The Providence Athenaeum: A Literary Gem in the Heart of Providence
Discover the historic Providence Athenaeum, a cultural sanctuary in Rhode Island, offering a rich collection, literary events, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
The Providence Athenaeum stands as a historic library and cultural hub in Providence, Rhode Island. Renowned for its beautiful architecture and extensive collection, it offers a quiet retreat for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore its reading rooms, attend literary events, and enjoy a unique atmosphere that blends tradition with community spirit.
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 library's schedule for special events and author readings during your visit.
- Bring a notebook or journal to jot down inspiration in the serene reading areas.
- Explore the children's library if you're visiting with family; it's a delightful space!
- Take time to admire the architecture and historical artifacts throughout the library.
Getting There
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Bus
From East Greenwich, walk to the nearest bus stop at Main St & Post Rd. Board the RIPTA Bus #14 or #66 heading towards Providence. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes, and get off at the stop named 'Benefit St & Hope St'. From there, walk north on Benefit St for about 5 minutes until you reach The Providence Athenaeum at 251 Benefit St.
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Train
Head to the East Greenwich Train Station located at 20 Railroad Ave. Take the MBTA train towards Boston and get off at the Providence Station. Once at Providence Station, exit and walk towards the bus stop located right outside the station. Take the RIPTA Bus #1 or #66 and get off at 'Benefit St & Hope St'. Walk north on Benefit St for about 5 minutes to reach The Providence Athenaeum.
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Bicycle
If you have a bicycle, you can ride directly to The Providence Athenaeum. Start on Main St heading north towards the center of East Greenwich. Continue onto Division St and follow it as it becomes West Main St. After about 5 miles, you’ll reach Providence. Once in Providence, turn left onto Benefit St, and cycle for about 1 mile until you arrive at 251 Benefit St, where The Providence Athenaeum is located.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and want to walk, start from the center of East Greenwich. Head north on Main St until you reach Division St. Continue on Division St which will lead you straight to Providence. Once in Providence, look for Benefit St and walk north for about 1 mile until you reach The Providence 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 and vibrant culture of Benefit Street in Providence, RI, known for its stunning architecture and artistic heritage.
Market House
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Explore the historic Market House in Providence, RI, a vibrant heritage building offering local culture, architecture, and community events in the heart of the city.
Rhode Island Holocaust Memorial
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Explore the Rhode Island Holocaust Memorial in Downtown Providence, a powerful tribute honoring the victims of the Holocaust through art and reflection.
Historic Market Square
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Discover the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Historic Market Square in Providence, Rhode Island, a must-visit destination for every tourist.
Van Wickle Gates
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Explore the Van Wickle Gates at Brown University, a stunning monument rich in history and architectural beauty in Providence, Rhode Island.
Quiet Green
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Experience the serene beauty of Quiet Green, a tranquil park in the heart of College Hill, perfect for relaxation and exploration near Brown University.
Carrie Tower
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Discover the historical charm of Carrie Tower in Providence, Rhode Island, a stunning Gothic Revival landmark offering breathtaking views and a rich cultural experience.
Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology
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Explore the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology, where the world's cultures come alive through fascinating exhibits and educational programs.
Main Green
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Experience the serene beauty of Main Green at Brown University, a lush park that blends academic heritage with vibrant community life in Providence.
Edward Dexter House
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Explore the Edward Dexter House, a stunning 18th-century historical landmark in Providence's College Hill, and embrace the rich heritage of the area.
The General Ambrose Burnside Mansion
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Discover the historical charm of the General Ambrose Burnside Mansion in Providence, Rhode Island, a captivating landmark that echoes the past.
Fleur-de-lys Studio
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Explore Fleur-de-lys Studio in Providence, a captivating historical landmark that celebrates local artistry and cultural heritage in the heart of College Hill.
Bronze Bruno Statue
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Discover the Bronze Bruno Statue in Providence, Rhode Island – a captivating historical landmark that celebrates legacy and artistry in the heart of College Hill.
Federal Building
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Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Federal Building in Providence, a stunning landmark in Kennedy Plaza.
Providence National Bank Facade
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Explore the Providence National Bank Facade, a stunning architectural gem in Downtown Providence reflecting the city's artistic spirit 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 and historical significance of Memorial Park in downtown Providence, a must-visit for all travelers.
First Unitarian Church of Providence
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Explore the architectural beauty and tranquil ambiance of the First Unitarian Church of Providence, a hidden gem in Rhode Island's cultural landscape.
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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Custom House
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Explore the rich history of Providence at the Custom House, a stunning architectural gem and a vital piece of the city's heritage.
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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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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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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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
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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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Explore a treasure trove of unique handmade gifts and home goods at Found Gift Shop in Providence, Rhode Island.
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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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
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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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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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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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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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