14 Free Activities To Enjoy In Providence

Are you searching for free activities to do in Providence? Look no further! The city boasts a myriad of exciting and enjoyable experiences that don't require any cost. From outdoor adventures to cultural immersion, we've compiled a list of 14 fun and free things to do in Providence. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, there's something on this list for everybody. So, put on your walking shoes, grab your friends or family, and let's explore all that Providence has to offer!

Visit WaterFire (seasonal)

Providence is known for a lot of things: history, culinary delights, and beautiful architecture. But perhaps one of the best things to do during the summer in Providence is to visit WaterFire, a unique art installation that lights up the city's rivers.

WaterFire is a seasonal event that takes place between May and November. During this time, nearly 100 braziers are lit along the rivers of downtown Providence, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can walk along the riverbanks, enjoy live music and performances, and even take a boat ride.

The best part is that WaterFire is entirely free to attend! Visitors can simply stroll along the river and take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful event. However, donations are greatly appreciated and help keep this beloved tradition alive.

WaterFire was first created by artist Barnaby Evans in 1994, and has since become a beloved part of Providence's culture. The installation is a true testament to the city's commitment to the arts and the community. It's a great way to experience the city's unique ambiance and take part in a one-of-a-kind event.

If you happen to be in Providence during the summer months, be sure to check out WaterFire. It's a must-see attraction that highlights the best of the city's art and culture. So grab a friend, pack a picnic, and head out for a night of relaxation and beauty. You won't be disappointed!

Take a self-guided tour of the Rhode Island State House

If you're looking for a unique way to explore the city of Providence, Rhode Island, why not visit the beautiful State House? The State House serves as the official capitol building of Rhode Island and boasts grand architecture and rich history.

Thankfully, you don't need to join a guided tour to experience the grandeur of this iconic landmark. With self-guided tours available, you can create your own itinerary, spend as much time as you wish, and explore at your own pace.

Begin your tour by marveling at the grandeur of the State House's exterior. The dome is covered in 23-karat gold and stands an impressive 50 feet tall. The building is surrounded by a beautiful green lawn, perfect for picnicking and relaxing.

Once inside, you'll be greeted by a marble-lined entrance hall, which houses a bronze statue of Rhode Island's founder, Roger Williams. The hall's central staircase leads you to the State House's second floor, where you'll find the House and Senate chambers.

Be sure to visit the Rotunda, which is surrounded by murals and frescoes depicting significant events throughout Rhode Island's history. You'll also want to stop by the Secretary of State's office, which houses Rhode Island's original State Constitution.

As you continue your self-guided tour, take a moment to visit the Hall of Flags. This impressive room displays a collection of Rhode Island's historical flags, including military and militia standards from the Revolutionary War through modern day.

If you're interested in modern-day politics, be sure to visit the Governor's reception room and the Lieutenant Governor's office. Both rooms are adorned with historic artwork and offer a unique glimpse into the current political landscape of Rhode Island.

Overall, the State House is a must-visit destination for any history buff or lover of architecture. With its grandeur on the outside and rich history within, a self-guided tour of the Rhode Island State House is an unforgettable experience and a fantastic way to explore Providence, all for free.

Explore the Providence Athenaeum

Characteristic	Description
Name	The Providence Athenaeum
Type	Library in Providence, Rhode Island
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 114
Address	251 Benefit St, Providence, RI 02903
Phone	(401) 421-6970
Profiles

Are you looking for a free activity to do in Providence? Look no further than the Providence Athenaeum. Located in the heart of downtown Providence, the Athenaeum is a historic and cultural gem that should not be missed.

Founded in 1836, the Providence Athenaeum is a member-supported library and cultural center that has been inspiring and educating visitors for over 180 years. The Athenaeum’s building is an architectural masterpiece, designed by William Strickland, who also designed Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

Today, this beautiful building is home to over 200,000 books, rare manuscripts, and original artwork. Visitors can explore the Athenaeum’s vast collection of literature, including everything from contemporary fiction and non-fiction to classic poetry and rare, antique volumes.

