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Capital city of Rhode Island, US
Photo: Quintin Soloviev, CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Providence is the state capital and largest city in Rhode Island, as well as the third largest city in New England. It used to be a heavily industrialized bastion of organized crime, but Providence's recent renaissance has created new parks and attractions and brought emphasis back to its historic roots as an intellectual center. Downcity events, historic vistas, eclectic districts such as College Hill and Federal Hill, and a great nightlife make Providence a worthwhile tourist destination. Today, it is perhaps best known as the home of Brown University.
Also known as Downcity. Includes the central business district as well as Waterplace Park, the Providence Place Mall, and Capitol Hill
Home to Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, this neighborhood is swarming with college students, but also boasts a number of old historic sites.
A neighborhood just west of downtown along Atwells Avenue. Known for nightlife and Italian heritage.
Smith Hill is a district in the northern area in Providence. Only a couple minutes from Federal Hill, Smith Hill provides a sense of entertainment and places to visit.
North and East Providence are the outer neighborhoods in the north and east of Providence, RI. They are distinct from North Providence, which is a separate municipality. These areas are much lower density and more residential than the rest of the city.
Southern Providence has a reputation for poverty and crime, but is also the home of Roger Williams Park - a large and beautifully landscaped park containing the zoo, museums, and other attractions.
A quieter neighborhood with eclectic shops and restaurants.
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It is celebrated on Federal Hill in May. It is sponsored by the Holy Ghost Parish.
This upscale ristorante adds local touches to grilled pizzas, pastas & wood-fired mains.
An eatery/antique shop featuring an upscale global menu, a historic bar & music.
Riverside setting for Italian fare: sizable wine list, extensive cured-meats menu & daily specials.
Cozy, rustic-chic pub with seasonal New American plates, lots of local craft beers & weekend brunch.
By train
Train is by far the easiest way into Providence if coming from any major city along the Boston-DC line. The train station is convenient to all of downtown, and the area around Brown.
By car
For those driving, I-95 will serve you well from Boston or New York areas, Rt. 146 is better when coming from Worcester or western Massachusetts area.
By bus
Downtown Providence is very compact and can easily be covered walking. There is some parking available throughout the city, but RIPTA's public transport network is extensive and an alternative to driving.
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Providence/Warwick · International · PVD
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