Our Recommendations – Historic Sites

Providence has a well known historical neighborhood known as College Hill. Throughout this neighborhood, there are plenty of different museums and historical houses for your to explore during your trip to Providence! Check out some of our favorite historic spots in Providence that are a must see while you’re staying with us!

henry lippitt house
Governor Henry Lippitt House, photo via LandmarkHunter.com.

Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum

Henry Lippitt, Rhode Island Governor from 1875-1877, designed and built this historic Victorian spectacle in 1865. Since then, generations of the Lippitt family occupied the house for almost 115 years. Today, it is open to the public as a historic representation of the Victorian Era. For more information about tour times and dates please visit their website.

The John Brown House

John Brown constructed this house in the late 1700’s. As a prominent family at the time and one of the early benefactors to Brown University, it is said that many famous politicians, such as George Washington, have visited the house on multiple occasions. In 1942, The Brown Family donated the house to the Rhode Island Historical Society for preservation. Today, you can take guided tours of the John Brown House. For more information about the house and the tours available please visit their website.

the old state house
The Old State House, via ProvidenceArchitecture.org.

The Old State House 

There are five former State Houses in Rhode Island that still survive. Most specifically, this historic structure on Benefit Street in Providence, gained its name “The Old State House” after the new State House on Smith Hill was built in 1901.

Benefit Street: A Mile of History 

Enjoy a walking tour of one of the most historic streets in Providence. Throughout the summer, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 11:00 a.m. enjoy historic Providence with a walking tour of the College Hill Neighborhood. The tour begins at the John Brown House and explores many other 18th and 19th century homes.

The Museum of Work and Culture, photo via the Rhode Island Historical Society.

Museum of Work and Culture

Come to the Museum of Work and Culture to enjoy the stories and celebrate the people that traveled to Rhode Island in search of a brighter future during the booming 19th and 20th centuries. Learn about their work in the mill town’s historic mills and more!

The Rhode Island Historical Society

Want to learn about Rhode Island’s history, but don’t know where to begin? Then you should definitely stop by the Rhode Island Historical Society. This building is home to 5,000 manuscripts, 100,000 books, and 400,000 photographs. It is the fourth oldest state historical society in the entire United States! You won’t want to miss this.

Slater Mill – Pawtucket, RI 

In 1793, a local firm brainstormed and built a mill on the basis of the idea that they would be able to manufacture items solely by waterpower. Hence, Slater Mill was created as the first successful cotton spinning factory in the United States. In 1921, a group of business men came together to purchase Slater Mill and restore it as a piece of Rhode Island’s history. Tickets to tour the museum must be purchased online here.

slater mill
Slater Mill Historic Site, photo via Wikipedia.

The Providence Athenaeum 

The Providence Athenaeum is Providence’s own historic library. This member-supported library is free and open to the public. It has been open to several famous writers in the past such as Edgar Allen Poe and HP Lovecraft.

The State House

Rhode Island’s State House offers free guided tours year-round. Come see the third largest unsupported dome structure in the world!

Downtown Pawtucket Historic Walking Tour

Take a self-guided tour of downtown historic Pawtucket, Rhode Island! The tour features over 40 different historic sites throughout the city. Some of the stops along the tour include, the Old Pawtucket Post Office, Slater Mill Historic Site, and Pawtucket City Hall.

Stephen Hopkins House, Providence, RI in 2014
Governor Stephen Hopkins House, photo via Wikipedia.

Governor Stephen Hopkins House

Home to the Rhode Island State Governor and the Declaration of Independence signer, this historical landmark is open to the public for guided tours from May to November as a part of the “Mile of History” Program. For more information please visit the Stephen Hopkin’s House Facebook Page.

 

 

Our Recommendations: Hiking and Biking Trails

Although Rhode Island is known for its beaches and coastline, there is plenty to do for all the nature lovers out there. Here are some of our recommendations for the best hiking and biking trails throughout the state.

Hiking Trails

Arcadia Trail – Exeter, RI

Arcadia Trail is located in Rhode Island’s largest protected area near the town of Exeter in South County. With almost 14,000 acres of land, the Arcadihiking 1a Management Area has plenty of trails and sights to see for avid hikers. The park includes four bodies of water, Breakheart Pond, Beach Pond, Browning Mill Pond, and the Wood River. You definitely want to check out some of the trails this park has to offer!

