This article collects the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Providence for couples based on major travel, blogs, reviews, and social media sites.
There are numerous romantic activities available in Providence. The city’s biggest attractions are listed below, along with ideas for romantic dates. These activities, which range from fine dining to sightseeing throughout the city, are free to attend.
Imagine surprising your loved one with a last-minute trip to Providence?
Imagine what it was like when you two first met.
Bring those emotions to the forefront as you read this article.
Here are 30+ romantic things to do in Providence with your partner.
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Table of Contents
Outdoor / Adventurous Date Ideas in Providence To Have Fun
Cruise along the city’s waterways
- Cost: $0 – $24 (Ride)
- Location: Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: N/A
“With parks on the water, numerous bridges for simply crossing, or numerous, charming walks at water level for sightseeing and relaxing, they have made it highly accessible. Being there during the workweek prevented me from seeing the Fire, but judging by the pictures, it appears to be a must-see.” -Jacob
The city of Providence is situated on several lovely rivers, which unquestionably exude a romantic atmosphere. These are best explored by boat, so you can take in the cityscape, see the city’s history, and witness its contemporary treasures.
Get on a riverboat during the day or at night and let your knowledgeable skipper take you on a fully narrated trip around the city’s most picturesque and historic areas. You just have to pay the price of the ride.
The Providence River, Waterplace Park, and Providence Harbor will all be passed. Kick off your vacation style and get a sense of the city through this unique experience!
Take a romantic walk at WaterFire
- Cost: $5 (Donation)
- Location: 4 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-273-1155
“All I can say is wow. What a wonderful encounter. Arrive early, choose a seat, and take in the scenery. Background music makes the experience better. early hours are very packed.” -Kathleen
Over 80 bonfires are lit on the water’s surface of the three rivers flowing through Downtown as part of the unique art project WaterFire Providence.
The performances typically take place from May to November during the summer. Since WaterFire has been performing for 25 years, you can be sure it’s a fantastic show!
Enjoy the sounds of the crackling fire, the aroma of burning cedar and pine, the flickering firelight on the arching bridges, the enchanting music from around the globe, and the mood as it washes over you. You have to donate $5 here.
Excite your eyes with some panoramic scenery from Prospect Terrace
- Cost: Free
- Location: 60 Congdon St, Providence, RI 02906, United States
- Phone: +1 401-785-9450
“Prospect Terrace is a serene, lush refuge with sweeping hilltop views of the entire city of Providence. Even the structures in the skyline are identified on one of the plaques! And you have a stunning view of the legislature building!” -Gary
Despite being a small park on College Hill, the site of the Roger Williams statue affords some of the most breathtaking panoramas in the entire city.
Due to its significant elevation, you have a stunning view of Providence’s city spread out before you.
It’s incredibly romantic to arrive at dusk, or you may pack a picnic and a book on a warm day.
It’s the ideal location for some peaceful solitude and expansive views.
Take in the breathtaking aerial views at Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy
- Cost: Free
- Location: Legion Memorial Dr, Providence, RI 02909, United States
- Phone: +1 401-649-4366
“It’s a short, enjoyable stroll in a park. a pleasant escape from the city’s proximity. We visited there just before flying back home, so it was good to stretch our legs and get some fresh air before the flight.” -Amy
In Providence, you don’t need to spend money to have fun.
If you prefer the outdoors, there are many free activities in and around the city.
The Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy is one such choice.
Neutaconkanut Hill, which is almost 300 feet above sea level, is a popular tourist destination for hikers, trekkers, and wildlife hunters.
It provides some of the highest aerial vistas you can see without taking a helicopter tour.
Additionally, it is a stunning location all on its own, replete with forests, meadows, tree groves, and freshwater springs.
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Music, Art, Historic, Educational, Cultural Date Ideas in Providence
Catch some live music or a play
- Cost: $25 (Ticket)
- Location: 201 Washington St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-351-4242
“Downtown has several stunning old buildings. National tours and touring theaters are presented here. The city has a gem in this.” -Nicholas
You can catch a performance at the Providence Performing Arts Center, Trinity Repertory Company, or The Strand Ballroom & Theater.
Live comedy and music are performed at the Columbus Theater on Broadway. You have to pay the price of the ticket.
Just a short drive from the city center is Fete Music Hall, another venue that hosts local bands.
Expand your mind at Brown University
- Cost: Free
- Location: Faunce House, 75 Waterman St, Providence, RI 02912, United States
- Phone: +1 401-863-1000
“Don’t skip exploring this stunning campus. Everywhere you turn, you see incredible architecture and historical structures.” -Angela
The esteemed Brown University, an Ivy League school, is in Providence.
