THINGS TO DO IN PROVIDENCE

Our List of Things to Do in Rhode Island

The Norwich Spa at Graduate Providence is located in the center of downtown Providence, RI, known for its historical roots, thriving arts community, vibrant and diverse schools and universities, fantastic hotels, a renowned restaurant scene, and tons of things to do!

Whether you’re in search of the perfect souvenir, a trendy outfit, or a one-of-a-kind antique, Providence’s shopping districts have you covered. Discover the charming shops of Wayland Square, or the eclectic boutiques along Wickenden Street. The bustling Providence Place Mall is an iconic shopping destination in the heart of downtown Providence. Featuring over 150 stores and restaurants, this upscale shopping center offers a wide range of fashion, accessories, and home goods. Browse popular brands like Apple, Nordstrom, and Zara, or unwind after a long day of shopping at one of the mall’s many dining options, from casual cafes to elegant bistros.

Reiners Restaurant in Providence

Reiners Restaurant, Bar and Game Room

Reiners, steps from the spa and located off of the lobby of Graduate Providence Hotel, brings fun, flavor and the ultimate gaming experience to the Providence community and hotel guests alike. Reiners boasts two Topgolf® Swing Suites® and is outfitted with 10 TVs – treating guests to an immersive sports experience and exciting place to socialize. The menu features a combination of local cuisine and seafood favorites as well as elevated pub fare. The beverage program offers classic artisan cocktails, flavorful wine varietals, and a rotating selection of craft beer available on tap.

Shopping

Located minutes from the Norwich Spa, Providence Place Mall offers visitors a mall with more than 170 shopping, dining and entertainment options.

Funky urban chic can be found at one of the many boutiques on Thayer and Wickenden streets, both on the city’s tony East Side. From the hip downtown neighborhood, to elegant Wayland Square and eclectic Federal Hill, there is lots to see and buy. For those looking to make something old, new again, Providence offers a fun and eclectic vintage retail scene.

Garden City Center, in nearby Cranston, R.I., offers a unique mix of sophisticated shops, eateries and boutiques. Located just 10 minutes from Downtown Providence, its charming village design invites open-air shopping for all seasons.

Providence Place Mall
Roger Williams Zoo in Providence RI

Roger Williams Park

Approximately 5 miles from downtown Providence, dotted with lakes and filled with trees, gardens, and walking paths, this 400-acre-plus showcase of Victorian landscape design is the kind of verdant civic park you’d love to have in your own town. Attractions within the main attraction: Roger Williams Park Zoo, the third oldest in the country, where thrills range from a petting zoo to a zip-line ride; the Roger Williams Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, the only such museum in Rhode Island, and the state’s only public planetarium; the Botanical Center at Roger Williams Park, the largest public indoor display gardens in New England; and a Carousel Village with a vintage merry-go-round and a choo-choo train.

Museums

The city is home to several museums, including the RISD Museum, part of the famed Rhode Island School of Design; the John Brown House Museum, a landmark from the 18th century; and the Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum, an American National Historic Landmark. For families, we have the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, the state’s only natural history museum and public planetarium; the Providence Children’s Museum, a hands-on museum for children.

Museums in Providence RI