Local’s Corner: Providence, RI Best Kept Secrets
It’s time for another edition of The Local’s Corner!
Most Discovery Map franchise owners live and work in their map territories. The ones that do not spend significant time in those territories (think vacation home, seasonal visits). As a result, they’re experts in all things local.
We asked Amy Newman from Discovery Map of Providence about some of her favorite local spots. Read on for an informed local’s perspective!
What are the best kept secrets, things to do off the beaten path?
Providence has plenty of activities for visitors! Here are my favorites:
- Kayaking on the Providence River
- Providence Ghost Tours
- Ice Bumper Cars at the Providence Rink
- The Speakeasy at The George
Where is the best breakfast/brunch?
Definitely check out these gems:
What are the best places to hear music?
If you’re looking for some tunes, check out the following venues:
What is the history of this place and what historic sites can I see?
Providence is the capital city of Rhode Island, founded by Roger Williams.His history can be found at Rhody’s only national park.
We also have the Arcade Providence (first continuous indoor shopping mall in the US), the First Unitarian Church (features the largest and heaviest bell made by Paul Revere and son), the Providence Athenaeum, and many more.
If you’re venturing to the southern part of the state, don’t miss the historic charm of the South County Museum and the lively events at The Towers.
What makes this place special?
It’s a college town!
Providence has an interesting mix of culture and history, which has influenced the amazing food scene you will find here; this is also fed by the world-renowned culinary school at Johnson & Wales.
Providence is also home to two premiere universities, Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University; as well as a university founded by women, Johnson & Wales University; and Providence College, home of the PC Friars sports team.
Any other Recommendations for your area?
Be sure to check out the award-winning Waterfire on the Providence River, which runs from spring to early winter. An art installation featuring enchanting bonfires and powerful music, this is a must see when you visit Rhode Island.
You can also enjoy Waterfire from a gondola ride run by La Gondola as well as boat cruises by Providence River Boat.
Providence is also home to the renowned RISD Museum, featuring art from around the world as well as an ancient Egyptian gallery, a decorative arts gallery and many more. You should also plan a night out on Providence’s Little Italy, Federal Hill. Formerly the Italian area of the city, it is home to different types of eateries, hookah bars, and clubs all centered around DePasquale Square. Finally, be sure to take a stroll up College Hill and along Benefit Street to take in Providence’s colonial architecture; then head to Thayer Street for hip shops, restaurants and the famous Avon Theatre.
We hope you’ll come visit us!
About the Publisher
Meet Amy Newman!
“In my early 40s, I was looking for a mom job, where I could still work part time, get paid, but be home for my kids after school and have summers off. Discovery Map (at the time called Resort Maps) came along at the perfect time. Sitting on a beach on vacation summer 2011, we picked up the map in Cape Cod and noticed a little ad on it that said, “Franchises available”. We had used these maps around the country for years and had no idea it was a franchise until that moment. My husband said, “This would be the perfect job for you; you were a book editor for years and have done sales and marketing. You should look into it.” So, I did! And 11 years later I have two successful maps—Narragansett, Block Island and Wakefield; and the Providence map.
It has been a joy to share the gems that the state of Rhode Island has to offer, and I invite everyone to come and visit and, of course, pick up the map!