Providence Tourist Attractions
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The state capital, Providence, situated at the northern tip of Narragansett Bay, was founded in 1636 and soon developed into a flourishing commercial port. It has a rich stock of restored buildings of the 17th-19th centuries, notably the John Brown House (1786), with a richly appointed interior, and the residence of Governor Stephen Hopkins (1707). Providence also has an unusual number of old churches, including the first Baptist church in America (1775). The shopping arcade, opened in 1828, was the first indoor arcade in America. The imposing domed State House (1901) was designed by the well-known firm of architects McKim, Mead and White. Below it are the Riverwalk and Waterplace Park, opened in 1997. The Rhode Island School of Design has a small but high-quality art collection. Pawtucket, to the north of Providence, was the cradle of American industry. In 1793 the fledgling United State's first "factory" opened here when Slater Mill set up its textile operation.
WaterFire Providence
WaterFire is a series of 100 bonfires that blaze just above the surface of the three rivers that pass through downtown Providence. Visitors can stroll along the river while listening to selections of classical and world music.
Museum of Art (Rhode Island School of Design)
The Museum of Art Rhode Island School of Design in Providence features over 86,000 works of art and design. The collection includes ancient Greek and Roman art, American and European art, Asian, Latin American art and 21st-century contemporary works.
Beneficent Congregational Church (Round Top Church)
The Beneficent Congregational Church in Providence was built in 1810. The dome was modeled after Dublin's Custom House. It contains period furnishings, including a crystal chandelier and a working 1826 clock.
Benefit Street (Mile of History)
The "Mile of History" in Providence is home to numerous original colonial homes churches and museums. The area may be toured on foot or on a bus tour conducted by the Providence Preservation Society.
Culinary Archives and Museum
The Culinary Archives and Museum in Providence is devoted to the history of the culinary and hospitality industries. The museum features a variety of rare and interesting cook books and items related to cooking, eating, food and hospitality.
First Baptist Church in America
The oldest Baptist church in America was founded in 1638 in Providence. This structure is the third meeting house and was built in 1775. Inside the church is 1792 Waterford crystal chandelier.
First Unitarian Church of Providence
The First Unitarian Church of Providence was completed in 1816, and is a combination of classical and Gothic architecture. It features a steeple bell which is the largest and heaviest bell cast by Paul Revere.
John Brown House Museum
The John Brown House in Providence was built in 1786 and owned by a businessman and China trade merchant. The house has been restored and displays Colonial antiques, decorative arts and pewter and silver items.
Johnson & Wales University
The Johnson & Wales University in Providence features courses in business, hospitality, culinary arts, or technology. It is one of four campuses of Johnson & Wales University.
Rhode Island Convention Center
The Rhode Island Convention Center in Providence features more than 100,000 square feet of space. Various convention shows and exhibits are hosted here throughout the year.
Roger William Park
The Roger Williams Park in Providence covers 435 acres and features gardens, an amphitheater, green houses, the 1773 Betsy Williams Cottage, and Carousel Village, and a children's area with rides and activities.
Museum of Natural History and Planetarium
The Museum of Natural History in Providence is the only Natural History Museum in Rhode Island and the only planetarium. The museum features preserved plants, animals, insects, rocks, minerals, fossils, and cultural items.
Roger Williams Park Zoo
The Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence covers 40 acres and features a variety of domestic and exotic animals.
State Capitol
The State Capitol building in Providence was built between 1895 and 1904. It is rectangular in shape with a large marble dome. Inside the dome are murals painted by Giorgio DeFelice.
Brown University
Brown University has served as an educational institution in Providence since 1770. Tours of the campus are available to visitors.
Cathedral of St John
The Cathedral of St John in Providence was built in 1810 and is one of the oldest Episcopal churches in the city. The church features an 1851 Hook Organ.
Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul
The Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul in Providence was built in 1889. It features a 6,330 pipe Cassavant organ.
Providence Art Club
The Providence Art Club was founded in 1880. It features changing exhibits in historic buildings.
Rhode Island Historical Society Library
The Rhode Island Historical Society Library in Providence contains a variety of documents, manuscripts, and collections related to the history of Rhode Island.
Rhode Island Philharmonic
The Rhode Island Philharmonic in Providence provides classical and orchestral performances, from October to May.
Roger Williams National Memorial
Roger Williams was the founder of Rhode Island. His memorial is located on the original land that was Providence which he founded in 1636.
Trinity Repertory Company
The Trinity Repertory Company offers theatrical and musical performances throughout the year.
Waterplace Park and Riverwalk
The Waterplace Park and Riverwalk in Providence is a four-acre park with cobblestone walkways, footbridges, and an amphitheater.
