Nearby Attractions

Cole Farmhouse is located within a short distance to many attractions. The list below provides details to our favorite spots.

Blackstone Boulevard – Almost two miles of tree-coddled trails. Run, stroll or bike. Only steps away from the Farmhouse.

Lippitt Memorial Park – Located at the tip of Blackstone Boulevard near the Providence/Pawtucket line.
Farmers Market every Saturday, May through October from 9am to 1pm
http://www.hopestreetmarket.com/

Brown University – Founded in 1764, Brown is a world-renowned university.
President George Washington has also visited Brown in 1790. Brown’s rich history is chronicled at: https://www.brown.edu/about/history/timeline/
The Brown University Quadrangle is a beautiful place to explore any day of the year — see: https://rhodetour.org/items/show/189?tour=21&index=16
Brown hosts a wide variety of public events featuring scholars, speakers and performers from around the globe – https://www.brown.edu/news/featured-events

Blackstone Park Conservation District – This 45-acre natural woodland contains two ponds: York Pond and Hockey Pond, and some open meadow. The Blackstone Parks Conservancy is dedicated to the preservation and stewardship of historic Blackstone Park Conservation District and Blackstone Boulevard. This beautiful area is a short 15 minutes walk from Cole Farmhouse.

Rhode Island State House – Rhode Island was per capita the wealthiest state in the country when built, between 1895 and 1904. The beautiful marble dome is the fourth largest structural-stone dome in the world. The inside, beautifully preserved in its original condition, is a marvelous spatial experience.
Tours are available Monday-Friday at 10 am and 1 pm.

RISD Museum – The RISD museum is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10am – 5pm. And on Thursday 12noon – 8pm.
The museum is closed on June 19th, July 4th, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.
Admission is free on Sundays 10am – 5pm and Thursday evenings from 5 – 8pm.

Prospect Terrace Park – Located in College Hill (near Brown University), the statue of Roger Williams (Providence’s founder) looms over the city. Stunning view of Providence downtown.

Waterplace Park – On WaterFire evenings, downtown Providence is transformed by eighty-six anchored burning braziers that float just above the surface of the rivers that flow through Waterplace Park at the middle of downtown Providence. The public is invited to come and walk the riverfront and enjoy the beauty of the flickering firelight, the fragrant scent of aromatic wood smoke, and the music from around the world.See schedule and details at: https://usa1731.com/waterfire/

The Providence Athenæum – An independent, member-supported subscription library. The Athenæum opened the doors of its completed Benefit Street home on July 11, 1838, accompanied by the Franklin Society, a scientific and philosophic club, which occupied what is now the Reading Room. Over its nearly 200 years of existence, the library has welcomed illustrious writers, spirited thinkers, and energetic community members through its doors to engage in reading, conversation, and debate. At its heart, the Athenæum encourages a love of reading and learning to all. The building is open to the public, but only members can check out items from the collection

John Brown House Museum – The first mansion built in Providence located at 52 Power Street on College Hill . The house is named after the original owner, a benefactor of Brown University, merchant, statesman, and slave trader John Brown. John Quincy Adams considered it “the most magnificent and elegant private mansion that I have ever seen on this continent.”

Old Slater Mill – A National Historical Landmark signifying the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. Originally constructed in 1793, in this mill Samuel Slater first successfully implemented the first water-powered cotton spinning technology in America. Slater Mill is the beginning of everything from machine made goods and hourly wages, to planned communities and labor unions. Park schedule changes by season — see: https://www.nps.gov/places/slater-mill.htm

Roger Williams Park Zoo – One of the oldest zoos in the country. Located amid 40 acres of beautiful woodlands, the Roger Williams Park Zoo provides visitors the opportunity to see animals from all over the globe – some more than a million years old. Don’t miss the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo in October.

More attractions (Curated by Elyssa Tardif and Rhode Tour Team)
Roger Williams National Memorial
Fleur-de-Lys Studio; Providence Art Club
The Stephen Hopkins House
RI Film & Television Locations

-Click here to download a walking tour map for Providence East Side (PDF Courtesy of goprovidence.com)
-Click here to download a walking tour map for Providence Downtown (PDF Courtesy of goprovidence.com)
For hiking recommendations around Cole Farm visit our page: https://usa1731.com/hike/

Dining

Providence is one of the nation’s hottest culinary destinations. Some of our guests favorites are listed here.

Waterman Grille – A vibrant culinary experience. Great atmosphere is situated along the Seekonk River in a former bridge gatehouse that dates back to 1871.
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Oberlin – Well-known for seafood, hand-crafted pasta and just-caught local fish. Excellent brunch!
266 Westminster Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903 | (401) 588-8755

Ellie’s – Inspired by the Parisian way of life. Rich dining from breakfast to dinner, coffee to cocktails
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

CAV – Serving bistro menu al fresco, as well as the the chef menu. Award winning cuisine and ambiance, Open for Saturday and Sunday brunch, lunch and dinner daily
14 Imperial Place, Providence, RI 02903 | (401)-751-9164
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Garden Grille – Great Vegetarian and vegan options at a relatively low price.
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Plant City – Vegan food hall and market that brings together different restaurant concepts under one roof: Italian food, Mexican food, fast-casual burgers, cafe style acai bowls, juices, smoothies, and desserts.
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

East Side Pockets – The best Falafel in Providence and beyond!
278 Thayer St., Providence, RI 02906  |  Phone: 401-453-1100
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Gracie‘s – Best restaurant for a romantic night out!
194 Washington St., Providence, RI 02903 | (401) 272-7811
Check website for hours

Pizzico Oyster Bar – Great Italian cuisine on Hope St.
762 Hope Street, Providence, RI 02906 | 401 421-4114