It is renowned for being a top-tier research institution, and the students are known for having the most brilliant minds – the most gifted all-around! John F. Kennedy Jr., John Davison Rockefeller Jr., and even Emma Watson are notable former students!
Visitors from the general public are encouraged to stop by the campus and check out public spaces like the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology and the John Hay Library.
The old maps in the John Carter Brown Library and the David Winton Bell Gallery artwork are available for viewing.
Students from the institution may give you the inside scoop on life as a student at Brown. They may also offer you a tour of the campus.
Call in at the Brown University Vhbtor’s Center to arrange what to see!
Step back in time at the John Brown House
- Cost: $6 – $10 (Ticket)
- Location: 52 Power St, Providence, RI 02906, United States
- Phone: +1 401-273-7507
“I most recently went to the John Brown House. It was a successful trip for me. The tour guide at this house museum knew a lot about Rhode Island’s history. I gained knowledge of John Brown’s life, who played a significant role in Providence’s development and history.” -Eric
The John Brown House is situated on 52 Power Street, close to the famous Benefit Street.
This was Providence’s first mansion to be constructed. It was built in 1786 and is named after its first owner, a businessman who was one of the founding supporters of Brown University.
The mansion is available for public guided tours, or if you’d like, you can enjoy an audio time. You have to purchase the ticket.
This exquisite home can provide a picture of what life would have been like in Rhode Island in the 18th century. Its antique decorations and furnishings make it unique.
It also explores the more sinister facets of American history, such as the slave trade. It is approachable, making it ideal for history enthusiasts or those who are curious.
Mooch through one mile of history
- Cost: Free
- Location: 24 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-831-7440
“Near Brown University, Benefit Street contains a variety of elegant mansions. There are streets with trees and a pleasant environment.” -Shirley
You may take a self-guided stroll along the mile-long Benefit Street, which is enjoyable all year round.
The majority of original Colonial mansions in America are located on this street. They have undergone meticulous restoration to retain their original appearance from the 18th century.
Victorian homes set back opulently among their immaculate lawns are also included in the mix.
It is an authentic tribute to some of Rhode Island’s most delicate and stunning architectural works.
Benefits Street is lined with mostly private residences, yet the welcoming locals are accustomed to people strolling by and admiring a view!
You can also find public structures like churches along the roadway.
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Check out the Superman Building
- Cost: Free
- Location: 111 Westminster St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: N/A
“The building’s facade is designed in an Art Deco manner. A sizable rotating globe of the world is in the foyer, which is made of white marble. It’s really cool. Do drop by for a little while; did won’t let you down.” -Jonathan
When you see the familiar-looking skyscraper at 111 Westminster Street looming above the streets in Downtown Providence, you might be perplexed.
The most striking structure in Providence is affectionately referred to as the “Superman Building” because it resembles the Daily Planet headquarters from the Superman comics.
Even though the comic claims that the building wasn’t the inspiration for his creation, it’s still exciting to behold because of how similar they are.
The Art Deco-style skyscraper, constructed in 1928, is the tallest in the state, rising 428 feet above the ground.
The Industrial National Bank Building is the formal name of the structure. Sadly, because Bank of America decided not to renew, it has been abandoned for a while.
DIY your souvenirs
- Cost: Free
- Location: 0 1/2 Oliver Street, Bristol, RI 02809, United States
- Phone: +1 401-569-8964
“Very much worth a trip. Their art of Valerie is exquisite. meeting her hubby was enjoyable. He was cordial and supportive. We ultimately made a purchase of an item I just adored. I wished I had more money to spend.” -Anna
Why not create a memory piece with your loved ones if you want something beyond conventional fridge magnets or bottle openers?
You can enroll in a “Make a Mosaic” workshop in Providence and make a souvenir mosaic tile for your home.
One of the oddest things to do in Providence on a rainy day is to attend one of these interactive seminars, which offer a fun experience.
They last for about two hours and are conducted by a creative professional who will assist you in discovering your inner Michelangelo while fostering new friendships.
Gaze up at stars, planets, and constellations at the planetarium
- Cost: $3(Ticket)
- Location: 1000 Elmwood Ave, Providence, RI 02907, United States
- Phone: +1 401-680-7221
The only public planetarium in Rhode Island is located at the Museum of Natural History, which is also the only institution of its kind in the state.
The planetarium is a unique and inexpensive activity in the area, costing just $3 per person.
To give your trip a distinct twist, look up at the stars, planets, and constellations and imagine yourself in space.
In addition, the museum is definitely worth a visit, and for $2, you can view taxidermy and mounted insects.