George Washington Management Area – Pascoag, RI

Located in Pascoag, Rhode Island, this area is perfect for hikers of all experience levels. The Walkabout Trail here allows hikers to customize the hike length and difficulty to their preferences.

Cliff Walk – Newport, RIcliff_walk_3

This 3.5 mile trail offers hikers the opportunity to experience historic Newport in all of its glory! The trail follows the ocean where hikers are able to see a glimpse of Newport’s beautiful views. On the opposite side, hikers are able to walk alongside the famous Newport Mansions.

Clay Head Trail – Block Island, RI 

Located on the small island only a short ferry ride away from Rhode Island, this trail is said to have some of the most breathtaking views of any trail in the state.

Sachuest Point National Wildlife – Middletown, RI 

This 242 acre refuge is home to over 200 different species of birds! Join them and hike through this seaside trail. From salt marshes, grassland, and beaches this trail has it all.

For a full list of hiking trails in Rhode Island, please visit this link.

Bike Paths

Rhode Island offers over 60 miles of off-road bike paths for you to enjoy! Here are a few of our recommendations for excellent bike paths that you should check out while you’re visiting Rhode Island.

Blackstone River Bikeway

The Blackstone River Bikeway follows the Blackstone river, connecting Woonsocket to Cumberland for 11.6 miles. This scenic bike bath passes by views of the river, waterfalls, marshes and wildlife. The bikeway ends in Cumberland . However, riders can find their way from Cumberland to Providence where they can pick up the East Bay Bike Path.
On-Road Markers Map »

bike 1East Bay Bike Path 

East Bay Bike Path travels from India Point Park in Providence to Independence Park in Bristol for a total of 14.5 miles. The path is mostly flat and easy terrain.

Washington Secondary Bike Path

This bike path stretches 19 miles, making it Rhode Island’s largest bike path. Washington Secondary Bike Path travels from Cranston to Coventry. However, it is often referred to as the names of the components it was given; Trestle Trail, Coventry Greenway, Warwick Bike Path, and Cranston Bike Path. There are plans to extend this bike path which will eventually be completed adding an extra 5 miles onto the existing path.

South County Bike Path 

Also known as the William C. O’Neill Bike Path, this path is the fourth largest bike path in the state with a length of 7.8 miles. It connects Kingston Station Narragansett.

For a full list of Rhode Island’s bike paths please visit Bike Rhode Island.

Our Recommendations: Rhode Island Beaches

From the long stretch of beaches in South County, to the more quaint island of Block Island, with over 400 miles of coastline, there are plenty of beaches for you to explore while you’re visiting The Ocean State!

You can find most of the beaches in Rhode Island in three main areas, Newport County, South County, and on Block Island.

rhode-island-beaches-map

Newport County 

Newport County is home to many beaches. From large to small, surfers to family friendly, you will always find the perfect beach here! All beaches are only a short drive (or walk) from historic Downtown Newport.

The three most famous beaches in Newport County can be recognized by locals in the order they appear on Aquidneck Island, 1st, 2nd, or 3rd. However, we will refer to them using different names here.

Easton’s Beach (1st Beach) – Middletown, RI 

Easton’s Beach is located only a mile from Downtown Newport and is a short walk from the famous Cliff Walk. If you’re looking for a family friendly environment, Easton’s beach is the place for you. They come fully equipped with everything a young family would need, playground, snack shack and even a carousel! Need a cool beverage? The Del’s Lemonade Truck is at Easton’s Beach every day!

Entry Fee: Free
Parking Fee: $10 weekday/$20 weekend

Newport's Second Beach
Newport’s Second Beach

Sachuest Beach (2nd Beach) – Middletown, RI

Most tourists aren’t aware of Sachuest or 2nd Beach because it is hidden behind Purgatory Chasm, but we’re going to give you the inside scoop! Grab your surf boards and paddle boards and head down the road from Easton’s Beach to 2nd Beach! Sachuest Beach has almost 1.5 miles of shoreline and includes its very own “Surfer’s End” which is designated for all you water sports lovers out there! Don’t have any equipment? Join in on the fun and rent your board of choice from the Island Surf and Sport Truck that is stationed at Sachuest Beach every day. Never surfed before? Don’t worry! You can even take lessons with on of the Island Surf and Sports employees.

