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Downtown is a district in Providence.

Understand

Downtown Providence (also known as Downcity Providence) includes the core of the downtown area as well as Waterplace Park, the Providence Place Mall, and Capitol Hill. A number of Providence's historic buildings are downcity, as are many businesses, as well as Rhode Island's main public transportation station, Kennedy Plaza (KP). Parking is hard to find, with meters and lots scattered throughout the city. Downcity Providence is home to a growing number of interesting restaurants, nightclubs, and shops.

Get in

See Providence for details on how to reach the city Providence.

Within Providence, driving or RIPTA buses will take you to Downtown.

Get around

Downtown Providence is very compact and can easily be covered walking. There is some parking available throughout the city, but RIPTA's public transport network is extensive and an alternative to driving.

By bus

Although public transit in Providence is almost entirely comprised of buses, the buses are on-time, reliable, and much of RIPTA's bus fleet is new. Kennedy Plaza, RIPTA's downtown bus station, has recently undergone a major overhaul and is well laid out with digital displays at each terminal that tell when the next bus will be coming.

Two of the downtown lines are run completely on natural gas trackless trolleys (called the Providence LINK Trolley), and cover most of historic Providence. Base fare is $2.00, though e-riptiks or ride passes may be purchased either on-board or at local Shaw's and Stop and Shop supermarkets. Seniors or disabled persons ride for half-price during non-peak hours with the presentation of an ID. Students from some local colleges can buy discounted bus passes or use their school id cards (policy varies depending on the school).

By car

Driving is another way to get around Downtown Providence. Once you are in the downtown area, everything is about a 5-minute drive from one location to the next. Parking on Federal Hill is available but fills up fast. There is also valet at almost every restaurant there. Parking on Thayer Street is available but you may be going up and down the streets around it a few times before you actually find a spot.

By taxi

If walking and/or bus trips don't suit your fancy, cab rides are also an option. Taxis are constantly idling in the area of Kennedy Plaza, just outside of the 7-Eleven, and also just a couple of blocks away at the Providence Westin (One West Exchange Street).

  • Capital Cab, +1 401-944-2000
  • Corporate Taxi, +1 401-231-2228
  • D.R. Taxi Cab Service, +1 401-640-9689
  • East Side Taxi, +1 401-521-4200
  • Express Taxi, +1 401-286-5515. All major credit cards accepted.
  • Walsh Cab, +1 401-943-3636

See

Map
Map of Providence/Downtown

Museums

  • 1 Providence Children's Museum, 100 South St. (Directions), ☏ +1 401 273-5437. Open September to March Tuesday through Sunday and Monday holidays 9AM to 6PM (8PM on some Friday evenings) and April to Labor Day daily 9AM to 6PM (8PM on some Friday evenings). Offers a variety of exhibits to provide hands-on fun. The museum accepts cash, check, Discover, Visa and MasterCard. Family memberships can be purchased here. Park a picnic lunch and eat either in one of the 3 assembly rooms or in the beautiful outdoor picnic area. The museum is fun for all ages and includes exhibits such as a water table, an exploration of the history of Rhode Island, wind rooms, dinosaur digs and building blocks. $8.50 per person, children under 12 months free. 

Galleries

Architecture

  • 3 Rhode Island State House, 82 Smith Street, ☏ +1 401 222-2357. M-F 8:30AM-4:30PM. Built from 1894 to 1901. A wonder sculpted from white Georgia marble, containing the world's fourth largest self-supported marble dome. This monumental amazement is 300 feet long, 180 wide, and 233 feet high. Features inside this gigantic building are: the Bell Room, American Revolution regiment flags, a Rotunda, Gun Room, the State Library, House and Senate Chambers and Lounges, Charter room, and many other fascinating tantalizing rooms including one that houses the original 1663 portrait of George Washington by RI native Gilbert Stuart; whose painting is the same face that went on the U.S. one dollar bill. Designed by the notable McKim, Mead, and White architectural firm. Come see the State House lit up in pink to support Breast Cancer Awareness every October. Accompany this visit of the pink State House with a walk around Providence's WaterFire (See below in 'do'). Guided tours of the building are offered M-F 9AM-noon. Self-guided tours may be taken M-F 9AM-3:30PM. 
  • 4 The Arcade, 66 Weybosset St. at Westminster St.. The first enclosed shopping mall in America, completed in 1828. Built in the style of Greek Revival, this building has a unique twist: Due to a disagreement between the two principal architects, columns on one end are Ionic, and on the other, Doric. It has been converted to a residential building with about a dozen shops and restaurants. Westminster Arcade on Wikipedia (updated Dec 2018)
  • 5 City Hall (Dorrance St. & Washington St.). Finished in 1878, the Second Empire Baroque City Hall only survives today because of former Mayor Buddy Cianci's careful restoration in 1975. 
  • Old Stone Bank - S. Main St. & Crawford St. Greek Revival building from 1854.
  • Industrial Trust Tower (Bank of America Tower) - Kennedy Plaza. The tallest building in Providence is an intent Art Deco impression from 1928.
  • Trinity Repertory Theater - Washington St. & Empire St. This 1912 building, clad in terra-cotta houses the area's finest repertory company.
  • Biltmore Hotel - The 1922 Neo-Federal Beaux-Arts styled hotel. Dorrance St. & Washington St.
  • Federal Courthouse - Exchange St. & Washington St.

