https://www.instagram.com/p/BfKEreyHFtY/?tagged=barnabycastle The historic West Side of Providence has always been a central hub of the city. Once home to the shipping industry and textile mills, this charming, walkable district is home to an array of quaint boutiques, fine dining, and exciting community events. With the efforts of community organizations like the West Broadway Neighborhood Association and some really dedicated residents, the West Side is also emerging as one of the leading art centers in Providence. Known for its beautifully-preserved Victorian homes, it’s a perfect neighborhood to own a piece of Providence’s history while being part of its future. If you are looking to live in a hip and thriving neighborhood, look no further than the West Side.
World-Class Dining Experiences
https://www.instagram.com/p/BXdWGN-lEfj/?taken-by=ogiestrailerpark The community now offers some of the best restaurants in the country. From local farm-to-table fare to culinary experiences from around the world, whatever your taste buds are craving, you can find. Here are just some of our favorite spots to dine: ●
The Grange: Offering farm fresh cuisine for vegans and carnivores alike, The Grange offers a range of healthy, forward-thinking dishes. ●
Nick’s On Broadway: A New American Bistro, Nick’s on Broadway offers delicious takes on classic American dishes in a rich, inviting atmosphere. ●
Bucktown: Looking for a little comfort food? Bucktown offers no-fuss Southern comfort food in a unique industrial setting. ●
Ogie’s Trailer Park: You can’t really describe Ogie’s trailer park-inspired decor and menu accurately. Vintage? Kitschy? Hip? You just have to go there for yourself to check it out. ●
RiffRaff: Slightly off the beaten path, this small cafe is a literary dream. Offering coffee and small bites, you won’t just enjoy the menu but you’ll be able to meet authors
Make A Dinner Date On Federal Hill
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl0NEgxHRvW/?hl=en&tagged=federalhill Beyond just these favorites, there is an incredible dining hot spot known as Federal Hill. Federal Hill is a foodie lover's dream located on a strip that runs along Atwells Avenue. Here you can find the some of the Italian cuisines that Providence is famous for across the Northeast. Restaurants like
Enoteca Umberto,
Siena,
Julian’s and
Andino's serve a range of regional Italian delights. Feel like trying to make your own Italian delights for your dinner date, stop in at Constantinos and Venda Ravioli for goods imported right from Italian. Make sure to give yourself a little extra time to take a stroll around the courtyard fountain and enjoy live music on weekend nights.
Take A Walk Back In Time
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlLqX37AZXI/?taken-by=columbustheatre After you eat, you should take some time to walk off your meal by taking a stroll through the historic neighborhood. On every street, you can find gorgeous examples of period architecture in buildings steeped with local and America history. Here are some of the historic buildings to make sure to check out on your neighborhood stroll: ● The Armory: Located at 310 Cranston St, the Armory is a massive building that was built in 1907 to house the Rhode Island National Guard. Listed on the National Trust for Historic Preservation, this iconic Providence building features yellow brickwork and bright green crenellated turrets. ● The Wedding Cake House: Located at 514 Broadway, the Wedding Cake House was built in 1867 in the Italianate architectural style. Built for a single family, this home now houses the Dirt Palace Arts Collective residency space. The house is in progress of a full restoration, so definitely make sure to check back. ● Barnaby Castle: Located at 299 Broadway, Barnaby Castle is a stunning mansion built in 1875 and 1888. Barnaby castle is an eclectic blend of period styles and offers a really unique, spooky history. It was the location of the first ever of murder by mail. ● The Columbus Theater: Located at 270 Broadway, the Columbus Theater is a gorgeous music venue that was built in 1926. Not only is this a great example of a historic turn of the century architecture, but it’s a great spot to see music, art, and plays. These are just some of the historic properties you can find in this neighborhood. You can learn about the rest on the Go Providence website.
After Dinner Entertainment
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bl08TU_nG-e/ Once you’ve taken a stroll through town, you may want to find some after dinner entertainment to round out your night. If you are interested in theater or live music, check out the
Fete Music Hall or the
Columbus Theater for great live shows. If you’re looking to just grab a drink, there’s a lot of fun bars like RiffRaff,
The Avery, and
Scurvy Dog. As the home of RISD, Providence also has a thriving arts scene. There are a number of non-profits and artist collectives around town that are always doing unique events. You can check out a performance art piece, go to a book reading, or attend an art opening.
Not To Miss Events
https://www.instagram.com/p/BhkL6N4HCQ4/?taken-by=federalhillri There are also a ton of great annual events that you won’t want to miss. We recommend making sure to get these great events on your calendar: ●
Federal Hill Stroll: Held every year in the month of June, the Federal Hill Stroll is a wonderful evening of food and fun hosted by local Federal Hill businesses. You’ll enjoy discounts at the restaurants and local shops and attendance get your two free drinks, live music, and a map to help you explore the local gems. ●
Providence Restaurant Week: Looking to explore the local food culture? Providence Restaurant Week is the perfect event for you. A city-wide event happening this year on July 8-21, Restaurant Week lets you enjoy cuisine from the best restaurants in town at a seriously discounted rate. Check out Go Providence for how to get tickets and the list of this year’s participating restaurants. ●
Festival Of Historic Houses: Hosted by the Providence Preservation Society, the Festival of Historic Houses lets you get a peek inside all the beautiful historic homes in the community. The event usually takes place in June, but neighborhood specific tours happen throughout the year. Check out their website for more details. Get ready to fill your social calendar when you live on the West Side of Providence. With some many great things to see and do, you’ll love your new neighborhood.