South Providence

The largest park in Providence, constructed during the 1880s. It is named after Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island, and was the family farm until being donated to the city in 1871. It represented the last of the original land grant to Roger Williams in 1638 from Canonicus, chief of the Narragansett tribe. The park covers 427 elaborately decorated acres and contains seven lakes. It houses many live musical events including the Dominican Pride Festival, every August. Located within the park are the Roger Williams Park Zoo, the Roger Williams Park Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, the Roger Williams Park Botanical Center, the Japanese Gardens, the Victorian Rose Gardens, the Providence Police Department's Mounted Command center, the Dalrymple Boathouse and boat rentals, historical tours, a Carousel Village for children that includes the "Hasbro Boundless Playground," and the Roger Williams Park Casino. There are picnic areas, a concession stand, and often face painting too.

The largest public indoor display gardens in New England, covering approximately 12,000 square feet of indoor gardens. There is a great diversity of unique and exotic flowers and plants. A nice place to be surrounded by color and nature.

Opened in 1872, this is one of the nation’s oldest zoos. It is one of Rhode Island’s top tourist attractions, bringing in over half a million people annually from all over the country. It is home to well over 100 species of animals, including many rare and endangered species. The zoo blends history and culture with the animals. For example, in the Marco Polo exhibit you can watch a video of his exploration on a replica of his ship before ending your journey with real live camels, like in his travels. The zoo also features a fun and exciting dinosaur exhibit (separate admission, $4 per adult and $3 per child or senior). First Saturday of the month is free for Providence residence with proof of residency.

Founded in 1896, the Museum of Natural History is Rhode Island’s only natural history museum and houses the state’s sole public planetarium. The museum is modest in size, yet houses a wide array of local selections: birds, marine animals, insects, floral and faunal species, minerals, and fossils. About 85% of the collection is natural history, while the other 15% is cultural materials, such as the tools and textiles of New England’s Native American populations. The building's colonial style of architecture is history lesson in itself. See the museum for a quiet and intimate learning experience. This museum is highly recommended for children, as it hosts tons of interactive activities and workshops. The Cormack Planetarium offers shows such as Cosmic Collisions, Field Trip to the Moon, Our Place In Space, and Sky Views, typically lasting approximately 35 minutes. Shows rotate often and are offered to both general and family audiences. The planetarium shows run usually for a half hour, and are available Saturday and Sunday at 2PM, and daily during RI Spring and Winter breaks cityof.providenceri.com/museum/planetarium. The planetarium features a state-of-the-art Zeiss star projector and an enlarged domed ceiling, which is able to show the starry sky and the motions of the planets at unprecedented detail.

Hosts multiple music concerts and festivals in the summer and fall months. The building was a gift from a local olive oil merchant and is made of Vermont marble. It was dedicated in 1924, and since has served as a backdrop to countless festivals, events, and wedding photos.

A 20,000-square-foot playground that is accessible to children of all levels and abilities. Great place for parents to relax and let their children have fun. Has swings, slides, and games for children of all ages, from babies to teens.

Right next to the zoo, one can find paddle boats available. They only hold two people, but its lots of fun and a great way to see all the beautiful nature surrounding you. There are restrictions on how far you can go and life jackets are provided.

Located at Queen Anne-style Dalrymple Boathouse. 30-minute historical boat tours of the Park's unique waterways, statues and landmarks are available on an electric boat. One boat holds 6 people and the cost is $5 per person.