College Hill Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in College Hill, Providence, Rhode Island, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to College Hill

College Hill is a historic neighborhood located in Providence, Rhode Island, on the east side of the Providence River. It is known for its beautiful 18th-century homes, charming cobblestone streets, lush green spaces, and cultural landmarks. The neighborhood is home to several prestigious institutions, including Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.

List of Places to Visit in College Hill

Visitors to College Hill can explore a variety of culturally important attractions, natural landmarks, and engaging activities. Here are some of the must-visit destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • John Brown House Museum: This grand mansion belonged to one of Providence’s most prominent citizens, John Brown, who played a key role in the American Revolution and early abolitionist movement.
  • Providence Athenaeum: One of the oldest libraries in the US, the Providence Athenaeum houses a vast collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artworks.
  • Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art: Rhode Island’s leading museum of fine arts, the RISD Museum features an impressive collection of over 100,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and decorative arts from around the world.

Natural Attractions of College Hill: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Prospect Terrace Park: Located at the top of College Hill, this park offers stunning panoramic views of Providence and the surrounding area.
  • Roger Williams National Memorial: This green oasis is dedicated to the founder of Rhode Island, Roger Williams, and features a peaceful garden, walking trails, and historical exhibits.

Hiking/Biking Routes of College Hill

College Hill is a great place for exploring on foot or bike. There are several scenic routes that take you through the lush parks and gardens of the area. Two of the most popular trails are:

  • Blackstone Boulevard: This tree-lined avenue boasts a wide bike path that stretches for nearly two miles, passing by several historic mansions and parks.
  • India Point Park Trail: This 1.2-mile trail follows the shoreline of the Providence River, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding cityscape.

Best Things to Do in College Hill: Activities and Tours

In addition to exploring the neighborhood’s landmarks and natural beauty, there are plenty of engaging activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are a few favorites:

  • Providence Ghost Tour: This spooky walking tour takes visitors through the shadowy streets of College Hill, offering tales of haunted mansions and ghostly encounters.
  • Food Tour of Federal Hill: Located just south of College Hill, Federal Hill is the city’s Little Italy, boasting dozens of delicious restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. A food tour will introduce visitors to the area’s culinary delights.
  • WaterFire Providence: This summer-long festival lights up the Providence River with hundreds of floating bonfires, music, and street performers.

Week-Long Itinerary for College Hill

To make the most of your visit to College Hill, we recommend the following one-week itinerary:

[table] | Day | Activities | | — | — | | Monday | Visit John Brown House Museum, explore the Providence Athenaeum, and take a stroll through Benefit Street’s historic homes. | | Tuesday | Hike up to Prospect Terrace Park for stunning views, followed by lunch at the charming Kartabar restaurant. | | Wednesday | Spend the morning at the RISD Museum of Art, then head over to India Point Park for a picnic and a walk along the shoreline. | | Thursday | Take the Providence Ghost Tour for a spooky evening adventure. | | Friday | Rent a bike and ride along Blackstone Boulevard, stopping for lunch at one of the area’s many cafes. | | Saturday | Head down to Federal Hill for a food tour, then catch a show at the Trinity Repertory Company. | | Sunday | Finish off the week with a visit to WaterFire Providence, an evening of music, art, and floating bonfires. |

Food and Drink Scene of College Hill

College Hill and its surrounding areas offer a diverse array of dining options, ranging from classic New England seafood to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Clam chowder: A classic New England dish, clam chowder can be found at many local seafood restaurants, including Hemenway’s on South Main Street.
  • Hot wieners: A Rhode Island favorite, these small hot dogs smothered in meat sauce can be found at Olneyville New York System on North Main Street.
  • Pizza strips: A unique specialty of Providence, pizza strips are thin slices of pizza crust topped with tomato sauce, often eaten as a snack. Try them at Scialo Bros. Bakery in Federal Hill.

Local Beverages

  • Narragansett Beer: This iconic Rhode Island beer has been brewed since 1890 and can be found in many local bars and restaurants, including The Hot Club on the Providence River.
  • Autocrat Coffee Syrup: A Rhode Island staple, this sweet coffee syrup is used to make the state’s official drink, the “coffee milk.” Look for it at local grocery stores or coffee shops.

Where to Stay in College Hill: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you are looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy guesthouse, there are several great options in College Hill and nearby areas. Here are some top choices for accommodations:

  • Providence Biltmore: Located in the heart of downtown Providence, this historic hotel offers elegant rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center.
  • The Dean Hotel: A boutique hotel in downtown Providence, The Dean features stylish rooms, a bar, and a coffee shop.
  • HI Providence Hostel: A budget-friendly option for travelers, this hostel is located just a block away from the Providence Amtrak station and offers private rooms and dorms.