Show your creativity at Muse PaintBar
- Cost: $7 – $15 (Painting)
- Location: 117 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 888-607-6873
Muse Paint Bar offers anyone the chance to get creative with an easel and palette, even if they haven’t touched a paintbrush since high school.
Although alcohol is not required, nighttime is ideal for participating in this activity because it is the premier paint and wine event!
Muse PaintBar hosts nightly activities between the Moshassuck River and Benefit Street.
Each session has a different theme, from Disney characters to Halloween to dogs to moonlit forests. If you wanted to purchase you have to spend money.
The bar offers soft beverages or if you’d prefer, a glass of wine to encourage the flow of creativity.
Don’t take it too seriously. Just enjoy the experience.
Rummage through antique books at the Providence Athenaeum
- Cost: $5 (Ticket)
- Location: 251 Benefit St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-421-6970
The Providence Athenaeum also referred to as “the Ath,” is a 19th-century library that was a favorite of Edgar Allan Poe and Providence-born H.P. Lovecraft.
The library, which has been open since 1836, offers membership to local bookworms. You have to pay for the ticket.
However, anybody may drop by to smell the old volumes and rummage through the stacks for ideas for their next literary romance.
Take the Early Black History walking tour
- Cost: Free
- Location: North Burial Ground. 5 Branch Avenue Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: N/A
There is no way to separate Providence’s architecture and illustrious names from its role in the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
Start your trip in Providence with a self-guided Early Black History Walking Tour to better comprehend all the other sights and historical locations there.
Put on your learning cap at the Rhode Island State House
- Cost: Free
- Location: 82 Smith St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-222-3983
The State House of Rhode Island resembles a scaled-down version of the US Capitol in Washington, DC.
It gives for a fantastic photo opportunity and boasts the fourth-largest structural stone dome in the world.
You can also take a tour of the interior of this government structure. This includes the Charter Museum, which is home to significant historical records for the state of Rhode Island.
Less than ten persons can take tours on a walk-in or reservation basis; parties of ten or more must make separate reservations.
There are also self-guided tours available; utilize the QR codes located around the structure to learn more at your speed.
Admire art at the Rhode Island School of Design Museum
- Cost: $0 – $8 (Ticket)
- Location: 20 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-454-6500
Many of today’s emerging artists have used RISD as a launching pad, making it a household name in Providence.
Explore exhibits and artifacts from around the world that span millennia at the RISD Museum (20 N Main Street), which also helps to develop the next generation of well-known artists.
Note: It’s pronounced riz-dee. You have to pay for the ticket.
Get tickets for the Providence Performing Arts Center
- Cost: $50 – $600 (Ticket)
- Location: 220 Weybosset St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-421-2787
The Providence Performing Arts Center is one of several theaters in Providence, but PPAC is extra special.
This stunning 3100-seat facility, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been hailed as one of the most prestigious venues in the entire world.
Not bad for such a tiny state’s city!
In elegance and for much less, take in an off-Broadway performance. You have to purchase the ticket.
Browse for some inspiration at the Rhode Island Museum of Science and Art
- Cost: $0 – $17 (Ticket)
- Location: Bongartz Building, 763 Westminster St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-272-0404
You can engage directly with science and art at the Rhode Island Museum of Science and Art, located at 763 Westminster Street.
You would benefit most from their exhibits and activities.
The cool area at RIMOSA is filled with unlimited inspiration, perfect for inspiring creativity and curiosity. You have to pay the price of the ticket.
On the first Saturday of every month, they also provide a sensory-friendly setting with interactive games and displays.
Explore street art In Downtown
- Cost: Free
- Location: 304 Lockwood St, Providence, RI 02907, United States
- Phone: +1 401-490-0929
You wouldn’t expect to find cutting-edge street art in a sleepy university town, but you will be pleasantly surprised.
Walls Downtown is covered in enormous, vibrant murals that have been encouraged by programs like The Avenue Concept.
These murals frequently don’t draw attention to themselves, expressing various facets of local and national life in earthy tones rather than neons.
The stunning murals wonderfully integrate with the city’s traditions, giving the impression that you sometimes wander through a living, breathing art gallery.
If you want additional information, you can take a tour of the public art, or you can wander around.
Get lost in the architectural time-warp
- Cost: Free
- Location: 82 Smith St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-222-3983
Let’s pretend you are not convinced yet that Providence is the nation’s leading small city.
Humor us…
Take a stroll through a few of its beautiful neighborhoods, and you’ll see how the fusion of old and newly constructed buildings creates such an exciting cityscape.