Entry Fee: Free
Parking Fee: $10 weekday/$20 weekend

3rd Beach – Middletown, RI

Don’t worry if you’re not into the big waves or surfing, follow us just down the road from Sachuest Beach and you’ll come upon 3rd Beach! Here, there are much calmer waves and smaller crowds, the perfect place to take small children for the day! Walk along the shore and you’ll enter Peabody’s Beach, a small locally owned beach. Although, Third Beach does not come equipped with a concession stand, Peabody’s beach does! Stop by here for hot dogs, burgers, and other summer treats. Continue down the beach and you’ll find what the locals call “Crab Town”, an area of rocks where you can find all sorts of sea creatures! The perfect place for children to explore.

Entry Fee: Free 
Parking Fee: $10 weekday/$20 weekend

Gooseberry Beach – Newport, RI 

Gooseberry Beach
Gooseberry Beach

If you’re staying in Newport for the weekend and are in search of a beach in walking distance to downtown, Gooseberry is the place for you! This small beach with calm waters is tucked away on the shore of beautiful Newport, RI, only a short distance from Ocean Drive. Gooseberry has a Snack Shack and umbrella rentals for your convenience.

Entry Fee: Free
Parking Fee: $20 daily

Reject’s Beach – Newport, RI

You don’t have to be a reject to come to Reject’s Beach in Newport. In fact, Reject’s is where many Newporter’s go if they’re looking for some sunshine and an ocean breeze. Only a short walk from Thames Street and with no parking, this is the perfect spot to go for an afternoon or only a couple hours. Reject’s is separated from the private Bailey’s Beach by a rope that extends into the water.

Entry Fee: Free
Parking Fee: No parking, walking only. 

South County

South County has the most beaches out of any area in the entire state of Rhode Island! Many of the beaches in South County are larger and get a big crowd especially on the weekends, however there are always some quaint spots to find in Little Rhody. Let’s take a look at some of the breathtaking beaches South County has to offer.

Narragansett Town Beach – Narragansett, RI 

Narragansett Town Beach
Narragansett Town Beach

Narragansett Town Beach is open to locals and tourists a like. With surfing lessons, a play ground and a concession stand, this beach has every amenity a beach go-er would hope for!

Entry Fee: $6
Parking Fee: $10 weekday/ $15 weekend

Salty Brine State Beach – Narragansett, RI

Although, one of the smaller beaches in South County, Salty Brine State Beach is still popular amongst all. Located conveniently near many restaurants and the Block Island Ferry. Come to this beach and watch all of the boats sail away throughout your day. Afterwards, enjoy a quick bite to eat at George’s of Galilee, Champlin’s Seafood or any of the other restaurants nearby.

Entry Fee: Free
Parking Fee: Non-residents: $20 weekday/$28 weekend & holiday
RI residents: $10 weekday/$14 weekend & holiday

Scarborough State Beach – Narragansett, RI

Another larger beach in Narrgansett, Scarborough beach offers large waves and a grass area where, oftentimes, families picnic while enjoying the summer sun.

Entry Fee: Free
Parking Fee: Non-residents: $20 weekday/$28 weekend & holiday
RI residents: $10 weekday/$14 weekend & holiday

East Matunuck State Beach – South Kingston, RI

Off the beat and path you’ll find East Matunuck State Beach in South Kingston, RI. This half mile long beach is a beautiful area that tends to not get too crowded! After your long day at the beach don’t forget to stop by the Matunuck Oyster Bar on your way home! It is one of the most popular Oyster Bar’s in Rhode Island.

Entry Fee: Free
Parking Fee: Non-residents: $20 weekday/$28 weekend & holiday
RI residents: $10 weekday/$14 weekend & holiday

Watch Hill Beach – Westerly, RI

You may have heard about Watch Hill since the famous pop-star, Taylor Swift, owns a house here. However, that is not the only attraction this area has to offer. Watch Hill Beach is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a quiet get away. There are shops, an antique carousel and plenty of water sport rentals to keep you occupied!

Entry Fee: $8 for adults/$4 for children ages 13-17/$2 for children ages 2-12
Parking Fee: No beach parking lot, must park nearby. 

Mohegan Bluffs
Mohegan Bluff

Block Island 

Take a trip on the Block Island Ferry for a day long get-a-way to this beach filled island. Block Island inhabits 6 beaches and plenty of other attractions that are sure to catch your eye. Whether you bring your bike or rent a bike or a moped there, you can travel the length of the island to see all sorts of landmarks such as Mohegan Bluffs and the South East Lighthouse. Having so much fun that you don’t want to leave? Stay at one of the Island’s cozy B&B’s or hotels.

