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Explore Providence and Rhode Island on a professionally guided tour or see the sites up close on a self-guided walking tour. If you’re looking for a leisurely adventure, sit back, relax and enjoy the views by bus. Or if you’re the seafaring type, hop on board a gondola or riverboat tour of the city.
In Providence, we don't talk the talk, we walk the walk, and we're so glad you agree. A panel of trusted travel experts nominated Providence as one of the "Most Walkable Cities to Visit" in the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, and YOU voted to land us in the top 2! Thanks for choosing Providence as the 2nd Most Walkable City to Visit three years in a row. See for yourself by taking a walking tour through Providence.
Post Date:
September 15, 2026
Providence is ready for its close-up! With the release of "Ella McCay" — the first film directed by James L. Brooks in over a decade — The Creative Capital is shining on the big screen after hosting an all-star cast, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Emma Mackey and Woody Harrelson, to name a few. Filmed across our neighborhoods and landmarks, the movie captures what makes Providence so special: diverse architecture, walkable streets and that perfect blend of city energy and neighborhood charm.Brooks himself summed it up best: "What I need for this film is to represent America ... in sort of the best sense possible. And we looked at a lot of places and I'm so glad we're here."And Jamie Lee Curtis? She fell in love with Providence, too — whether grabbing her daily sticky bun at Seven Stars Bakery or hosting a cast dinner at New Rivers. Now you can follow in her footsteps with this "Ella McCay" inspired weekend itinerary. Providence is ready for its close-up! With the release of "Ella McCay" — the first film directed by James L. Brooks in over a decade — The Creative Capital is shining on the big screen after hosting an all-star cast, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Emma Mackey and Woody Harrelson, to name a few. Filmed across our neighborhoods and landmarks, the movie captures what makes Providence so special: diverse architecture, walkable streets and that perfect blend of city energy and neighborhood charm.Brooks himself summed it up best: "What I need for this film is to represent America ... in sort of the best sense possible. And we looked at a lot of places and I'm so glad we're here."And Jamie Lee Curtis? She fell in love with Providence, too — whether grabbing her daily sticky bun at Seven Stars Bakery or hosting a cast dinner at New Rivers. Now you can follow in her footsteps with this "Ella McCay" inspired weekend itinerary.
Find Out More Find Out MoreProvidence is ready for its close-up! With the release of "Ella McCay" — the first film directed by James L. Brooks in over a decade — The Creative Capital is shining on the big screen after hosting an all-star cast, including Jamie Lee Curtis, Emma Mackey and Woody Harrelson, to name a few. Filmed across our neighborhoods and landmarks, the movie captures what makes Providence so special: diverse architecture, walkable streets and that perfect blend of city energy and neighborhood charm.Brooks himself summed it up best: "What I need for this film is to represent America ... in sort of the best sense possible. And we looked at a lot of places and I'm so glad we're here."And Jamie Lee Curtis? She fell in love with Providence, too — whether grabbing her daily sticky bun at Seven Stars Bakery or hosting a cast dinner at New Rivers. Now you can follow in her footsteps with this "Ella McCay" inspired weekend itinerary.
Experience Rhode Island’s Rhode Island in a Day tour is a one-of-a-kind showcase of everything that makes the Ocean State great. Led by an expert guide, guests experience the culture, cuisine, scenery, and history of America’s smallest state in a single unforgettable day. At just 48 miles long and 37 miles wide, Rhode Island is full of big surprises. The journey begins in Providence and travels by tour bus around Narragansett Bay, with breathtaking views and stories of what this small state has contributed to the nation. Along the way, guests see the sights Rhode Island is best known for, including picturesque beaches, colonial architecture, lighthouses, islands, quintessential New England towns, and Newport’s stunning mansions. From Providence to Newport and the charming towns in between, it’s the perfect way to see Rhode Island in a day.The tour requires a minimum of six participants, who do not need to be booking together.
