Art collections, industrial history, and outdoor activities offer different focal points for a stay in Providence. Options range from exhibitions and historical accounts to routes for cycling and walking, as well as paddlecraft rentals. You can choose what to do based on the program that interests you most.
Art and history from different perspectives
The Roger Williams National Memorial tells the story of Roger Williams through an exhibition in the visitor center, a short film, and outdoor exhibit panels. The RISD Museum, by contrast, focuses on fine and decorative arts: its collection includes about 100,000 works, spanning antiquity to the present day. This broad time span offers a different perspective from an exhibition about a single historical figure.
Across seven curatorial departments, the RISD Museum’s program includes exhibitions, lectures, tours, workshops, and publications. The current program may change, so check the latest schedule in advance if you want to attend a specific event. In Providence, Providence County, The Arcade is also listed as a National Historic Landmark. The Crescent Park Carousel dates from 1895 and features 62 hand-carved figures and four elaborately decorated chariots.
Mills and immigration history
Old Slater Mill was built in 1793 as a water-powered cotton-spinning mill. Today, it houses visitor exhibits, and park rangers also offer guided tours. The Museum of Work & Culture offers another perspective on mill towns: its nine immersive exhibits present the lives of immigrants in the mill towns along the Blackstone River and in Woonsocket. In this way, the history of cotton spinning and the stories of immigrants are brought together from different perspectives.
Enjoying the outdoors
The grounds around the historic buildings at Old Slater Mill are open daily from dawn to dusk and include interpretive panels. Roger Williams Park covers more than 435 acres and combines recreational and educational offerings with picnics, community festivals, and running activities. Alongside museums and exhibitions, there are also various ways to spend time outdoors.
The Blackstone River Bikeway offers an approximately 10-mile paved route for cycling and walking that is mostly relatively flat. Its approximate length and described terrain provide a guide when choosing a route; conditions may change. For activities on the water, Providence River Boat Company offers kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard rentals on the waterways of downtown Providence and at Lincoln Woods State Park. Rental offerings and availability may change, so check before making plans.
Food and markets
The Providence Winter Farmers Market brings local farmers and food vendors together in a purpose-built indoor market hall. This adds a regional food-focused outing to the cultural and active options. As seasonal details may change, check the latest market information before planning your visit.
Discover more destinations
Cranston, Providence, Pawtucket, Smithfield, East Providence, Woonsocket, Scituate, Washington
For the main travel overview: Rhode Island.