 

Follow this link to Rhode Island’s Tourism website for a full list of all the beaches our beautiful state has to offer!

Did we miss your favorite beach? Let us know in the comments.

 

 

Upcoming Events July 22nd – 26th

Wednesday, July 22nd

Providence Restaurant Week: Providence Restaurant Week continues this week. Check out what restaurants are participating and their offers here

FringePVD: 5:00 p.m. Join us and experience the Providence Fringe Festival where there will be over 100 performing artists all week long. Check it out!

Thursday, July 23rd 

Providence Restaurant Week

KidInfo Storytime + Art in the Park: 10:30 a.m., join us for STORYTIME in Burnside Park while local authors, illustrators, storytellers and performers bring stories and books to life!

Armory Farmers Market: 3:30 p.m.

2015 Burnside Music Series 4:30 p.m. at Burnside Park

FringePVD: 5:00 p.m.

Best of Rhode Island Party: 6:00 p.m. Don’t miss the party of the year as Rhode Island Monthly, for the 22nd year, celebrates over 300 statewide “Best Of” winners in food, wellness, shopping, and fun selected by our readers and editors as their August issue premiers!

Movies on the Block: 7:30 p.m. The Shining

Friday, July 24th

Providence Restaurant Week

Family Fun Friday Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys: 11:00 a.m. Bring a picnic, a blanket to sit on, and enjoy the show! Each week, dance and sing along with the kids to a variety of educational and interactive musical performances.

FringePVD: 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, July 25th

Broad Street Farmers Market: 8:00 a.m.

Hope Street Farmers Market: 9:00 a.m.

Providence Restaurant Week

FringePVD

Providence Roller Derby: 6:00 p.m. Season Opener – The Old Monkey Honey’s vs. The Sakonnet River Rats

Woander Exhibit Opening Reception 6:00 p.m. The Grin Art Gallery is pleased to present Woander Exhibit, a cross-media exhibition featuring four artists dealing with memory, exploration, purpose and self, Curated by Corey Oberlander and Lindsey Stapleton.

Manton Avenue Project Plays: 6:30 p.m.  The Manton Avenue Project (MAP) is proud to announce that plays from their most recent festival, “This Land is Our Land: the public park plays,” will be presented in a summer series as part of the 50th anniversary of the Roger Williams National Memorial.

Sunday, July 26th

The Providence Flee: 10:00 a.m.

Alex and Ani Sunday Jazz Series: 1:00 p.m. Attention jazz fans! Get ready to make your Sundays a little more musical with The Alex and Ani Sunday Jazz Series at Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard.

Outdoor Summer Series of Concerts at the Botanical Center 6:00 to 8:00 pm French Roast will perform

 

 

 

 

Upcoming Events July 9th-12th

There’s a lot to do this upcoming weekend in Providence. Between Farmer’s Markets and Concert Series, there is always something going on! Check it out.

 

Thursday, July 9th

KidInfo StoryTime + Art in the Park  At 10:30, join us for STORYTIME in Burnside Park while local authors, illustrators, storytellers and performers bring stories and books to life! Stay for ART IN THE PARK where resident creative genius Ricky Katowicz leads us into The Great Green Room!

Visiting Artist Program Workshop 3:00, participants will create their own textiles during this workshop.

Armory Farmers Market 3:30 p.m.

2015 Burnside Music Series 4:30 p.m.

Gallery Night at the Whitehorne House 5:00 p.m. Enjoy Newport’s only Federal period mansion open to the public.

Concerts Under the Elms 6:30 p.m. at the John Brown House Museum Lawn

Doo-Wop Concert “Reminisce” 7:00 p.m. at the Towers in Narragansett

Glenn Miller Orchestra 8:00 p.m. The most popular and sought after big band in the world today, will perform for both listening and dancing at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston Thursday evening, July 9. Presented by the Rotary Club of Providence

Friday, July 10th 

Paddle into the Past: Lower River, Native American History and Archaeology 5:30 p.m. Join us for a Friday evening paddle through Providence. Joseph N. (Jay) Waller, Jr. is a senior archaeologist with The Public Archaeology Laboratory, Inc., will share how the river changed from European settlement to industrialization to present.

