Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Providence, United States
1. Providence At Night Ghost Tour
Explore Providence's haunted history on this entertaining and educational night tour. Learn about the city's spectral past and the ghostly figures who still roam its streets.
- Haunted History: Uncovers Providence's eerie history, steeped in legends of hauntings and supernatural events
- Night Tour: Offers a unique perspective on the city after dark, when stories of the paranormal are said to come alive
- Interactive Experience: Encourages participation and engagement with the tour guide and other participants throughout the tour
2. Rogue Island Lighthouse
Visit Rhode Island's only active lighthouse on a secluded island accessible only by boat. Witness breathtaking views of Narragansett Bay and explore the unique wildlife found on the island.
- Active Lighthouse: Provides a rare opportunity to see an operational lighthouse up close
- Secluded Island: Offers a serene and secluded escape from the bustle of city life
- Unique Wildlife: Provides opportunities to observe rare and unique birds, seals, and other marine life found in the area
3. India Point Park Mini Golf
Experience a whimsical and quirky mini-golf course nestled along Providence's scenic waterfront. Enjoy challenging holes with creative designs inspired by local landmarks and attractions.
- Whimsical Design: Features fun and unusual mini-golf hole designs based on local landmarks and attractions
- Scenic Location: Offers stunning views of Providence's skyline, the Seekonk River, and Narragansett Bay
- Affordable Fun: Provides a budget-friendly activity for families and friends looking to spend time together enjoying a unique experience
4. Providence Arcade
Step back in time at this historic shopping arcade, featuring boutiques, restaurants, and galleries housed within an early 19th-century building. Explore the unique shops and soak up the charming atmosphere.
- Historic Building: Housed within one of America's oldest commercial buildings, built in 1828
- Unique Shops: Offers a variety of boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts
- Charming Atmosphere: Provides an intimate and cozy shopping experience with beautiful architectural details and ornate ironwork
5. Benefit Street Historic District
Stroll through this charming neighborhood lined with historic buildings dating back to the 1700s. Explore the numerous Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design buildings, as well as museums and art galleries.
- Historic Buildings: Features some of the oldest buildings in Providence, dating back to the 1700s
- Educational Institutions: Home to renowned institutions like Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design
- Cultural Landmarks: Includes numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural landmarks showcasing Providence's rich history and artistic heritage
6. RISD Museum
Discover a vast collection of art and design spanning thousands of years at the Rhode Island School of Design Museum. Admire works by renowned artists like Monet, Picasso, and O'Keeffe.
- World-Renowned Collection: Features an impressive collection of art and design from around the world, including works by famous artists like Monet, Picasso, and O'Keeffe
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages, helping to foster a deeper understanding of art and design
- Architectural Masterpiece: Housed within an architecturally significant building designed by McKim, Mead & White, one of America's leading Beaux-Arts architecture firms
7. WaterFire Providence
Experience the magic of WaterFire, an art installation featuring bonfires and music on the three rivers of downtown Providence. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as the fires illuminate the night sky.
- Art Installation: Combines fire, light, and music to create a unique and mesmerizing art experience
- Community Event: Brings together locals and tourists alike for an unforgettable evening of culture and entertainment
- Romantic Atmosphere: Offers a romantic and intimate setting, making it the perfect backdrop for a date night or proposal
8. Little Rhody Comics & Pop Culture Convention
Immerse yourself in the world of comics and pop culture at this annual event. Meet your favorite artists, writers, and cosplayers while browsing thousands of comic books and merchandise.
- Comic Books & Merchandise: Features a vast selection of comic books, graphic novels, collectibles, and other pop culture merchandise
- Meet & Greets: Offers opportunities to meet your favorite artists, writers, and cosplayers in the industry
- Cosplay Contests: Hosts cosplay contests where participants showcase their creativity and passion for pop culture characters
9. Providence Flea Market
Discover unique treasures and vintage finds at this monthly flea market. Browse through an eclectic mix of antiques, collectibles, clothing, jewelry, and more.
- Eclectic Mix: Features a diverse selection of items, from vintage clothing to one-of-a-kind antiques
- Monthly Event: Takes place on the second Sunday of every month, rain or shine
- Support Local Artisans: Supports local artisans and small businesses by giving them a platform to sell their unique creations
10. Providence Ghost Bikes
Pay tribute to cyclists killed in traffic accidents while learning about bike safety at the Providence Ghost Bikes memorial. Each bike represents a life lost on Providence's streets.
- Memorial: Honors cyclists killed in traffic accidents, raising awareness about bike safety
- Educational Opportunity: Offers opportunities to learn about bike safety and the importance of sharing the road with cyclists
- Community Engagement: Encourages community engagement and conversation about safe cycling practices in Providence
11. Dave's Coffee Shop
Step into this classic coffee shop that has been a fixture of Providence since the 1950s. Enjoy a cup of coffee and some delicious baked goods while soaking up the nostalgic atmosphere.
- Nostalgia: Offers a taste of Providence's history, with its vintage decor and friendly service
- Delicious Treats: Serves up delicious coffee, pastries, sandwiches, and other treats to keep you fueled during your day of exploring Providence
- Local Favorite: Has been a beloved local institution for over six decades, attracting both tourists and long-time residents alike
12. Museum of Natural History and Planetarium
Explore the wonders of nature and the cosmos at this museum featuring exhibits on local flora and fauna, as well as a state-of-the-art planetarium.
- Natural History Exhibits: Showcases local flora and fauna, offering insights into the natural world of Rhode Island
- Planetarium: Features a state-of-the-art planetarium, offering breathtaking views of the night sky and the opportunity to learn about astronomy
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs for visitors of all ages, helping to foster a deeper understanding of the natural world and the cosmos
13. Providence Fungus Foray
Discover the fascinating world of fungi during this guided foray through Providence's parks and natural areas. Learn about different species and their importance in the ecosystem.
- Guided Tour: Offers a guided tour of Providence's parks and natural areas, focusing on the world of fungi
- Educational Experience: Provides an educational experience, teaching participants about different species of fungi and their role in the ecosystem
- Unique Perspective: Offers a unique perspective on the natural world, focusing on the often overlooked but vital role of fungi
14. The Dining Car
Experience fine dining aboard a historic train car located in Providence's India Point Park. Enjoy delicious meals while taking in stunning views of Narragansett Bay.
- Historic Train Car: Dining takes place within a beautifully restored 1920s train car
- Fine Dining: Offers a three-course meal featuring locally sourced ingredients, prepared by an award-winning chef
- Scenic Location: Located within India Point Park, offering stunning views of Narragansett Bay and the city skyline
15. Colt State Park
Escape the city at this beautiful state park featuring hiking trails, a scenic lake, and historic buildings. Enjoy a picnic, go for a bike ride, or simply relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Hiking Trails: Offers miles of hiking trails through wooded areas, providing opportunities to explore the park's natural beauty
- Scenic Lake: Features a beautiful lake ideal for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment by the water
- Historic Buildings: Includes historic buildings, including the Colt Mansion, offering insights into Rhode Island's history and architecture