Providence, USA-3-day-itinerary

Providence Itinerary: 3 Days of History, Art & Culinary Delights

Where to Stay:

  • The Dean Hotel: Stylish boutique hotel in the heart of downtown.
  • Hotel Providence: Historic charm meets modern amenities in a central location.
  • Graduate Providence: Quirky and fun option near Brown University campus.

Transportation:

  • Walkable City: Downtown Providence is very walkable, especially the historic district.
  • RIPTA Bus: Reliable bus system for exploring beyond downtown.
  • Ride-sharing Apps: Uber and Lyft are readily available.

Things to Know:

  • College Town Vibe: Providence is home to Brown University and RISD, lending it a youthful energy.
  • Foodie Haven: Renowned for its diverse culinary scene.
  • Historic Charm: Quaint streets, colonial architecture, and fascinating museums.

Day 1: Historical Exploration & Culinary Delights

  • Morning (9:00 AM): Start your day at the Rhode Island State House, a stunning example of neoclassical architecture with free guided tours.
  • Midday (11:30 AM): Explore Benefit Street’s Mile of History, lined with colonial-era homes, including the John Brown House Museum and the First Baptist Church in America.
  • Lunch (1:00 PM): Savor fresh seafood at Hemenway’s, a popular restaurant known for its New England cuisine.
  • Afternoon (2:30 PM): Immerse yourself in art at the RISD Museum, showcasing a vast collection from ancient artifacts to contemporary works.
  • Dinner (7:00 PM): Indulge in authentic Italian fare at Trattoria Zooma, known for its delicious pasta and cozy atmosphere.

Day 2: Waterfronts & Artistic Inspiration

  • Morning (10:00 AM): Stroll along the scenic Providence Riverwalk, enjoying views of the city skyline and historic bridges.

  • Midday (11:30 AM): Visit the WaterFire, a breathtaking public art installation featuring bonfires on the river. Check the schedule for lighting times.

  • Lunch (1:00 PM): Grab a casual bite at The Grange, a farm-to-table eatery with delicious sandwiches and salads.

  • Afternoon (2:30 PM): Explore the vibrant Providence Athenaeum, a historic library housing rare books and manuscripts.

  • Dinner (7:00 PM): Enjoy creative cocktails and tapas at The Dorrance, a stylish restaurant housed in a former bank building.

Day 3: College Campus & Culinary Adventures

  • Morning (10:00 AM): Wander the beautiful campus of Brown University, admiring its historic architecture and vibrant student life.

  • Midday (12:00 PM): Explore the trendy Wickenden Street, lined with independent shops, boutiques, and cafes.

  • Lunch (1:30 PM): Try the legendary “stuffie” (stuffed quahog clam) at George’s of Galilee.

  • Afternoon (3:00 PM): Enjoy a sweet treat at PVDonuts, known for its unique and delicious donut creations.

  • Farewell Dinner (7:00 PM): Celebrate your trip with an unforgettable meal at Al Forno, renowned for its wood-fired pizzas and Italian classics.

Tips:

  • Book restaurants in advance, especially during peak season.

  • Purchase a RIPTA day pass for unlimited bus rides.

  • Consider visiting the Roger Williams Park Zoo or taking a boat tour on Narragansett Bay.

Enjoy your 3 days exploring the charming city of Providence!