Saturday, July 11th 

Broad Street Farmers Market 8:00 a.m.

Hope Street Farmers Market 9:00 a.m.

Manton Avenue Project Plays 6:30 p.m.  The Manton Avenue Project (MAP) is proud to announce that plays from their most recent festival, “This Land is Our Land: the public park plays,” will be presented in a summer series as part of the 50th anniversary of the Roger Williams National Memorial.

Shakespeare in the Spirit 7:30 p.m. This year’s concert,Shakespeare in the Spirit, blends gospel music to scenes from Shakespeare and both soar to new and unique heights.

An Evening with Amanda Palmer and PWR BTTM 9:00 p.m.

Sunday, July 12th 

The Providence Flee 10:00 a.m.

Providence Restaurant Week Experience the destination that Travel + Leisure readers voted the #1 City in the U.S. and Saveur magazine named “one of the notable
small dining destinations in the world.”

Alex and Ani Sunday Jazz Series 1:00 p.m.

Shakespeare in the Spirit 3:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

 

 

Upcoming Events July 2-6

 

From farmers markets to outdoor music performances, there is plenty to do with your family in Rhode Island this holiday weekend. The Bluegrass on the Pawtuxet music festival is ongoing from Saturday to Monday. On Saturday, check out the annual parade in Bristol, and Sunday is the Cape Verdean Independence Festival.

Thursday, July 2

Armory Farmers Market 3:30 p.m.

Concerts Under the Elms  6:30- 8:00 p.m. Concerts under the Elms, an annual outdoor summer concert series held Thursdays under the canopy of elms at the John Brown House Museum.

McCoy Stadium Fireworks 6:15 p.m. Join the Pawtucket Red Sox as we celebrate our countries independence! Fireworks begin immediately following the game. Game starts at 6:15.

Friday, July 3

Summer Soiree Gallery Event 6:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m. An evening of art, live music and delectable summer savories at the Jamestown Art Center. $150 for non-members, $125 for members.

Saturday, July 4

Hope St. Farmers Market 9:00 a.m.

Bristol’s Annual 4th of July Parade  10:30 a.m. The Bristol 4th of July parade is one of the longest running parades in the country! The parade is made up of color guards, fire trucks, bands, and floats. The parade is led by the “Grand Marshall” being carried by the historic horse drawn coach.

Bluegrass on the Pawtuxet 5:00 p.m. A brand new bluegrass festival in New England! Angry Lobster Events, In association with the Rhode Island Bluegrass Alliance, presents: 1st annual Bluegrass on the Pawtuxet, Pawtuxet Village, Cranston/Warwick RI 4-6 July 2014 “Celebrating America’s music on America’s birthday”

Independence Day Beach Ball  Join Ocean House for a fabulous oceanside celebration of all things American. With live music and delicious summertime classics like fresh seafood, grilled meats and ice-cold refreshments, the annual Independence Day Beach Ball is not to be missed. After dinner, enjoy a colorful fireworks display over the Atlantic.

Sunday, July 5

The Providence Flea 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Featuring all the cool vendors from last summer’s Flea plus a slate of new vendors for even more one-of-a-kind Flea finds! Shop Local this season at the Flea.

Rhode Island Cape Verdean Independence Festival 12:00 p.m. The RI Cape Verdean Heritage group has the pleasure to invite you to join them in celebrating their 40th Anniversary. July 5th is the date of Cape Verdean Independence, and this year’s festival is dedicated to one of the greatest Capeverdean Icons, Norberto Tavares. Join for an afternoon of music, dances, food and tons of surprises.

Alex and Ani Sunday Jazz Series 1:00 p.m. Get ready to make your Sundays a little more musical with The Alex and Ani Sunday Jazz Series at Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard.We invite you to bring lawn chairs and blankets and visit Carolyn’s Café for a bite to eat and the perfect glass of wine. Please note that parking is $10 per car and allows you to receive $10 off a bottle of estate wine.

Bluegrass on the Pawtuxet 5:00 p.m. A brand new bluegrass festival in New England! Angry Lobster Events, In association with the Rhode Island Bluegrass Alliance, presents: 1st annual Bluegrass on the Pawtuxet, Pawtuxet Village, Cranston/Warwick RI 4-6 July 2014 “Celebrating America’s music on America’s birthday”

Monday, July 6

Neutaconkanut Hill Farmers Market  3:00 p.m.