But the Athenaeum isn’t just a library – it’s also a center for cultural and intellectual events. Throughout the year, the Athenaeum hosts lectures, performances, and exhibitions that showcase the best of Providence’s artistic and literary communities. Some of the upcoming events include book launches and discussions, poetry readings, and musical performances.

The best part? A visit to the Providence Athenaeum is completely free. The Athenaeum is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm, making it a perfect way to spend an afternoon or weekend day in downtown Providence.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a free and unique activity in Providence, make sure to visit the Providence Athenaeum. This historic library and cultural center offers a one-of-a-kind experience to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. With its beautiful architecture, vast collection of literature, and cultural events, the Athenaeum is truly a treasure of Providence that should not be missed.

Wander through the RISD Museum

When it comes to finding free things to do in Providence, Rhode Island, wandering through the RISD Museum should definitely be on your list. The museum is located on Benefit Street and is part of the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) campus. It's a great way to experience the world of art without breaking the bank.

As you wander through the RISD Museum, you'll get to see over 100,000 works of art that span across various cultures and periods. There's something for everyone here, whether you're into modern art, ancient Egyptian art, or decorative arts. The museum's collection also includes a range of media, including paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs, costumes, and textiles.

One of the best things about the RISD Museum is that it's constantly changing and updating its exhibitions. So even if you've been there before, you're bound to see something new and exciting the next time you visit. Some of the current exhibitions at the museum include "Fertile Ground: Art and Community in Rhode Island," "Sascha Braunig: Shivers," and "Making It In America."

Another perk of visiting the RISD Museum is taking advantage of the museum's free admission days. Admission is free every Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. Additionally, the museum offers free admission to all visitors on the third Thursday evening of every month from 5 pm to 9 pm. This is a great opportunity to experience the museum without having to spend a dime.

If you're interested in learning more about the art at the RISD Museum, the museum offers a range of free tours and lectures. These guided experiences are a great way to get a deeper understanding of the art and the stories behind it.

Overall, wandering through the RISD Museum is a must-do activity for anyone looking for a free and enriching experience in Providence. With its vast collection, rotating exhibitions, and free admission options, it's a gem in the city that everyone should take advantage of.

Have a picnic in Roger Williams Park

Providence, Rhode Island, is home to many great free activities and places to explore, but one of the best options is to have a picnic in Roger Williams Park. Founded in 1871, this park is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. With over 430 acres of green space, there are plenty of picnic areas to choose from, each offering unique views and amenities.

One of the most popular picnic spots in Roger Williams Park is the Temple of Music. The historic bandstand was built in 1924 and has hosted many notable musicians, including John Philip Sousa and Louis Armstrong. Today, it is a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch while listening to live music or just taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Another great option is the Boathouse Lawn, which offers a beautiful view of the park's ponds and waterways. Here, visitors can spread out a blanket and relax in the shade of towering trees while watching swans and other waterfowl glide across the water.

For those looking for a more secluded spot, the Japanese Garden is an excellent choice. This tranquil oasis features a reflecting pool, elegant bridges, and manicured lawns and gardens. It is a peaceful spot to enjoy a picnic while surrounded by nature.

No matter which picnic area you choose, be sure to take advantage of the many free activities available in Roger Williams Park. Rent a paddleboat or kayak to explore the ponds, walk the many walking paths and trails, or visit one of the park's many museums and attractions.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a great free activity in Providence, look no further than Roger Williams Park. With beautiful picnic areas, stunning natural scenery, and plenty of free activities, it is a destination that is sure to please. So pack a picnic lunch, grab a blanket, and head out to the park to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the great outdoors.

Attend a free concert or event at Kennedy Plaza

If you're looking for free things to do in Providence, Rhode Island, Kennedy Plaza is the place to be! This hub of activity in downtown Providence plays host to a wide variety of free concerts and events throughout the year, making it a great spot for locals and tourists alike.

