Providence

Providence is the capital of Rhode Island and sits at the mouth of the Providence River where it meets Narragansett Bay. The city spreads across several hills, with the historic center around Kennedy Plaza and the newer residential neighborhoods on the higher ground.

Roger Williams founded the settlement in 1636 after his exile from Massachusetts Bay Colony as a refuge for religious freedom. The city grew in the 18th century through trade and seafaring, then later through textile mills along the riverbanks.

Students from the Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University fill the streets, especially in the College Hill area with its bookshops and cafés. The Italian community on Federal Hill runs family businesses where you can buy homemade pasta and fresh pastries, while locals jog or picnic in the parks along the river.

The train station offers direct connections to Boston and New York, while buses reach the surrounding suburbs and beaches. Most downtown sights are within walking distance of each other, as the area is compact enough to explore on foot.

The WaterFire installation takes place on the three rivers of downtown during summer months, with wood fires lit in floating basins. The fires draw thousands of visitors who walk along the riverbanks and experience street musicians and food stalls.

Location: Providence County

Inception: 1636

Founders: Roger Williams

Elevation above the sea: 23 m

Address: Providence, RI, USA

Website: https://providenceri.gov

GPS coordinates: 41.82399,-71.41283

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:29