On the Downcity Providence Food Tour, guests can expect a flavorful journey through the heart of Rhode Island’s capital city. This guided walking tour blends delicious tastings from some of Providence’s best eateries with fascinating stories about the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture. Along the way, you’ll sample local favorites and creative dishes that highlight the city’s diverse culinary scene — from classic RI foods and creative modern twists to ethnic dishes showcasing the diversity in the city. In between bites, you’ll discover hidden gems, vibrant street art, and the unique character that makes Downcity a hub of food and culture. It’s the perfect mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and savoring.
Discover the vibrant Providence arts scene. Becoming Providence: Mural and Gallery Tour is an immersive exploration of Providence’s creative identity, experienced through vibrant murals and dynamic gallery spaces. You’ll encounter striking murals that offer a window into the city’s evolving identity, revealing the people, stories, and forces that have shaped Providence over time.Along the way, we’ll step inside three standout galleries, where that story continues through contemporary artists whose work is actively shaping what Providence is becoming today. The result is a visually rich, thoughtfully designed experience that reveals the city not as a static snapshot, but as a place in motion, continually redefining itself.HighlightsThe former Biltmore HotelShe Never Came MuralSalt Water MuralEmpire Rising MuralProvidence IndustrialOBEY MuralStill Here MuralProvidence Gallery Spaces
The Viaggio dei Sogni, which translates to "Trip of Dreams," is the signature 40-minute gondola ride and a great fit for just about any occasion. Guests settle into an authentic Venetian gondola and take in the calm, quiet beauty of the Providence riverfront.A skilled gondolier rows at an easy pace along the Providence and Woonasquatucket Rivers, passing historic landmarks, winding through city parks, and slipping under charming bridges. It's an experience that stays with you long after you step back onto the dock.What's IncludedWine glasses, a wine bucket, and an opener. Bring along your own wine, prosecco, juice, or other beverages. Bottled water is often on hand at the dock, though availability can't be promised.Housemade Italian wine biscuits.A serenade from your gondolier. Every gondolier sings Italian songs during the ride, and they're happy to try any special requests.What to BringSomething to sip. Wine, beer, prosecco, juice, or whatever you prefer, and everything needed to chill and pour it will be ready when you board.Food if you'd like it, from light snacks to a full picnic. Pack your own napkins and utensils, as those aren't supplied. Wine biscuits are included with every ride.Layers or rain gear as the forecast calls for. Blankets and umbrellas are also available on the boat.A camera for the memories. Just ask, and staff will take photos of your group at the dock before or after the ride.
Immerse yourself in the spooky side of Providence’s history! Allow our guides to lead you by lantern light as we introduce you to Providence’s longest-lingering residents. As we creep among the shadows, we walk in the footsteps of local literary giants and humble servants alike, their restless souls still stirring among the living. Learn the tales that keep college students at Brown University and RISD jumping out of their beds at night as we weave history and mystery into a fine tapestry of spine-tingling delight.As you explore the university campuses and admire the beautiful architecture, your guide tells you about the fascinating and sometimes chilling history of the area. Your guide is an excellent storyteller, and their tales are sure to give you goosebumps. If you’re a fan of the supernatural, you can’t miss this ghost tour!Be sure to wear your walking shoes to explore the hills and streets of Providence. And don’t forget your camera! You might capture a ghostly presence during your tour.
The Viaggio di Rapsodia is a 40-minute gondola ride that builds on the basic trip package by adding a live musician to the experience. A seasoned gondolier guides the boat along the Providence and Woonasquatucket Rivers, gliding past historic sites, through city parks, and beneath scenic bridges, while a musician you select plays a private serenade.It's an ideal choice for a date night, an outing with friends, or marking a milestone.What's IncludedA live musician of your choosing, with options including mandolin, guitar, violin, accordion, and saxophone. Availability varies by day, so not every musician can be booked on every date.A wine bucket, glasses, and an opener. Guests bring their own wine, prosecco, juice, or other drinks. Bottled water is usually available at the dock, but it isn't guaranteed.Handmade Italian wine biscuits.Italian songs from your gondolier. Every gondolier sings during the ride, and special song requests are welcome.