From live music to movie screenings, here are some of the free events you can enjoy at Kennedy Plaza:

Free Concert Series: Every summer, Kennedy Plaza puts on a free concert series featuring local and regional musicians. The concerts take place on Thursday evenings and are open to people of all ages. From jazz to Latin to rock, there's a little something for everyone to enjoy.

Providence International Arts Festival: This annual festival takes over Kennedy Plaza every June, bringing together artists and performers from around the world for a three-day celebration of creativity and culture. The festival features live music, dance performances, art installations, and more - all free of charge.

WaterFire: WaterFire is a unique Providence tradition that lights up the downtown area with floating bonfires on the river. WaterFire events take place periodically throughout the year, and Kennedy Plaza is a prime spot to see the action. And best of all, it's completely free!

Movie Nights: On select Fridays throughout the summer, Kennedy Plaza hosts free outdoor movie screenings. Bring a blanket and some snacks, and settle in for a night of family-friendly movies under the stars.

Winter Lights Market: For the holiday season, Kennedy Plaza transforms into a festive Winter Lights Market featuring local vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment. Admission is free, so stop by to get in the holiday spirit.

As you can see, there's always something happening at Kennedy Plaza in Providence - and most of it won't cost you a dime. So if you're looking for a fun and affordable way to explore the city, be sure to check out this downtown hotspot.

Walk along the Providence Riverwalk

Providence, Rhode Island isn't only home to world-renowned restaurants, museums, and galleries; it also boasts one of the most picturesque river walks found anywhere in the country, and it's all entirely free to enjoy. The Providence Riverwalk, also referred to as the Waterplace Park, is a famous attraction that provides visitors with an outstanding combination of stunning views, soothing sounds, and a relaxing atmosphere.

The Riverwalk consists of a set of bridges traversing the Providence River, which is another popular local attraction. The Riverwalk is located in the downtown area, which makes it accessible to all, given its proximity to major tourist destinations, such as the Kennedy Plaza and Historic Federal Hill District.

One of the incredible things about the Riverwalk is that it is free, and visitors can enjoy its beauty any time of the year. The Providence Riverwalk is an all-year destination, and with its changing scenery, ranging from flowing water in the spring and summer months, to the colorful foliage in the fall, and the frozen ice in the winter, visitors can enjoy the dynamic nature of this picturesque area all year round.

When walking along the Providence Riverwalk, it's hard not to get lost in the sights and sounds of the city, with stunning views of the State House dome, the colorful Venetian-style walkways, and vast murals painted on the walls of the riverside buildings. You can take a stroll, alone, with a friend, or with your family, while enjoying the beautiful nature that surrounds you.

This stunning walkway has 80 illuminated braziers that light the area during the night, giving it a magical feel to visitors. It's a spectacular sight to see, especially if you're into photography. You can capture pictures of the reflections of the light falling on the water, and the architecture of surrounding buildings that create an unforgettable atmosphere.

In conclusion, the Providence Riverwalk is an exceptional example of a free attraction, that provides an incredible experience to all visitors at any time of the year. Whether you want to have a peaceful walk, take pictures, or enjoy the views, the River Walk provides a serene atmosphere that is unmatched. Besides, the walk allows you to explore the history, architecture, and the superb shops and restaurants that make this iconic city of Providence an excellent destination for anyone looking for a great time.

Stroll through the historic East Side neighborhood

Free Providence: Stroll through the historic East Side neighborhood

Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island, is a beautiful place that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the most popular areas of the city is the East Side neighborhood, home to some of the state's most iconic landmarks and buildings. And, the best thing about exploring this area is that it's free! Here are some of the best ways to see the East Side neighborhood on a budget.

Start your journey at Prospect Terrace Park, a beautiful public space that offers a panoramic view of downtown Providence. You can climb up the hill to the park, which is located atop College Hill, and gaze across the cityscape. You'll be able to spot many of the city's landmarks from here, including the Rhode Island State House, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, and many other historic buildings.

