Visit Providence: Big Ideas, Small Town Charm

Q: What are the Must-see Attractions in Providence?

Some of the top attractions in Providence include: Visiting Brown University , an esteemed Ivy League institution Go on a boat tour of the city Take a walk around and explore Federal Hill Go on a Providence Food Tour

Q: Is Providence a College Town?

While Providence offers more than a collegiate atmosphere, it could be considered a college town because of the multiple institutions in the city. Ivy League Brown University, Providence College and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) all contribute to a youthful, intellectual environment in the city.

Q: What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Providence?

If you are planning to visit Providence, you cannot go wrong with visiting in the fall, when there is peak foliage and cooler weather that is perfect for outdoor activities. In the spring, the city parks and gardens bloom with vibrant colors as the weather warms, making it a great time to explore this northeast gem of a city.

Q: Is Providence Worth Visiting?

If you are seeking a historic city with the friendliness of a small-town, Providence could be a great option for you. Over the past few decades, Providence has established itself as an arts hub and we recommend visiting to see the spectacular WaterFire demonstration. Check the lighting schedule before planning your trip to see this unique display.

Q: What is the Nightlife like in Providence?

Being that Providence is home to multiple colleges, there is plenty of nightlife in Providence to cater to the youthful scene, but also a wide range of tastes. You can find cozy wine bars and lounges in the Federal Hill area, the Italian district of Providence. When you go downtown you can find trendy cocktail lounges, live music venues and more of the energetic nightclubs.

Explore Rhode Island's capital city with the top activities and accommodations in Providence.

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Exploring Rhode Island: Top Things to Do in Providence

Providence Travel Guide

As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Providence greets visitors with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture that showcase its deep New England heritage. Located just an hour from Boston, Providence provides a more intimate, small-town atmosphere while offering just as much culture and history as its bustling northern neighbor. When you visit Providence, you can expect a city with a thriving arts community, one of the top foodie cities in the United States and quirky neighborhoods filled with things to do for any traveler's desires. Remember that as a AAA member, you can receive exclusive discounts on top-rated hotels, save on rental cars and receive free expert travel planning from a AAA Travel Agent.

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Residence Inn by Marriott Providence Downtown

Graduate by Hilton Providence

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Aloft Providence Downtown

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Christopher Dodge House

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Providence Marriott Downtown

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EDITOR PICKWhere to Find AAA TourBook Guides and MapsMichelle Palmer04/01/2025 : The AAA TourBook guides provide travel information and are a planning tool for destinations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Frequently Asked Questions in Providence

Do you have more questions about visiting Providence? We have answers.

What are the Must-see Attractions in Providence?

Is Providence a College Town?

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Providence?

Is Providence Worth Visiting?

What is the Food Scene like in Providence?

Providence is a thriving culinary destination, often ranked as one of the top foodie cities in the United States, especially for its size. With a strong New England influence, the city offers innovative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients from nearby farms and coastal waters. Two AAA Four Diamond restaurants, Gracie's and Persimmon, are highly recommended for an upscale dining experience.

What is the Nightlife like in Providence?

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Visit Providence: Big Ideas, Small Town Charm

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Homewood Suites by Hilton Providence Downtown

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Brown University

Historic Providence Boat Tours

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AAA Travel Inspiration, Destination Information and More

Frequently Asked Questions in Providence

What are the Must-see Attractions in Providence?

Is Providence a College Town?

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Providence?

Is Providence Worth Visiting?

What is the Food Scene like in Providence?

What is the Nightlife like in Providence?

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

Build and Research Your Options

Book Everything in One Place

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