If you haven’t visited the incredible city of Providence, Rhode Island, make it your next weekend getaway. Just take the train, as the Providence/Stoughton Line goes all the way to downtown Providence. Kids 11 and under ride the Commuter Rail for free, so it’s the perfect way to bring the whole family on an easy, comfortable, and affordable ride to and from Providence. Skip the traffic and funnel more of your budget into the amazing things to do down in Providence, Rhode Island.
Start Your Providence, Rhode Island Adventure with the Commuter Rail
20 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903
Established in 1877, the RISD Museum features works of art and design from all over the world, spanning from ancient times to the present. The museum boasts a collection of over 100,000 objects, and over 2,095 of them are on display, including paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, costume and textiles, and furniture. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.
100 South St, Providence, Providence, RI 02903
Play, exploration, and creativity abound at the Providence Children’s Museum. Children learn through play, so the amazing exhibits are full of hands-on experiments designed for kids ages 1-11 years old. Kids and their caregivers can learn about science, history, art, and more, all while playing and having fun. You can reserve an advanced ticket online or buy tickets at the door.
52 Power St, Providence, RI 02903
Indulge your curiosity and explore Rhode Island’s history at the John Brown House Museum. It was the first mansion to be built in Providence and was even visited by George Washington and John Quincy Adams. Learn about Rhode Island’s role in the American Revolution and beyond through furniture, sculptures, artworks, silver, textiles, and more from the museum’s collection. Advanced ticket purchase is available.
One Providence Pl, Providence, RI 02903
Providence Place is Rhode Island’s ultimate shopping destination. Browse the hottest brands in fashion and beauty, buy toys and games for the kids, and more. With an extensive variety of stores, this mall has something for everyone.
65 Weybosset St, Providence, RI 02903
For a bit of history when you’re shopping, head to the Arcade Providence. Built in 1828, it’s the nation’s oldest indoor shopping mall and features a stunning Greek revival style and incredible skylight. The Arcade features 17 retail shops and three restaurants, so you can get a real feel for Providence’s eclectic and unique atmosphere.
65 Weybosset St, Providence, RI 02903
H.P. Lovecraft is one of America’s most notable horror writers, and he spent most of his life in Providence. Lovecraft Arts & Sciences keeps Providence weird and his literary legacy alive through public events like NecronomiCon Providence, lectures, walking tours, art exhibits, film screenings, plays, and the Tour de Tentacle bicycle scavenger hunt. You can also visit their store to find curious goods, collections of his books, works by local artists, and more.
1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907
Home to more than 800 animals from around the world, Roger Williams Park Zoo is a can’t-miss family-friendly destination. Take a rideshare from Providence Station to the zoo to visit red pandas, elephants, alpacas, eagles, parrots, komodo dragons, otters, and so many more. Check out nationally-recognized events, and award-winning educational programs, like yoga with the animals, adult-only evening events, and sensory-friendly mornings. All non-member tickets must be purchased online in advance of your visit.
1 Sabin St, Providence, RI 02903
From JVC Tournaments to dance competitions to Rhode Island Comic Con, the Rhode Island Convention Center is your destination for the biggest events. Check out what exhibitions and events are going on on any particular weekend so you can get your tickets early.