The Providence Athenaeum: A Literary Gem in Rhode Island
Explore the Providence Athenaeum, a historical library and cultural center in Rhode Island, where literature and community come together in a serene setting.
Discover the Providence Athenaeum, a historic library and cultural center in the heart of Providence, RI. With its stunning architecture and rich literary history, this non-profit organization offers a unique experience for book lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Explore its vast collection, attend engaging events, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere of this beloved local treasure.
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 weekday mornings for a quieter experience and to fully enjoy the serene reading areas.
- Check the calendar for special events, lectures, and workshops that may coincide with your visit.
- Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the Athenaeum.
- Bring your own book or choose one from the collection to enjoy in the peaceful atmosphere.
- Don’t forget to explore the nearby Brown University campus for additional cultural experiences.
Getting There
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Bus
From Warwick, head to the nearest bus stop at 1000 Bald Hill Rd. Take the RIPTA Bus Number 1 (Warwick to Providence) heading towards Providence. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes and get off at the stop at Washington St & Benefit St. From there, walk northeast 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 nearest train station, the Warwick Station located at 1000 Bald Hill Rd. Take the MBTA Train from Warwick to Providence Station. The journey takes around 20 minutes. Upon arrival at Providence Station, exit the station and walk southeast towards the intersection of Amtrak Way and Exchange St. From there, you can catch a RIPTA bus or walk approximately 15-20 minutes to The Providence Athenaeum, located at 251 Benefit St.
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Walking
If you are near the area of the Warwick City Park, you can take a scenic walk towards The Providence Athenaeum. Start at the park and head north on Warwick Ave. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Park Ave. Turn left on Park Ave and continue walking until you reach the intersection with Benefit St. Turn right onto Benefit St, and walk for about 20 minutes until you arrive at 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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Explore the RISD Museum, a captivating art museum in Providence showcasing an unparalleled collection of global art and design treasures.
Memorial Park
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Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Memorial Park in Providence, a peaceful haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
First Unitarian Church of Providence
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Discover the architectural and spiritual beauty of First Unitarian Church of Providence, a historic gem in Rhode Island's vibrant College Hill.
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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Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of College Hill Historic District in Providence, Rhode Island, where the past meets vibrant culture.
Providence Art Club
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Explore the Providence Art Club, a historic art center and gallery in Rhode Island, celebrating local creativity and artistic heritage.
Custom House
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Explore Custom House, a historic landmark in Downtown Providence, rich in maritime history and architectural beauty, perfect for all history enthusiasts.
John Carter Brown Library
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Explore the John Carter Brown Library in Providence, RI - a serene haven of historical literature and cultural treasures.
Brown University
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The John Brown House Museum
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Discover the legacy of John Brown at the John Brown House Museum, a historic gem in Providence showcasing 18th-century life and architecture.
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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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
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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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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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