Boomer Travel Destination: Providence, Rhode Island

If you’re looking for a place to visit that offers a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, you might want to consider Providence, Rhode Island, as your next destination. Providence is the capital and largest city of Rhode Island, the smallest state in the US. Despite its size, Providence has a lot to offer to mature travelers who are interested in exploring its rich and diverse heritage, its vibrant and creative arts scene, and its scenic and relaxing waterfront.

Getting To and Around Providence

Providence is a city that is easy to get to and around, whether you are traveling by air, train, bus, or car. Here are some of the options that you have:

• By Air: The nearest airport to Providence is the T.F. Green Airport, which is located about 10 miles south of the city. You can find flights to and from many major cities in the US, as well as some international destinations. You can also use the Boston Logan Airport, which is located about 50 miles north of the city and has more flight options. You can take a shuttle, a train, or a bus from either airport to Providence.
• By Train: Providence is served by the Amtrak and the MBTA commuter rail, which connect the city to other cities in the Northeast, such as Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. You can find the train station in the downtown area, near the State House and the mall.
• By Bus: Providence is served by several bus companies, such as Greyhound, Peter Pan, and Megabus, which offer affordable and convenient service to and from other cities in the region. You can find the bus terminal in the downtown area, next to the train station and the mall.
• By Car: Providence is accessible by several major highways, such as I-95, I-195, and I-295, which link the city to other parts of the state and the region. You can find parking in the downtown area, as well as in other neighborhoods, such as Federal Hill and the East Side. You can also use the Zipcar service, which allows you to rent a car by the hour or the day.
• By Public Transportation: Providence has a public transportation system that consists of buses and trolleys, operated by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA). You can use the buses and trolleys to get around the city and the surrounding areas, such as Newport and Warwick. You can buy a ticket or a pass at the ticket vending machines, the RIPTA office, or online.
• By Bike: Providence is a bike-friendly city that has several bike lanes, bike paths, and bike racks. You can use your own bike or rent one from the Providence Bike Share program, which allows you to borrow a bike from one of the many stations around the city. You can also join a bike tour or a bike club to explore the city and meet other cyclists.

Things to See and Do in Providence

You can group things to see and do in Providence into three categories: Historic, Cultural, and Outdoor.

Historic Sites

• Historic Benefit Street: Stroll along Benefit Street, known as the “Mile of History,” lined with well-preserved Colonial and Federal-style homes. Visit the John Brown House Museum for a glimpse into Rhode Island’s rich history.
• WaterFire Providence: Experience the magic of WaterFire, an award-winning art installation featuring bonfires on the rivers of downtown Providence. This captivating event combines music, art, and firelight for a memorable evening.
• Roger Williams Park: Explore the expansive Roger Williams Park, home to the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium. The park’s scenic landscapes and historical landmarks offer a tranquil escape.

Cultural Pursuits

• RISD Museum: Immerse yourself in art at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum, showcasing a diverse collection from ancient to contemporary works. Engage in guided tours or attend special exhibitions.
• Trinity Repertory Company: Enjoy a night of theater at the renowned Trinity Repertory Company. Known for its exceptional productions, this theater offers a cultural experience in the heart of Providence.
• Providence Athenaeum: Visit the Providence Athenaeum, a historic library dating back to 1753. Delve into the extensive collection and soak in the literary ambiance of this intellectual haven.

Outdoor Activities – Waterways and Parks

• Gondola Rides on the River: Glide along the Providence River in a Venetian-style gondola. Enjoy a serene ride while taking in the city’s skyline and picturesque surroundings.
• Waterfront Walks at India Point Park: Take leisurely walks along the waterfront at India Point Park. Admire the views, engage in birdwatching, or simply relax in this scenic urban oasis.
• Historic East Side and Brown University: Explore the historic East Side of Providence, home to Brown University. Wander through College Hill, visit the scenic Prospect Terrace Park, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Where to Stay

Providence has a wide range of accommodations that suit different needs and budgets. You can find hotels, bed and breakfasts, inns, and Airbnb rentals that offer comfort, convenience, and charm. Here are some of the best places to stay in Providence:

