Looking for something to do with the family over the holiday break? With pockets empty from overspending on Christmas, free activities are the very best kind. A great way to learn about our state’s history is to check out the Providence Independence Trail. It is absolutely free to experience a Providence that is alive with history, exciting culture, and gorgeous architecture. The Providence Independence Trail is two and a half miles that covers 12,000 years of history and folklore. It is marked with a green line, and the trail is circular so you can look for the line and join the trail anywhere. All you need is your cell phone!
Look for these emblems along the green line and dial the number to find out more about each site on the trail.
Facebook/ Independence Trail Providence
A stunning example of Second Empire Baroque architectural beauty is the Providence City Hall, built in 1878, designed by architect: Samuel J. F. Thayer.
Flickr/ Ken Zirkel
Turk’s Head stares down at your from 7-17 Weybossett Street in Providence. In 1913, this was the tallest building in Providence.
Flickr/ Reading Tom
Hang out in the presence of the statue honoring Rhode Island soldiers who died in the Spanish-American War. This part of the trail is at North Burial Ground in Providence.
Flickr/ NatalleMaynor
Providence’s iconic Old Stone Bank at 86 South Main Street is a wonderful example of mid 19th century bank architecture.
Wikimedia/ Kenneth C. Zirkel
Haven Brothers has been serving up chili fries, hamburgers, and other comfort food since 1888. The trail stops by 12 Dorrance Street and it’s a great chance to pick up lunch!
Flickr/ Breanne Lamont
The Bajnotti Fountain, located at Burnside Park, features gorgeous sculpture by Louisville artist Enid Yandell.
Wikimedia/ Kenneth C. Zirkel
Stroll by the Providence Journal Building, the oldest continually publishing newspaper in the U.S. It is one of Providence’s best 20th century buildings.
Wikimedia/ Kenneth C. Zirkel
The East Side Trolley Tunnel was built in 1914. It runs for 2000 feet under Providence’s College Hill.
Wikimedia/ Infrogmation, New Orleans
The Providence Independence Trail is a great way to spend the day. Learn fascinating facts about Providence you might not have known before, and the trail is absolutely free. Check out their website to see all the wonderful, historic sites in Providence you’ll see along the way.
Facebook/ Independence Trail Providence
Flickr/ Ken Zirkel
Flickr/ Reading Tom
Flickr/ NatalleMaynor
Wikimedia/ Kenneth C. Zirkel
Flickr/ Breanne Lamont
Wikimedia/ Infrogmation, New Orleans
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
