The Providence Athenaeum: A Literary Gem in Rhode Island
Explore the Providence Athenaeum, a historic library in College Hill, Rhode Island, rich in literary culture and artistic events.
Nestled in the heart of College Hill, the Providence Athenaeum is a historic library that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the literary culture of Rhode Island. With its stunning architecture and rich collection of books, this cultural center is perfect for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the local heritage.
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
- Check the schedule for special events and author readings, which can enhance your visit.
- Take time to explore the children's section, which has a unique collection of literature and is a charming area.
- Don't forget to visit the reading rooms with their beautiful architecture, ideal for a quiet study or reflection.
- Consider becoming a member if you plan to visit frequently, as it offers additional benefits.
- Bring your own reading material or enjoy the library's atmosphere with a cup of coffee from nearby cafes.
Getting There
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Bus
Start at the New Bedford Bus Terminal located at 34 S Front St. Take the Peter Pan Bus Lines heading to Providence. The journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at the Providence Bus Terminal, exit the bus and walk to the nearest bus stop for the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) bus number 1 (Broad St).
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Bus
From the Providence Bus Terminal, catch RIPTA bus number 1 (Broad St) towards the 'Kennedy Plaza' stop. Ride for about 10 minutes and get off at the 'Washington St at Dorrance St' stop. From there, walk towards the east on Dorrance St until you reach Benefit St. Then turn left onto Benefit St and walk for about 5 minutes until you reach The Providence Athenaeum at 251 Benefit St.
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Taxi/Ride Share
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride from your current location in New Bedford to 251 Benefit St, Providence, RI 02903. The drive should take approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, you can rent a bicycle in New Bedford and ride to Providence. Start at the waterfront and take the bike path along the shore towards the east. Follow the path that leads to the Sakonnet Greenway Trail, which will take you through scenic areas and parks. Upon reaching Providence, navigate towards Benefit St, where The Providence Athenaeum is located. The total biking distance is about 18 miles and will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Walking
If you are up for a long walk, you can walk to Providence from New Bedford. Head north on Route 18, which will lead you into the outskirts of Providence. The total distance is roughly 20 miles and will take about 5-6 hours. It is advisable to start early in the day and bring water and snacks. Once you arrive in Providence, navigate to Benefit St to find The Providence Athenaeum.
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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Explore the historic Market House in Providence, a vibrant heritage building offering unique local crafts and delicious food in the heart of Rhode Island.
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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Discover Carrie Tower, a historic landmark in Providence, where stunning architecture meets captivating views and rich local culture.
Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology
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Explore diverse cultures at the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology in Providence, a captivating destination for art and history enthusiasts.
Main Green
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Experience the lush beauty and vibrant culture of Main Green, a serene park at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.
Edward Dexter House
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Explore the Edward Dexter House, a stunning historical landmark in College Hill, Providence, showcasing colonial American architecture and rich history.
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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Discover the Bronze Bruno Statue in Providence, a historical landmark celebrating Giordano Bruno's legacy amidst the beauty of College Hill.
Federal Building
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Explore the Federal Building in Providence, a stunning historical landmark that showcases the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Providence National Bank Facade
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Explore the stunning Providence National Bank Facade, a historic architectural gem in Downtown Providence, showcasing intricate designs and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Stephen Hopkins House
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Explore The Stephen Hopkins House, a captivating museum that brings America's revolutionary history to life in Providence, Rhode Island.
RISD Museum
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Discover the RISD Museum: a treasure trove of art and culture in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, featuring diverse collections and engaging exhibitions.
Memorial Park
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Explore the serene beauty of Memorial Park in Providence, a tranquil spot for reflection and enjoyment amidst the city's vibrant history.
First Unitarian Church of Providence
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Explore the architectural beauty and cultural significance of the First Unitarian Church of Providence, a serene sanctuary in Rhode Island.
First Baptist Church in America
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Explore the First Baptist Church in America, a historic gem in Providence, Rhode Island, showcasing architectural beauty and rich religious heritage.
College Hill Historic District
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Discover the historical beauty and cultural richness of College Hill Historic District, a must-visit destination in Providence, Rhode Island.
Providence Art Club
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Explore the artistic legacy of Providence at the Providence Art Club, where creativity and community converge in a historic setting.
Custom House
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Discover the historical elegance of the Custom House in Providence, a beautifully preserved landmark showcasing the city's vibrant past.
John Carter Brown Library
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Discover the hidden gems of American history at the John Carter Brown Library, a treasure trove of rare books and manuscripts in Providence, Rhode Island.
Brown University
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Explore Brown University in Providence, RI - an Ivy League gem blending historic charm with a vibrant academic atmosphere.
The John Brown House Museum
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Explore the John Brown House Museum, a stunning historical landmark in Providence, RI, showcasing the rich heritage of America's colonial past.
Essential places to dine
Parkside Rotisserie & Bar
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Experience flavorful American cuisine and crafted cocktails at Parkside Rotisserie & Bar in Providence – a perfect blend of taste and ambiance.
Hemenway's Restaurant
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Experience fine dining at Hemenway's Restaurant in Providence - where exquisite seafood meets elegant ambiance.
Capriccio
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Experience exquisite Italian dining at Capriccio in Downtown Providence, where Mediterranean flavors meet culinary artistry.
