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Centers on a series of 100 fires that burn on the three rivers that pass through the middle of downtown Providence. The string of fires illuminates nearly two-thirds of a mile and residents and visitors gather to stroll along the river. The fires are burned from sunset to past midnight on select evenings (typically on weekends) from April or May through October. If you want to experience something that is very relaxing while still taking in the urban life of downtown Providence, go and see Waterfire. There are no admission charges. Concessions are available. There are outdoor stands set up hosting a Dunkin Donuts as well as kettle corn, pizza and doughboy (fried dough) distributors for modest prices. Boat rides are available if you would like to get a closer look at the fire. Pricing for the gondola during WaterFire is $159 for 2 passengers and $15 per additional person which can be added to your gondola up until the day of the ride. Proud Mary offers motor launch services on a pontoon boat with tours leaving every half hour from the north side of Waterplace Basin. WaterFire is quite popular with locals and visitors alike, and tends to draw large crowds. If you do plan to attend WaterFire, walking or taking public transportation into Kennedy Plaza is strongly recommended as most surrounding streets become very congested. If you are driving, parking is available at the Providence Place Mall for $1 for a 3 hour time block. The price increases after one surpasses 3 hours.
Offers a variety of exhibits to provide hands-on fun. The museum accepts cash, check, Discover, Visa and MasterCard. Park a picnic lunch and eat either in one of the 3 assembly rooms or in the beautiful outdoor picnic area. The museum is fun for all ages and includes exhibits such as a water table, an exploration of the history of Rhode Island, wind rooms, dinosaur digs and building blocks.
Presents work from professional and community artists in themed exhibits on subjects such as culture, human rights, and breast cancer awareness.
Built from 1894 to 1901. A wonder sculpted from white Georgia marble, containing the world's fourth largest self-supported marble dome. This monumental amazement is 300 feet long, 180 wide, and 233 feet high. Features inside this gigantic building are: the Bell Room, American Revolution regiment flags, a Rotunda, Gun Room, the State Library, House and Senate Chambers and Lounges, Charter room, and many other fascinating tantalizing rooms including one that houses the original 1663 portrait of George Washington by RI native Gilbert Stuart; whose painting is the same face that went on the U.S. one dollar bill. Designed by the notable McKim, Mead, and White architectural firm. Come see the State House lit up in pink to support Breast Cancer Awareness every October. Accompany this visit of the pink State House with a walk around Providence's WaterFire (See below in 'do'). Guided tours of the building are offered M-F 9AM-noon. Self-guided tours may be taken M-F 9AM-3:30PM.
The first enclosed shopping mall in America, completed in 1828. Built in the style of Greek Revival, this building has a unique twist: Due to a disagreement between the two principal architects, columns on one end are Ionic, and on the other, Doric. It has been converted to a residential building with about a dozen shops and restaurants.
Finished in 1878, the Second Empire Baroque City Hall only survives today because of former Mayor Buddy Cianci's careful restoration in 1975.
Bank of America Tower
The tallest building in Providence is an intent Art Deco impression from 1928.