Ignite Providence

Our Recommendations – Newport Attractions

The City of Newport is one of Rhode Island’s largest visitors destinations. From the note worthy mansions, to the International Tennis Hall of Fame, there is never a dull moment in this sea-side city. Check out our list of fun activities for you to do while you’re in Newport.

Newport Mansions

The Newport Mansions are one of the most famous attractions you can find while you’re in Newport. Whether you want to take a guided tour, or participate in one of the many events held at these venues throughout the year, you definitely don’t want to miss out on these large spectacles while you are in town

The Breakers

The Breakers is one of the largest and most famous Newport Mansions. Known for being the summer home to the prominent Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, inventor of the New York Central Railroad, the Breakers is now open for tours throughout the week from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Marble House

The Marble House was built as a summer home for the grandson of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt. Built in 1892, this home transitioned Newport from its small summer town to the extravagant reputation that it now possesses. The Marble House is open at 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekly.

The Elms

The Elms was the summer home for Mr. and Mrs. Edward Berwind. The construction of this mansion was completed in 1901. The Elms are open for tours beginning at 9:00 a.m. with the last tour leaving at 5:00 p.m.

Rosecliff

Rosecliff was established by heiress Theresa Oelrich of Nevada. The home was built to resemble the garden retreat in Versaille. Rosecliff is open beginning at 9:00 a.m. for tours with the last tour leaving at 4:00 p.m.

For a full list of the Newport Mansions, their tour schedules and upcoming events please visit their website.

Historic Sites

Interested in seeing more of the history Newport has to offer? There are plenty of historic monuments for you to explore while your visiting this port-side city.

International Tennis Hall of Fame and Museum

This historic landmark didn’t begin as a tennis hall or museum, in fact it was a lavish club entitled the Newport Casino. Built in 1880, this structure offered all sorts of activities. From shopping to horse shows to tea parties, the Newport Casino had it all back in the day! In 1986, the owners of the Newport Casino decided that tennis needed an establishment to honor the sport and decided to create what is now the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Today, the museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Fort Adams

Built in 1799 and named after President John Adams, this historic landmark overlooks Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay. In 1965, the Fort was taken on by the State of Rhode Island to become a part of Fort Adams State Park. Today, the park is known for many summer activities including, swimming, picnicking, and boating. Most famously, the park is known for its two annual events, the Newport Jazz Festival and the Newport Folk Festival, which bring thousands of people to the city every year.

Art Galleries

The Newport Art Museum

The Newport Art Museum is home to many different historic and contemporary exhibits. A unique aspect of this museum is that it focuses on artists from Rhode Island and art produced in Rhode Island. Come to see different pieces of art regularly at the Newport Art Museum. The Newport Art Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. & Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The National Museum of American Illustration

The National Museum of American Illustration was opened in 1998 and houses illustrations from many different time periods and styles. The Museum is open Thursday-Sunday from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. with guided tours at 3:00 p.m. on Friday’s.

Jane Pickens Theater and Event Center

As one of the oldest theaters still standing in the United States, the Jane Pickens Theater and Event Center presents a variety of movies from historically based, documentaries, and classics. The historic atmosphere of the theater creates an experience you will never forget! You will always be able to find the right movie for you and your family at the Jane Pickens Theater.

Tours

Whether by boat, bus, or on foot, there are plenty of ways you can tour the city of Newport and all the scenic views it has to offer.

The Cliff Walk

The Cliff Walk is a 3.5 mile scenic walk that travels alongside the eastern boarder of Newport. Beginning on Memorial Boulevard and ending on Narragansett Avenue, the famous trail illustrates the beautiful seaside views of Newport while also experiencing the history of this city as you walk by the Newport Mansions. This is one of the most popular tours and tourist attractions the city has to offer.

Viking Guided Tours

The best way to see all the sites in Newport is to hop on one of the famous Viking Trolley Buses! Enjoy everything Newport has to offer with a guided tour that will give you ample information about the city’s history. For more information about specific tours and rates please visit their website.

Adirondack II Tour

Tour Newport Harbor on the Adirondack II, an elegant 80 foot sail boat! Experience Newport from the water! Buy tickets online or when you’re in person. The Adirondack II departs from Bowen’s Wharf several times throughout the day.

This selection is only a glimpse of the fun attractions there are in Newport. Between all of the wharfs, there are plenty of shops and restaurants for you to enjoy. In search of a relaxing beach day? Newport has got you covered. Check out our beach recommendations for the best spots in Newport County. Looking for a family friendly activity? Check out the local baseball team, The Newport Gulls, in one of their home games at Cardienes Field! There is one thing that is certain, you definitely won’t run out of things to do on your trip to Newport.

Upcoming Events July 29th – August 2nd

We have a lot going on this week in Providence! Especially, our WaterFire to support RI defeats Hep C. The Steeple Street Music Stage is back at this WaterFire. Come enjoy live performances by Rose Weaver and Greg Abate. Lighting begins at 8:25 p.m.

