Providence Facts

Nestled into Narragansett Bay and bordered on the east by the Seekonk River, Providence is a small, friendly city full of history, culture and diverse immigrant communities. In the last few years, downtown Providence has been undergoing a striking renaissance that has added an official Arts and Entertainment district and European style to its classic New England beauty.

Downtown

Downtown Providence, where three rivers now run, is reminiscent of Venice, complete with seasonal gondola rides, Riverwalk's quaint arched bridges, and a waterside amphitheater at Waterplace Park that is the frequent site of cultural events and scenes from the TV show "Providence." Providence Place Mall, containing...

...delights in its sobriquet, "Renaissance City." No question, the city is moving on up, counter to the trend of so many small and midsize New England cities. Prosperity is evident in the resurgent downcity business center and the emerging adjacent neighborhoods dubbed the Arts & Entertainment and Jewelry districts. More recently on the rise is the West Side, a former industrial enclave adjoining Federal Hill, the city's "Little Italy." All are attracting creative young people and the eating places, shops, bars, and various entertainments they crave.

Rivers have been uncovered to form canals and waterside walkways; distressed buildings of the last century have been reclaimed; and continued...