What to Buy in College Hill: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a memorable souvenir of your visit to College Hill? Here are some local products and shops to check out:

  • Newport Sea Salt Company: Based in nearby Newport, Rhode Island, this artisanal salt company offers a variety of flavors and packaging options to bring home.
  • Duck and Bunny: This cozy cafe/bakery in nearby Mount Hope features a variety of baked goods and gifts, including their signature “crepes in a cone.”
  • Rhody Craft: Located on Wickenden Street in College Hill, this locally owned shop is filled with handmade gifts, jewelry, and home goods from over 300 local artists and makers.

Local Culture and Customs of College Hill

Rhode Island is a small but mighty state with a proud history and unique culture. Some local customs and phrases to look out for in College Hill include:

  • Coffee milk: The official state drink of Rhode Island, coffee milk is made by mixing coffee syrup with milk.
  • “Rhode Island-style” pizza: A unique style of pizza found in Rhode Island, with a very thin crust and a spicy tomato sauce.
  • “Jimmies”: In Rhode Island, chocolate sprinkles are often called “jimmies.”

Best Time to Visit College Hill

Due to its New England location, College Hill experiences distinct seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. The best time to visit may depend on your personal preferences and interests, but the most popular times are spring and fall. These seasons offer pleasant weather, beautiful foliage, and a variety of festivals and events. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of College Hill

When visiting College Hill and the surrounding areas, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind to have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Do:

  • Explore the historic homes and landmarks of the area, including the John Brown House and Benefit Street.
  • Sample the local cuisine, from clam chowder to coffee milk and everything in between.
  • Take advantage of the great outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and visiting the parks.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables visible in your car, as car break-ins can occur in some areas.
  • Ignore parking signs and regulations, as parking can be limited and heavily enforced.
  • Forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, as the cobblestone streets and hills can be challenging to navigate.

Safety and Health

When traveling to College Hill and the surrounding areas, it’s important to be aware of safety and health considerations.

Safety in College Hill

Overall, College Hill is a safe and welcoming neighborhood, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Common safety tips include:

  • Being aware of your surroundings and avoiding deserted areas at night.
  • Not leaving valuables unattended or visible in your car.
  • Locking your doors and windows when leaving your accommodations.

Health in College Hill

Rhode Island is currently facing a public health emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Visitors should check the latest travel advisories and guidelines before entering the area. Additionally, it’s a good idea to take regular health precautions, such as:

  • Washing your hands regularly with soap and water.
  • Wearing a face covering in public spaces.
  • Avoiding crowded areas and maintaining a safe distance from others.

Getting to College Hill: Transportation Options and Logistics

College Hill is easily accessible by several modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near College Hill

  • T.F. Green Airport: Located in nearby Warwick, Rhode Island, T.F. Green Airport is a popular option for visitors to the area. It is approximately 10 miles south of College Hill.
  • Boston Logan International Airport: Located in Boston, Massachusetts, Logan Airport is another popular option for visitors to the area. It is approximately 50 miles north of College Hill.

Bus Stations Near College Hill

  • Peter Pan Bus Lines: This bus company offers a variety of routes to Providence, including stops in Kennedy Plaza and the Rhode Island Convention Center.
  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Another popular bus company, Greyhound offers routes to Providence from various locations throughout New England.

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train: The Providence Amtrak station is located in downtown Providence, just a block away from College Hill. Amtrak offers routes to Providence from various locations throughout the East Coast.
  • Ride-Sharing Services: Uber, Lyft, and other ride-sharing services are available in the Providence area.

How to Get Around in College Hill

College Hill is a walkable neighborhood, with most attractions and amenities located within a few blocks of each other. However, there are several transportation options available for visitors who prefer not to walk, including:

  • RIPTA Bus: The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority offers several bus routes that pass through College Hill and connect to other areas of Providence.
  • Bike Rentals: Several bike rental companies operate in Providence, offering hourly or daily rentals for visitors who want to explore on two wheels.
  • Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Providence, providing a convenient option for getting around.

Where to Go Next from College Hill: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time to explore the surrounding areas, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth considering, including:

  • Newport, Rhode Island: A scenic coastal town, known for its historic mansions, beautiful beaches, and lively harbor.
  • Nantucket, Massachusetts: This idyllic island offers miles of sandy beaches, charming town centers, and a rich maritime history.
  • Boston, Massachusetts: A major East Coast city, Boston is known for its world-class museums, historic landmarks, and vibrant food and culture scene.

Conclusion

With its charming streets, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty, College Hill is a hidden gem of Rhode Island. From historic homes to hiking trails to delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in this beautiful neighborhood. So pack your bags and head to College Hill for a memorable New England adventure!