Bluegrass on the Pawtuxet 5:00 p.m. A brand new bluegrass festival in New England! Angry Lobster Events, In association with the Rhode Island Bluegrass Alliance, presents: 1st annual Bluegrass on the Pawtuxet, Pawtuxet Village, Cranston/Warwick RI 4-6 July 2014 “Celebrating America’s music on America’s birthday”

 

Upcoming Events June 17th -21st

We have a lot going on in Providence this week! From farmers markets, to concerts, to plays, you won’t have to look far for something to do! Check out some of the upcoming events happening in our great city this weekend.

Wednesday, June 17th

Hi Neighbor! Block Party 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Enjoy food on site or bring your own picnic basket, lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the warm weather (finally!) on the green, green grassy lawn. Event is free!

Trinity Repertory Company Presents: Melancholy A Play 7:30 p.m. Melancholy Play: a new chamber musical by Sarah Ruhl Music by Todd Almond Directed by Liesl Tommy Meet Tilly. She’s a bank teller, and she’s depressed. But she’s so beautifully, alluringly depressed that everyone she meets falls in love with her, including her therapist and her tailor. But what happens when she stops being so sad?

Thursday, June 18th 

Summer Writing Conference at URI Enjoy three days of lively interaction and instruction with local, national, and internationally acclaimed writers and teachers on URI’s picturesque Kingston Campus. Writers of all levels and experience will find master classes, craft sessions, workshops in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and screenwriting; networking opportunities, and one-on-one consultations.

Armory Farmers Market 3:30 p.m.

Gallery Night Providence 5:30p.m. Gallery Night Providence offers free, carefully curated guided tours of What’s New in the Providence Art scene every third Thursday from March to November.

URI Feinstein Providence Campus Presents: Baggage A Play 7:30 p.m. URI Feinstein Providence Campus Presents the premiere of the play Baggage June 18-19 @ 7:30pm Written and Performed by Frank V. Toti Jr. The play explores the journey through life through the eye of the playwright. Baggage explore those ‘things’ we carry with us, ‘things’ we collect along the way, and the decision to reevaluate and repack before moving on.

Trinity Repertory Company Presents: Melancholy A Play 7:30 p.m.

Friday, June 19th 

Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park 4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Fridays in June head to the Carousel Village in Roger Williams Park to enjoy a smorgasbord of great food from some of the area’s best food trucks. Find out which trucks will be at the Carousel Village each week by visiting the Food Trucks In website.

Professor Chef Cooking Class: New England Clam Boil 6:30 p.m. Learn how to shop for fresh seafood, select it and whip up an easy one-pot meal. Then we’ll show you how to combine it all to create a clam boil that includes a whole Maine lobster, crab, shrimp, clams, mussels, potatoes and corn on the cob. We’ll supply all of the tips and some of the tools you’ll need. We will send you home prepared to share your new skills with friends and family.

Trinity Repertory Company Presents: Melancholy A Play 7:30 p.m.

URI Feinstein Providence Campus Presents: Baggage A Play 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, June 20th 

RI PrideFest & Illuminated Night Parade  Noon – 8:30 p.m. Held on South Water Street in Providence featuring live performances, Beer Wine & Spirits Garden, Kids Zone, Vendor Marketplace, and more. The Illuminated Night Parade kicks off at 8:45pm in the streets of downtown Providence.

Hope Street Farmers Market 9:00 a.m.

The Bluffs Exhibit Opening Reception Opening Reception 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Bluffs by Joseph Leroux constructed imagery comparable to the process of a musical composition. Notes, distortion and rhythm translate into texture, color, form and design. The Bluffs will be on display at The Grin, a contemporary art gallery located at The Plant in the historic Olneyville District of Providence, Rhode Island.

Manton Avenue Project Plays 6:30 p.m. (MAP) is proud to announce that plays from their most recent festival, “This Land is Our Land: the public park plays,” will be presented in a summer series as part of the 50th anniversary of the Roger Williams National Memorial.

Downtown Sundown Concert Series 7:30 p.m. Bring a lawn chair, a blanket, and maybe even a picnic dinner and sit on the lawn at the beautiful Roger Williams National Memorial and enjoy a FREE concert series by some of the best songwriters RI has to offer. There is limited parking available at the park. Lots of street parking and pay lots available. All ages are welcome.