Wednesday, July 29th

Windmill Wednesday’s at Prescott Farms: 3:30 p.m. Explore how this amazing machine works and learn about the importance of grist milling on Aquidneck Island.

Blithwood’s Summer Concert Series-Music at Sunset: 5:00 p.m. Spread out a blanket and unpack the picnic basket, soak up the warmth of the summer sun, and enjoy the sunset over Narragansett Bay.

PechaKucha Night Providence: 7:30 p.m. It’s time once again for one of your favorite PechaKucha Nights of the year: We return to the beautiful outdoor space and community garden at The Avenue Concept!

Thursday, July 30th

KidInfo Story Time + 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!

Children’s Workshop-Rocks Rock!: 1:00 p.m. Ballard Park is holding a nature workshop for children! The one and a half hour program will feature hands-on activities focusing on the natural elements found in Ballard Park.

Armory Farmers Market: 3:30 p.m.

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

Concert Under the Elms Concert Series: 6:30 p.m. Join us for the Concerts under the Elms, an annual outdoor summer concert series held Thursdays under the canopy of elms at the John Brown House Museum.

Movies on the Block: 7:30 p.m. Blade Runner

Friday, July 31st

Family Fun Friday-Rolie Polie Guacamole: 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.

Saturday, August 1st

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

Henseler Foundation Kayak and Paddle Board Race: 8:30 a.m. Enjoy the historic beauty of Wickford, Rhode Island from the water at this great flatwater race.

Hope Street Farmers Market 9:00 a.m.

WaterFire Providence Full Lighting: 8:00 p.m. For the 2nd year in a row WaterFire is partnering up with RI Defeats Hep C for our “C is for Cure” event.

Sunday, August 2nd

The Providence Flea: 10:00 a.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!

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.

The Empire Review Variety Show: 8:00 p.m. Witness a raft of talented local performers the likes of which you have never seen at Providence’s premiere variety show!

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!

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

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.

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.

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: Kid-Friendly Activities

Rhode Island offers so many great activities for the whole family to enjoy. Here are our recommendations for kid-friendly activities!

Providence Children’s Museum

PCMIWay — Photo Courtesy of Providence Children’s Museum

Providence Children’s Museum, Rhode Island’s only hands-on museum especially for children and their families, inspires learning through active play and exploration. The Museum presents interactive exhibits and hands-on programs that explore the arts, culture, history and science and embrace a wide range of learning styles and forms of expression. Open Tuesday-Sunday 9:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.

Roger Williams Park Zoo

Dubbed “the finest zoo in New England” by the Boston Globe. Walk through this beautifully landscaped 40-acre zoo – one of the nation’s oldest – and encounter an African elephant, a Masai giraffe, zebras, a red panda, snow leopard, moon bears, a gibbon, giant ant eater and more in naturalistic settings. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April – September and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. October – March with last admission one half hour before closing. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and Christmas Eve. Check our website for any additional early closings. The nationally acclaimed Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular runs evenings during October; check their website for dates and details.

Flutterby: Butterflies in Bloom

While visiting the Roger Williams Park Zoo, don’t miss this butterfly exhibit. This summer-long special exhibit that thrilled tens of thousands is back at Roger Williams Park Zoo for its second and final year! Flutterby: Butterflies in Bloom provides an immersive experience inside the Zoo’s beautifully landscaped greenhouse filled with hundreds of free-flying native North American butterflies. A delight for butterfly and gardening enthusiasts alike, this enchanting experience invites visitors to discover a deeper appreciation for some of our earth’s most imperiled species – butterflies, in bloom. The exhibit will be open May 23 – September 7, and requires a nominal admission fee in addition to Zoo admission.

Pawtucket Red Sox

The Pawtucket Red Sox, in the neighboring city of Pawtucket, is a great place to see baseball the way it should be played – by eager young talents in a small gem of a ballpark. Tickets to games in McCoy Stadium are affordable and are sure to offer a great experience at the ballpark.

Providence Bruins

The Providence Bruins are the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate for the Boston Bruins. A team filled with the hockey stars of tomorrow, the P-Bruins’ home ice is at Providence’s Dunkin’ Donuts Center, affectionately known as “The Dunk” to locals.

WaterFire Providence

This award-winning sculpture by Barnaby Evans installed on the three rivers of downtown Providence, has been praised by Rhode Island residents and

international visitors alike as a powerful work of art and a moving symbol of Providence’s renaissance. WaterFire’s over eighty sparkling bonfires, the fragrant scent of aromatic wood smoke, the flickering firelight on the arched bridges, the silhouettes of the firetenders passing by the flames, the torch-lit vessels traveling down the river, and the enchanting music from around the world engage all the senses and emotions of those who stroll the paths of Waterplace Park. WaterFire has captured the imagination of over ten million visitors, bringing life to downtown, and revitalizing Rhode Island’s capital city. Check the schedule to see when the next event is!

