Once an industrialized port town, the “Renaissance City” has been completely reimagined, largely thanks to extensive urban revitalization efforts.
Providence is a city where history and innovation intertwine to create a dynamic destination that is celebrated for its outstanding culinary scene, legendary architecture, thriving art community and esteemed educational institutions.
Despite its impressive offerings, the Ocean State’s capital city maintains a fiercely independent, down-to-earth and quirky vibe.
Covering nearly 19 square miles and home to about 190,000 residents, Providence is a city characterized by its 25 distinct neighborhoods, each with its unique charm. The Providence River serves as a natural divider, separating neighborhoods such as College Hill, Fox Point and Wayland on the east side from downtown, Olneyville, West End and Federal Hill on the west side.
Visitors can take to the river with Providence Kayak’s guided trips or cross it on foot at the stunning new Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Bridge for pedestrians.
It stretches 450 feet across the river and connects downtown to the east side with urban parks at each end, often featuring pollinator gardens, public art, food trucks, pop-up vendors and entertainment.
But the downtown riverfront wasn’t always a dazzling focal point. The Providence River Relocation Project completely changed the face of the city.
This 30-year endeavor, which began in 1988, redirected the Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck rivers. It also revamped transit infrastructure — moving roads and rails — and established a vibrant new riverfront downtown, beautifying the city and generating new commercial land without sacrificing its historic buildings.