Red Stripe – A traditional brasserie in Wayland square serving comfort food with a French influence. Lively atmosphere with classic American bistro fare
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Haruki East – If sushi is what you’re into and you don’t want to spend a fortune head over to Haurki East in Wayland square.
172 Wayland Ave., Providence, RI 02906 | (401) 223-0332
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Pasta Beach – Great brick-oven Pizza and Italian spaghetti. A bit pricey but worth it.
195 Wayland Ave, Providence, RI 02906 | 401.270.0740
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Lim’s – Fine Thai & Sushi Restaurant in Wayland Square.
18 South Angell Street,Providence, RI 02906 |(401) 383-8830
(Open for Indoor dining & takeaway)

Dolores – Authentic dishes from Oaxaca and Puebla regions in Mexico.
100 Hope St. Providence, RI, 02906 | (401) 409-2075
(Open for Indoor and small outdoor dining & takeaway)

Dune Brothers – Awesome fish & chips. Local food from the water and earth of New England. A beach-style seafood shack in downtown PVD. Dune Brothers may be closed in winter months.
239 Dyer St. Providence, RI | 401-480-1269

Bakeries

Seven Stars Bakery – Excellent bakery with several locations in Providence. Delicious pastries and bread selection. My favorite bread is the walnut raisin. You can order a full loaf, half or a single slice. Also serving pastries, sandwiches, salads, and locally roasted coffee.
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Wildflour – Vegan bakery with smoothies. Gluten-many free . Healthy & delicious smoothies. Try a shot or two of wheat grass to boost your immune system.
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Drinks & Nightlife

Hope Street Pizza – A neighborhood Pizza and beer. Nothing fancy. Open late.
772 Hope St, Providence, RI 02906 | (401) 273-5955
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

McBride’s Pub – Friendly neighbourhood Irish pub. Great menu.
161 Wayland Ave Providence, RI 02906 |(401) 751-3000
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Trinity Beer Garden – Trinity Brewhouse’s outdoor beer garden is located in downtown Providence. In addition to your favorite Trinity Beer, Trinity Beer Garden offers wine, other selected beer options, batched cocktails, and a rotating variety of local food vendors and food trucks.
2 Kennedy Plaza, Biltmore Park, Providence, RI 02903 | (401) 536-0640
(Open for Indoor and Patio dining & takeaway)

Providence

Providence, Rhode Island | the Renaissance City

Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island, is one of the oldest cities in the United States, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1636 by Roger Williams. Williams, a Puritan theologian,
established Providence as a haven for religious freedom and separation of church and state, principles that were revolutionary at the time.

Home to Brown University, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson & Wales University, its vibrant art, cultural, and culinary scenes collide, casting an eclectic mix of contrast and creativity.

Providence is easy to get to and still affordable. Providence has a lot to offer: cool music, public art, great museums, award-winning theater, local events, and festivals.

Historical Significance

Providence played a crucial role in the early history of the United States. It was one of the original Thirteen Colonies and became a significant center for trade and commerce. The city’s strategic location along the Providence River facilitated its growth as a bustling port. During the American Revolution, Providence was a hotbed of revolutionary activity, contributing to the fight for independence.

Architectural Heritage

One of the most striking features of Providence is its well-preserved architectural heritage. Benefit Street, often referred to as the “Mile of History,” is a prime example. This street is lined with Colonial and Victorian-era buildings, showcasing the city’s long and proud history. Notable structures include the John Brown House, a grand Georgian-style mansion built in 1788, and the he Providence Athenæum , a Greek Revival-style building, constructed in 1844.

Cultural and Educational Hub

Providence is also known for its vibrant cultural scene and educational institutions. The city is home to Brown University, an Ivy League institution founded in 1764, and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), one of the leading art and design schools in the country. These institutions contribute to the city’s dynamic atmosphere, attracting students, artists, and scholars from around the world.

Rhode Island State House

The State House is considered an outstanding example of American Renaissance architecture.
Dominated by the fourth largest self-supported marble dome in the world, this is the center of Rhode Island government. Standing on top of the dome is the “Independent Man”, grasping a spear in one hand and resting the other on the stock of an anchor. The inside, beautifully preserved in its original condition, is a marvelous spatial experience. Visitors can take self-guided tours.

State House, Providence, R.I., U.S.A.
http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/stereo.1s15360

Modern Providence

Today, Providence is a thriving city that blends its historical charm with modern amenities. The revitalization of its downtown area has brought new life to the city, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. WaterFire, an art installation that involves lighting bonfires on the rivers of downtown Providence, has become a popular event, drawing visitors from near and far.In conclusion, Providence, Rhode Island, is a city that beautifully marries its rich historical past with a vibrant present. Its architectural treasures, cultural institutions, and dynamic community make it a unique and fascinating place to explore.

Vacation Hub

Providence is an ideal vacation spot for exploring the attractions of southern New England. You can reach Newport, Cape Cod, Boston, Westerly, Block Island, and many other attractions within an hour’s drive. See our post: Vacation Gateway

Rhode Island Landscapes: the Eden of America

Rhode Island, the Ocean State, is known for its natural beauty and historic charm.
Jedidiah Morse, the 18th century geographer, describes Rhode Island as: “the Eden of America” — See our post: Eden of America: Rhode Island Landscapes

Providence skyline at dusk

sources:
https://newengland.com/today/travel/rhode-island/providence-rhode-island/
https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/divine-providence-guide-england-renaissance-182003120.html
https://www.gonomad.com/1052-providence-benefit-street-showcase
https://docs.sos.ri.gov/documents/civicsandeducation/self-guided-state-house-tour-brochure.pdf
https://guide.ppsri.org/property/rhode-island-state-house
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Providence,_Rhode_Island

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