Providence County Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, outdoor adventures, local culture, food scene, and transportation options in Providence County, Rhode Island through our comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Providence County

Providence County, located in Rhode Island, is a scenic and vibrant county on the East Coast of the United States. It is home to the state capital, Providence, which is a hub of art, culture, and education. The county boasts of a diverse range of attractions, including historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and culinary delights. In this comprehensive tour guide, you will find everything you need to plan your visit to Providence County, from top-rated attractions to local customs and safety tips.

List of Places to Visit in Providence County

Here are some of the top-rated places to visit in Providence County.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Rhode Island State House: This historical landmark is an iconic building that houses the offices of the Governor, Secretary of State, and General Assembly.

  • Kennedy Plaza: This public square is a hub of activity, featuring outdoor events, street performers, and food trucks.

  • The Providence Athenaeum: This library is a National Historic Landmark and one of the oldest libraries in the country.

  • The RISD Museum: This art museum features a vast collection of artwork from around the world, including works by famous artists such as Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh.

Natural Attractions of Providence County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Roger Williams Park Zoo: This family-friendly attraction features a variety of animals from around the world, including giraffes, elephants, and kangaroos.

  • Waterplace Park and Riverwalk: This scenic park is home to the WaterFire Providence event, where the river is lit up with bonfires and live music performances are organized.

  • Lincoln Woods State Park: This park offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and mountain biking, as well as camping facilities.

  • Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor: This scenic byway offers breathtaking views of the Blackstone River, as well as numerous historical landmarks and attractions.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Providence County

Providence County is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the county:

  • The East Bay Bike Path: This scenic bike path stretches for 14 miles along the coast of East Bay, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

  • The Blackstone River Bikeway: This 11-mile bike path takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Providence County, featuring lush forests and beautiful river views.

  • The Lincoln Woods Trail System: This trail system offers over 5 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as scenic views of the woods and lakes.

Best Things to Do in Providence County: Activities and Tours

Providence County offers a diverse range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in the county:

  • Providence Ghost Tour: This guided tour takes you through the haunted history of Providence, including the city’s most haunted buildings and landmarks.

  • Providence Food Tour: This tour offers a unique culinary experience, taking you through the city’s best restaurants, food trucks, and local markets.

  • WaterFire Providence: This unique event brings together art, music, and community to light up the rivers of Providence with bonfires and unique performances.

Week-Long Itinerary for Providence County

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long visit to Providence County:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the RISD Museum, explore the Waterplace Park, and go on a ghost tour of Providence
Day 2 Hiking at Lincoln Woods State Park, followed by a visit to the Providence Athenaeum
Day 3 Visit the Rhode Island State House, Kennedy Plaza, and Federal Hill (Providence’s Little Italy)
Day 4 Take a road trip to Newport, RI, and explore the famous mansions and beaches
Day 5 Visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo and attend a WaterFire Providence event
Day 6 Go on a Providence food tour and visit local markets and coffee shops
Day 7 Take a bike ride on the East Bay Bike Path and enjoy the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean

Food and Drink Scene of Providence County

Providence County is a foodie’s paradise, offering a variety of culinary delights. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Dynamite Roll: A sushi roll filled with cooked scallops, spicy mayo, and tempura flakes.

  • Stuffie: A unique Rhode Island dish made with chopped clams, bread crumbs, and chouriço.

  • Grilled Pizza: A Rhode Island specialty, grilled pizza is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings.

Local Beverages

  • Del’s Lemonade: A local drink made with ice, lemon juice, and sugar.

  • Autocrat Coffee Syrup: A coffee-flavored syrup used to make Rhode Island’s signature drink, coffee milk.

  • Narragansett Beer: A local beer that has been brewed in Rhode Island since 1890.

Where to Stay in Providence County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Providence County offers a range of accommodation options for visitors. Here are some of the top-rated hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • The Dean Hotel: A chic and trendy hotel located in the heart of downtown Providence.

  • The Providence Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel in the heart of Providence, featuring private guest rooms and dormitory-style accommodation.