Choose from guided or self-guided walking tours, bus tours, riverboat and gondola rides, and specialty tours focused on food, cocktails, history, ghosts and comedy.
Yes. Providence was voted the 2nd Most Walkable City to Visit in the 2026 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, its third year in a row in the top two.
Yes. The Rhode Island in a Day tour departs from Providence and travels by bus around Narragansett Bay, with beaches, lighthouses, colonial towns and Newport’s mansions along the way. It needs at least six participants, who don’t have to book together.
Yes. Bus tours, riverboat cruises and gondola rides let you sit back and take in the sights. For a walking tour without hills, the Parasols and Pocket Watches tour stays on fairly flat Benefit Street.
Yes. The Comedy Tour and Comedy Brunch Tour require guests to be 21 or older to book.
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but we’re packed with plenty of amazing places to take photos. One of the most photographed things we’ve seen are sunrises and sunsets, so we curated the best locations in RI to capture your own stunning shots. Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but we’re packed with plenty of amazing places to take photos. One of the most photographed things we’ve seen are sunrises and sunsets, so we curated the best locations in RI to capture your own stunning shots.
Read More Read MoreThe Parasols and Pocket Watches Tour is a 90 minute (+/- 10 minutes) walking tour of historic Benefit Street, known as "The Mile of History." Get to know the people and events that have shaped this street, our city, and our state. It is an elegant stroll through time!Benefit Street is a fairly flat street. We will not ascend or descend College Hill on this tour. It is appropriate for people of most activity levels and mobility needs. Please note, the sidewalk is uneven, so please wear stable, comfortable footwear.This tour meets at the gates of the Tillinghast Cemetery, beside Barker Playhouse on Benefit St. The Parasols and Pocket Watches Tour is a 90 minute (+/- 10 minutes) walking tour of historic Benefit Street, known as "The Mile of History." Get to know the people and events that have shaped this street, our city, and our state. It is an elegant stroll through time!Benefit Street is a fairly flat street. We will not ascend or descend College Hill on this tour. It is appropriate for people of most activity levels and mobility needs. Please note, the sidewalk is uneven, so please wear stable, comfortable footwear.This tour meets at the gates of the Tillinghast Cemetery, beside Barker Playhouse on Benefit St.
Read More Read MoreThe Parasols and Pocket Watches Tour is a 90 minute (+/- 10 minutes) walking tour of historic Benefit Street, known as "The Mile of History." Get to know the people and events that have shaped this street, our city, and our state. It is an elegant stroll through time!Benefit Street is a fairly flat street. We will not ascend or descend College Hill on this tour. It is appropriate for people of most activity levels and mobility needs. Please note, the sidewalk is uneven, so please wear stable, comfortable footwear.This tour meets at the gates of the Tillinghast Cemetery, beside Barker Playhouse on Benefit St.
#1 on TripAdvisor & Named Best Overall Providence Hotel of 2019_x000D_ _x000D_ The historic Hotel Providence reigns over the city's Arts and Entertainment district, a neighborhood graced with myriad shops, restaurants, and theaters, that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tastefully renovated in late-19th-century style, the Providence deftly combines old world charm with 21st-century amenities, including Backstage Kitchen + Bar, the hotel's on-site restaurant and lounge. #1 on TripAdvisor & Named Best Overall Providence Hotel of 2019_x000D_ _x000D_ The historic Hotel Providence reigns over the city's Arts and Entertainment district, a neighborhood graced with myriad shops, restaurants, and theaters, that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tastefully renovated in late-19th-century style, the Providence deftly combines old world charm with 21st-century amenities, including Backstage Kitchen + Bar, the hotel's on-site restaurant and lounge.
Read More Read More25% off food to everyone in a Scotland shirt all weekend (Fri 11/27-Mon 11/30). There will be special prizes from our sponsors as well for anyone in a Scotland jersey and repeat beer specials from the World Cup. 25% off food to everyone in a Scotland shirt all weekend (Fri 11/27-Mon 11/30). There will be special prizes from our sponsors as well for anyone in a Scotland jersey and repeat beer specials from the World Cup.
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