Providence

An hours drive from Boston, Providence, the capital of Rhode Island is one of the oldest cities in the USA. Scenically set upon three rivers the downtown area offers a walkable riverfront in a bustling cityscape. A walk along Memorial Boulevard provides an opportunity to chart the city’s interesting architecture.

Providence’s signature event is WaterFire, an award-winning fire sculpture installation on the three rivers in downtown Providence which is held from May through October typically on a Saturday night. Spend a few hours at Roger Williams Park Zoo, a great family attraction with its waterways walks, botanical centre and Carousel Village.

Providence Place offers visitors a mall with more than 170 shopping, dining and entertainment options. Funky urban chic can be found at one of the many boutiques on Thayer and Wickenden streets, both on the city’s tony East Side. From the hip downtown neighborhood to elegant Wayland Square and eclectic Federal Hill, there are lots to see and buy. Tantalize your taste buds on “The Hill,” a historic area that boasts many award-winning restaurants. For a different perspective, take a romantic river cruise on an authentic Venetian gondola.