Parks

  • 6 Waterplace Park and Riverwalk (Francis St. at Memorial Blvd.). Finished in 1994, Waterplace Park is probably the most accepted recent addition to the city owing to its historic and unassuming look. Featuring cobblestone paths and unobtrusively shaped concrete form, the park follows Providence's downtown rivers quietly below the level of automobile traffic. You'll usually find a few people enjoying the park quietly. Come here during Waterfire (below under "do") to see the park at its best. 
  • 7 Burnside Park (Adjacent to Kennedy Plaza.). This small park is named for Ambrose Burnside, a general in the American Civil War. Several sculptures, including an equestrian statue of General Burnside, dot this quiet park. 

Do

Arts and culture

  • 1 Imax Theatre. In the Providence Place Mall is Rhode Island’s only Imax theatre housing a 6-story high screen. The theatre is home of various films such as educational, current entertaining films and the most popular 3-D films. Phone: 401-453-4446 ext 200. 
  • 2 Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset St., ☏ +1 401-421-2787. A historic theater built in 1928 as a Loew's Movie Palace. Located in the center of Providence, and hosts a plethora of shows, from stand-up comic Larry the Cable Guy, to the kid's show Dora the Explorer, to the Rhode Island Philharmonic. The center also features local and national music, and local musicians have the unique chance to perform before a large audience here. The audiences sometimes include students from grades 6-9, and at the end, the students will be asked to submit a card grading the performance. 
  • 3 Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington St, ☏ +1 401 351-4242. Established in 1963, the Trinity Repertory theatre has been host to 58 world premieres, film screenings, educational programs and is home to the last permanent acting company in the country. 
  • Improv Jones, Perishable Theater, 95 Empire St, Providence, RI. Voted Best Comedy Troupe at the 2009 Moitf Awards, Improv Jones is a group of improvisational comedians who put on shows twice weekly. If it is a Thursday or Saturday night, and you have five dollars and nothing to do, these guys are definitely worth checking out. They start off the show by involving the audience in some way and segue into an hour of comedy and fun. Each member of the troupe is a brilliant comedian. In collaboration, they are fantastically entertaining. The spot, Perishable Theater, is a gloomy and bare black room with about 12 rows of audience seating. The intimate and bland setting is perfect for this type of improv show. 
  • 4 AS220, 115 Empire St, ☏ +1 401 831-9327. A non-profit community arts center. The building features four art galleries, performance space, 19 artist studios and a bar/café. Events are booked every night at AS220; these include art exhibits, live music, and panel discussions. AS220 features many Rhode Island artists, but national acts are booked here often. Notable recurring events include: 
  • Fools Ball. AS220's signature gala event. This yearly party spans five days and countless exhibits. Every year brings a new theme (the Harlem Renaissance in 2004, for example). Major events usually include live music, art exhibits, dinners and film screenings.
  • Providence Poetry Slam. Held on the first and fourth Thursday of every month. This eclectic event, one of the venue's most popular, features both local and national poets and musicians. All artists (novice and professional) and spectators are welcome; the Providence Slam team has had great success in the National Poetry Slam over the past decade.
  • Geek Dinners. Held on the last Wednesday of every month. These dinners allow those involved in Rhode Island's technology industry to communicate and collaborate. Geek Dinners always have a featured presentation or discussion. Topics vary greatly, from startups to web services to hardware.
  • 5 Trinity Repertory Company, 201 Washington St, ☏ +1 401 351-4242. A nationally-renowned theater downtown. Trinity Rep seats 820 and has an estimated annual audience of 160,000. Trinity Rep has produced over 50 world premiere plays and a balance of both contemporary and classic works. The venue features six subscription productions each year and an annual production of A Christmas Carol. Trinity Repertory Company (Q7842942) on Wikidata Trinity Repertory Company on Wikipedia 
  • 6 Providence Place Cinemas 16 and IMAX, 10 Providence Place, ☏ +1 401 453-4446. In the Providence Place Mall is Rhode Island’s only Imax theater housing a 6-story high screen. The theater is home of various films such as educational, current entertaining films and the most popular 3-D films. Many people go to the IMAX theater because they want to see 3-D films on a bigger screen. Previously, the theater was named after Alan Shawn Feinstein but Feinstein's name was removed after National Amusements bought the theater.
    Handicap Service: Complete Wheel Chair Access, Special Arrangements Upon Request, Communication Devices for the Deaf.     (updated Feb 2018)

