Since 1995, the WaterFire sculpture by Barnaby Evans has illuminated downtown Providence's rivers. Small bonfires are set alight in iron braziers in the middle of the Woonasquatucket, Moshassuck and Providence rivers. Lighting of the bonfires begins with a ceremonial gong and varying music programs accompany the display. To appreciate the entire art piece, you'll have to walk along the banks to see the fires from all vantage points. Just know that you could be exploring the exhibit with thousands of other patrons – it's one of the city's most popular events for visitors and residents alike.

Past visitors praised the WaterFire display, calling it a must-see experience. Many wished they had found out about WaterFire sooner and noted they'll be back to make up for lost time. Additionally, travelers said the crowds didn't detract from the experience (provided you were mentally prepared for them).

In the late 19th century, Federal Hill was the home of Rhode Island's Italian immigrant community, which is why the area is often referred to as Providence's Little Italy. Today, you'll still find an abundance of Italian restaurants and specialty food shops within the neighborhood, which sits a few blocks west of downtown Providence.

Il Massimo comes recommended by local experts who urge you to try the eatery's carbonara. Cassarino's wins over patrons with its delicious meals and generous portions. Though you can grab a classic tiramisu or cannoli at these places, travelers suggest heading to Pastiche for a sweet end to your meal. Options include cake slices, tarts, cookies and pies, among other goodies.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the museum is currently closed to the public.

This hidden gem's five buildings are clustered on the south side of the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) campus. Inside, more than 91,000 works of art are on display, including pieces by Monet, Degas and other impressionists, along with sizeable Medieval and Gothic collections.

If you travel to Providence with a bibliophile, be warned: you'll be fighting tooth and nail to get them out of the Providence Athenaeum. This member-supported library opened in 1836 on Benefit Street and has expanded twice since its opening. Volumes take up the library's every nook and corner, punctuated by busts and art pieces. You can explore two levels of books, including the Reading Room and Children's Library. Additionally, the library hosts a variety of cultural events and on-site exhibits. Check the calendar for upcoming lectures and children's events, and the Athenaeum's exhibits website to see what's on display during your trip.

There are a few visiting options. The first is to walk in and look around at your leisure. Another is to take a tour. The front desk has paper guides for the self-led Raven Tour. These tours last about 20 minutes. You can also take the free 20-minute guided tour during which a staff member leads you around to discuss the building's history and current events. Finally, you can schedule a group tour for an in-depth view of the library's history and collections. Group tours are fee based and last up to 90 minutes.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the State House is currently closed for in-person tours. Check out its virtual offerings on its website.

The State House is the active seat of Rhode Island's government, but there's more than political bickering going on in these halls. The impressive building was designed by architectural firm McKim, Mead and White, the mastermind behind many of the Newport mansions. The State House dome is the world's fourth largest self-supported dome (the largest being St. Peter's Basilica in Rome). A painting by Rhode Island artist James Allen King (called "The Four Freedoms") is visible on the inside of the dome. Not much of an architecture buff? The building is full of American history, too. A gun from the battle of Gettysburg, a replica of Philadelphia's Liberty Bell and Gilbert Stuart's portrait of George Washington can all be found here.

After you've strolled down Benefit Street and across Brown University's campus, take a walk down by the water. Providence's Waterplace Park runs along the Woonasquatucket River. There are cobblestone paths that wind along the river's banks, plus benches, an amphitheater and informative plaques. You'll also find restaurants nearby. The area hosts concerts in the warm months and the city's beloved WaterFire art exhibit is on full display here in the spring, summer and fall.

Past tourists said the park is a wonderful place to walk around. Although, some noted that the park was less exciting in the late fall and winter, as there wasn't much going on.

Located about 5 miles south of downtown Providence, Roger Williams Park Zoo is only 40 acres – not the largest zoo by far. But it still houses more than 160 species of animals including giraffes, moon bears and some adorable snow leopards. And you wouldn't know it by the freshly updated – and still updating – enclosures, but Roger Williams is one of the oldest zoos in the country, opening its gates to the public in 1872.

Recent visitors didn't seem to mind the zoo's small size; in fact, many felt it was easier to navigate than larger zoos, especially with young kids. Reviewers also appreciated that the facility's admission costs were reasonable (when compared to other zoos around the country). They also said that if you're visiting in October, the annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is a must-see. If you need a break from the zoo, you can always venture out into Roger Williams Park, which spans 435 acres and offers a plethora of other kid-friendly attractions, including a carousel and a playground. 

