The Enchanting Providence Athenaeum: A Cultural Gem
Explore the historic Providence Athenaeum, where literature, culture, and community come together in a beautiful setting.
Nestled in the heart of Providence, the Providence Athenaeum is a historic library that offers a captivating blend of literature, culture, and community. With its inviting atmosphere and extensive collections, it's a must-visit for any tourist seeking a deeper connection to the city's intellectual 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
- Visit during the week to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and more personal interactions with staff.
- Check the events calendar online before your visit to catch special readings or exhibits.
- Bring your own book or journal to enjoy in the serene reading areas throughout the library.
- Don't forget to explore the children's library, which offers a unique and engaging space for families.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From Narragansett, walk to the nearest bus stop that services the RIPTA (Rhode Island Public Transit Authority). Take the #14 bus towards Providence. The bus will take you directly into Providence. After approximately 30-40 minutes, get off at the stop at the intersection of Benefit St and Thayer St. From there, walk about 5 minutes northeast on Benefit St until you reach 251 Benefit St, where The Providence Athenaeum is located.
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Bicycle
If you prefer biking, rent a bike from a local rental service in Narragansett. Head north on Ocean Rd towards Narragansett Pier and then take the bike path along the coast. Follow the signs that lead you to Route 1. Continue on Route 1 until you reach the intersection with Route 10 North. Follow Route 10 into Providence. Once in the city, navigate to Benefit St, where The Providence Athenaeum is located at 251 Benefit St.
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Walking
If you are up for a long walk, you can head north on Ocean Rd towards Narragansett Pier and then continue along the shoreline to the Point Judith Lighthouse. From the lighthouse, follow signs that lead towards South Kingstown and then into Wakefield. Once in Wakefield, head towards Route 1 North and follow it all the way to Providence. This will be a lengthy walk, approximately 15 miles, so ensure you are prepared with water and snacks. Once you reach Providence, make your way to Benefit St, where The Providence Athenaeum is located at 251 Benefit St.
Discover more about The Providence Athenaeum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Benefit St
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Market House
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Rhode Island Holocaust Memorial
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Historic Market Square
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Van Wickle Gates
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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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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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Fleur-de-lys Studio
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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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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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Existential Thread Co
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environs
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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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