Seasonal

  • Bank of America Skating Center (Alex and Ani City Center), 2 Kennedy Plaza, ☏ +1 401 331-5544, . A 14,000 square-foot outdoor ice rink located in the center of Downcity Providence that offers ice skating fun for all ages. Hours are 10AM to 10PM, Monday-Friday, and 11AM to 10PM Saturday-Sunday. The rink is open from the end of November to the end of March, weather permitting, (call in the case of inclement weather to confirm rink is open). Cost of skating is $6.00 Adults, $3.00 Children (12 and under) and $3.00 Seniors (65 and older), though season passes are available and certain designated skating times are discounted. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Skate rental is available for $4.00 per pair. 
  • [dead link] Gallery Night Providence, ☏ +1 401 490-2042. On the third Thursday of the month, March through November, twenty-one of the city's museums and galleries open their doors to all. Free guided bus tours are organized around specific themes (contemporary art, emerging artists, artisan shops, etc.), and are often led by special guest speakers. Tours leave One Regency Plaza, (where you can park for free), every half hour between 5:30PM and 7PM. If you prefer a self-guided tour, visit Gallery Night's website for a detailed map. 
  • Waterfire. Centers on a series of 100 fires that burn on the three rivers that pass through the middle of downtown Providence. The string of fires illuminates nearly two-thirds of a mile and residents and visitors gather to stroll along the river. The fires are burned from sunset to past midnight on select evenings (typically on weekends) from April or May through October. If you want to experience something that is very relaxing while still taking in the urban life of downtown Providence, go and see Waterfire. There are no admission charges. Concessions are available. There are outdoor stands set up hosting a Dunkin Donuts as well as kettle corn, pizza and doughboy (fried dough) distributors for modest prices. Boat rides are available if you would like to get a closer look at the fire. Pricing for the gondola during WaterFire is $159 for 2 passengers and $15 per additional person which can be added to your gondola up until the day of the ride. Proud Mary offers motor launch services on a pontoon boat with tours leaving every half hour from the north side of Waterplace Basin. WaterFire is quite popular with locals and visitors alike, and tends to draw large crowds. If you do plan to attend WaterFire, walking or taking public transportation into Kennedy Plaza is strongly recommended as most surrounding streets become very congested. If you are driving, parking is available at the Providence Place Mall for $1 for a 3 hour time block. The price increases after one surpasses 3 hours. 

Buy

Downcity is the new place to grab a cappuccino or snag a great pair of jeans [1]. You can drool over must-have furnishings or stop for a bistro lunch. Browse art books. Then toast a day well spent. You can do it all in Downcity Providence, home to a collection of fine design, fashion, and dining opportunities.

  • Providence Open Market. Saturdays May - June 11AM-4PM, Saturdays September - October, 11AM-4PM. The Providence Open Market is the city’s only Open-Air Market where you can shop for artisan made goods, fine art, and fresh produce. In Lippitt Park on the East Side of Providence, the Market features a different group of artists every week ensuring that each visit will be unique. 
  • Queen of Hearts, 186 Union St, ☏ +1 401 421-1471. Tu-Sa 11AM-7PM. Queen of Hearts is before all else, an original women's clothing and accessories boutique, but is also a showroom for visual art, home goods, gifts, and lifestyle paraphernalia. Merchandise is all one-of-a-kind, handmade material, designed and created by local and regional artists and designers. 
  • American Apparel, 159 Weybosset St, ☏ +1 401 861-0007. M-Sa 10AM-8PM, Su noon-5PM. Located on Weybosset Street between Eddy and Union, American Apparel is the world famous LA-based manufacturer and retailer of clothing for men, women, kids, and dogs. All stages of production occur under one roof at their downtown Los Angeles factory- from the cutting and sewing, right through to the photography and marketing. 
  • 1 Providence Place Mall, One Providence Place, ☏ +1 401 270-1000. Downtown’s primary source of dining and entertainment, movies, sales, events, programs, and shopping. Contains two movie theatres, more than 100 stores, kiosks, and more. 
  • Westminster Street boasts much of the newest and most diverse local shopping in the city. Parking along this one-way street is nearly impossible; walk there if you can, or park in one of the nearby lots. A selection of the shops along Westminster include:
  • Clover, 233 Westminster St., +1 401 490-4626, [2]. Tu-Sa 11AM-6PM, Su 12PM-5PM. Clover offers a collection of women's and men's clothing that provide a contemporary and unique selection of lines, styles, and versatile offerings for both "dressed up" and "dressed down" occasions. Clover displays its carefully chosen pieces in a modern and clean showroom-like environment, and merges established labels with young emerging designers.
  • Craftland, 235 Westminster St, ☏ +1 401 272-4285. M-Sa 10AM-6PM; Su 11AM-5PM. Now open year-round, this shop/gallery offers a variety of handmade goods, from clothing, to housewares, to fine art. Prices are reasonable, plus, all purchases are tax-free. 
  • Elsa Arms, 231 Westminster St., +1 401 383-5558, Tu-Sa 11AM-6PM, Su 12PM-5PM. Elsa Arms is an upscale women's clothing boutique located in the Peerless Building, right in the heart of the "Downcity Renaissance." Stop in for an exquisite shopping experience and see the latest offerings from Adam+Eve, Alice & Olivia, Nili Lotan, Rag & Bone, and many others.
  • Eno, 225 Westminster St., +1 401 521-2000, [3]. M-Sa noon-10PM. Eno is Downcity's full-service spirits shop, with an extensive selection of wine, beer, and fine liquors. The store, with its bank vault decor, is an environment for wine connoisseurs and novices alike, and an expert staff is on hand at all times to assist your selection. Eno hosts regular tastings and food pairings and offers delivery service to downtown residents and employees.
  • Homestyle, 229 Westminster St., +1 401 277-1159, [4]. Daily, 10AM-7PM. At Homestyle, fine art pieces sit among top-shelf/great value upholstery, accent home furnishings, and truly artful gifts. A savvy, creative, staff is available to assist you in selecting just the right piece, or come in and browse at your leisure. Extraordinary gifts in a wide range of price points make Homestyle the "go-to" place for unique gifts in all categories from hostess to housewarming to wedding to birthday.
  • Modern Love, 220 Westminster St., +1 401 421-1475, [5]. Daily, 11AM-6PM. Modern Love was opened in 2010 as a companion store to Queen of Hearts that carries an eclectic selection of women’s shoes and accessories such as jewelry, socks, hats, and handbags. You can expect the same funky and feminine charm from Modern Love’s unique merchandise as you can from that of its sister store just next door.
  • Queen of Hearts, 222 Westminster St., +1 401 421-1471, Daily, 11AM-6PM. Queen of Hearts is before all else, an original women's clothing and accessories boutique, but is also a showroom for visual art, home goods, gifts, and lifestyle paraphernalia. Merchandise is all one-of-a-kind, handmade material, designed and created by local and regional artists and designers.
  • Symposium Books, 240 Westminster St., +1 401 273-7900. M-W 10AM-6PM, Th-Sa noon-8PM, Su noon-5PM. Symposium Books consistently offers some of the finest books in Providence. Browse their diverse selection of carefully chosen titles in a broad range of subjects, specializing in academic, scholarly, literary, art, architecture, photography, design, and university press books. Most books are discounted at 10-80% off all the time!

