Downtown Providence is the humming heartbeat of the city. Home to the city's tallest buildings, a wide range of dining and shopping options, and most recently a growing number of residences, downtown Providence has plenty to offer.

Scenically set upon three rivers (the same rivers in which the city was founded in 1636), the downtown area offers a walkable riverfront in a bustling cityscape. A walk along Memorial Boulevard provides an opportunity to chart the city's interesting architecture - and pick out a perfect spot for a WaterFire viewing. The city's redevelopment of the riverfront has served has a model for other cities around the world. 

For more information on the city's history, a visit to the Roger Williams National Memorial and the Rhode Island State House are well worth a visit.

Preservation efforts and historic tax credits have jump started redevelopment, allowing resourceful reuse of some of the city's most beautiful buildings. In towering and ornate buildings, once home to dry goods and department stores, you can now find residences, restaurants and galleries.
Events and attractions like WaterFire, ice skating, Gallery Night, Movies on the Block, and even bocce, ensure the city's heartbeat stays strong throughout the evening and all four seasons.

For more information on downtown Providence, including special events and parking, we encourage you to visit our friends In Downcity and the Providence Downtown Improvement District.

   Photo Credit: PWCVB/Nicholas Millard.