After all, this is one of the oldest cities in America; what else would you expect?
Providence’s architecture is full of style, passion, and unusual treasures that make you want to give up your career and move here.
Interestingly, it does not seem to steal the show in headlines.
Indoor / Relaxing / Foodies Date Ideas in Providence
Enjoy world-class cuisine in Downtown Providence
- Cost: $10 – $50 (Food and Drink)
- Location: 14 Imperial Pl, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-751-9164
Downtown Providence has some of the most delicious restaurants in New England.
One restaurant, CAV, which is an acronym for “Cocktails/Antiques/Victuals,” is simply adorable.
Although it is located outside of Downtown in a somewhat unsavory location, about.com ranked it one of Providence’s top five attractions. With lights and trinkets strung from the ceiling, it serves as an antique shop and a café. The atmosphere is lovely.
The excellent ambiance is also present at The Dorrance, albeit differently. It has windows encircling a magnificent dining area and ceilings that resemble those in a palace. The Dorrance is particularly well-known for its drinks, but they also serve excellent meals. You have to pay for a meal and drink.
The menu and atmosphere at Gracie’s look fantastic and are highly recommended.
Say ciao to Little Italy
- Cost: Free to visit
- Location: 280 Atwells Ave, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: N/A
There is a sizable Italian-American community in Providence, which has a very diverse population in terms of ethnicity.
Coming here for a stroll is like entering Italy because many residents in the Federal Hill neighborhood.
This area borders the western edge of Downtown Providence.
Italian immigrants started coming here in the early 1900s and have lived here ever since.
Visit Federal Hill to eat Italian food, enjoy authentic Italian gelato, shop for fresh local produce, and purchase traditional Italian goods.
Spend some time in DePasquale Plaza people-watching while sipping an espresso and tossing a penny into the fountain for good luck.
Taste a cold brew and a chinwag at the Trinity Brewhouse
- Cost: $5 – $25 (Drink)
- Location: 186 Fountain St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-453-2337
The Trinity Brewhouse has been operating since 1994 and is located in the center of Downtown Providence. An assortment of IPAs, stouts, and sours are available on tap.
There are frequently a few other experimental blends on tap that are flavored with ingredients like coffee, ginger, and pumpkin.
While in town, show up and see what’s available!
The food menu at Trinity Brewhouse is straightforward, flavorful, and satisfying. You have to pay for the drinks.
Your pint pairs well with tapas, nachos, burgers, and hearty salads. Come to Trinity Brewhouse for chilled beer, a chat, or a post-theater debrief. Once you’ve finished setting everything up, you can play some pool here.
Check out their ‘artistic’ approach to cuisine, beer, and libations for yourself.
Get your geek drink on at FreePlay
- Cost: $7 – $10 (Admission fee)
- Location: 182 Pine St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-316-4299
A spirited bar arcade offering over 150 classic arcade games, pinball, skee ball, air hockey, and Dance Dance Revolution – all set to, well, Freeplay!
To pair with the games, including our favorite, Mario Kart, there is beer on tap, delectable pizzas, and entertaining cocktails (3 Olives Loopy, Stolichnaya Razberi Vodka, Peach Schnapps, Orange Cranberry Pineapple Juices, Topped with Sierra Mist).
We believe the $7 cover charge increased to $10 on Friday and Saturday nights is justified.
Every Monday is their GAYME Night, which raises money for Rhode Island Pride and is a pleasant way to kick off the weekend.
Treat your belly and lick your fingers at Harry’s Bar and Burger
- Cost: $5 – $15 (Food)
- Location: 121 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-228-7437
You should leave a notch on your belt for Harry’s Bar and Burger if you enjoy thick, meaty burgers with oozing cheeses and finger-licking sauces.
What is their trick?
There are only two components: natural, homegrown meat; and fresh ingredients.
They don’t use tricks; instead, they use premium ingredients to create regular burgers, and the results speak for themselves.
Additional menu items include chili, chicken wings, hot dogs, and sliders.
Ice cream shakes, and a selection of craft beers are available at the bar. You have to pay for the meals.
Add a side of cheesy fries to your order, please!
This is the place to go if you’ve worked up an appetite while on vacation.
Active and Youthful Date Ideas in Providence
Take up ice skating or roller skating
- Cost: $6 (Roller Skating)
- Location: 2 Kennedy Plaza, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-680-7390
Ice skating is available at the Alex and Ani City Center during the winter.
Come on over—they have easy skate rentals! This is one of the favorite wintertime activities in downtown Providence!
The facility is open for roller skating in the summer! Rental skates are available at the ticket window. You have to pay the price of roller skating.
