Benefit Street
#7 in Best Things To Do in Providence
Price & Hours
Details
scorecard
- 5.0Value
- 0.0Food Scene
- 4.0Atmosphere
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.
You'll find Benefit Street just minutes from Brown University. Walking tours by the Rhode Island Historical Society are available in the summer and fall months; tickets for adults cost $15. Check out the historical society's website for more information.
More Best Things To Do in Providence
1 of 7
2 of 7#1 RISD Museum
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.
Recent visitors were most impressed with the range of the museum's collection and the various mediums represented. Reviewers also praised its size, saying it was manageable and easy to explore within a few hours (though culture hounds will likely want to spend half a day, say travelers). Though most found the admission price to be reasonable, they also suggested scheduling your museum visit for Sunday when entrance fees are waived.
Explore More of Providence
If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.