Eat

Downtown

  • Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, One West Exchange Street, ☏ +1 401 533-9000. Fleming's is known for its prime steak and elegant, cherry wood atmosphere. Its wine list features over 100 wines available by the glass. This steakhouse also offers bar menu specials until 7PM. 
  • Luxe Burger Bar, 5 Memorial Blvd., ☏ +1 401 621-5893. Sunday-Wednesday noon-11PM, Thursday-Saturday noon-midnight. In downtown Providence, Luxe Burger Bar is a wonderful place to relax and go grab a burger and a beer. This bar has a build your own burger menu, a DJ every Friday/Saturday with no cover, and even Thursday night trivia night! $$. 
  • Rick's Roadhouse, 70 Richmond St, ☏ +1 401 272-7675. Rick's Roadhouse, downtown, specializes in steak, burger, and bbq. With a full restaurant and bar, Rick's also is home to the only mechanical bull in Providence. Tuesdays are karaoke night and Mondays are wing night for 25 cents a wing. Rick's Roadhouse also very affordable with over 40 menu items for under $9.99. 
  • New Rivers, 7 Steeple St. New Rivers Bistro prizes inventive presentation and taste over any pretension and it shows. The unassuming 18th-century interior yields a culinary masterpiece. Expensive but worth it if you are looking for a special night. Entrees $18-30. 
  • [dead link] Temple Downtown, 120 Francis St, ☏ +1 401 919-5050. Temple Downtown restaurant and lounge provides an intimate dining experience. The menu includes a wide variety of eclectic choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a signature cocktail list. Private rooms and booths available. 
  • Waterplace Restaurant & Lounge, 1 Finance Way, ☏ +1 401 272-1040. Tuesday-Thursday 4:30PM-10PM, Friday & Saturday 4:30PM-11PM. Waterplace is a casual restaurant and lounge overlooking beautiful Waterplace Park in Providence. Located downtown, Waterplace specializes in Italian, Seafood, and American cuisine. View the Providence skyline right from your dining room seat and enjoy a casual experience or a nice romantic night on the town. $$. 

Providence Place Mall

  • P.F. Chang's, 111 Providence Place, ☏ +1 401 270-4665. M-Th 11AM-11PM, F-Sa 11AM-midnight, Su 11AM-10PM. Be sure to make a reservation if you plan on eating here, the wait can be pretty long. Serves fine Asian cuisine in a nice friendly atmosphere. 
  • Fire + Ice, 48 Providence Place, ☏ +1 401 270-4040. M-Th 11:30AM-10PM, F-Sa 11:30AM-11PM, Su 10AM-10PM. Improvisational grill, allows customers to have their meal (fresh meats, seafood, pastas, internationally influenced sauces, and both exotic and traditional vegetables) cooked specifically to their liking in front of them. Interaction with the cooks, customers, and the crazy décor make for an exciting, delicious, and completely unique dining experience. $7.95 Lunch-$14.95 Dinner. ('All grilled food is included in the price, desserts and alcoholic beverages are an additional fee.) 
  • The Cheesecake Factory, 94 Providence Place, ☏ +1 401 270-4010. M-Th 11:30AM-11PM, F Sa 11:30AM-12:30PM, Su 10AM-11PM. Upscale dining, the Cheesecake Factory offers more than 200 menu selections including 50 cheesecakes and desserts. $10-20 entrées. The Cheesecake Factory is a nationwide chain. The wait can be long, it is always very busy, be prepared for that if you plan on making a trip. 
  • The Nordstrom Cafe, Level Three of Mall, Inside Nordstrom, +1 401 621-6111. American style cuisine, it offers a great spot for some better quality food inside the mall that is not food-court style. It offers a great view of the State House and the East Side of Providence. Provides the best view in the mall. Less expensive than the sit-down restaurants, but pricier than the food court options.