  • The Jacob Hill Inn: A luxury bed and breakfast located on a beautiful estate, featuring elegant rooms and gourmet breakfasts.

What to Buy in Providence County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Providence County offers a range of unique souvenirs and local products that make great gifts. Here are some of the best things to buy in the county:

  • Rhode Island-style coffee milk syrup: An essential ingredient for making the local drink, coffee milk.

  • Narragansett Beer memorabilia: T-shirts, hats, and other souvenirs featuring the iconic Narragansett Beer logo.

  • Handmade jewelry: Providence is known for its artisanal jewelry, featuring unique designs and high-quality materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Providence County

Providence County has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by its history and proximity to the sea. Here are some of the local customs and traditions:

  • Clam bakes: A popular summer tradition, clam bakes involve steaming clams, lobsters, and other seafood in a fire pit on the beach.

  • WaterFire Providence: A unique event that brings together art, music, and community to light up the rivers of Providence.

  • Providence Pride: A celebration of the LGBTQ+ community that takes place annually in June.

Best Time to Visit Providence County

The best time to visit Providence County is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor events are organized regularly. However, the fall season, from September to November, is also a great time to visit, with beautiful foliage and a range of fall-themed events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Providence County

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Providence County:

Do:

  • Do try the local seafood, including clam chowder, lobster, and stuffed quahogs.

  • Do attend a WaterFire Providence event and experience the city’s unique art scene.

  • Do explore the local culture, including the artisanal jewelry and coffee milk syrup.

Don’t:

  • Don’t ignore the safety guidelines, especially when hiking or biking in natural areas.

  • Don’t forget to tip 15-20% at restaurants and cafes.

  • Don’t miss out on the opportunity to attend a local event or festival.

Safety and Health

Safety in Providence County

Providence County is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions, especially when hiking or biking in natural areas. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Always wear a helmet when biking or participating in any adventure sports.

  • Don’t leave valuables in your car or unattended in public places.

  • Follow all safety guidelines when visiting beaches or hiking trails.

Health in Providence County

Providence County has a high-quality healthcare system, with a range of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. Visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. It’s also a good idea to research the medical facilities in your area and keep a list of emergency contacts handy.

Getting to Providence County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Providence County is easily accessible through a network of transportation options, including air, road, and rail. Here are some of the best ways to get to Providence County:

Airports Near Providence County

  • T.F. Green Airport: Located in nearby Warwick, Rhode Island, this airport serves over six million passengers every year.

  • Logan International Airport: Located in Boston, Massachusetts, this airport is approximately an hour away from Providence County.

Bus Stations Near Providence County

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines: This bus service offers connections from Providence to Boston, New York City, and other major cities.

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: This bus service has numerous buses connecting Providence to major cities across the country.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: Amtrak serves numerous destinations in Rhode Island, including Providence.

  • Uber/Lyft: Both of these ride-sharing services are available in Providence County.

How to Get Around in Providence County

Providence County offers a variety of transportation options for visitors. Here are some of the best ways to get around in the county:

  • Public transportation: The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) offers bus services in and around Providence County.

  • Biking: Providence County has an extensive network of bike routes and lanes, making it a great destination for cyclists.

  • Ride-sharing: Both Uber and Lyft operate in Providence County.

Where to Go Next from Providence County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Providence County is a great starting point for exploring other destinations in the New England region. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Cape Cod, MA: Approximately 2 hours away from Providence County, Cape Cod offers beautiful beaches, coastal towns, and seafood restaurants.

  • Boston, MA: Approximately 1 hour away from Providence County, Boston is a hub of history, culture, and education.

  • Mystic, CT: Approximately 1 hour away from Providence County, Mystic is a charming coastal town known for its seafood restaurants and maritime history.

Conclusion

Providence County, Rhode Island, is a unique and vibrant destination that offers a range of attractions, activities, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or culinary delights, Providence County has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your visit and make the most of your experience in this beautiful county on the East Coast of the United States.



    Central Falls
    Cumberland
    East Providence
    Foster
    Glocester
    Johnston
    North Providence
    Pawtucket
    Providence
    Woonsocket