Trinity Repertory Company Presents: Melancholy A Play 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, June 21st 

The Providence Flee 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Featuring all the cool vendors from last summer’s Flea plus a slate of new vendors for even more one-of-a-kind Flea finds! Shop Local this season at the Flea.

Alex and Ani Sunday Jazz Series 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Attention jazz fans! Get ready to make your Sundays a little more musical with The Alex and Ani Sunday Jazz Series at Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard. We invite you to bring lawn chairs and blankets and visit Carolyn’s Café for a bite to eat and the perfect glass of wine.

Jaws 40th Anniversary 2:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m. Dare to relive the terrifying masterpiece? Select Showcase Cinemas, Cinema de Lux, and Multiplex Cinemas theatres, in partnership with Fathom Events, Turner Classic Movies and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment invite you to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the one of the most popular American thrillers of all time when Jaws (1975) returns to select cinemas nationwide for a special two-day only event!

Trinity Repertory Company Presents: Melancholy A Play 7:30 p.m.

 

Upcoming Events June 10-14

This week celebrates the anniversary of the attack and burning of the HMS Gaspee in Providence. Throughout the weekend, there will be several events to commemorate this day including, guided tours and a Full WaterFire lighting. Also, this weekend is the Providence International Arts Festival, an experience like no other! Come join us for performances and art installations throughout the city Thursday-Sunday.

 

 

Wednesday, June 10

Thursday, June 11

Providence International Arts Festival Discover the city center as it comes to life with firsts in arts, culture, music, food, and spectacle. Experience an extravaganza of performances and art installations throughout the city and join the parade converging on Kennedy Plaza during this signature showcase event. 8:30 a.m.- midnight

Friday, June 12

Providence International Arts Festival 8:30 a.m.- 10:30-p.m

Food Truck Friday at Roger Williams Park 4:30- 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, June 13

Providence International Arts Festival 9:00 a.m.- 10:30 p.m

Hope Street Farmers Market  9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

2015 Festival of Historic Houses 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Since the first Festival, more than 50 years ago, The Providence Preservation Society has showcased contemporary living in historic homes.

Imagination Playground Providence Children’s Museum presents Imagination Playground where kids invent their own ways to play as they stack and build with huge blue foam blocks of all shapes and sizes. Event is from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Rock ‘N’ Roll Yard Sale The Providence Public Library downtown will host a Rock ‘N’ Roll Yard Sale from 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Enjoy live music and dj while browsing the vendors’ tables.

Gaspee Day at the John Brown House John Brown, the Providence merchant who promoted the attack on the Gaspee, later built and resided in a magnificent 18th century mansion. The John Brown House Museum at 52 Power Street will be open from 10 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. with guided tours at 10:30 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Self-guided audio tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We will emphasize John Brown’s role as organizer of the Gaspee event and will make sure that everyone sees the painting in the museum that records the burning of the Gaspee. 10:00 a.m- 7:30 p.m.

Gaspee Day at the Governor Stephen Hopkins House Make time to see The Governor Stephen Hopkins House located at 15 Hopkins Street (off Benefit Street) and open for tours between 1:00 and 9:30 p.m. Admission is free, donations are always welcome. 1:00 p.m.- 9:30 p.m.

Waterfire: Full Lighting  Sunset: 8:21 p.m. Lighting time: 8:46 p.m. The fires will remain lit until 12:30 a.m.

Hao Ni “Ghost Hit Wall” Reception Yellow Peril Gallery is pleased to present “Ghost Hit Wall” by Hao Ni, featuring an eclectic series of video, mixed media installations, sculptures, and drawings from June 11 – July 19, 2015. The opening reception is Saturday, June 13 from 6PM – 9PM.

One Providence Experience The Columbus Cooperative and The Imaginary Company proudly present One Providence Experience a free and open to the public event on June 13th. A part of the Providence International Arts Festival.

Sunday, June 14

Imagination Playground Providence Children’s Museum presents Imagination Playground where kids invent their own ways to play as they stack and build with huge blue foam blocks of all shapes and sizes. Event is from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Providence International Arts Festival 12:00 p.m- 9:00 p.m.