The Providence Performing Arts Center is a popular venue that not only earns praise for its events but also for its history. Originally the Loew's Movie Palace, it opened in 1928 and was later dubbed the "Jewel of Weybosset Street." True to movie houses of that era, it was designed by George and C.W. Rapp of Chicago, renowned theater architects who used elements like intricate plasterwork, columns of imported marble and impressive crystal chandeliers to create a palatial interior. Though it's been through several phases of modernization, its interiors are just as breathtaking as they were in 1928, according to recent visitors.

Travelers say the best way to experience this historic venue is by attending one of PPAC's shows, concerts or events. You'll also want to explore the surrounding neighborhood; according to reviewers it's home to several top-notch eateries.

A lot of history is crammed into this mile-long cobblestone street on the east side of Providence. In fact, Benefit Street has one of the highest concentrations of Colonial buildings in the country; notable houses include the Nightingale-Brown House, once home to one of the founders of Brown University.

Past travelers said a stroll along Benefit Street felt like stepping back in time thanks to the well-preserved architecture. You can explore on your own, but you may want to consider signing up for a walking tour offered by the Rhode Island Historical Society (a recommendation from recent visitors). Reviewers also noted that some of the sidewalks can be uneven, meaning you should wear sturdy shoes.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Trinity Rep is not currently running any performances. You can check out its online offerings and reserve tickets for future shows on its website.

Trinity Repertory Company (or Trinity Rep for short) is Providence's premier acting troupe. The resident company puts on an average of six productions a year – varying from contemporary pieces to classic theater with an edgy new spin. The Trinity Rep's annual "A Christmas Carol" production is one of Providence's most popular holiday traditions.

Through a series of interactive exhibits, the Providence Children's Museum exposes kids to different fields like architecture, construction, physics, botany and more. The museum believes that play is an integral part of not only a child's development but also in how they learn. Some of the exhibits are geared toward specific age groups (such as "Little Woods," for visitors 4 and younger), while others have activities for kids of different ages (like in "Children's Garden").

"Water Ways" is a favorite exhibit for patrons and their parents. Kids can play with boats, send water through tubes and mazes they construct, build with crushed ice and more. Just know that your little one will likely get a little wet – even if they're careful.

Even if you're not a prospective student, past travelers said Brown University is worth a stop during your Providence trip. Visitors particularly praised the school's stately architecture and manicured lawns. But if you're looking to learn something during a visit, stop by the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology in the Manning Hall Gallery. The teaching and research museum offers a variety of exhibits (which have explored everything from beer to drones to the history of the Haffenreffer itself). It also hosts talks, lectures and other events that are free and open to the public. Travelers can also check out the David Winton Bell Gallery, a contemporary art museum located on campus. And as with all higher education institutions, Brown hosts plenty of lectures, events and presentations that are open to the public.

Though you're welcome to visit Brown and walk around, keep in mind it's an educational institution where students live and work. Some buildings and events will be off limits. Contact the school before you visit to ask about visitors policies. Know that nonessential visitation is currently suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology and the David Winton Bell Gallery have their own operating hours and both are free to visit. Brown is located northeast of downtown, near the Providence Athenaeum.

Thayer Street is a bustling thoroughfare in Providence, and not just because it's popular with Brown University students. The main section of Thayer stretches for just six blocks, but it's packed with attractions. Avon Cinema shows independent and foreign films (example: award-winning "Nomadland") and has been a Providence institution since 1938. The street is home to a variety of restaurants, dishing up everything from Greek cuisine and vegan fare to desserts and coffee. Specialty shops, murals and different artsy events round out the street's offerings.

Given its proximity to Brown (it runs right along campus), university students and college-bound teens loved the vibe of Thayer Street. Nevertheless, locals said don't let the college students fool you: Thayer Street is great fun for adults and families as well. 

If you've set aside time to visit the zoo, consider spending the whole day in Roger Williams Park by rounding out your day at the Botanical Center. The center boasts two large greenhouses and two smaller greenhouses, as well as an outdoor garden that features more than 150 species and cultivars. Orchids, coffee plants, ferns and palms are just some of the plants on display in these gardens.

Past visitors appreciated walking around the gardens. They said it's a beautiful place, particularly for shutterbugs. Several advise timing a visit for the spring or summer, saying the plants are at their peak in these months.