Providence City Guide: Unique Local Experiences

Jamestown Historical Society-Windmill
92 Narragansett Avenue, Jamestown, RI
(401) 423-0784
www.jamestownhistoricalsociety.org
Hours:  July-September, Weekends: 10am-4pm
Price: By donation

Have your grandkids ever seen a real windmill? Well, that alone is enough to schedule a trip to the Jamestown Historical Society. This three-story structure was built in 1787, and stands tall today on Windmill Hill. While there, you and your grandkids can also visit the Society’s Museum and Jamestown Library.  

Block Island
40 Center Road, Block Island, RI
(800) 383-2171
www.blockislandinfo.com
Hours: June-Columbus Day

Although a little far off from Providence, Block Island is a sweet, local escape. With its sparkling water, fishing and boating activities, and the miles of beach sand, it’s no wonder the Nature Conservancy designated it one of the 12 “great places in the Western Hemisphere.” While there, families can stay at one of the local inns, visit the North Light House or Ball O’Brien Park. Grandkids will enjoy the various sports and recreations available on the island. Block Island Ferry departs from Point Judith, Rhode Island is available all-year round.

Rose Island Lighthouse (pictured above)
P.O. Box 1419, Newport, RI
(401) 847-4242
www.roseisland.org/index.html
Hours: July 1-Labor Day, 10am-4pm*
After Labor Day, families have to call office to make visiting arrangements.
Price: Children (age 5 and under): Free, Children (ages 6-12): $4, Adults: $5, Seniors (65+): $4  

Located in the Narrangansett Bay, the Rose Island Lighthouse has so much to offer visitors: gardens, picnic area, beaches. Stay a little longer than a day, however, and you and your grandkids could be the lighthouse keeper. Families have the option of staying overnight or a week. Simply check online for available dates.

Providence Athenaeum
251 Benefit Street, Providence, RI
(401) 421-6970
www.providenceathenaeum.org
Hours:
September-May: Monday-Thursday: 9am-7pm, Friday & Saturday: 9am-5pm, Sunday: 1-5pm
June-May: Monday-Thursday: 9am-7pm, Friday: 9am-5pm, Saturday: 9am-1pm, Sunday: Closed
Price: Free

The Providence Athenaeum is a member-supported library, whose history can be traced back 250 years, and has one of the most amazing collections of children’s books in the city. The children’s library - Sayles Gorham Children's Library-has a diverse and rare, first edition collection of juvenile titles that’s sure to impress your avid reader. They also host story hours, family movie night, Book Worm Club, and other great activities for kids.

Del’s Lemonade
1260 Oaklawn Avenue, Cranston, RI
(401) 463-6190  
www.dels.com
Hours: 10am-10pm (daily)

Although the frozen lemonade and fruit ices are the lure, there’s also a strong history behind this franchise, and you and your grandkids can taste it from the flagship store and headquarters in Cranston. It’s the refreshing, most natural treat to have while visiting this grand, old city. 

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