Discover the Literary Jewel of Providence: The Providence Athenaeum
Explore the Providence Athenaeum, a historic library and cultural center that celebrates literature and artistry in the heart of Rhode Island.
The Providence Athenaeum is a historic library and cultural center located in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island. With its stunning architecture and rich collection of literature, this library offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s literary heritage, making it an essential stop for book lovers and tourists 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
- Check the library's calendar for special events and author readings during your visit.
- Take some time to explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the Athenaeum for a peaceful retreat.
- Don't miss the chance to browse the rare book collection for a unique literary experience.
- Plan your visit during weekdays when the library is less crowded for a more intimate experience.
Getting There
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Bus
From Pawtucket, head to the nearest bus stop. Take the RIPTA Bus Route 1 towards Kennedy Plaza. The bus will take you through Central Falls and into Providence. Get off at the stop at Washington St and Empire St. From there, walk east on Empire St towards Benefit St. Continue straight for about 0.2 miles until you reach 251 Benefit St, The Providence Athenaeum will be on your left.
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Walking
If you're near downtown Pawtucket, you can walk to The Providence Athenaeum. Start by heading southwest on Main St towards Exchange St. Continue on Main St until you reach the intersection with Broad St. Turn right onto Broad St and follow it until you reach the intersection with Benefit St. Turn left onto Benefit St, and walk for about 0.5 miles. The Providence Athenaeum will be on your right at 251 Benefit St.
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Bicycle
If you have access to a bicycle, you can ride from Pawtucket to The Providence Athenaeum. Start on the Blackstone River Bikeway heading south. Follow the bikeway until you reach the intersection with the pedestrian bridge leading into Providence. Cross the bridge and continue straight until you reach Point Street. Turn left onto Point St, then right onto Benefit St. The Providence Athenaeum will be on your left at 251 Benefit St.
Discover more about The Providence Athenaeum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Benefit St
0.0 km
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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The General Ambrose Burnside Mansion
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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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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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Memorial Park
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First Unitarian Church of Providence
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First Baptist Church in America
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Discover the First Baptist Church in America, a historic landmark in Providence rich with cultural significance and architectural beauty.
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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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
0.4 km
Explore Project Attic Boutique in Providence for unique vintage clothing treasures that celebrate timeless style and individuality.
Existential Thread Co
0.4 km
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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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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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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