• The Dean Hotel: This is a boutique hotel that is located in the downtown area, near the State House, the mall, and the train station. The hotel has a stylish and modern design, with cozy and spacious rooms, a coffee shop, a cocktail bar, and a karaoke lounge. The hotel also offers bike rentals, yoga classes, and art events.
• The Christopher Dodge House: This is a bed and breakfast that is located in the historic Smith Hill neighborhood, near the State House, the Providence Athenaeum, and the RISD Museum. The bed and breakfast is housed in a restored 19th-century mansion, with elegant and comfortable rooms, a fireplace, a library, and a garden. The bed and breakfast also offers a delicious and hearty breakfast, free parking, and a shuttle service.
• The Old Court Bed and Breakfast: This is another bed and breakfast that is located on historic Benefit Street, near Brown University, the John Brown House, and the WaterFire. The bed and breakfast is housed in a former 19th-century courthouse, with charming and cozy rooms, a jacuzzi, a balcony, and a courtyard. The bed and breakfast also offers a scrumptious and varied breakfast, free parking, and a friendly staff.
• The Providence Marriott Downtown: This is a hotel that is located in the downtown area, near Roger Williams Park, the Providence Place Mall, and the WaterFire. The hotel has a contemporary and luxurious design, with spacious and comfortable rooms, a pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant. The hotel also offers free parking, free shuttle service, and pet-friendly rooms.

Food and Drink

Providence is a city that prides itself on its culinary and cultural diversity, and you can find a wide range of restaurants and bars that cater to different tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best places to eat and drink in Providence:

• Federal Hill: This is the Italian neighborhood of Providence and a hotspot for food lovers. You can find some of the best Italian restaurants, bakeries, and markets in the city, as well as other cuisines, such as Mediterranean, Mexican, and Asian. You can also enjoy the lively atmosphere, the street performers, and the festivals that take place throughout the year.
• The Dorrance: This is a fine dining restaurant that is housed in a former bank building and features a stunning interior with high ceilings, chandeliers, and marble columns. You can savor the exquisite and inventive dishes, such as the lobster risotto, the duck confit, or the chocolate souffle, and pair them with the excellent wine list or the signature cocktails.
• The Duck and Bunny: This is a cozy and charming cafe that is known as a “snuggery”, a place to snuggle and relax. You can enjoy the delicious and decadent brunch, tea, and dessert options, such as the crepes, the scones, or the cupcakes, and cozy up in one of the plush couches or chairs. You can also admire the quirky and cute decor, such as the vintage wallpaper, the fireplace, and the bunny statues.
• The Trinity Brewhouse: This is a popular and award-winning brewpub that is located in the heart of downtown. You can sample the handcrafted beers, such as the IPA, the stout, or the seasonal varieties, and enjoy the hearty and tasty pub fare, such as the burgers, the wings, or the nachos. You can also catch the live music, trivia, and sports events that the pub hosts.

When to Visit Providence

Providence is a city that can be visited at any time of the year, as each season has its own charm and attractions. However, some of the best times to visit Providence are:

• Spring: This is a lovely time to visit Providence, as the weather is mild and pleasant, and the flowers are in bloom. You can enjoy outdoor activities, such as walking, biking, or boating, and see the city come alive with color and freshness. You can also catch some of the spring events, such as the Providence Marathon, the Daffodil Festival, or the Rhode Island International Film Festival.
• Fall: This is another beautiful time to visit Providence, as the weather is cool and crisp, and the foliage is stunning. You can admire the fall colors, such as the reds, oranges, and yellows, and feel the cozy and festive atmosphere. You can also attend some of the fall events, such as the WaterFire, the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, or the Rhode Island Comic Con.
• Winter: This is a cozy and romantic time to visit Providence, as the weather is cold and snowy, and the city is decorated with lights and ornaments. You can enjoy indoor activities, such as visiting the museums, the libraries, or the theaters, and warm up with a hot drink or a hearty meal. You can also join some of the winter events, such as the Holiday Market, the Ice Skating Rink, or the First Night Celebration.

Tips for Baby Boomer Travelers

If you are of baby boomer age, there are some things you can do to make your trip to Providence more enjoyable. Here are some tips:

• Weather Considerations: Providence experiences distinct seasons, so pack accordingly. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, making them ideal times to explore the city.
• Accommodation: Choose accommodations in the heart of the city for easy access to attractions. Providence offers a range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and boutique inns.
• Transportation: Providence is a walkable city, and public transportation is available. Consider exploring by foot, bike, or taking advantage of local buses for convenient travel.
• Healthcare Facilities: Providence has excellent healthcare facilities. Carry any necessary medications and ensure you have travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Conclusion

Providence is a city that has a lot to offer to Baby Boomers who are looking for a charming and historic destination that also has a vibrant and creative side. You can experience the culture, history, and natural beauty of the city, as well as its culinary and artistic diversity. You can also enjoy the friendly and welcoming spirit of the people, and feel the sense of community and pride that they have for their city.

Providence is at sea level but has some hills. Most of the attractions are easily reached on foot, but the hilly terrain, the cold and snowy winters, and the traffic create some challenges. Providence earns a rating of Good on our Creaky Knees Index.