Next, stroll down Benefit Street, which is lined with gorgeous mansions and serves as an outdoor museum of the city's history. This street is home to the John Brown House Museum, the Governor Stephen Hopkins House, and many other historic mansions that reflect the city's colonial past. You can admire the beauty of the houses' architecture, or take a guided tour of the museums (which would be paid).

If you're looking for natural beauty, head to Blackstone Boulevard, a parkway that runs through the East Side neighborhood and is lined with trees and green spaces. The boulevard provides a great spot for a relaxing walk or a bike ride, and it is particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colors.

Another unique experience available on the East Side is the Cemetery Tours, offered by both the Providence Preservation Society and the Rhode Island Historical Society. These walking tours take you through some of the city's oldest cemeteries and allow you to learn about the lives of prominent historical figures who are buried there.

If you're visiting during the summertime, don't miss out on the Waterplace Park events, free outdoor concerts along with many restaurants and cafés by the river. You can get a glimpse of the riverwalk and the famous WaterFire event at no cost.

The East Side neighborhood of Providence offers a wealth of free experiences, from walks in beautiful parks to museum tours and historic sites. With so much to see and do, this area is truly a must-visit destination in Rhode Island. So grab a map, put on your comfy shoes and start exploring Providence's East Side without breaking the bank.

Hike around Neutaconkanut Hill Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy
Type	Hiking area in Providence, Rhode Island
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 644
Address	Legion Memorial Dr, Providence, RI 02909
Phone	(401) 649-4366
Hours	Friday - 6 AM–8 PM Saturday - 6 AM–8 PM Sunday - 6 AM–8 PM Monday - 6 AM–8 PM Tuesday - 6 AM–8 PM Wednesday - 6 AM–8 PM Thursday - 6 AM–8 PM
Profiles

If you're a fan of the great outdoors, you'll be glad to know that Providence has plenty of free hiking opportunities. One of the best places to get your hiking fix in Providence is Neutaconkanut Hill Park.

Neutaconkanut Hill Park is a 110-acre park located in the heart of Providence. The park features trails that provide stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding countryside. The park is also home to an impressive wildlife preserve.

One of the most popular activities at Neutaconkanut Hill Park is hiking. The park has several well-marked trails that range in difficulty from easy to moderate. The trails wind through lush forests and open meadows, offering hikers a chance to explore the park's diverse terrain.

The park's crown jewel is undoubtedly its namesake hill, Neutaconkanut. The hill rises 296 feet above sea level and offers spectacular panoramic views of Providence. For those who are up for the challenge, hiking to the top of Neutaconkanut Hill is a must-do activity.

Another feature of the park is its historic sites. The park boasts a series of old quarries that were used during the 19th century to extract granite for the construction of city buildings. The quarries have since been filled with water and now serve as an attraction for fishermen and nature lovers.

Neutaconkanut Hill Park has plenty of amenities to ensure a comfortable visit for all. The park has picnic areas equipped with grills, making it the perfect destination for a family barbeque. The park also has restrooms, a playground, and plenty of parking.

In conclusion, Neutaconkanut Hill Park is a fantastic destination for hikers in Providence. The park's numerous trails and natural beauty make it an excellent spot for those looking for a quick escape from the city. Additionally, with its various amenities, the park makes for a great day trip for families or larger groups. So, put on your hiking boots and fill up your water bottle and head out to Neutaconkanut Hill Park for an exciting day of hiking!

Watch a movie under the stars at PPAC Plaza

Providence has always been known as a city that offers its visitors a unique charm and character. And now, with the initiatives taken by the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), the city has one more exciting opportunity it can offer to the locals and tourists alike – Watching movies under stars at PPAC Plaza.

Yes, you read it right! This summer, the PPAC plaza is all set to host a series of outdoor movie events where you can catch all-time classics, family movies, and even cult favorites – all for free.

The events are being held as a part of the “Movies on the Plaza” series, which kicked off on June 14th and is scheduled to continue till October 4th. Every Monday night, a new movie is screened on the PPAC plaza, starting at dusk.

