Traveling alone in Providence can take you on a whirlwind adventure through the renaissance capitol of Rhode Island.
The Renaissance city, also known as Providence RI, hosts many a fun thing to do while you're alone. Whether you want to walk along the cobblestone streets of historic Federal Hill, or visit the Providence Place Mall, you will be sure to entertain yourself during your journey.
Federal Hill is the traditional Italian section of Providence. Back in the day, the cobblestone streets were lined with vendors selling their fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as traditional Italian meats and cheeses. The Italian Mafia staked its claim here to make Providence's Federal Hill host to some of the biggest names of the mob.
In more recent years, Federal Hill has become more modernized with a diverse variety of cultural backgrounds. Chinese and Japanese restaurants are mixed among the fine Italian restaurants which Providence is famous for. So grab a gelato at Jessie's, a favorite local spot of ice cream and coffee, put on your walking shoes and take a stroll through the history of Federal Hill.
The Providence Place Mall boasts some of the finest department stores, specialty shops and restaurants in New England throughout its three floors and street level. Nordstrom's makes its only New England appearance here, bringing its superior quality and exceptional customer service to Providence.
If you are traveling at night, be sure to check out Waterfire Providence. This award winning exhibition is located at the riverfront. The flames glow from dusk until midnight and are tended by volunteers boating delicately around the flames shooting up from the center of the river. Thousands gather each weekend of the event throughout the warmer summer months of Rhode Island's capitol city.
Another great place to visit while alone in Providence is the Rhode Island School of Design Museum. Over 85,000 works of art from every media form is present in this widely acknowledged museum, one of the best in the country for its size. RISD is the alma mater of many famous artisans from around the world. Seth MacFarlane, creator of Fox TV's The Family Guy is a more recent graduate of RISD and is thoroughly enjoying his success with this Rhode Island based animated series.
Check out what's playing at the Providence Performing Arts Center or PPAC as the locals call it. This architectural landmark is a crown jewel in Providence, hosting many Broadway shows and theatrical entertainment for kids and adults alike.
While you're downtown in the city, stop in at The Arcade, the United States' oldest shopping mall. Delicatessens and pastry shops are located in this prized landmark of Providence. Just outside during the summer months, you'll find traditional hot dog, pretzel and sausage vendors from noon until midnight, selling their munchies to passersby in the busy Capitol city streets, the makings of a great afternoon or evening of people watching.
With all that Providence has to offer, you'll sure to keep busy and entertained during your stay. At certain points during the year, especially in the summer months, Providence is the host to many festivals and events. If you're lucky enough to visit during one of these, you'll be sure to have an extra good time. Check with the local Chamber of Commerce, community bulletin boards or Providence websites for the dates and times of each.