Elsewhere

  • Capriccio, 2 Pine St., ☏ +1 401 421-1320. M-Th 11:30PM-10:30PM; F Sa 11:30AM-11PM and Su 11:30AM-9PM. This restaurant is among the best of Providence. The extended wine list (more than 550 available), fabulous wait staff, exquisite food are some of the things that make this restaurant as good as it is. The food is expensive but worth it. Many of the items on the menu are made by your table. You can not go wrong with the Steak Diane, cooked tableside, or any other dish on the menu for that matter! 
  • 3 Steeple Street, 125 Canal Street, ☏ +1 401 272-3620. Serving dishes like smoked trout and Maryland crab cakes within stone slate walls and wooden plank floors in the second-oldest industrial building in the United States. $16-33. 
  • Union Station Brewery, 36 Exchange Terrace. +1 401 274-2739. Serves bar & grill type food, but come for the beer! Union Station brews its own beer in 6 different styles. Can't decide which to get? They'll serve you 5oz of each for $7.50. The namesake comes from the fact that the restaurant was carved out of the original 1898 Union Station.
  • Capital Grill, 56 Exchange St, ☏ +1 401 441-5378. Presented by the American Culinary Federation their “Achievement of Excellence Award” and referred to by The Miami Herald as a “culinary theme park full of dark wood, stuffed game heads, cigars, high-end drinks, wines and dry aged steaks.” Capital Grill is a high-end restaurant well known for its warm soothing environment, impressive menu of nationally renowned dry aged steaks, fresh seafood award-winning wine list of more than 5,000 bottles. This franchise is actually the original restaurant in the Capital Grille chain. 
  • Café Nuovo, 1 Citizens Plz, ☏ +1 401 421-2525. With a capacity to seat 130 people inside, 60 people outdoor (when in season) and offering valet parking. Café nuovo is recognized for their cuisine as a blend of flavors from around the globe; skillful preparation and distinctive balance of components by serving, fresh, and pure appetizing, seasonal ingredients; from a network of growers and local farms to distant market. Café Nuovo has also gained a reputation of displaying spectacular plate presentation that. 
  • Downcity Foods and Cocktails, 50 Weybosset St, ☏ +1 401 331-9217. They opened their doors to Fox network show, Kitchen Nightmare for help in recreating a new and better environment. Its menu includes dishes inspired by Chef Gordon Ramsay. It offers 2 floors for dining and a bar with up to 50 cocktails. 
  • McCormick & Schmick's, 11 Dorrance St, ☏ +1 401 351-4500. A family seafood restaurant at the bottom of the Biltmore hotel. 
  • Capriccio, 2 Pine St, ☏ +1 401 241-1320. Located in the Downtown financial district, Capriccio is a classic, sophisticated restaurant that features international cuisine with a Northern Italian taste. They have been awarded over 40 awards for fine dining, wines and decor. Cappriccio’s has elegant furnishings an appetizing menu and wines to its tuxedoed service staff to match. This restaurant is one of the top high-end restaurants in all of Rhode Island. 
  • Sidebar Bistro, 127 Dorrance St # 3B, ☏ +1 401 421-7200. Steak house, bar & grill. The atmosphere is romantic with great live music (Jazz), great food and a bar scene. 
  • Haven Bros. Diner, Corner of Fulton & Dorrance, ☏ +1 401 861-7777. Daily 4:30PM-5AM. One of the oldest restaurants in the country, this Providence institution serves hot dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches, milkshakes, and fries. Find it each night parked next to City Hall. Cash only. 
  • Local 121, 121 Washington St, ☏ +1 401 274-2121. Lunch, Tu-Sa; Dinner & drinks, nightly. Creative regional food featuring local ingredients. Local micro-brews, regional wines and classic cocktails. This restaurant is in the renovated Dreyfus Hotel. Great for the foodie, or those looking for a nice place to take out-of-town guests. 
  • Fire and Ice Mongolian Grill, 48 Providence Pl, ☏ +1 401 270-4040. Daily 1130AM-10PM. Fire and Ice is a buffet style grill where you pick your pasta, veggies, meats, seafood, and sauce. All food is cooked right in front of your eyes on a large circular Mongolian grill. Some side order items and liquor is available upon request. Birthday parties and large groups are welcome. The restaurant provides some off side areas for parties. Brunch is offered on Sundays starting at 10:30AM. $9.99-16.99. 
  • Mediterraneo, 134 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401 331-7760. 11AM-1AM. This Italian restaurant is a good eat with high prices for those looking for a upperclass dinner with a casual feel. No suit and tie required. Valet service out front assures the safety of patrons cars while dining. The restaurant has two stories where you can be seated near the bar or overlooking the street in a quiet setting. The menu has a wide variety of Italian with Greek and Spanish influenced dishes. The average dish without any extra add ins is around $20. Plates are of the right serving and you will be satisfied with every bite. After dinner, dessert is brought out to each table on a platter for diners to choose from. This is not a kid friendly restaurant and no kids menu is available. 
