The Providence Athenaeum: A Literary Haven in Rhode Island
Explore the historic Providence Athenaeum, a cultural gem in Rhode Island offering a rich collection of literature and engaging community events.
Nestled in the heart of Providence, The Providence Athenaeum is a historic library and cultural center that invites tourists to explore its rich literary heritage. With beautiful architecture and a warm atmosphere, it offers a unique glimpse into the world of books and art. Visitors can enjoy reading nooks, engaging events, and a collection that spans centuries, making it a perfect stop for book lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to The Providence Athenaeum
- 251 Benefit St, Providence, College Hill, Rhode Island, 02903, US
- +1401-421-6970
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience and more opportunity to explore the library.
- Check the schedule for special events, including author talks and art exhibitions.
- Don't forget to explore the beautiful outdoor gardens adjacent to the library.
- Bring your own book or a journal to enjoy in one of the many inviting reading nooks.
Getting There
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Bus
To reach the Providence Athenaeum from Brockton, head to the Brockton Bus Terminal located at 1-3 Main St. There, take the Peter Pan Bus Lines or Greyhound to Providence, RI. Buses run frequently, so check the schedule for departure times. The journey will take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Once you arrive at the Providence Bus Terminal, exit the terminal and head towards the bus stop for the RIPTA public bus. Take the #1 or #5 bus towards College Hill. Get off at the 'Benefit St at Thayer St' stop. From there, walk south on Benefit St for about 5 minutes, and you'll find the Providence Athenaeum at 251 Benefit St on your right.
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Train
From Brockton, make your way to the Brockton MBTA Commuter Rail Station located at 1-3 Main St. Board the train on the Middleborough/Lakeville Line towards Boston. After approximately 30 minutes, transfer at the South Station in Boston. From South Station, take the Amtrak or MBTA train to Providence, RI. The train ride will take about 30 minutes. Upon arriving at the Providence Station, exit the station and take the #1 or #5 RIPTA bus towards College Hill from the bus stop just outside the station. Get off at 'Benefit St at Thayer St' and walk south for about 5 minutes to reach the Providence Athenaeum at 251 Benefit St.
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Walking and Public Transport
If you prefer to walk and use public transport, start at the Brockton Bus Terminal and take a local bus (like the #14) to the nearest subway station, which is the Ashmont Station. From Ashmont, take the Red Line towards Alewife. Transfer at Park Street to the Green Line towards D Branch and get off at the 'College St' stop. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Providence Athenaeum. Walk south on College St, turn right onto Benefit St, and continue until you see the Athenaeum at 251 Benefit St.
Discover more about The Providence Athenaeum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Benefit St
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Discover the historic charm of Benefit Street in Providence, RI, where stunning architecture meets rich cultural heritage in an unforgettable stroll.
Market House
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Rhode Island Holocaust Memorial
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Explore the Rhode Island Holocaust Memorial in Providence, a deeply moving tribute to resilience and a crucial reminder of the importance of tolerance in our society.
Historic Market Square
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Discover the historical heart of Providence at Historic Market Square, where vibrant shops and rich culture meet in a charming urban setting.
Van Wickle Gates
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Explore the Van Wickle Gates, a historic landmark of Brown University, showcasing Romanesque architecture and rich traditions in Providence, Rhode Island.
Quiet Green
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Discover the tranquility of Quiet Green, a picturesque park at Brown University, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature in Providence.
Carrie Tower
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Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology
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Main Green
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Edward Dexter House
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The General Ambrose Burnside Mansion
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Explore the General Ambrose Burnside Mansion, a historical landmark in Providence, RI, showcasing stunning architecture and rich Civil War history.
Fleur-de-lys Studio
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Explore Fleur-de-lys Studio, a historical landmark in Providence, Rhode Island, showcasing the city's vibrant artistic heritage in a charming setting.
Bronze Bruno Statue
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Federal Building
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Providence National Bank Facade
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Unmissable attractions to see
The Stephen Hopkins House
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RISD Museum
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Memorial Park
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First Unitarian Church of Providence
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First Baptist Church in America
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College Hill Historic District
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Providence Art Club
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Custom House
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John Carter Brown Library
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Brown University
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The John Brown House Museum
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Essential places to dine
Parkside Rotisserie & Bar
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Hemenway's Restaurant
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Capriccio
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Pot au Feu
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Layali Restaurant Bar
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New Rivers
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Palo
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Circe Restaurant & Bar - Providence
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Bellini (Providence)
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Mills Tavern
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Ten Prime Steak & Sushi
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Cafe Nuovo
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Rogue Island Local Kitchen & Bar
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Bacaro
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Sarto Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
risd:store
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Explore RISD Store in Downtown Providence for unique art supplies, creative gifts, and exclusive RISD merchandise.
Bangled Tiger
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Discover unique fashion treasures at Bangled Tiger, Providence's premier vintage clothing store, where every piece tells a story.
Found
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Project Attic Boutique
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Explore Project Attic Boutique in Providence for unique vintage clothing treasures that celebrate timeless style and individuality.
Existential Thread Co
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environs
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Explore Environs Gift Shop in Downtown Providence for unique, locally-crafted treasures that capture the essence of Rhode Island.
Old as Adam
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SPECTRUM-INDIA
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Craftland
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Modern Love
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Queen of Hearts
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Homestyle
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The Vault Collective
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Pleasant Surprise
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Oak Wells
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Walnut Room
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Wild Colonial Tavern
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Needle and Thread
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Red Door
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Providence GPub
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Rooftop at the Providence G
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The Eddy
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Marcelino's Boutique Bar
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The Malted Barley
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Free Play Bar Arcade
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Murphy's Providence
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The Dean Bar
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Muldowney's Pub
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Nick-A-Nees
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Tiny Bar
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