Providence is the state capital and largest city in Rhode Island, as well as the third largest city in New England. Formerly an industrial bastion of organized crime, Providences Renaissance has created new parks and attractions and brought emphasis back to its historic roots. Downcity events, historic vistas, eclectic districts such as College Hill and Federal Hill, and a great nightlife make Providence a worthwhile tourist destination.

Most of Providences attractions are organized into three neighborhoods: Downcity, which includes the core of the downtown area as well as Waterplace Park, the Providence Place Mall, and Capitol Hill; Federal Hill, a neighborhood just west of downtown along Atwells Avenue that is known for nightlife and Italian dining; and College Hill/The East Side, which is home to some of the citys oldest homes as well as both Brown University and RISD, and features several smaller neighborhoods with eclectic shops and restaurants. College Hill is primarily centered along Thayer Street at the intersection of Waterman and Angell Avenues, but there are other scattered blocks (such as Wickenden St.) with attractions.

South Providence begins roughly at the start of Elmwood Avenue (closest to downtown) and Broad Street. There are many restaurants, mainly serving Spanish or Chinese food; fast food places, hair salons, banks, pharmacies, libraries and supermarkets. Everything is within a walkable distance or a short drive. South Providence has a reputation for poverty and crime; the nightclubs on Broad Street have been known for their brawls. Despite this reputation as a "ghetto," South Providence has its nice neighborhoods where tourists can get away from everything. Downtown is a 15 minute drive away for the best entertainment and shopping.