Weird & Unusual Attractions in Providence, United States
1. Rogue Island Lighthouse
A lighthouse on a small, uninhabited island in Narragansett Bay, accessible only by boat. It was built in the late 1800s and is one of the few remaining screw-pile lighthouses.
- Maritime History: Offers a glimpse into Providence's maritime past
- Island Experience: Provides a unique and secluded island experience
- Boat Tour: Requires a boat tour to reach, offering an additional activity for visitors
2. Providence Ghost Tour
A guided walking tour through Providence's haunted sites, sharing stories of ghost sightings and local legends.
- Local Legends: Brings to life Providence's spooky history and local folklore
- Nighttime Activity: Offers an evening activity for visitors looking for something different
- Historical Context: Provides historical context to the ghost stories and sites visited
3. Museum of Natural History & Planetarium
A museum featuring exhibits on local flora and fauna, as well as a planetarium for stargazing.
- Local Biodiversity: Highlights the unique biodiversity found in Providence
- Stargazing Opportunities: Offers a chance to observe stars and constellations up close
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs for visitors of all ages
4. Big Blue House
A whimsical house painted in shades of blue and decorated with seashells, located in the East Side neighborhood.
- Artistic Expression: A unique example of creative self-expression
- Neighborhood Exploration: Encourages exploration of the East Side neighborhood
- Photo Opportunity: Offers a memorable photo opportunity for visitors
5. Hope Artiste Village
A former mill complex turned artist studio and gallery space in Pawtucket.
- Artistic Community: Supports the local artistic community
- Creative Workshops: Offers workshops and classes in various artistic mediums
- Gallery Viewing: Provides visitors with the opportunity to view and purchase local art
6. Providence Arcade
One of the oldest commercial buildings in the United States, featuring shops and restaurants.
- Historic Preservation: Contributes to the preservation of Providence's history
- Unique Shops: Offers unique shopping experiences in a historic setting
- Local Cuisine: Provides access to local and traditional Providence cuisine
7. Museum of Work & Culture
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Rhode Island's working class, including exhibits on textile manufacturing.
- Industrial Heritage: Highlights Providence's industrial heritage
- Cultural Preservation: Preserves the culture and history of Rhode Island's working class
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits for visitors to engage with
8. India Point Park Meteorite
A meteorite located in a park along the Providence River.
- Cosmic Connection: Connects visitors to the cosmos
- Nature Exploration: Encourages exploration of India Point Park and the Providence River
- Educational Opportunity: Offers an educational opportunity about meteorites and their origins
9. Alley Cat Art Gallery
A gallery located in a narrow alleyway in the Federal Hill neighborhood, featuring contemporary art.
- Hidden Gem: A hidden gem waiting to be discovered
- Contemporary Art: Offers access to contemporary art
- Neighborhood Exploration: Encourages exploration of Federal Hill's vibrant streets
10. Providence Vaults Tour
A tour exploring the underground vaults beneath Providence's downtown area.
- Hidden History: Reveals hidden aspects of Providence's history
- Underground Adventure: Offers an underground adventure for visitors
- Historic Preservation: Supports the preservation of Providence's historic infrastructure
11. Providence Sculpture Park
A park featuring large-scale outdoor sculptures from various artists.
- Artistic Diversity: Showcases the diversity of artistic styles
- Outdoor Experience: Provides an outdoor art experience
- Neighborhood Exploration: Encourages exploration of the downtown Providence area
12. Graffiti Hall of Fame
A wall dedicated to local and international graffiti artists in Olneyville.
- Street Art: Highlights Providence's street art scene
- Artistic Collaboration: Offers an opportunity to collaborate with local and international artists
- Neighborhood Exploration: Encourages exploration of Olneyville neighborhood
13. Rocky Ledge Park Painted Stones
A park with painted stones left by visitors, located in the East Side neighborhood.
- Community Art: Encourages community participation in artistic expression
- Neighborhood Exploration: Encourages exploration of the East Side neighborhood
- Memory Keeping: Allows visitors to leave a small piece of themselves behind
14. Garden in the Woods
A nature reserve with sculptures hidden amongst the trees and trails.
- Nature & Art: Brings together nature and art for a unique experience
- Quiet Reflection: Provides an opportunity for quiet reflection in nature
- Trail Exploration: Offers a peaceful hiking or walking experience
15. Rhode Island School of Design Museum
A museum featuring contemporary art and design, as well as a collection from the Rhode Island School of Design.
- Artistic Innovation: Showcases innovative and forward-thinking art
- Design Education: Offers an educational opportunity for visitors to learn about design
- Contemporary Art: Provides access to contemporary art and design