Riverwalk & Waterplace Park is pegged against the confluence of the Woonasquatucket and Providence rivers in a little corner of downtown Providence. It's best known for its WaterFire events, which are mini-bonfires that bob atop the water to the beat of world and classical music. The city revitalized the entire area in 1994 and the walk makes an otherwise droll stroll into a pleasant one when walking to College Hill over the Washington Street bridge. The park's bridges are fashioned after those classical ones in Venice, and it's not uncommon to see gondoliers gliding under them.
Home to two greenhouses, namely the Conservatory and the Mediterranean Room, the botanical center shelters hundreds of species of plants and palm trees. It is known as the largest of its kind in New England. The botanical gardens are located inside the massive Roger Williams Park, which is named after one of the state's founders. With Edgewood and Cunliff lakes as a backdrop, it makes the visit to the greenhouse even better. The center provides docent-led tours with reservations in advance and during the summer, the center organizes field trips for elementary school students and other events for adults.
Federal Hill has one of the most varied and historic reputations as a neighborhood could have in any city. Today it's filled with ritzy bars, restaurants, shops, apartments and entertainment, though it was not always this way. Situated in the heart of the city, this neighborhood is known for its rich Italian-American population. The Italian-Americans here have contributed immensely over the centuries to the development and betterment of the city. The many Italian restaurants here offer delectable food to patrons throughout the year. As you walk down Atwells Avenue, you'll definitely know where you are when you see La Pigna (the pine cone) under the gateway arch.
The winding sculpted paths of this park named after one of Rhode Island's founding fathers will allow you to see more than 900 different zoo animals. There are giraffe, zebra and cheetah habitats as well as an open-air aviary which allows visitors an up-close look at the birds. Some of the animals with more exotic names include the Babirusa, the Binturong, the Aoudad or the amphibious and endangered Axolotl. The exhibits also feature different geographical regions and environments, such as Australasia and North America or a Wetlands Trail and a Marco Polo Adventure Trek. The zoo is always hosting events that focus on conservation, environmental stewardship and an overall zoological education for schools throughout the greater Providence area.
WaterFire is a magnificent array of more than 80 mini bonfires or braziers that illuminate the three rivers of Providence. It began in 1994 when artist Barnaby Evans used the confluence of the rivers to create this ephemeral water exhibition. However, it was not that fleeting because the city of Providence along with generous volunteers and donors continues to present the exhibition every weekend. The route runs from Waterplace Park to South Main Street and it winds nearly two-thirds of a mile through parks and public spaces in downtown Providence. Here, people can stroll along the riverbanks while listening to the sounds of classical music hum over loudspeakers. The fires are lit approximately 20 minutes after sunset each Saturday and usually burn for two to three hours.
The Providence River is a tidal river that is only about eight miles long. It has a two other tributaries in the area, namely the Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck rivers. The river is probably best known for its WaterFire events held throughout the year. Additionally, you can see some most historic structures in Providence as well as more modern buildings and bridges while you stroll along its banks.
Rice City Pond is a serene natural oasis within Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park. Located near East Hartford Avenue, the pond is accessible via a picturesque hike in the park. Ideal for hikers of all ages and experience levels, the site is a popular picnicking attraction. It is also a starting point for several other trails that wind through the park. Fishing, canoeing, and kayaking can be enjoyed here, along with enjoying breathtaking views of local flora and fauna.
Learn why locals refer to Newport as "the island" when you fly above the seaside town in a Birds Eye helicopter. Choose from different private tours that soar above Newport's coastline along Ocean Drive and the beaches or tour the mansions of the Cliffwalk from 20,000 feet in the air! You will hear the history of Newport and its attractions from knowledgeable pilots.
Cliff Walk is an iconic 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometer) path that stretches along breathtaking views of the roaring, azure ocean on one side and the historic Newport Mansions on the other. Aptly named, Cliff Walk skirts the periphery of a stunted cliff, atop an embankment of rocks. Strap on your walking shoes and tread along the scenic path to take in unmatched views and learn about some of the historic buildings and abodes of the town—a must-have experience for all.
This East Providence landmark is also called as Crescent Park Looff Carousel. The Crescent Park Carousel was built by Charles I.D. Looff, a master craftsman in 1895. It is among the last few of his creations that are still running. It has sixty six delicately carved wooden figures with elaborate decorative panels, sandwich glass windows and faceted glass jewels. It is housed under an onion dome and features a Ruth and Sohn band organ. It is a National Historic Landmark since 1987. You can enjoy the joy-ride during its seasonal openings.
The Watson Farm was established in the late 18th century and has been operational ever since. Take a walk through the lush green farmlands as you watch the cattle graze and enjoy a beautiful view of the bay and Jamestown bridge. The grounds and heritage farmhouse is very well maintained and the staff is friendly and welcoming. Watson Farm is a beautiful natural sanctuary and is worth a visit when in Jamestown.