The Providence Athenaeum is one of America's oldest member-supported libraries, and it has functioned as such since 1753 (although the present structure was built in 1838). According to a 19th-century legend, the poet Edgar Allen Poe courted Sarah Whitman in the stacks of this granite Greek Revival building. Some of the collections include documents and books from the original Providence Library, rare editions from the likes of Louisa May Alcott, Herman Melville and other American authors, along with the Robert Burns collection, which has more than 400 items. Today, the Athenaeum hosts events round the year focusing on education for both adults as well as children.
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.
In 1764, three men from Newport established 'The College in the English Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations,' which, for the sake of brevity, was shortened to Brown University in 1804. One of the original eight Ivy League Colleges, standing strong ever since its inception, Brown University boasts an excellent educational offering which spans diverse disciplines including engineering, design, ancient studies, archaeology, academics and sciences, among others. However, the university bears as much brilliance in its architecture as it does in its academics. Its campus is laden with exceptional examples of late 18th-century architecture residing around the Wriston and Simmons quadrangles, as well as those on the Pembroke College campus, and along Benefit Street.
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.
Rhode Island State House is a neoclassical white marbled beauty with an imposing dome dominating the skyline of the downtown area. It is considered to be among the fourth largest self-supporting domes in the world. Built between 1895 through 1904, it is the state's seventh state house and the capital's second. Bedecked ornately, the gilded State Library, arresting rotunda and Governor’s State Room are some of its architectural masterpieces.
Popular throughout the state for its fine brews, Foolproof Brewing Company infuses the spirit of Pawtucket into its brews. A brewery that's constantly evolving to suit the preference of the modern beer drinker, the brews produced here are meticulously crafted to offer a one-of-a-kind experience that you won't forget. Open just two days a week, the taproom is a sight of absolute excitement. Customers can sample up to three beers, before purchasing a bottle or two of their choice. Tours of the brewery are conducted every Saturday, wherein customers are given a in-depth account of the philosophy and functioning of the site.
Hearthside House is a magnificent 19-century mansion that is located on Great Road in the state of Rhode Island. This stone edifice adorns a federal-style of architecture and was constructed by Stephen Hopkins Smith. This house was previously owned by Frederick C. Sayles. Visit the museum and learn about the area’s rich history. Visitors can opt for guided tours here. In addition to this, they can also host events like classes and workshops. This old house is part of the National Register of Historic Places.
As far as history speaks, the Lafayette-Durfee House was built prior to 1750, and it changed location to the new spot at Cherry Street. The land which the house was originally situated on, was mortgaged by Thomas Durfee, the owner of the property for financing the American Revolution. Thomas' son, Joseph served with Marquis de Lafayette as a colonel at many times. The Durfee family hosted Lafayette during summers and on many occasions. The house was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
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.
Encompassed by 225 acres (91 hectares) of regal estate grounds, the Aldrich Mansion dominates Warwick, Rhode Island's Narragansett Bay region with grace and elegance. The property was built was built in the late 19th-century by Rhode Island's senator at the time, Nelson W.Aldrich. Heirs to the mansion and its estate changed hands on several occasions since its construction and were most notably owned by Abby Aldrich, John D.Rockefeller, and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence. Today, the beautiful mansion hosts private events like weddings, receptions, conferences, and fundraisers.
A mansion with a storied past, scenic woodlands, lush clearings, and picturesque ponds combine to weave a remarkable tapestry of Borderland State Park. Delighting nature lovers and history buffs alike, parts of the park and Ames Mansion have appeared in movies such as Ghostbusters, Mermaids, and Knives Out. Tour the interiors of the striking mansion, embark on hikes through the woods, go fishing, or explore the wilderness on horseback. Known for its diverse recreational activities, beautiful landscapes, and historic gardens, Borderland State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking a mix of outdoor adventures and natural beauty.