Providence

A short history of Providence

Providence, the capital city of Rhode Island, has a fascinating history that dates back to its founding in 1636 by Roger Williams. Williams, a religious exile from Massachusetts Bay Colony, established a settlement on the banks of the Providence River, which later grew into the vibrant city we know today. Throughout its history, Providence played a significant role in the American Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and the development of religious freedom in the United States.

FAQ for Providence

What is the best way to get there?

• Providence is easily accessible by air, with T.F. Green Airport serving as the main airport for the region. It is also well-connected by train and bus services.

What is Providence famous for?

• Providence is famous for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and renowned educational institutions like Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design.

What are five interesting facts about Providence?

• Providence is home to the oldest Baptist church in America, the First Baptist Church in America.
• The city is known for its diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants offering various cuisines.
• Providence is often referred to as the "Creative Capital" due to its thriving arts community.
• The WaterFire Providence, a unique art installation featuring bonfires on the rivers, is a popular attraction.
• Providence is the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution in the United States.

How did Providence get its name?

• Providence was named by its founder, Roger Williams, who believed that his settlement was divinely guided and provided by God's providence.

What are some travel tips for Providence?

• Explore the historic neighborhoods of Federal Hill and Benefit Street.
• Visit the Roger Williams Park, which offers beautiful gardens, a zoo, and a museum.
• Don't miss the Providence Performing Arts Center for a memorable theater experience.
• Try the local delicacy, the "coffee milk," a sweet coffee-flavored milk drink.

Do I need a visa?

• If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa to visit Providence. International visitors should check the visa requirements based on their country of origin.

When is the best time to visit Providence?

• The best time to visit Providence is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the city hosts various festivals and events.

Are there local customs I should know about?

• Providence residents are generally friendly and polite. It is customary to greet people with a smile and a handshake.
• Public transit is widely used in Providence, and it is common to offer your seat to the elderly or disabled.

What is the time zone for Providence?

• Providence operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST) during the non-daylight saving period and Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) during daylight saving time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

• The voltage in Providence is 120V, and the plug type used is Type A and Type B, which have two flat pins or two flat pins with a grounding pin, respectively.

What is the currency?

• The currency used in Providence is the United States Dollar (USD).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

• ATMs are readily available throughout Providence, and most major credit and debit cards are accepted.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Providence?

• Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Providence, including major brands like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

• Yes, many businesses in Providence accept ApplePay and Google Pay as convenient payment options.

How much do I tip in Restaurants/bars, Hotels, Taxis, Tour guides, etc.?

• In restaurants and bars, it is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill. For hotel staff, a tip of $1-2 per service is appropriate. Taxis and tour guides usually receive a tip of 10-15% of the fare or tour cost.

Accommodation in Providence

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City Information for Providence

Founded	Population	Elevation
1636	189,563 Source	9 feet

Average temperatures for Providence

Season/Month	Temperature (Celsius)	Temperature (Fahrenheit)
Spring (March - May)	8°C - 18°C	46°F - 64°F
Summer (June - August)	18°C - 28°C	64°F - 82°F
Fall (September - November)	10°C - 20°C	50°F - 68°F
Winter (December - February)	-3°C - 5°C	27°F - 41°F