  • Small Point Café, 230 Westminster St, ☏ +1 401 228-6999. M–F 7:30AM – 6:30PM, Sa 9AM – 6:30PM, Su 9AM – 6PM. Small Point is a cozy coffee shop in the middle of Downcity. They serve everything from gourmet style sandwiches - with vegetarian options, to boot - to parfaits, but their lattes and latte art are the real selling point. Perfect for breakfast on the go or a quiet study spot. 
  • Flan y Ajo, 225a Westminster St, ☏ +1 401 432-6656. Flan y Ajo is a Spanish eatery that offers an imaginative take on traditional tapas. It is run by the sweetest young couple you could ever hope to meet in this lovely city. A quaint little place to grab a quick lunch. It is also a BYOB establishment. 
  • Julian’s, 318 Broadway, ☏ +1 401-861-1770. Brunch M-F 9AM-5PM, Sa & Su 9AM-2:30PM. They have a large menu but their menu of the day is smaller and easier to make selections from. 
  • Nick's on Broadway, 500 Broadway, ☏ +1 401-421-0286. W-Sa 7AM-3PM and Su 8AM-3PM for brunch. Reasonable prices. It was established in 1969 as a neighborhood diner. They also get all their ingredients from local farmers, growers, and producers. 
  • Olga's Cup & Saucer, 103 Point St (in the Jewelry District), ☏ +1 401 831-6666. Counter service: M-F 7AM-4PM, Sa 9AM-2PM; brunch Su 9AM-3PM. They serve breakfast and are a full functioning bakery. Ingredients are also fresh from local farmers markets. 
  • Caserta Pizzeria, 121 Spruce St, ☏ +1 401 621-3618. Su-Th 9:30AM-10:30PM, F Sa 9:30AM-11:30PM. Located near historic Federal Hill, this pizzeria is an Italian classic. Home of the famous Wimpy Skippy, it’s a spot that you need to try. 
  • Costantino’s Venda Ravioli, 265 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401 421-9105. M-Sa 8:30AM-6PM, Su 8:30AM-4PM. An Italian deli/restaurant is great if you want Italian food. It’s outdoor seating lets you enjoy the beautiful summer views, while eating some of Rhode Island’s best Italian food. 
  • Angelo's, 141 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401 621-8171. Su noon-9PM, M-Th 11:30AM-9PM, F Sa 11:30AM-10PM. The laidback, casual atmosphere here is great. If you're looking for homemade classic Italian cooking, this is the place to be, which suits its Federal Hill location. 
  • Caffé Dolce Vita, 59 DePasquale Plaza, ☏ +1 401-331-8240. Su-Th 8AM-11PM, F Sa 8AM-1AM, Su brunch 8AM-3PM. With a small, intimate atmosphere, the prices here are beyond reasonable. 
  • Costantino’s Ristorante Caffe, 265 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401 528-1100. Su-Th 5PM-10PM, F Sa 5PM-11PM. Located next door to their sister restaurant, Venda, this is for more upscale Italian dining. Take advantage of the outdoor seating in the plaza for beautiful sites to go along with their beautiful Italian selections. Valet available. 
  • Geppetto’s Pizzeria, 53 DePasquale Plaza, + 1 401-270-3003. Open Daily at 11AM. In the heart of the plaza on Federal Hill, it’s in a prime location. Enjoy its relaxed atmosphere while eating delicious grilled, gourmet pizzas.
  • Hemenway’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar, 121 South Main St, ☏ +1 401 351-8570. M-Th 11AM-10PM, F Sa 11AM-11PM, Su noon-9PM. This upscale restaurant is the definition of fine dining. If you’re looking for an excuse to get dressed up while dining on the finest seafood, this the place to be. 
  • Luxe Burger Bar, 5 Memorial Blvd, ☏ +1 401 621-5893. Su-W noon-11PM, Th-Sa noon-midnight. You have never had a burger until you’ve tried a Luxe burger. While their burgers are decently priced, you can create your own with virtually anything on it. This is your time to get creative! 
  • Pane e Vino, 365 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401-223-2230. M-Th 5PM-10PM, F Sa 5PM-11PM, Su 4PM-9PM. Receiving the award of excellence from 2004-2008 and was once considered the “new jewel” on Federal Hill. After dining here you can see why it has gotten so much recognition. 
  • Parkside Rotisserie & Bar, 76 South Main St, ☏ +1 401 331-0003. Open M-Th 11:30AM-10PM, F 11:30AM-11PM, Sa 5PM-11PM, closed Su in the summer. Modeled after a typical Manhattan eatery, its environment is said to be “sensual, elegant, and reliable,” by The Providence Journal. 
  • Siena Restaurant, 238 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401 521-3311. M-Th 5PM-11PM, F 5PM-11PM, Sa 4:30PM-11PM, Su 3PM-9PM. Described as Tuscan soul food served in a “warm and lively atmosphere. Valet available. 

