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Introduction
Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, is a charming Ivy League campus that is rich in history and culture. The university is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by a plethora of attractions, landmarks, and experiences. Whether you are a student, a tourist, or a local, this comprehensive travel guide will help you navigate the best of what the area has to offer.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in the area is the Rhode Island State House, which is a stunning colonial building that offers guided tours. Another popular attraction is the Roger Williams Park Zoo, which features over 150 species of animals from around the world. The RISD Museum is also a must-visit spot, with its impressive collection of art and artifacts from ancient times to the present day.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider visiting the Swan Point Cemetery, which is a peaceful and picturesque spot that offers a glimpse into the city’s past. The John Brown House Museum is another hidden gem, with its beautiful architecture and fascinating history. The Waterplace Park and Riverwalk is also a hidden gem, with its scenic views of the river and beautiful sunsets.
Food Scene
Providence is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, with everything from seafood to Italian cuisine. Some of the top restaurants in the area include Al Forno, which is famous for its grilled pizza, and Hemenway’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar, which offers fresh seafood and a stunning waterfront view. For a more casual dining experience, head to Federal Hill, which is known as the “Little Italy” of Providence.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a budget, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the area without breaking the bank. Consider visiting the Providence Children’s Museum, which offers free admission on the first Saturday of every month. The Rhode Island School of Design Museum is also free on Sundays, and the Providence Athenaeum offers free tours of its historic library. For affordable eats, head to the famous Haven Brothers Diner, which has been serving up classic diner fare since 1888.
Outdoor Adventures
The area around Brown University offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking to kayaking. The Blackstone River Bikeway is a scenic bike route that runs through the heart of Rhode Island, and the Woonasquatucket River Greenway is a beautiful nature trail that offers stunning views of the city. For kayaking and paddleboarding, head to the Providence River, which offers a unique perspective of the city.
Natural Wonders
For a taste of nature, head to the nearby Lincoln Woods State Park, which features hiking trails, swimming areas, and picnic spots. The Audubon Society of Rhode Island is another great spot for nature lovers, with its beautiful trails and birdwatching opportunities. The East Bay Bike Path is also a scenic route that offers stunning views of the Narragansett Bay.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in the area. The Providence Children’s Museum is a must-visit spot, with its interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. The Roger Williams Park Zoo is another popular attraction, with its animal encounters and train rides. For a unique experience, consider taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, consider visiting the Providence Ghost Tour, which offers a spooky and fascinating look into the city’s haunted history. The WaterFire Providence event is also a unique and memorable experience, with its breathtaking fire installations and live music performances. For a taste of local culture, head to the Providence Performing Arts Center, which offers a variety of shows and performances throughout the year.
Vibrant Nightlife
Providence is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. The Thirsty Beaver is a popular spot for locals and students, with its affordable drinks and laid-back atmosphere. The Rooftop at the Providence G is another must-visit spot, with its stunning views of the city and live music performances. For a taste of local brews, head to the Trinity Brewhouse, which offers a variety of craft beers and pub fare.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, head to the Providence Flea, which is a weekly outdoor market that features local artisans, vintage finds, and food trucks. The Hope Street Farmers Market is another popular spot, with its fresh produce and artisanal products. The Armory Farmers Market is also worth a visit, with its unique and eclectic mix of vendors.
Beaches and Mountains
Although Providence is not known for its beaches and mountains, there are plenty of nearby spots that offer a taste of the great outdoors. The Newport Cliff Walk is a scenic route that offers stunning views of the ocean and the mansions along the coast. The Block Island Ferry is another popular attraction, with its beautiful beaches and charming island vibe. For a taste of the mountains, head to the nearby Wachusett Mountain, which offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and biking in the summer.
Cultural Immersion
For a taste of local culture, head to the Trinity Repertory Company, which is one of the country’s leading regional theaters. The Providence Athenaeum is another cultural gem, with its historic library and beautiful architecture. The Providence Art Club is also worth a visit, with its impressive collection of art and exhibitions. For a taste of local music, head to the AS220, which is a nonprofit arts organization that offers live music performances and art exhibitions.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore the area around Brown University is on foot. The Providence Preservation Society offers a variety of walking tours, including a historic district tour and a ghost tour. The Rhode Island Historical Society also offers a variety of tours, including a walking tour of the East Side and a tour of the Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum. For a taste of local food, consider taking a food tour with Rhode Island Red Food Tours.
Architectural Marvels
Providence is known for its impressive architecture, with everything from colonial buildings to modern skyscrapers. The First Baptist Church in America is a stunning colonial building that is worth a visit, as is the Providence City Hall, which is a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture. The Superman Building, which is the tallest building in Rhode Island, is also an impressive sight.
Historical Sites
The area around Brown University is rich in history, with everything from colonial landmarks to Civil War sites. The Old State House is a stunning colonial building that offers a glimpse into the city’s past, and the Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture. The Rhode Island Civil War Round Table is also worth a visit, with its fascinating exhibits and artifacts.
Biking Routes
If you prefer to explore the area on two wheels, there are plenty of scenic bike routes to choose from. The East Bay Bike Path is a popular route that runs along the Narragansett Bay, and the Blackstone River Bikeway is a scenic route that runs through Rhode Island’s historic mill towns. For a more challenging ride, consider taking the Newport Ocean Drive route, which offers stunning views of the ocean and the mansions along the coast.
Wellness Retreats
For a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, head to one of the area’s wellness retreats. The Spa at the Providence Biltmore offers a variety of spa treatments and services, including massages, facials, and body treatments. The Zen Center of Providence is another wellness destination, with its meditation classes and workshops. The Providence Power Yoga is also worth a visit, with its challenging and invigorating yoga classes.
Adventure Sports
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of adventure sports to choose from in the area. The Providence Rink at the Alex and Ani City Center offers ice skating and ice bumper cars in the winter, and roller skating in the summer. The Rhode Island Sports Center is another popular spot, with its indoor rock climbing and trampoline park. For a unique experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride with Soaring Adventures of America.
Conclusion
Whether you are a student, a tourist, or a local, the area around Brown University offers something for everyone. From historic landmarks to outdoor adventures, from local markets to vibrant nightlife, this travel guide has covered the best of what the area has to offer. So pack your bags, grab your map, and get ready to explore the charming city of Providence, Rhode Island!