Kennedy Plaza, Public square in Downtown Providence, Rhode Island, United States

Kennedy Plaza is a rectangular public square in the center of Downtown Providence, bordered by Exchange, Fulton, Dorrance, and Washington streets. It is surrounded by City Hall, federal buildings, and skyscrapers, and it functions as a central bus station with many routes stopping there.

The square dates back to the mid 19th century and was long known as Exchange Place or City Hall Park. Over time it has been redesigned many times to serve both civic gatherings and growing transportation needs.

The square is a busy meeting point where residents wait for buses, grab coffee, and cross paths during the day. Its central location makes it a natural stage for public events and a common reference point for giving directions in the city.

The square is easy to reach on foot from nearby streets and is served by many bus lines, so you can use it as a starting point to explore downtown. Expect crowds during rush hours, and watch for buses when crossing the square.

An architectural historian once described the square as the city's most constantly reworked space, noting that it works as an open-air bus station. Despite the changes, it remains a compelling open space that shows off some of Providence's best buildings.