tours.

[caption id="attachment_34602" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/173657704.jpg" alt="Museum Newport History Rhode Island" width="1200" height="795" /> KenWiedemann / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Explore the Newport Art Museum</h2>
Art students and enthusiasts alike will enjoy the diverse art on display at the Newport Art Museum. Since its founding in 1912, it has brought various forms of art to the city and its many visitors. Performances and films are a part of its galleries’ programs, as are public speakers and artist talks. Despite Newport’s historical and period history, much of the art at the museum is contemporary and speaks to a modern audience.

[caption id="attachment_34699" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/175504484.jpg" alt="Newport Art Museum Rhode Island" width="1200" height="882" /> aimintang / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Sail and sight-see at Fort Adams State Park</h2>
If the beach is a little too noisy for you, Fort Adams State Park might be an option that suits your interests. The reservation protects Fort Adams and the land surrounding it, which is often used for sports such as rugby and soccer, picnics, fishing, and boating. Summer festivals, such as the Jazz Festival and Folk Festival, are major attractions. Fort Adams itself also offers private and group guided tours. Visitors looking for a more personalized experience can windsurf or rent a private sailboat.

[caption id="attachment_34700" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/501169709.jpg" alt="Fort Adams State Park Newport" width="1200" height="754" /> Pyroe / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Stay at The Chanler at Cliff Walk</h2>
If you haven’t made your mind up yet when it comes to accommodations, the Chanler is certainly an option to consider. One of many mansions turned into inns or hotels, the Chanler is one of the most recognizable and accessible; it’s located right at the start of the Cliff Walk off of Memorial Drive, which runs parallel to Easton Beach. The property is maintained and remains mostly true to the styles of its era, although all the modern amenities of a 21st-century hotel are provided. It gives travelers a chance to live like a 19th-century aristocrat, even just for a few days.

[caption id="attachment_34703" align="alignnone" width="2119"]<img class="size-full wp-image-34703" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/02/GettyImages-155439850.jpg" alt="" width="2119" height="1414" /> <br />aimintang / Getty Images[/caption]

Revel in the 19th Century Charm of Newport

Providence is a city situated on Narragansett Bay’s northern tip. Noted for its quirkiness and foodie-friendly haunts, the capital of Rhode Island is an important New England center for adventures. From its theatres and galleries to its sports arenas and vibrant nightlife, Providence is an exciting city to explore.

Providence is an attractive city situated on Narragansett Bay’s northern tip. Noted for its quirkiness and foodie-friendly haunts, the capital of Rhode Island is an important New England center for the arts, history, and maritime adventures. It’s also home to major colleges and universities as well as family-friendly venues like its zoo and parks. From its theatres and galleries to its sports arenas and vibrant nightlife, Providence is an exciting city to explore.
<h2>1. Roger Williams Park and Zoo</h2>
Situated on 435 acres, Roger Williams Park and Zoo is a popular Providence attraction for all ages. The zoo is one of the oldest in the nation and also among the most revered due to its cage-free exhibits. Some of the animals on display include Komodo dragons, snow leopards, and kangaroos. There’s a petting zoo on-site and a zip-line attraction for more adventurous visits. In addition, the park is home to a spectacular carousel, train rides, gardens, greenhouses, an amphitheater, and a bandstand that dates to 1915. Visitors can also check out the Museum of Natural History and the planetarium located in the park.

[caption id="attachment_28891" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-28891" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/531995920.jpg" alt="Bridge crossing lake in Roger Williams Park" width="1200" height="798" /> danlogan / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Rhode Island School of Design</h2>
The Rhode Island School of Design, also known as RISD, features a major New England art museum. A must for art enthusiasts, this museum displays both ancient and contemporary art ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts and French Impressionist paintings to Early American antiques, modern paintings, and sculptures. The museum was established in 1877 and has been collecting global and American art since its founding.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-30117" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/shutterstock_305897873.jpg" alt="Interior of the Rhode Island School of Design" width="1000" height="800" />


<h2>3. Brown University</h2>
Open since 1770, Brown University is one of the most prestigious universities in the country. With its historic architecture and galleries that are open to the public, the university is a major cultural attraction for the city. When visiting Brown, be sure to check out its extraordinary conservatory—the David Winton Bell Gallery’s modern art collection—and the John Carter Brown Library with its historic collection of maps. In addition, remember to check out the university’s events calendar to find out about special exhibits, concerts, and theatre performances.