Play on a Crazy Dash around the city
- Cost: Free
- Location: 60 S Main St, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: N/A
Give your day of culture-seeking in Providence a dash of wildness for a somewhat more out-of-the-ordinary approach to experiencing the city! Take on a city challenge with Crazy Dash, a walking adventure tour.
You can download your starting point via the Crazy Dash smartphone app. Through this, you can participate in a series of games and challenges spread over ten distinct checkpoints around the city.
Perfect for a variation to the traditional guided city stroll or for those who have ever daydreamed about living the life of Sherlock Holmes.
If you’re traveling across Rhode Island in a hostel, you can even grab your roommates to share it with.
Undoubtedly one of the most non-touristy things to do in Providence!
Get a little spooky with a Providence Ghost Tour
- Cost: $27 – $30 (Entry Fee)
- Location: Prospect Terrace Park, 60 Congdon Street Providence, RI 02906, United States
- Phone: +1 401-256-1477
You’ll be taken on a journey through “the dark side of the East Side,” where you’ll find all kinds of gruesome tales and eerie sights that have inspired local folklore.
The most enjoyable tours are those for Halloween when you can dress up and go out with other ghouls on the spookiest night of the year.
There are treats available for your form of trick-or-treating as well. You just have to pay the entry fee.
However, you can still experience thrills and chills even though it’s not Halloween: You’re urged to take pictures of any shadows or apparitions that you spot near buildings, landmarks, or gravestones during the tours, which are performed by lantern light.
Why not visit all the locations you want to see in Providence if you’re having trouble choosing?
A Providence Ghost Tour will teach you about the area’s history, take you to some fascinating sites, and offer you some hair-raising thrills.
It’s a win-win-win!
Nature-Inspired Date Ideas in Providence
Share a dreamy sunset at Fox Point
- Cost: Free
- Location: 550 Wickenden St. Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Phone: +1 401-444-0530
Head to Fox Point, a posh riverside suburb, as the sun sets.
Take a stroll along the riverfront in India Point Park before venturing underground for some upscale drinks and breathtaking sunset views.
The Hot Club is renowned for its service, food, and sense of community.
They participate in the Providence Good Night Lights program. This program has East Providence establishments flicker their lights for one minute each night at 8.30 p.m. to bid Hasbro Children’s Hospital’s patients a good night.
After the ceremony, stick around to finish off your date with live music!
Delight your senses at Roger Williams Park
- Cost: $0 – $19 (Ticket)
- Location: 1000 Elmwood Avenue Providence, RI 02907 United States
- Phone: +1 401-680-7219,
At any time of year, Roger Williams Park’s 435 picturesque acres are stunning for some quality family time.
Enjoy a summer picnic in the lazy sun while inhaling the scent of the spring blossoms in the Botanical Gardens. You have to pay the price of ticket.
Watch the leaves crunch under your feet as they fall from the trees, and experience the romance of winter when the Christmas lights are strung.
There is much to keep you engaged, with wetlands, boating lakes, a Japanese Garden, and even a zoo!
Breathe in the fresh air at Lincoln Woods State Park
- Cost: Free
- Location: 2 Manchester Print Works Rd, Lincoln, RI 02865, United States
- Phone: +1 401-723-7892
Lincoln Woods State Park, a few miles north of Providence, is a pleasant place to unwind.
You can enjoy the sunshine and fresh air in a natural setting because it is removed from the bustle of the city. However, it is also sufficiently developed to provide a variety of outdoor activities.
Summer activities include swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
You can try sledding, snowmobiling, or ice skating in the winter.
Places like freshwater beach trails through dense forests and bouldering-friendly cliffs are worth visiting.
Top 15 Things To Do In Providence, Rhode Island
Final Thoughts
Rhode Island’s Providence is a stunning city. The city’s attractions include museums, historic sites, romantic hotels, state parks, hiking trails, golf courses, and renowned restaurants.
The city of Providence will keep you entertained whether you plan to stay a while or are simply passing through.
With so many options, it can be challenging to decide what to do, but hopefully, this list will help get you started.
We hope you will enjoy all the places on this list.
Have a beautiful time in Providence!
| I like to travel but also be smart with money. Below are the places where I start my planning with. – ✈️Flights, Hotel, Tours – I seek out Flash Sales to guide my planning 👉 Find good deals – 🛡️Travel Insurance – I like to go to the source like Travelex instead of paying a broker 👉Here – 🚗Car Rental – Rental will save you lots of headaches. Search, compare, and save first up to 30-50% on Discover Cars. 👉 Save Now Links from affiliated brands I like. |