The RISD Museum

The RISD Museum houses more than 91,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Greek and Roman sculpture to contemporary art in every medium, including textiles, ceramics, glass and furniture. Part of the Rhode Island School of Design, the museum offers a full schedule of special exhibitions, lectures, tours, concerts and other programs. The RISD Museum offers different tours and programs geared toward different age groups. To find out when programs that will be the best fit for your family are, look at their events calendar.

KidInfo Storytime and Art in the Park

Thursdays in Burnside Park in Providence hold something for everyone in the family! Storytime in Burnside Park is at 10:30, when 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 listeners into The Great Green Room! Here the stories of Margaret Wise Brown – such as Goodnight Moon, Runaway Bunny, The Important Book and others – will be transformed into magical experiences using all of the 5 senses! Katowicz will be hosting several guest artists to lend their specialties to the playful and rhythmic styles of Margaret Wise Brown.

Friends of Ballard Park Children’s Workshop

Friends of Ballard Park is holding a nature workshop for children! The one and a half hour program will feature hands-on activities focusing on the natural elements found in Ballard Park. The class is best suited for children six to twelve years old. Younger and older siblings welcome. This event occurs weekly on Thursdays in Newport’s Ballard Park.

Other Recommendations

If your family enjoys spending time outdoors, check out our biking and hiking recommendations. Or, if your family is looking to spend the day at one of the many beautiful beaches in Rhode Island, check out our beach recommendations. For more information about family-friendly events occurring in Rhode Island, visit KidInfo.

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 Arcadia 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, RI

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 »

East 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.

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

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 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.

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 15-19

There’s so much to do this weekend in Rhode Island. It’s Providence Restaurant Week all week long with great deals on great food, and there is a WaterFire full lighting on Saturday. Check out what other events are going on!

Wednesday, July 15

Ways of Looking for Artists: Making and Meaning: 10:30 a.m. How can art in a museum setting illuminate one’s own artistic process? Through sustained looking, conversation, and writing, artists deeply engage with art and consider their own practice. Museum educator Hollis Mickey provides contemplative moments and opportunities for generative dialogue.

Brown St. Summer Concert Series: 5:30 p.m. Our July 15 concert feature the amazing sounds of the local band, Roz and the Rice Cakes, plus include a Play at the Park activity with the Providence Children’s Museum.

Thursday, July 16

KidInfo Storytime and 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. As always, a mobile playground, faceprinting and food trucks for lunch add to the all-ages fun and make for a perfect picnic in the park

Armory Farmers Market 3:30 p.m.

Burnside Music Series: 4:30 p.m. Join us every Thursday this summer for beautiful times in Burnside Park, replete with delightful bevs by Trinity Brewhouse, delicious food by Rhode Island’s greatest food trucks, casual jams by celebrity DJs, and, of course, the finest tunes Rhode Island has to offer, courtesy of a kaleidoscopic array of astounding musicians

Concerts Under the Elms Concert Series: 6:30 p.m. Join us for the Concerts under the Elms, an annual outdoor summer concert series held Thursdays under the canopy of elms at the John Brown House Museum.

Saturday, July 18

Broad St. Farmer’s Market: 8:00 a.m.

Hope St. Farmer’s Market: 9:00 a.m.

Children’s Museum Bubble Blowout: 11:00 a.m. The Museum’s Children’s Garden bubbles over with fun as families blow billowing bubbles of all shapes and sizes! Kids use a wide array of wacky tools to blow giant bubbles, stretch them into astonishing shapes, and explore their amazing properties.

Design the Night: It’s Elemental: 4:00 p.m. The evening features discussions with local artists, art-making for adults and children, gallery talks, refreshments, and music—all incorporating elemental themes of fire, water, air, and earth.

Beaux Arts Ball at Newport Art Museum: 6:00 p.m. The Museum’s Gala Party will entice the eye and the palette with theatricals, dinner by Russell Morin Fine Catering inside the Griswold House galleries, a silent auction and lively After Party dancing. Imaginative and colorful attire is encouraged.

Hands-on-Art at the RISD Museum: 6:00 p.m. Inspired by works on view, create art in the galleries with the guidance of art instructor Paul Carpentier. No experience necessary. Materials provided. Free.

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

WaterFire Full Lighting: 8:20 p.m. To start this Waterfire there will be a 100 person torch procession surrounding the circle of fires in the basin in honor of Navigant Credit Union’s 100th Anniversary “Celebrating a Century, Looking forward to the Next 100″.

Sunday, July 19

The Providence Flea: 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

Shakespeare in the Spirit: 3:00 pm, 7:30m p.m. This year’s Mixed Magic Theatre Exult Choir concert, Shakespeare in the Spirit, blends gospel music to scenes from Shakespeare and both soar to new and unique heights.

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.

Monday, July 6

Neutaconkanut Hill Farmers Market 3:00 p.m.

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

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)

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