The capital of Rhode Island, Providence, may be a small city, but it packs a punch when it comes to culture, history, and beauty. With its vibrant arts scene, charming architecture, and delicious food, Providence is a perfect city to explore in June, when the weather is warm and sunny. Here are the ten best places to visit in Providence in June 2024:
1. Roger Williams Park Zoo
Roger Williams Park Zoo is one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in the United States. Home to over 100 species of animals from around the world, the zoo is a great place to learn about wildlife and see some amazing creatures up close. In June, the zoo is particularly beautiful, with the flowers in bloom and the animals enjoying the warm weather.
2. WaterFire
WaterFire is a unique and beautiful art installation that takes place on the banks of the Providence River. Dozens of bonfires are lit on the river, creating a magical and ethereal atmosphere. WaterFire is a free event, and it’s a great way to experience the city’s culture and beauty.
3. Brown University
Brown University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States. The campus is beautiful, with historic buildings and lush green spaces. In June, the university offers a variety of free events, including concerts, lectures, and tours. Don’t miss the Brown University Bookstore, a great spot for souvenirs and gifts.
4. RISD Museum
The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum is one of the leading art museums in the country. The museum has a vast collection of over 100,000 works of art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. In June, the museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of the month. Consider grabbing lunch at the RISD Museum Café, known for its tasty sandwiches and soups.
5. Providence Children’s Museum
The Providence Children’s Museum is a great place for kids to learn and play. The museum has a variety of interactive exhibits on science, art, and culture. In June, the museum offers a variety of special events, including workshops, story time, and puppet shows. The museum also has a small café, offering light bites and snacks.
6. Federal Hill
Federal Hill is Providence’s historic Italian neighborhood. The neighborhood is home to many great restaurants, bakeries, and shops. In June, Federal Hill hosts the popular Italian Festival, a week-long celebration of Italian culture with music, food, and games. Federal Hill is also home to DePasquale Square, a small park with a beautiful fountain.
7. Thayer Street
Thayer Street is a vibrant shopping and dining destination in Providence. The street is lined with independent boutiques, restaurants, and bars. In June, Thayer Street hosts the Thayer Street Art Festival, a weekend-long event with live music, art vendors, and food trucks. Thayer Street is also home to the historic Avon Cinema, an independent movie theater.
8. Providence Athenaeum
The Providence Athenaeum is a beautiful and historic library. The library has a collection of over 400,000 books, including rare and first editions. In June, the Athenaeum offers a variety of free events, including author readings, book discussions, and exhibitions. Visitors can also take a tour of the library’s historic building.
9. The Arcade
The Arcade is the oldest indoor shopping mall in the United States. The mall is home to a variety of shops and restaurants. In June, The Arcade hosts a variety of special events, including concerts, fashion shows, and art exhibitions. The center court of the mall has a beautiful glass ceiling, offering plenty of natural light.
10. India Point Park
India Point Park is a beautiful park on the banks of the Providence River. The park has a playground, a dog park, and a walking trail. In June, the park is a great place to relax and enjoy the warm weather. Visitors can also take a stroll along the India Point Promenade, offering stunning views of the river and the city skyline.
Culture
Providence is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich cultural scene. The city is home to a variety of museums, theaters, and art galleries. Providence is also known for its music scene, with a number of live music venues and music festivals throughout the year. One of the notable music event is the Providence Folk Festival which usually takes place in June, showcasing folk and roots music.
Best Months to Visit
Providence is a great city to visit any time of year, but June is an ideal time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. June is also a great time to catch one of the city’s many festivals, like the Italian Festival and the Thayer Street Art Festival.
Nearby Transportation
Providence is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. The city is served by T.F. Green Airport (PVD), which is located about 10 miles from downtown. Providence also has a train station, Amtrak Station, which is located in the heart of downtown. The city’s public transportation system, RIPTA, provides bus service throughout the city and the surrounding area.
Local Food
Providence is a great city for foodies. The city has a variety of restaurants serving everything from classic New England seafood to international cuisine and locally-sourced farm-to-table dishes. Be sure to try some of the city’s famous dishes, like clam cakes, Del’s Lemonade, and coffee milk.
Best Hotels
There are a variety of hotels to choose from in Providence, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Some of the best hotels in the city include The Graduate Providence, Hotel Providence, and the Omni Providence Hotel. When booking your hotel, consider looking for those offering packages or discounts for travelers visiting in June 2024.
Conclusion
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture, Providence is a great city to visit any time of year. But June is an ideal time to visit, when the weather is warm and sunny and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. So, if you’re looking for a great place to spend a summer getaway, be sure to add Providence to your list.
