Welcome to Providence, Rhode Island, where the charm of New England meets a vibrant arts and culture scene. While this city is known for its historic architecture and culinary delights, there are also plenty of unusual things to do in Providence Rhode Island that will make your visit truly memorable. From exploring hidden art installations to indulging in quirky local traditions, Providence offers a unique array of experiences for the adventurous traveler. Join us as we uncover some of the best-kept secrets and offbeat activities that this captivating city has to offer.
WaterFire Providence
Essential Information
– Address: Waterplace Park, Providence, Rhode Island
– Opening Hours: Occurs on select evenings throughout the year, check schedule
– Fee: Free to attend
– Visit Duration: Typically lasts from sunset to around midnight
– Ideal for: Couples, families, art enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
WaterFire Providence stands out as a unique tourist attraction due to its mesmerizing display of over 80 bonfires blazing on the surface of the three rivers that pass through downtown Providence. This captivating event combines art, music, and community spirit to create a truly unforgettable experience.
One of the most unusual aspects of WaterFire Providence is the ritualistic lighting of the bonfires by the “Firetenders,” who skillfully maneuver the braziers along the riverbanks, creating a magical ambiance as the flames dance on the water’s surface. Visitors can witness this ancient tradition up close and marvel at the skill and precision required to maintain the fires throughout the evening.
In addition to the striking visual spectacle, WaterFire Providence also offers unique activities such as gondola rides along the rivers, providing a romantic and intimate way to experience the event. The soothing sound of the gondoliers’ oars dipping into the water adds to the enchanting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for couples seeking a memorable date night.
Another unusual feature of WaterFire Providence is the diverse range of live music performances that accompany the event, ranging from classical to contemporary genres. This eclectic mix of musical styles adds an extra layer of excitement and entertainment to the evening, appealing to a wide audience of all ages.
Overall, WaterFire Providence’s combination of fire, water, art, and music creates a truly unique and immersive experience that sets it apart from traditional tourist attractions. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a cultural adventure, this event offers something truly special for visitors to Providence, Rhode Island.
Visit the Providence Athenaeum
Essential Information
– Address: 251 Benefit St, Providence, RI 02903
– Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm
– Fee: Free for members, $10 for non-members
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Book lovers, history enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Providence Athenaeum stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its unique blend of literary history and quirky offerings. While many libraries focus solely on books, the Athenaeum goes beyond the traditional reading experience to provide visitors with a range of intriguing activities.
One of the most unusual features of the Providence Athenaeum is its secret bookcase. Tucked away in a corner of the library, this hidden passage leads to a mysterious room filled with rare books and artifacts. Visitors can embark on a treasure hunt to discover this hidden gem, adding an element of adventure to their visit.
For those seeking a more interactive experience, the Athenaeum offers a series of unconventional events and workshops. From bookbinding classes to literary-themed escape rooms, there is always something unexpected happening at this historic library. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of literature in a hands-on way, making for a truly memorable visit.
In addition to its unusual activities, the Providence Athenaeum is also home to a collection of unique artifacts. From Edgar Allan Poe’s hair to H.P. Lovecraft’s writing desk, the library houses a fascinating array of literary curiosities that are sure to intrigue visitors.
Overall, the Providence Athenaeum stands out as an unusual tourist attraction thanks to its combination of literary history, interactive experiences, and quirky offerings. Whether you’re a book lover or simply looking for something out of the ordinary, a visit to this hidden gem in Providence is sure to delight and surprise.
Explore the Providence Ghost Tour
Essential Information
– Address: Providence, Rhode Island
– Opening Hours: Evenings, check website for specific times
– Fee: $25 per person
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
– Ideal for: Thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Providence Ghost Tour offers a unique and spine-chilling experience for visitors looking to delve into the eerie side of Providence, Rhode Island. Unlike traditional tours, this ghost tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s haunted past, revealing chilling tales of paranormal encounters and unexplained phenomena.
As dusk falls, brave souls gather to embark on a guided walking tour led by knowledgeable storytellers. The tour winds through dimly lit streets and shadowy alleyways, stopping at historic sites known for their ghostly inhabitants. Participants listen intently as guides recount unsettling stories of restless spirits and haunted locales, bringing the city’s dark history to life.
One of the standout features of the Providence Ghost Tour is its interactive nature. Visitors have the opportunity to use paranormal investigation tools such as EMF meters and dowsing rods to detect supernatural activity at various stops along the route. This hands-on approach adds an extra layer of intrigue and excitement to the experience, allowing guests to feel like true ghost hunters for the night.
For those seeking a departure from the ordinary tourist attractions, the Providence Ghost Tour offers a thrilling and unforgettable evening filled with mystery and suspense. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this tour is sure to leave you questioning the boundaries between the living and the dead. So, gather your courage and prepare to explore the haunted side of Providence on this one-of-a-kind ghost tour.