Pot au Feu
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Experience exquisite French cuisine at Pot au Feu in Downtown Providence; where culinary artistry meets local flavors in an inviting atmosphere.
Layali Restaurant Bar
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Discover Layali Restaurant Bar in Downtown Providence: where Mediterranean flavors meet vibrant nightlife.
New Rivers
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Discover the art of American cuisine at New Rivers in Providence – where local ingredients meet innovative culinary techniques.
Palo
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Discover Palo: A premier tapas bar in Downtown Providence offering innovative small plates and exquisite drinks in a vibrant setting.
Circe Restaurant & Bar - Providence
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Discover the culinary artistry of New American cuisine at Circe Restaurant & Bar in Downtown Providence, where elegance meets flavor.
Bellini (Providence)
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine in Downtown Providence at Bellini - where tradition meets modern dining.
Mills Tavern
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Experience culinary excellence at Mills Tavern in Providence, offering exquisite seafood and steak dishes in an elegant atmosphere.
Ten Prime Steak & Sushi
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Experience fine dining at Ten Prime Steak & Sushi—where exceptional steaks meet exquisite sushi in Downtown Providence.
Cafe Nuovo
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Discover exceptional New American cuisine at Cafe Nuovo in Downtown Providence - where elegance meets culinary artistry.
Rogue Island Local Kitchen & Bar
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Discover Rogue Island Local Kitchen & Bar in Providence: A vibrant New American restaurant with local flavors and a lively bar atmosphere.
Bacaro
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Discover Bacaro in Providence: An upscale Italian restaurant offering exquisite cuisine and fine wines in an inviting atmosphere.
Sarto Restaurant
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sarto Restaurant in Downtown Providence—where every dish tells a story.
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
0.3 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Bangled Tiger, Providence's premier vintage clothing store, where every piece tells a story.
Found
0.4 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique handmade gifts and home goods at Found Gift Shop in Providence, Rhode Island.
Project Attic Boutique
0.4 km
Explore Project Attic Boutique in Providence for unique vintage clothing treasures that celebrate timeless style and individuality.
Existential Thread Co
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Explore timeless fashion at Existential Thread Co, where vintage meets creativity in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island.
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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Uncover unique vintage clothing and antiques at Old as Adam, a charming store in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island.
SPECTRUM-INDIA
0.6 km
Discover the essence of India at Spectrum India, a vibrant gift shop in Providence offering unique crafts, jewelry, and spiritual supplies.
Craftland
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Explore Craftland in Providence, RI - a unique gift shop and art gallery showcasing local artisans' creativity through handcrafted treasures.
Modern Love
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Explore Modern Love in Downtown Providence for a unique gift shop and shoe store experience filled with local creativity and style.
Queen of Hearts
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Discover unique gifts, stylish clothing, and exquisite jewelry at Queen of Hearts in Downtown Providence, a must-visit for every traveler.
Homestyle
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Explore Providence's Homestyle Gift Shop for unique local treasures and handcrafted gifts that celebrate Rhode Island's vibrant culture.
The Vault Collective
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Explore the charming world of vintage fashion at The Vault Collective in Downtown Providence, where unique treasures await every fashion enthusiast.
Pleasant Surprise
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Explore Pleasant Surprise in Providence, RI: A charming gift shop offering unique treasures and local artisan crafts for every occasion.
Oak Wells
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Explore Oak Wells, a charming gift shop in Downtown Providence, offering unique local treasures and authentic Rhode Island souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Walnut Room
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Walnut Room in Providence, where creative cocktails and live music create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Wild Colonial Tavern
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Embrace the lively spirit of Wild Colonial Tavern, a must-visit bar in Providence, RI, for craft beers, cocktails, and camaraderie.
Needle and Thread
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Red Door
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Providence GPub
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Discover Providence GPub, where a vibrant atmosphere meets delicious gastropub cuisine in the heart of Downtown Providence.
Rooftop at the Providence G
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Experience breathtaking views and exquisite dining at Rooftop at the Providence G, a premier destination in downtown Providence, RI.
The Eddy
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Discover The Eddy, a vibrant cocktail bar in Downtown Providence, offering innovative drinks and a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Marcelino's Boutique Bar
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Discover the finest cocktails in Downtown Providence at Marcelino's Boutique Bar, where mixology meets a lively atmosphere.
The Malted Barley
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Explore The Malted Barley, a vibrant bar in Downtown Providence, known for its extensive craft beer selection and delicious pub cuisine.
Free Play Bar Arcade
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Experience nostalgia and fun at Free Play Bar Arcade, where classic gaming and nightlife converge in downtown Providence.
Murphy's Providence
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Discover the lively spirit of Murphy's Providence, where great food, craft drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere come together in Downtown Providence.
The Dean Bar
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Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at The Dean Bar in Downtown Providence, where innovative drinks meet a stylish ambiance.
Muldowney's Pub
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Discover Muldowney's Pub in Downtown Providence, where great drinks and live music create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and socializing.
Nick-A-Nees
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Experience the local nightlife at Nick-A-Nees, a vibrant bar in Providence's Jewelry District, offering great drinks and live music in a welcoming ambiance.
Tiny Bar
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Discover Tiny Bar in Providence's Jewelry District: a cozy spot for delicious cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere.
