Welcome to the city of Providence! Providence is the capital, and most populous city in the state of Rhode Island. The city has a long and colorful history, and is home to many historic landmarks, attractions, and festivals. Located on the banks of the Providence River and Narragansett Bay, Providence has a wealth of cultural and architectural offerings. From cobblestoned streets lined with colonial-era homes to iconic museums, Providence has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the history, culture and attractions of this vibrant city!
Getting to Know Providence
Providence is the capital of the US state of Rhode Island. It is the third-largest city in the state and the most populous city in the state. According to the 2018 United States Census, the population of Providence was 178,042.
The local time zone in Providence, Rhode Island is Eastern Standard Time (EST).
The languages commonly spoken in Providence are English and Spanish.
The currency used in Providence is the US Dollar (USD).
Climate and Weather
Providence is the capital of the US state of Rhode Island. It experiences a humid temperate climate with three distinct seasons. Summers here can be humid and hot, with temperatures often hovering near or above 90°F. The hottest months are usually July and August, with temperatures ranging between 72 and 87°F. Winters in Providence typically feature cold temperatures and significant snowfall. December and January are the coldest months, during which temperatures usually dip below freezing. Spring comes with moderate temperatures and warmer weather, while autumn often offers mild temperatures and clear skies. Rainfall is consistent throughout the year, and thunderstorms can occur during the summer months.
Touring Providence: Airport and Transportation
There is only one official airport located in Providence, Rhode Island and its name is Theodore Francis Green State Airport. You can get from the airport to downtown Providence by taxi or ride-sharing service such as Lyft or Uber and it usually costs around $20 to $25. You can also take the MBTA bus route #20 for approximately $4 and the ride takes about 30 minutes. Unfortunately, there are no currency exchange services at the airport.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Providence
- Providence has a long history of immigration and diversity; the city’s many distinct cultural traditions and cuisines speak to the multifaceted past of its inhabitants
- Providence has a rich art and music scene; the city boasts numerous galleries and is home to the longest running outdoor music festival in the United States, Waterfire
- Providence is also home to a variety of historic sites, including the Providence Athenaeum, which dates back to the late 18th century and is one of the oldest membership libraries in the country