But, what sets this experience apart is the stunning ambiance that the plaza offers. The giant outdoor screen is placed at the foot of the grand staircase that leads to the PPAC, creating a perfect atmosphere for a fun-filled family night out.

You can bring along blankets, chairs, and even a picnic basket to enjoy your favorite snacks while watching the movie. And, in case you forgot to bring something, don’t worry. The concession stand at the plaza is fully stocked with all kinds of treats to satiate your cravings.

What’s more, the lineup of movies for this season is as thrilling as the atmosphere. From family-friendly flicks like “Frozen,” “The Lion King,” and “Toy Story,” to classics like “Grease” and “The Breakfast Club,” the series is a perfect blend of entertainment for all age groups.

The event is free and open to all, but advance registration is required. So, make sure to book your spot early to avoid any last-minute hassle.

In short, if you want to experience the magic of movies in a unique way and are free on any Monday night, grab your family, friends, and snacks and head over to the PPAC Plaza to be a part of this unforgettable experience.

Visit the Providence Art Club galleries

Characteristic	Description
Name	Providence Art Club
Type	Art center in Providence, Rhode Island
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 106
Address	11 Thomas St, Providence, RI 02903
Phone	(401) 331-1114
Hours	Friday - 12–4 PM Saturday - Closed Sunday - 12–4 PM Monday - 12–4 PM Tuesday - 12–4 PM Wednesday - 12–4 PM Thursday - 12–4 PM
Profiles

Providence, Rhode Island is a city filled with history, culture, and beauty. One of the best ways to experience all that Providence has to offer for free is to visit the Providence Art Club galleries.

The Providence Art Club is the oldest arts organization in the country, and its galleries showcase the work of local and regional artists. The galleries are located in the historic Thomas Dorrance Hamilton House, which was built in 1803. The building itself is a work of art with its Federal-style architecture and elegant gardens.

When you visit the galleries, you will have the opportunity to view a wide range of art, from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed-media pieces. The exhibitions change frequently, so there is always something new to see.

One of the best aspects of this experience is that it is completely free. You can take your time to appreciate the different works of art without worrying about admission fees or time limits.

In addition to the galleries, the Providence Art Club also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year. These include lectures, workshops, and art classes. While some of these events may have fees associated with them, many are free or have a minimal cost.

Overall, visiting the Providence Art Club galleries is an excellent way to experience the rich culture and art scene of Providence without spending any money. Take some time to explore the beautiful galleries and appreciate the talent of local artists. Who knows, you may even be inspired to create some art of your own.

Explore the Providence Children's Museum (limited free days)

Characteristic	Description
Name	Providence Children's Museum
Type	Children's museum in Providence, Rhode Island
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.6 / 1,627
Address	100 South St, Providence, RI 02903
Phone	(401) 273-5437
Hours	Friday - 9:30 AM–12:30 PM, 1:30–4:30 PM Saturday - 9:30 AM–12:30 PM, 1:30–4:30 PM Sunday - 9:30 AM–12:30 PM, 1:30–4:30 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - 9:30 AM–12:30 PM, 1:30–4:30 PM Thursday - 9:30 AM–12:30 PM, 1:30–4:30 PM
Profiles

Are you looking for a fun and interactive activity with your children in Providence, Rhode Island? Look no further than the Providence Children's Museum! While admission is typically $12 per person, there are several limited free days throughout the year, making it an affordable and enjoyable experience for families.

The Providence Children's Museum is a not-for-profit organization that was founded in 1976. The museum is specifically designed for children between the ages of 1 and 11, providing them with hands-on exhibits and unique learning experiences that help develop their creativity and problem-solving skills.

The museum comprises multiple exhibits and programs that focus on different subjects, such as art, science, and culture. The exhibits are constantly updated and redesigned to ensure that they stay relevant and engaging for children. One popular exhibit is a giant sandbox where children can build and create, while another favorite is an area that focuses on music and sound, where children can experiment with different instruments and create their own melodies.