Drink

Night life

  • Ultra The Night Club, 172 Pine St, ☏ +1 401-454-LIVE x31 (5483) (for VIP). Has a large Hip-Hop room and a Techno/House music room with plenty of dance floor to fulfill your dancing desires. Small cover charge and reasonably priced drinks allow for an exciting night for under $50. Dress to impress; 18 to party, 21 to drink. Directly across the street from two other night clubs, Level 2 and Karma. Ultra can be promoted for private or open events weekly from Thursday to Sunday nights. Open 10PM-2AM. 
  • Karma, 101 Richmond St, ☏ +1 401 248-8813. Same building as Level 2 but separately owned, directly across the street from Ultra the Night Club and Jerky’s. The night club is open every week Thursday to Saturday nights. Open 10PM-2AM. 
  • Level 2, 101 Richmond Street, ☏ +1 401 490-4100. Same building as Karma but separately owned, directly across the street from Ultra the Night Club and Jerky’s. The night club is open every week, Th-Sa nights, 10PM-2AM. 
  • GLO Bar, 93 Clemence St., ☏ +1 401 272-0227. 8PM - 2AM. Small downtown bar and dance club with live DJs playing a wide variety of music from hip-hop to techno to alternative. Cheap cocktails available at the two full-length, fully stocked bars. 
  • Club Hell, 73 Richmond Street. 
  • The Hi-Hat, 3 Davol Sq, ☏ +1 401 453-6500. M-Th 4PM-1AM, F Sa 4PM-2AM, Su 6PM-midnight. Features live jazz, Latin, soul, R&B, soft rock, and even swing music in an elegant, upscale atmosphere. Has small dance floor, and a cozy room with fireplaces in the back. Extensive wine and champagne list. Cover charge on weekends, usually ~$8. 
  • Point Street Dueling Pianos, 3 Davol Square, ☏ +1 401 270-7828. 7PM - 2AM. Doors open at 7PM, shows start at 8PM. This is a great place for a night out for either a group or a couple. The pianists play most popular songs, they have some fun with the crowd, and they are very well trained. All song requests cost between $1-10 at the beginning of the night, and more as the night goes on. They only serve drinks, but you are welcome to bring your own food or have it delivered. Cover charge at the door, and it is recommended that reservations are made at least 48 hours in advance. 
  • Roxy Providence, 79 Washington St, ☏ +1 401-831-ROXY (7699). This venue is also known as Lupo’s, but when referred to as Roxy’s is when it is used as a night club on Thursday and Saturday nights weekly. Open 10PM-2AM. 
  • Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel, 79 Washington St, ☏ +1 401-331-LUPO (5876). This venue is also known as Roxy’s, but when referred to as Lupo’s is when it is used for concert events. 
  • PVD Social Club (Jerky’s Bar), 71 Richmond St.. Once referred to as Jerkey's, the PVD Social Club hosts concerts of different artists, both local and not local, along with other events. Can make for a fun night, only thing to be aware of is the bathrooms. There are two toilets in the same space, neither of which is gender specific. Can be a bit of a shock for a first timer. 18+ for most events, 21+ to drink. 
  • Tantric Lounge, 1070 North Main St, ☏ +1 401-273-1070. Daily 10PM-2AM. Known for holding private and special events. 
  • PROV, 99 Chestnut St, ☏ +1 401 621-8888. This is more of a bar than a club but still has a nice dance floor, an elegant environment for an evening of drinks. There is usually a DJ playing new hits and shot girls walking around for your convenience. Dress to impress; 18 to party, 21 to drink. 
  • Ri Ra Irish Pub & Restaurant, 50 Exchange Ter, ☏ +1 401 272-1953. Su-Th 11:30AM-1AM, F Sa 11:30AM-2AM. At Ri Ra everyday is St. Paddy's Day! Great place to throw back a pint o' Guinness in a fun, festive Irish atmosphere. Attracts crowds of all ages. Food also available mainly traditional American food with an Irish twist. Located in part of the original Union Station complex where it was originally a coal storage facility. Ri Ra began life as Lavin's Pub in the town of Swinford, County Mayo on the west coast of Ireland in 1889! Monday=1/2 price wings, Tuesday=Pub Quiz, Wednesday=1/2 price burgers, Thursday=Live Music, Friday & Saturday=Local Bands, Sunday=Irish Session/Karaoke. 
  • Murphy's Deli and Bar, 100 Fountain Street, ☏ +1 401 621-8467. This is a great spot to relax and grab a beer, watch a game, and begin or end your night. It’s a small place, but the food is excellent, the beer is very good, and the prices are even better. If you go, a sandwich is highly recommended as they also serve as a delicatessen. * Trinity Brewhouse, 186 Fountain St, ☏ +1 401 453-2337. M-Th 11:30AM-1AM, F Sa 11:30AM-2AM, Su noon-1AM (food served until Midnight everyday). In addition to a great selection of beer on tap, features six beers (two light, two dark, two amber) that are brewed daily on-site. The same beer is never brewed two days in a row. Serves a full menu of food, lunch through late night. 
  • Lot 401, 44 Hospital St, ☏ +1 401 490-3980. 10PM-2AM. A small venue open to the public with a capacity of 200 on each 2 floors, also a host of many private events. Many diverse nights such as hip-hop night, and reggae night. 
  • Monet Lounge, 115 Harris Ave, ☏ +1 401 351-4848. Th-Sa 10PM-3AM. A fairly intimate club, a venue that holds about 350 people a night. Offers many vip sections for those who call days ahead, but also provided the night of if any sections are still available. Clients are able to hold private events of their own certain nights. A host of many diverse nights playing bachata, reggaton, reggae. 
  • The Salon, 57 Eddy St, ☏ +1 401 865-6330. The Salon is a downtown bar that hosts DJs, live music acts, and downstairs dance parties, typically Thursday - Saturday nights. They have become known in town for their pickle back shots; that's a shot of whiskey chased with a shot of pickle juice, folks. They also serve late night snacks like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. A great place to play pinball, foosball, or table tennis after work or dance your cares away later in the evening. 
  • Artini’s Café & Lounge, 292 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401 274-8464. M Tu 8PM-1AM, W Th 7:30PM-1AM, F Sa 7:30PM-2AM. This warm atmosphere makes you really feel welcome. It’s a small building which makes for a very intimate, personal setting. 
  • Colosseum, 180 Pine St, ☏ +1 401 497-4200. Th 10PM-1AM, F Sa 10PM-2AM. Inspired by "The Renaissance City", to create a trip back to the Gods and Goddesses. The Colosseum is broken into three themed night clubs, "The Ruins", "Mythology" and "The Arena". Mythology is where the real party is, with live DJs and VIP booths for those who want to be catered to. The Colosseum is also home to Shake Wednesdays. This is an Indie/Electro dance night held every Wednesday. Each Wednesday there is a different theme for the night. 18+ on Thursdays and 21+ Friday and Saturday. One of the hottest nightclubs in the city. Make sure to get there early because it usually reaches capacity by 11PM on Thursdays. 
  • Nara, 248 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401 273-6272. M-Th 5PM-1AM, F 5PM-2AM, Sa 3PM-2AM, Su 3PM-1AM. An upscale Hookah Lounge which has a great atmosphere. Its low cushioned seats add to the ambiance and it has private rooms closed off by a curtain available. Valet available. 
  • Tazza, 250 Westminster St, ☏ +1 401 3300. M-W 7AM-12AM, Th 7AM-1AM, F 7AM-2AM, Sa 8AM-2AM, Su 8AM-5PM. Coffee by day, cocktail by night. This unique location has an open mic night that is extremely popular. 
  • WaterFire, 101 Regent Ave, ☏ +1 401 273-1155. WaterFire is one of the “must-see” things when you come to Providence. As each fire is lit along the river in the heart of downtown Providence, it’s the most serene you will see the city. In the Financial Plaza, just a short walk away, you can enjoy different music, dancing and drinks! It’s definitely a time you’ll remember. 
  • Two9Five, 295 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401 437-8340. M-Th 7PM-1AM, F Sa 7PM-2AM & Su noon-1AM. Great place to unwind after a whirlwind of a weekend. The atmosphere is always friendly and you can relax either inside or on their private outdoor patio. Free limo service and valet available. 
  • View Lounge, 1 Financial Way, ☏ +1 401 272-1040. F Sa 10PM-2AM. This outdoor and indoor bar is always busy during the summer. With views right on the water, it always has the hottest DJ’s around. Valet available. 
  • Mirabar, 35 Richmond Street, ☏ +1 401 331-6761. Su-Th 3PM-1AM, F Sa 3PM-2AM. Self-proclaimed Rhode Island's best gay men's bar and dance club. Laser lights, high-energy dance floor, shirtless shot boys and themed nights. Fun for girls and boys! This is a hot-spot for the trendy gay male crowd and their gal pals. Not recommended for those who don't like loud dance music and/or like to mingle. 
  • The Dark Lady, 124 Snow Street, ☏ +1 401 831-4297. M-Th 9PM-1AM, F Sa 9PM-2AM. Always has something going on. A popular spot for cross-dressers and transsexuals, with live drag shows featuring local talent. The Dark Lady's performers are known to socialize with patrons. Great place for meeting those in the transsexual/cross-dressing scene. 

