Cultural & Historical Destinations in Providence, United States
1. Rhode Island School of Design Museum
Explore over 90,000 works of art, design, and architecture in this iconic museum attached to one of the nation's top art and design schools.
- Artistic Diversity: Features a broad range of artistic styles and mediums, from European paintings to contemporary installations
- Educational Programming: Offers talks, workshops, and tours led by artists, designers, and scholars
- Rotating Exhibits: Regularly updates its exhibitions to showcase new and exciting artworks
2. Providence City Hall
Admire the stunning Beaux-Arts architecture of Providence's city hall, which has served as a symbol of civic pride since its completion in 1908.
- Historical Significance: One of the finest examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in the United States
- Guided Tours: Free tours are offered to the public on select days, providing insight into the building's history and architectural details
- Artwork and Mosaics: Features beautiful murals and mosaics by renowned artists, including Maxfield Parrish
3. John Brown House Museum
Step back in time at this elegant 18th-century mansion, once home to one of the wealthiest families in Rhode Island.
- Historical Furnishings: Features period furniture, textiles, and decorative arts from the 18th and 19th centuries
- Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides lead tours through the house, sharing stories of the Browns and their times
- Social History: Provides insight into the lives of the wealthy and powerful in colonial Rhode Island
4. Benjamin Franklin Statue
Pay tribute to one of America's founding fathers at this iconic statue in Kennedy Plaza.
- Historical Importance: Honors Benjamin Franklin, a key figure in the American Revolution and one of the Founding Fathers
- Landmark Status: Designated as a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior
- Iconic Setting: Set against the backdrop of downtown Providence's bustling Kennedy Plaza
5. Providence Athenaeum
Browse the stacks at this historic library, which has been a center of intellectual life in Providence since 1753.
- Oldest Public Library: One of the oldest public libraries in the United States
- Rare Books Collection: Houses a collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts
- Reader's Lounge: Features a cozy reader's lounge with views of downtown Providence
6. First Baptist Church in America
Visit the church where religious freedom began in America, the site of Rhode Island's separation from the Church of England.
- Historical Significance: Serves as a symbol of religious freedom and the birthplace of American Baptist faith
- Architectural Beauty: Features an elegant Georgian-style facade and interior
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours, providing insight into the church's history and architectural details
7. Columbus Triumphal Arch
Marvel at this impressive neoclassical arch dedicated to Christopher Columbus, erected in 1892.
- Historical Commemoration: Celebrates the 400th anniversary of Columbus's discovery of America
- Architectural Detail: Features intricate sculptures and reliefs depicting scenes from Columbus's life
- Iconic Landmark: Serves as a symbol of Providence and its rich history
8. Providence Waterfire
Experience the magic of WaterFire, an art installation featuring bonfires, music, and dancing on Providence's three rivers.
- Cultural Event: Brings together art, music, and dance in a unique waterfront setting
- Community Gathering: Provides an opportunity for locals and tourists to come together and enjoy the city's vibrant culture
- Seasonal Event: Takes place on select weekends from April through November
9. Brown University's Granoff Center for the Creative Arts
Explore the dynamic world of contemporary art at Brown University's Granoff Center, featuring galleries, studios, and performance spaces.
- Contemporary Art Focus: Focuses on contemporary art and experimental practices
- Student-Led Exhibits: Offers student-curated exhibitions, showcasing emerging talent in the art world
- Community Engagement: Hosts workshops, lectures, and performances for the wider Providence community
10. Providence Performing Arts Center
Catch a Broadway show or concert at this historic theater, which has been a cultural anchor in Providence since 1926.
- Broadway Shows: Hosts national tours of hit Broadway shows
- Concert Venue: Books major concerts by popular artists and bands
- Historical Architecture: Features a beautiful Beaux-Arts exterior and ornate interior
11. Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island's Miriam Hospital Campus
Explore the history of Jewish life in Providence at this campus that includes a museum, library, and synagogue.
- Jewish History and Culture: Dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of Rhode Island's Jewish community
- Museum and Library: Features a museum and library with extensive collections related to Jewish history, art, and culture
- Synagogue Services: Provides services for the Jewish community on Shabbat and holidays
12. Roger Williams Park Museum of Natural History & Planetarium
Discover the natural wonders of Rhode Island and beyond at this museum, which features exhibits on local wildlife, fossils, and astronomy.
- Natural History Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits on Rhode Island's ecosystems and wildlife
- Planetarium Shows: Offers live, high-definition planetarium shows that explore the cosmos
- Educational Programming: Provides educational programs for visitors of all ages, including workshops, lectures, and camps
13. Roger Williams National Memorial
Learn about the life and legacy of Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island, at this national memorial.
- Historical Significance: Honors the founding father who established Rhode Island as a haven for religious freedom
- Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits and guided tours to explore Williams' life and times
- Outdoor Spaces: Includes gardens, walking paths, and a picnic area for visitors to enjoy
14. Providence Children's Museum
Encourage your kids' curiosity at this interactive museum dedicated to learning through play.
- Interactive Exhibits: Features over 40 interactive exhibits on science, art, and culture
- Educational Programming: Offers workshops, classes, and camps for kids to learn and grow
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Provides a welcoming environment for families to explore together
15. Independence Park
Relax in this peaceful urban park, which features historic monuments, playgrounds, and beautiful gardens.
- Historical Monuments: Includes monuments honoring George Washington and the Revolutionary War soldiers
- Playgrounds: Features multiple play areas for kids to enjoy
- Gardens and Walking Paths: Offers beautiful gardens and walking paths for visitors to stroll through