As mentioned earlier, the Providence Children's Museum offers several free admission days throughout the year. These include Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, and the first Saturday of every month from 9 am to noon, during which visitors can enjoy the museum's exhibits without paying an admission fee.

In addition to the free admission days, the museum offers discounts for groups of ten or more, making it a great destination for school field trips and scouting organizations.

Overall, the Providence Children's Museum offers a unique and enriching experience for children of all ages, and the limited free admission days make it a budget-friendly outing for families. So next time you're looking for a fun and educational activity with your kids, consider exploring this wonderful museum.

Take a self-guided walking tour of downtown Providence murals

Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island, is widely known for its beautiful murals that adorn the streets of downtown. These vibrant and rich murals not only add beauty to the city landscape but also tell the stories of its diverse communities. One of the best ways to explore these murals is through a self-guided walking tour. Here's what you need to know to take a free Providence mural tour.

Start by familiarizing yourself with the city's mural locations. The Providence Street Art Map is an excellent resource that lists all the murals in downtown Providence. It features murals from a range of artists, including well-known names like Shepard Fairey and Caledonia Curry, among others.

Next, decide on a starting point for your tour. If you're coming from outside Providence, you can take a train or bus to the city's downtown area to begin your tour. You can also park your car in one of the many parking lots in the downtown area.

Once you have started your tour, be sure to take your time and appreciate the murals' beauty and history. You can take breaks along the way to explore the various shops and restaurants that dot downtown Providence. Some of the must-see murals on the tour include:

The "Alice" Mural: This mural by Italian artist Jorit Agoch honors Alice Paul, a feminist icon who fought for women's right to vote.

The "Nina Simone" Mural: Located on the side of the Trinity Repertory Company, this mural by Gaia pays homage to the legendary jazz singer and Civil Rights activist.

The "Ice Cream Cone" Mural: Created by Providence-based artist Molly Zuckerman-Hartung, this vibrant art piece depicts a melting ice cream cone with the words "hot, cold, quiet, loud."

The "Rhode Island Waves" Mural: This stunning mural by Rob Strati features giant waves crashing on the shoreline, a perfect representation of the state's coastal identity.

In conclusion, a self-guided walking tour of the downtown Providence murals is an excellent way to immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture and history. With so many murals to admire, you're sure to discover new beauty at every turn. And the best part? It's completely free for everyone to enjoy!

Attend a free yoga class at India Point Park

Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island, is full of wonderful activities and experiences waiting to be discovered. Fortunately, not all of them have to cost you. One of the best examples of this is the free yoga classes offered at India Point Park.

India Point Park is a beautiful waterfront park located along the Seekonk River in Providence. On Thursday evenings during the summer months, the park hosts free yoga classes from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. These classes offer an excellent opportunity to unwind, destress, and connect with nature while staying physically active at the same time.

The classes are open to all levels, from beginners to experienced yogis. Participants range in age, size, and ability, making the class accessible to everyone. The instructors provide modifications and variations for poses so that everyone can find a comfortable position.

The yoga classes at India Point Park are taught by qualified instructors from local studios, including Laughing Elephant Yoga and Sol Chiropractic. The instructors are friendly, kind, and knowledgeable, making the class a supportive and welcoming environment for all.

There are a few things to keep in mind before attending the free yoga classes at India Point Park. First, make sure to arrive early to secure a spot, as classes can fill up quickly. Second, bring a yoga mat, water bottle, and comfortable clothing to practice in. Finally, be aware that the classes are weather-dependent, so if the weather is inclement, the classes may be canceled.

Attending a free yoga class at India Point Park is an excellent way to experience the beauty and serenity of Providence while getting in some exercise and relaxation. The classes are open to all, and the supportive environment makes them ideal for beginners. So what are you waiting for? Grab your yoga mat and join in on the free yoga classes at India Point Park. Namaste!

Frequently asked questions