Sleep

  • Hotel Providence, 139 Mathewson St, ☏ +1 401 861-8000. In the heart of the arts and entertainment district of downtown Providence. Offers valet, concierge, laundry services, business center, fitness studio and wonderful food and beverage experience from their hotel restaurant, Aspire. 
  • 1 The Biltmore, 11 Dorrance St, ☏ +1 401 421-0700. In a historic 1922 building (on National Register of Historic Places). A plaque high up on the lobby columns commemorates the high-water mark of the 1954 hurricane that struck Providence. Adjacent to Kennedy Plaza. Featuring elegantly appointed rooms furnished to the highest standards and their very own Spa. Food and dinning services are provided by McCormick & Schmick's. 
  • 2 Hampton Inn and Suites, 58 Weybosset St, ☏ +1 401 608-3500. Hampton Inn is a select-service hotel that offers guests amenities and a spacious accommodating environment. Some of the amenities they offer are wireless high speed Internet access, shuttle service to/from TF Green Airport, suite shop on-site convenience store, full service 24-hour business center, fitness center, and free valet parking. The Hampton Inn is a member of the Hilton family of hotels. 
  • 3 Renaissance Providence Hotel, 5 Avenue of the Arts, ☏ +1 401 276-0010. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. Adjacent to the Rhode Island State House and Providence Place Mall. 24-hour room service, high speed internet wireless, valet parking and on-site parking-$26 daily, smoke-free hotel, comfortable rooms. 
  • 4 Omni Providence Hotel, 1 West Exchange St, ☏ +1 401 598-8000. Connected to the Rhode Island Convention Center and the Providence Place Mall. Features a heated indoor pool, fully equipped Capital Club fitness center, spa, dining services, Centro Restaurant and more. 
  • 5 Courtyard Providence Downtown, 32 Exchange Terrace, toll-free: +1-888-887-7955. This Marriott hotel is conveniently located downtown, overlooking the State House and Waterplace Park. It is within walking distance of the Amtrak Station, the RI Convention Center, and Providence Place Mall. The rates are reasonable and the hotel also offers free WiFi. 
  • 6 Hilton Providence, 21 Atwells Ave, ☏ +1 401 831-3900. A luxury hotel next to the Dunkin Donuts Center. On-site dining includes Shula's 347 Grill. 
  • 7 Providence Marriott Downtown, 1 Orms St, ☏ +1 401 272-2400. Located in the Capitol District. Nearby shopping, restaurants and features a brand new salon on-site. Restaurants include Temple Restaurant featuring Mediterranean cuisine. 
  • 8 Courtyard Providence Downtown, 32 Exchange Terrace at Memorial Blvd, ☏ +1 401 272-1191, fax: +1 401 272-1416. Although a little on the pricey side, the Courtyard Hotel in downtown Providence offers all the amenities that Marriott's are known for. Close to WaterPlace Park and the Rhode Island Convention Center, as well as the Providence Shopping Center. 
  • 9 The Dean, 122 Fountain St, ☏ +1 401 455-DEAN (3326), . An arts-oriented boutique hotel in a downtown building that once housed a brothel, The Dean cultivates a hipster ambiance. There's an Asian-style karaoke lounge, a German restaurant and a beer hall, but its 52 rooms are not equipped with phones or dressers, though a few have bunk beds. 

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This district travel guide to Downtown is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please feel free to improve it by editing the page.


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