Black Heritage in Providence

While always acknowledging Providence's legacy of participation in the slave trade, we also want to celebrate the rich history of the Black community from the early days of the Revolution to the present day. From the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society's exhibit on Black entrepreneurs to Stages of Freedom's Museum of African American History, stories of Black excellence and accomplishment are plentiful. Be sure to stop for lunch or dinner at one of Providence's many Black-owned restaurants while you visit the sites on the Early Black History Walking Tour. With a variety of cuisines from Southern soul food to traditional African meals, you're sure to find something you like!

The District

A hip fusion kitchen/bar in the heart of Providence's Jewelry District.

The Village

The Village Restaurant is expanding! The Village PVD is our newest Restaurant located at 100 Fountain St. Providence. Enjoy a sit in dinner with great ambiance or order takeout. Serving the same authentic Nigerian food Village Restaurant is popular for, with a wider selection of Vegan and Vegetarian options. You can order online for quick pick up or delivery.

More Restaurants

Rhode Island Black Heritage Society

As one of the oldest African heritage organizations in the country, their mission is to preserve African descendant's historical artifacts.

Early Black History Walking Tour

View an interactive map of this walking tour with descriptions and photos of each stop.

Rustic Interior With Cabinets, Chairs And Spinning Wheel At Stephen Hopkins House

Stages of Freedom

10 WESTMINSTER STREET | PROVIDENCE, RI

Stages of Freedom was founded in 2016 with a goal of building community and advancing racial equity through the arts and humanities. In addition to their signature Swim Empowerment program, which provides free swimming lessons at partner YMCAs for youth of color, they offer a variety of cultural workshops to elevate and empower the BIPOC community. Workshops include Bow Ties for Boys and Girls Tea Party, as well as visits to museums, theater and concerts.Their Westminster St. location is home to a Museum of African American history, which features exhibits, videos and artifacts highlighting stories of Black excellence and accomplishment in Rhode Island. For more info, visit StagesOfFreedom.org.