Providence is bursting with museums. Food lovers will be impressed with The Culinary Archives & Museum at Johnson & Wales University. This museum has more than 500,000 items spanning five centuries of the culinary and hospitality industries. Make a special trip to Rhode Island School of Design Museum, which has the 20th largest collection in the country. Providence is also the home for many performing arts centers such as the Veterans Memorial Auditorium and the Providence Performing Arts Center. If you’re into galleries, take a stroll on Benefit Street, also known as “A Mile of History.”
Looking for something to do with the kids? The Roger William’s Park Zoo is open year round and is home to hundreds of species in naturalistic settings. The Providence Children’s Museum has an exciting water ways display, bone and body exhibits and plenty to do for even the littlest travelers. Take the family ice skating at the Bank of America City Center, open for business on Nov. 17, where there are skate rentals for everyone.
When you’re ready to eat, check out “The Hill,” a historic area with many award-winning restaurants. Federal Hill is also known as “Little Italy,” where you can grab a perfect cup of coffee at Cafe Dolce Vita, a slice of pizza at Sicilia Pizza or indulge in a gourmet meal at Camille’s (401-751-4812 for reservations). Shop at Venda Raviolio, where the ravioli is handmade on site or Scialo Brothers Bakery, and take a piece of this old neighborhood home with you.
There’s also plenty of shopping to be had at Providence Place. With 170 stores, many restaurants, an IMAX theater and stunning architecture, you’ll be sure to find something for everyone. Wickenden and Westminister streets both feature galleries with fine art, clothing and jewelry for sale.
If you’re looking for an upscale place to stay while you visit, The Hotel Providence (401-861-8000) is located in the heart of downtown. It has been thoughtfully restored and has an award-winning restaurant, L’Epicureo. If a bed and breakfast rich with character suites your fancy, Providence has many. Check out the Christopher Dodge House (401-351-6111), with it’s meticulous historical charm and convenient location.
With the Providence River running into the Narragansett Bay, you’ll have a beautiful backdrop in Providence, regardless of what you decide to do.