Attractions in Providence

Providence's main attractions focus around three of its seven hills. Downtown, which centers on Kennedy Plaza , is situated just below Constitution Hill. City Hall , at the western end of the plaza, is mainly notable for the star-spangled midnight-blue ceiling in the Alderman's Chamber. Though no longer used as a train terminal, the nearby 1898 Beaux Arts Union Station is a fine example of the historic restoration at which the city excels. Southeast of the plaza, the 1828 Westminster Arcade , the oldest enclosed shopping mall in the nation, features expensive clothes shops and a food court in a small, bright, sky-lit hall. The Roger Williams National Memorial , at N Main and Smith streets, at the foot of Constitution Hill, includes part of city-founder Williams' original settlement (daily 9am-4.30pm; free), while at the top of the hill, the white marble Rhode Island Statehouse boasts a huge unsupported dome, the fourth largest in the world, topped with a statue called Independent Man , an 11-foot-tall bronze figure created by George Brewster as a symbol of freedom and independence. A handsome full-length portrait of Washington adorns the Reception Room.

Waterplace Park & Riverwalk
Memorial Blvd, Providence, RI 02903
Waterplace Park and the Riverwalk linked to it have a welcoming, well-thought-out design, which has become a focal point of the overall revitalization of Providence's downtown area. Built in 1994, Waterplace Park and Riverwalk are situated at the foot of the State Capitol hill. It was created by rerouting the Providence River and removing paving - the "world's widest bridge" - that for decades had covered it over.
 
The Bank of America Skating Center
2 Kennedy Plaza, Providence, RI 02903
+1 401 331 5544
The Bank of America Skating Center offers a great affordable winter time activity, featuring ice skate rentals for adults and children plus a concession area. The Center is also available for private parties, corporate outings, and special events during the winter and summer months.
 
Culinary Archives & Museum at JWU
315 Harborside Boulevard, Providence, RI 02905
+1 401 598-2805
Internationally renowned, with nearly half a million items in its collection, the Culinary Archives & Museum is one of the premiere institutions dedicated to the preservation of the history of the culinary and hospitality industries, where visitors can explore five thousand years of culinary history under one roof.
 
Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum
199 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02906
+1 401 453-0688
The Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum, circa 1865 is a Renaissance Revival Mansion described by the "New York Times" as one of the most complete, authentic and intact Victorian houses in the Country.
 
John Brown House
52 Power Street, Providence, RI 02906
+1 401 331-8575
Enter the John Brown House and step into the world of 18th century wealth and power. Trained tour guides provide hour-long tours through the museums meticulously restored rooms containing nationally significant treasures.
 
Providence Children's Museum
100 South Street, Providence, RI 02903
+1 401 273-5437
Colorful hands on exhibits and lively programs for children, 1-11, and their families! Open 7 days a week from 9AM-6PM. Admission is $6.50 per person.