Providence, Rhode Island blends deep colonial roots with a strong creative pulse. Founded in 1636 by Roger Williams, the city became known for its dedication to religious freedom and independent thought. Walking along Benefit Street, visitors pass rows of 18th- and 19th-century homes, many of which are impeccably preserved and marked with historical plaques. The Rhode Island State House, with one of the world’s largest self-supported marble domes, towers over the downtown area and offers public tours that highlight its impressive architecture and role in state politics.

Art and design are part of daily life in Providence, thanks in large part to the presence of the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). The RISD Museum showcases more than 100,000 objects, from ancient sculptures to contemporary works. Public art appears throughout the city, including large-scale murals and quirky installations in alleyways and parks. And several times a year, the city lights up during WaterFire, an award-winning public art event where dozens of bonfires float along the rivers downtown, accompanied by music and performance. It's an event that turns an evening stroll into something unforgettable.