City Guide: Providence, Rhode Island

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Over the weekend, I got to cross another state off of my to-visit list with a little getaway to Rhode Island. We had a wedding to go to in the small town of Rehoboth, Massachusetts and decided to stay in Providence, RI because it was only 15 minutes away. Apart from Vermont, this is actually my first New England experience and I was excited to visit a new corner of the country. In short, I was pleasantly surprised by all that ‘Prov’ had to offer. Being so close to both Boston and New York, it’s a great little city to make a priority on your next escape.

Where To Stay:

• Providence Biltmore: This was our hotel for the weekend and we absolutely loved it. Built in 1922, it’s actually the oldest hotel in the city and was designed by the same group that designed Grand Central Station. When we walked into the lobby, I instantly feel in love with the original art deco features and statement making staircase. It’s also a great pick because it’s walking distance to all of the nearby sights and restaurants, making your car unnecessary once you park.
• The Dean Hotel: This was my number two pick, but unfortunately it was booked for the weekend. Still, that didn’t stop me from going by to check it out. For as traditional as the Biltmore is, the Dean is much more modern and perfect for the traveling millennial. I can only compare it to Ace Hotels, with that effortless cool and in-the-know feeling. This hotel also features an on-sight bar, coffee shop, restaurant, and the only karaoke bar in town.

Where To Eat:

• Kleos: This was our first stop for lunch when we got to Prov because I’m always a sucker for Greek food. The avgolemono soup was exactly what I needed on a cold and rainy day. It was probably the best batch I’ve ever had! The restaurant itself was absolutely adorable and dripping in Greek charm.
• Kitchen: Through all of my research, this little spot was by far the number one, most recommended! With just one man behind the kitchen, you’ll feel like you’re having breakfast made by a good friend at their house. There will be a line, for obvious reasons, so be sure to get their early or wait.
• Nick’s on Broadway: A close second when it comes to recommendations. this restaurant has been a Providence institution since 1969. Although they are most known for their brunch and breakfast, definitely be sure to try their ‘tasting menu’ for a unique experience.
• The Duck and Bunny: I bet you’ve never eaten at a ‘snuggery’ before. Imagine the coziest restaurant you’ve ever been to and The Duck and Bunny will still have that place beat. With everything from afternoon tea to cigars on their menu, and everything in between, this place will be sure to win you over.

Where To Drink:

• Magdalene Room: Located in the Dean Hotel, this dark and intimate bar was the perfect spot for a post-wedding night cap. Hidden behind a velvet curtain, you get a real prohibition vibe. With jazz music playing in the background, David and I snagged a cozy, velvet-lined booth to enjoy a cocktail and talked about the evening. I could have stayed there all night long! Afterwards, we almost stopped by Boombox, the karaoke lounge right next door, but I didn’t have enough courage to share my awful singing skills with an audience.
• The Nitro Cart: Even though I’ve become a coffee addict over the last few years, nitro coffee will always be my first choice. The carbonation makes the drink seems richer and creamier, even when you’re still drinking it black. Being served at some of the trendiest places in town, you definitely shouldn’t miss this sip of caffeine.

What To See:

• River Walk: The best way to see is a city is to just get out there and walk it. Lucky for you, Providence has one of the prettiest strolls on the Woonasquatucket River. With bridges that look like they came straight from Venice, Italy, let yourself have a little daydream. In true Venetian fashion, they even offer gondola rides to give you a new take on the Renaissance City.
• Brown University: Just on the other side of the river, this Ivy League school has the gorgeous architecture that you would expect from a school founded in 1764. In the fall, check their football schedule to cheer on the Bears and one of the oldest teams in the college football game.
• RISD Museum: Right next to Brown, you’ll find another prestigious school, the Rhode Island School of Design, or RISD. In 1877 they opened their art museum, which has grown into one of the largest in the country. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time here because there is so much to see!

Okay folks, that’s my quick summary of Providence, but I was there for just a short spell. I quickly learned that it’s quite the foodie’s paradise and can’t wait to go back to fall in love with a new restaurant. All in all, Providence was exactly what I needed for a quick trip away from the hustle and bustle of New York City.

Love from NYC,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.