[caption id="attachment_28893" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-28893" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/180759705.jpg" alt="Brown University" width="1200" height="817" /> DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Downcity</h2>
Downcity refers to Providence’s historic downtown areas. This tourist-friendly part of the city is home to landmark buildings like the Beneficent Congregational Church. If you’re interested in the city’s history, be sure to catch one of the many tours that operate there. On the other hand, if you don’t fancy a history lesson, consider taking one of the popular foodie tours that focus on Downcity’s most popular eateries and taverns. There are more than 30 bars in the area as well as a multitude of boutiques and restaurants, many of which are situated in Victorian and Art Deco buildings.

[caption id="attachment_28894" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-28894" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/173850868.jpg" alt="Providence, RI Downtown " width="1200" height="797" /> nikon401 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Pomham Rocks Light</h2>
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Pomham Rocks Light dates to 1871 and is situated on the Providence River. Of all the river’s lights, this is the only one that remains in operation. Because the light is still used, it’s both a modern and historic attraction rolled into one. The light sits atop a two-story wood-framed lightkeeper’s residence. If you’re visiting the waterfront or planning a sailing excursion, be sure to keep this picturesque site in mind.

[caption id="attachment_28895" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-28895" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/519996785.jpg" alt="Pomham Rocks Lighthouse at Dawn East Providence Rhode Island" width="1200" height="900" /> AlanRoseman / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. WaterPlace Park</h2>
If you’re drawn to the water like so many of Providence’s visitors, set aside time to enjoy a boat ride at WaterPlace Park. The rivers that flow gently through the park are spanned by extraordinary Venice-inspired bridges. In fact, during the warm months of the year, some operators offer gondola rides. In addition, you can hop on a boat tour at the park that goes along Narragansett Bay and other historic stretches of the area.

[caption id="attachment_28896" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-28896" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/1156269371.jpg" alt="Waterplace Park in Providence, Rhode Island" width="1200" height="808" /> kickstand / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. First Baptist Church of America</h2>
As the home of the oldest congregation in the country, the First Baptist Church is one of Providence’s most famous historic sites and a National Historic Landmark. The congregation, founded by Roger Williams, first met in 1638, while the church was completed in 1775. The church hosts worship services as well as concerts, commencement ceremonies, world-celebrated artists, and more.

[caption id="attachment_28897" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-28897" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/178628732.jpg" alt="The First Baptist Church and partial skyline of Providence, RI" width="1200" height="800" /> sgoodwin4813 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Providence Performing Arts Center</h2>
Grab tickets to the Providence Performing Arts Center to catch a traveling Broadway show or a world-class music performance. The center features everything from ballet performances to concert events. During the day, it often features children-friendly plays and musicals. Though constructed as a movie palace in 1928, the historic building has since been converted to a live-performance venue that has hosted celebrated acts that include Aerosmith and Fleetwood Mac.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-30116" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/shutterstock_246261805.jpg" alt="Providence Performing Arts Center." width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Westminster Arcade</h2>
Built in 1828, the Westminster Arcade has long been integral to the city’s commerce and trade sector. Though closed for many years, the arcade has recently been refurbished. While it contains some residential micro-lofts, it also features commercial businesses, including retail stores, a coffee shop, a whiskey bar, and restaurants. Visitors enjoy shopping in the Greek Revival architectural ambiance of the indoor mall.

[caption id="attachment_28899" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-28899" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/1051237170.jpg" alt="Downtown Providence - Rhode Island" width="1200" height="814" /> Boda_w / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. WaterFire</h2>
From May to November, WaterFire becomes a major downtown attraction on a couple Saturdays each month. The annual ritual involves the lighting of more than 80 burning braziers that are anchored in place on the Providence, Moshassuck, and Woonasquatucket Rivers. The display attracts as many as 40,000 visitors to the rivers’ banks with its flickering ambiance and fragrant wood smoke. Wander to the waterfront after enjoying a meal or drinks in one of the area’s popular restaurants and pubs.

[caption id="attachment_28900" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-28900" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/12/944285834.jpg" alt="Crowds enjoy the glow of the WaterFire display" width="1200" height="675" /> Scott F Smith / Getty Images[/caption]

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