The Providence Flee  Shop Local this season at the Flea. Every Sunday, rain or shine, from 10 am – 4 pm, June 7 through September 13 on the Providence River Greenway, South Water Street (across from 345 South Water Street) in Providence, RI. (No admission fee) 

 

Be Inspired by Beautiful Rhode Island

What’s more inspiring than the blazing colors of Fall in New England? For a state that is only 37 miles wide and 48 miles long, it is notable that its shoreline on Narragansett Bay in the Atlantic Ocean runs for nearly 400 miles, lending to Rhode Island’s nickname as the “Ocean State.”  Rhode Island has 35 islands within its territorial waters, including Aquidneck Island and Block Island. While you’re visiting Providence, take time to explore the state and some of its beautiful beaches and state parks while the weather is pleasant and the environment is rich with the colors of Autumn.

State Beaches

Charlestown Breachway located in Charlestown, RI

East  Beach located in Charlestown, RI

East Matunuck State Beach located in South Kingstown, RI

Misquamicut State Beach located in Westerly, RI

Roger W. Wheeler State Beach located in Narragansett, RI

Salty Brine State Beach located in Narragansett, RI

Scarbourough State Beaches (North and South) located in Narragansett, RI

 

State Campgrounds

Burlingame State Park and Campground located in Charlestown, RI

Charlestown Breachway located in Charlestown, RI

East Beach located in Charlestown, RI

Fishermen’s Memorial State Park and Campground located in Narragansett, RI

George Washington State Campground and Management Area located in Glocester, RI

 

State Parks

Beavertail State Park located in Jamestown, RI

Brenton Point located on Ocean Drive in Newport, RI

Pulaski State Park and Recreational Area located in Chepachet, RI

Colt State Park located in Bristol, RI

Fort Adams located in Newport, RI

Fort Wetherhill State Park located in Jamestown, RI

Goddard Memorial State Park located in East Greenwich, RI

Haines Memorial State Park located in East Providence, RI

Lincoln Woods State Park located in Lincoln, RI

Snake Den State Park located in Johnston, RI

World War II Veterans Memorial located in Woonsocket, RI

 

Additional Parks to Visit

Arcadia Management Area 14,000 acres;located in Richmond, Exeter, Hopkinton, and West Greenwich

 

Bike Paths

Blackstone River Bikeway
Length: 10.3 miles
Terrain: Mostly flat with a few steep inclines
What You’ll See: Mostly woodlands following alongside the historic Blackstone River and its canal
Nearby Attractions: Slater Mill, the Museum of Work and Culture, Wilbur Kelly House Museum and Blackstone Valley Visitors Center
Other Activities: Fishing and kayaking/canoeing
Towns: Cumberland, Lincoln, Pawtucket, Central Falls and Woonsocket

Coventry Greenway
Length: 4.3-miles
Terrain: Mostly flat
What You’ll See: Woodlands, streams, a lake and reservoir
Other Activities: Fishing and kayaking/canoeing
Town: Coventry

East Bay Bike Path
Length: 14.5 miles
Terrain: From the north, the first several miles offer a demanding terrain of steep hills broken up by plateus; the remainder is mostly flat and travels over several causeways along the Bay’s shoreline
What You’ll See: Stunning views of Narragansett Bay, New England’s largest estuary, and Providence, the capital city.  Coves and marshes are also common.
Nearby Attractions: Colt State Park, the historic Looff Carousel, Bristol and Barrington Town Beaches, the Audubon Environmental Education Center, the Herreshoff Marine Museum and America’s Cup Hall of Fame
Other Activities: Kayaking/canoeing, antiquing, fine dining (notably seafood and others) and boating
Towns: Barrington, Bristol, East Providence and Warren

South County William C. O’Neill Bike Path 
Length: ~9 miles
Terrain: Almost completely flat
What You’ll See: Farmland, some woods and streams
Nearby Attractions: The Great Swamp, the historic villages of Kingston, Wakefield and Peacedale, Narragansett Town Beach and the historic Narragansett Towers
Other activities: Shopping, bird-watching, fishing, kayaking/canoeing and surfing

Woonasquatucket River Greenway
Length: ~10 miles
Terrain: Relatively flat with some hills
What You’ll See: The Woonasquatucket River, some woodlands
Nearby Attractions: Buttonhole Golf Course, WaterPlace Park, Providence Place mall and the State House
Other Activities: Kayaking/canoeing, recreation at Riverside Mills Park, Merino Park and Donigian Park, shopping and fine dining
Access: There are eight ideal access points along the path, with several of them offering plenty of parking and even canoe launches
Towns: Providence and Johnston