WHAT TO DO IN PROVIDENCE

LIBRARY TOURS

Local libraries have graciously offered opportunities for OpenEd24 attendees to tour their spaces. Sign up on the form below to participate—space is limited!

  • Rhode Island School of Design Library Tour

    Monday, October 7 at 4:30 pm

    Come join us for a tour of the Rhode Island School of Design’s beautiful Fleet Library, a 1920’s Renaissance bank building now magnificently transformed into a functional academic library. If you’re lucky, you might even get a sneak peek at the bank’s old vault system! Space is limited to 15 individuals, so please reserve your seat early.

  • Brown University Library Tour

    Wednesday, October 9 at 4:30 pm

    Join us for a tour of two of Brown University’s beautiful libraries, the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Library and the John Hay Library. The “Rock” tour will whisk us through the numerous collections, study spaces, and classrooms, while the Hay tour will bring us back in time by visiting the special collections, the exhibit gallery, and the reading room. If you’re a science-fiction fan, you’ll be excited to know that the Hay Library holds HP Lovecraft’s manuscripts and personal letters. It also has three anthropodermic books in its collection from the 1500s (kind of creepy). Space is limited to 15 attendees, sign up required.

  • Providence Athenaeum Tour

    Thursday, October 10 at 3:15 pm

    Predating the establishment of public libraries and founded in 1836, the Providence Athenæum (ath-uh-NEE-um or ath-uh-NAY-um) is an independent, member-supported library located on Providence’s historic Benefit Street. Over its nearly 200 years of existence, the library has welcomed illustrious writers, spirited thinkers, and engaged community members through its doors to read, learn, gather, and debate. Members of particular fame include poet Edgar Allen Poe. Space is limited to 15 attendees, sign up required.

Things To Do

Providence is a vibrant city filled with diverse activities and experiences for every interest. Whether you're looking to explore local arts, enjoy delicious food, or take in scenic views, the city offers a unique mix of urban charm and cultural richness.

  • Waterfire

    Saturday, October 5, 2024

    If you find yourself in town early, treat yourself to Providence's famous outdoor event, Waterfire.

    WaterFire evenings consist of eighty-six burning braziers floating just above the surface of the rivers that flow through downtown Providence. Pop into a local pub or enjoy cuisine from one of the many food vendors set up along the closed off streets of the East Side!

  • RISD MUSEUM (Rhode Island School of Design)

    20 N Main St, Providence, RI 02903

    Free admission on Thursday nights is available from 5-8pm. Book a spot! 

    The RISD Museum believes that art, artists, and the institutions that support them play pivotal roles in promoting broad civic engagement and creating more open societies. Established in 1877 as part of a vibrant creative community, the RISD Museum stewards works of art representing diverse cultures from ancient times to the present.

  • Providence Athenaeum

    Providence Athenaeum

    251 Benefit St, Providence, RI 02903

    Predating the establishment of public libraries and founded in 1836, the Providence Athenæum (ath-uh-NEE-um or ath-uh-NAY-um) is an independent, member-supported library located on Providence’s historic Benefit Street. Over its nearly 200 years of existence, the library has welcomed illustrious writers, spirited thinkers, and engaged community members through its doors to read, learn, gather, and debate. Members of particular fame include poet Edgar Allen Poe.

  • Providence Place Mall

    One Providence Place, Providence RI, 02903

    Home to the new documentary “Secret Mall Apartment,” the Providence Place Mall offers shopping, restaurants, and entertainment like a movie theater, escape room and more. It’s easily accessible on foot or wheels, and also has a large parking garage. There is also a direct indoor walkway from the Omni Providence!

  • Thayer Street

    Thayer Street, Providence, RI 02906

    Thayer Street is a vibrant hub in Providence, known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Located near Brown University, it offers a lively atmosphere with something for everyone. Attendees can explore a variety of international cuisines, cozy coffee shops, and unique boutiques. It's a great spot for casual dining, people-watching, or simply soaking in the local culture.

  • Federal Hill

    Atwells Avenue, Providence, RI 02903

    Federal Hill is Providence’s renowned Little Italy, offering a rich blend of Italian heritage, culture, and cuisine. Known for its charming atmosphere and iconic restaurants, it’s the perfect destination for food lovers. Visitors can enjoy authentic Italian meals, from handmade pasta to gourmet pizzas, while strolling along Atwells Avenue, the heart of the neighborhood. Beyond dining, Federal Hill boasts specialty shops, bakeries, and lively outdoor patios.

  • Prospect Terrace Park

    Prospect Terrace Park

    Congdon Street, Providence, RI 02906

    Prospect Terrace Park offers one of the best panoramic views of Providence, making it a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Perched atop College Hill, this small park overlooks downtown Providence, offering stunning vistas of the skyline and surrounding areas. If you walk, be prepared for an uphill climb!

  • Tomaquag Museum

    390A Summit Rd, Exeter, RI 02822 (approx. 40 min drive)

    From the Tomaquag Museum website: Rhode Island’s only museum entirely dedicated to telling the story of the Indigenous peoples of this land. It has a unique collection of thousands of cultural objects, along with hundreds of thousands of pieces of archival materials focusing on the Indigenous peoples of southern New England, highlighting the federally recognized Narragansett Tribe.