Providence Travel Guide

While visiting the city for business or pleasure, there is plenty to do and see in Providence. Neighborhood taverns, fine dining, and the arts are abound in Providence.

Performing Arts

If you are into the arts, perhaps you are visiting Providence during the Rhode Island Philharmonic season. You may catch Shakespeare at Trinity Repertory Company, or Broadway Musicals at The Providence Performing Arts Center. High quality theater can be found at Columbus Theater, which has a regular schedule of performances. The VMA Arts & Cultural Center is known as the place where many famous acts get their start. For dance, drama and more, stop into the Veteran's Memorial Auditorium.

Cinema

A quiet form of entertainment can be found at Avon Cinema, one of the oldest movie houses in Providence. A red-velvet curtain leads you into a world of fantasy and folklore, while the Cable Car Cinema and Cafe affords contemporary films, and coffee. Route One Cinema Pub features movies and some of the best brews in town. Narragansett Cinema is located right on the beach, convenient for those who have spent the day in the sun and are ready to relax.

Nature

If you have the kids along, or want to take a break from business or sightseeing, stroll hill and dale of Roger Williams Park Zoo. You will find relaxing swan paddle boats and go-boats on the grounds with an old-fashioned carousel and pony rides. An aviary and 900 zoo animals are situated on the spacious grounds. Prospect Park is located at the top of College Hill, offering spectacular views of the city.

Shopping

Shoppers, you do not want to miss The Arcade, also known as America's Oldest Indoor Mall, downtown on Weybosset Street. Visit Wickford Gourmet or Farmstead for some unique souvenirs and delicate treats. Spectrum India sells authentic clothing from India in colorful prints and quality fabric. Be sure to stop into Eastside Marketplace, the city's most popular market, where you're sure to find something to take home with you.

Nightlife

Providence and its hotels offer nightspots, informal bars and clubs. A fireplace with a cocktail lounge is at one of Providence's newest hotels, the Providence Courtyard by Marriot, close to the financial district. For Irish ale and fire stop at Aidan's Pub, 20 minutes south of Providence on Bristol Harbor. European beer is served in frothy mugs with lace-curtained windows and a wood stove in winter. Snooker's in Providence's financial district, is known as the best pool hall in the state. It offers billiards, rock, pop, alternative and garage music from Rhode Island, Boston and New York.2008-08-02T07:29:22.000 220