Take a gondola ride in Waterplace Park
Essential Information
– Address: Waterplace Park, Providence, Rhode Island
– Opening Hours: Varies, typically weekends and evenings
– Fee: Around $50 per person
– Visit Duration: 30 minutes
– Ideal for: Couples, families, and tourists looking for a unique experience
Why is it so unusual
When visiting Providence, Rhode Island, one of the most unusual yet charming activities you can partake in is taking a gondola ride in Waterplace Park. This experience offers a delightful twist on the traditional gondola rides found in Venice, Italy.
As you glide along the waterways of Waterplace Park, you’ll be serenaded by a gondolier who will regale you with interesting stories about the park and its surroundings. The peaceful ambiance of the park combined with the gentle swaying of the gondola creates a truly unique and romantic atmosphere.
Unlike other gondola rides, the Waterplace Park experience allows you to witness the stunning WaterFire events that take place periodically. These events feature a mesmerizing display of bonfires on the water, creating a magical and unforgettable backdrop for your gondola ride.
Additionally, the park’s location in the heart of Providence provides a picturesque setting, with the city skyline and historic architecture serving as a backdrop to your leisurely cruise. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date idea or simply want to enjoy a peaceful moment in nature, a gondola ride in Waterplace Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t soon forget.
Tour the Providence Arcade, the oldest indoor shopping mall in the US
Essential Information
– Address: 65 Weybosset St, Providence, RI 02903
– Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm
– Fee: Free to enter
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and shopping lovers
Why is it so unusual
The Providence Arcade, also known as the Westminster Arcade, holds the prestigious title of being the oldest indoor shopping mall in the United States. What sets this historic landmark apart is not just its age, but also the unique experiences it offers to visitors.
Upon stepping inside the arcade, you are transported back in time to the early 19th century. The stunning Greek Revival architecture, with its grand columns and intricate detailing, is a sight to behold. As you wander through the arcade, you’ll notice the charming mix of shops and boutiques that line the corridors, each housed in a cozy alcove.
One of the most unusual activities you can partake in at the Providence Arcade is exploring the array of artisanal and locally-made goods on offer. From handcrafted jewelry to vintage clothing, the shops here showcase the creativity and talent of local artisans. You can spend hours browsing through the unique items, perfect for finding a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home.
For those looking to satisfy their taste buds, the arcade also boasts a selection of eateries that serve up delicious treats. Indulge in a gourmet sandwich, sip on a freshly brewed coffee, or sample a decadent pastry – all within the charming ambiance of the historic arcade.
As you continue your tour, don’t miss the opportunity to interact with the friendly shop owners, who are passionate about sharing the stories behind their products. Whether you’re seeking a special gift or simply want to soak in the nostalgic atmosphere, the Providence Arcade offers a truly memorable and unusual shopping experience.
In conclusion, the Providence Arcade stands out as a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of history, architecture, and unique shopping opportunities. Its timeless charm and distinctive offerings make it a hidden gem in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island.
Visit the Providence Children’s Museum
Essential Information
– Address: 100 South St, Providence, RI 02903
– Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
– Fee: $12 per person
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Families with children aged 1-11
Why is it so unusual
The Providence Children’s Museum offers a unique and engaging experience for families visiting Rhode Island. What sets this museum apart are its unconventional activities that cater specifically to young minds. One of the standout features is the Water Ways exhibit, where children can explore the properties of water through hands-on experiments and interactive displays. This hands-on approach extends to the Discovery Studio, where kids can engage in open-ended art projects using a variety of materials.
Another unusual aspect of the museum is the Climber, a three-story play structure that challenges children to navigate through tunnels, slides, and climbing walls. This physical activity component adds an element of adventure to the museum visit, allowing kids to burn off energy while having fun. Additionally, the Children’s Garden provides a natural outdoor space for exploration, complete with a mud kitchen and sensory garden.
For those interested in technology, the museum offers a Maker Space where children can experiment with robotics, coding, and other STEM activities. This interactive learning environment encourages creativity and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way. Overall, the Providence Children’s Museum stands out for its hands-on approach to learning and its diverse range of activities that cater to children’s natural curiosity and creativity.
Discover the Providence Art Windows project
Essential Information
– Address: Various locations throughout Providence, Rhode Island
– Opening hours: 24/7
– Fee: Free
– Visit duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Art enthusiasts, tourists looking for unique experiences
Why is it so unusual
The Providence Art Windows project offers a distinctive and unconventional way to experience art in the city. Unlike traditional art galleries or museums, this project transforms ordinary windows of businesses and buildings into captivating art displays. As you stroll through the streets of Providence, you’ll encounter these unexpected art installations that showcase a diverse range of artistic styles and themes.
Each window serves as a canvas for local artists to express their creativity and engage with the community. From vibrant paintings to intricate sculptures, the Providence Art Windows project brings art out of traditional spaces and into the public realm. This unconventional approach not only enlivens the city streets but also provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work to a wider audience.
Visitors can spend hours exploring the various art windows scattered throughout Providence, each offering a unique perspective and artistic vision. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or simply looking for a different kind of cultural experience, the Providence Art Windows project promises to surprise and delight with its unconventional approach to showcasing art in unexpected places.
