My Trip Highlights: A Festive Weekend in Providence, Rhode Island

Rachel Lewis, Dinogo Planet's social media manager, recently enjoyed a cozy weekend in Rhode Island, filled with festive strolls, coffee shop explorations, and yoga. Here, she offers tips and insights for those planning a similar getaway.

As a true holiday enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to festive cities: Asheville, North Carolina with its dazzling 19th-century Biltmore Estate; the sprawling Christmas markets in Washington, DC; and savoring a rich, creamy hot chocolate at Tatte as snow blankets Boston, Massachusetts.

This December, I spent a chilly weekend in Providence, Rhode Island, the farthest north I’d traveled from my North Carolina hometown in years. During college, I once took the train north to Connecticut to visit a friend for the holidays. It felt right to embrace the cold winter, and I still cherish those eight hours alone in the train, watching the trees lose their leaves.

This year, I wanted to witness the winter landscape across the East Coast from the sky, so I boarded a flight with a carry-on (and my wife!) and set off for Providence.

Where did you stay? What was the atmosphere like?

We chose to stay at The Beatrice, a luxurious 4-star hotel just a block from the Providence River. It's about a fifteen-minute Uber ride from Rhode Island’s T.F. Green International Airport (or thirty minutes in traffic) and is perfect for a romantic getaway. The highlight was the exclusive rooftop bar, the only one in Rhode Island, featuring intimate seating and soft lighting, making it the perfect spot for downtown views and cocktails. I enjoyed an adult oat milk hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream and infused with tequila and coffee liqueur.

We booked the exquisite La Dolce Vita Suite, boasting high ceilings, plush bathrobes, and a real Christmas tree nestled in the corner. A little menorah with dreidels adorned the TV stand. The skylight was framed with garland, and mistletoe was hung above the doorway leading from the living room to the bedroom.

As we nibbled on delights like olives and fresh burrata, we mapped out our itinerary while eyeing the champagne we’d enjoy later that evening.

What was the best dish you tried?

Although Providence is renowned for clam cakes and lobster, the city boasts a diverse culinary scene, ranging from ramen shops downtown to burger joints on College Hill.

One of my top dishes was the egg-and-cheese breakfast croissant with home fries ($7) at NicoBella’s, a downtown eatery adorned with rainbow flags and inclusive decor. The home fries were exceptional, enhanced by a surprising hint of rosemary.

My favorite lunch was tofu japchae (Korean stir-fried glass noodles; $15) from Den Den Cafe Asiana, a delightful Korean spot we discovered while wandering the hilly College Hill neighborhood. It was a perfect place to refuel, complete with a wonderfully friendly staff. My wife loved the vegetable yakisoba (Japanese sweet-and-sour stir-fried noodles; $15). We joked that if we lived nearby, we’d be regulars here.

One night, we dressed up, grabbed some cash, and headed to what is surely the most stunning restaurant in Providence: Bellini. Managed by the fourth generation of Italy’s Cipriani family, the restaurant dazzled with gold accents, fresh pink floral arrangements, cozy booth seating, and romantic lighting. And the food was incredible. I enjoyed spinach and ricotta tortellini with sage butter and parmesan ($27) — I could have eaten countless plates and bathed in the sage butter! Plus, the red pepper flakes on top? Life-changing.

The best drink I tried was a sesame-almond horchata ($6.50) at Little Sister, a Puerto Rican cafe in Blackstone, Providence. Expect a bit of a wait since it’s incredibly popular; reservations are recommended.

What was the most touristy activity you participated in?

Providence offers a variety of festive tourist attractions, from ice skating to the Christmas tree lighting. However, a standout moment was attending WaterFire, a complimentary event at Waterplace Park where wooden piles in the river basin are ignited for the holidays. This fiery arts festival featured a brief performance of the Nutcracker, complete with the Mouse King arriving on his boat, torch in hand, accompanied by music. Santa made a later appearance, to much applause.

What was the most unique activity you enjoyed?

I visited AS220, a non-profit community arts organization that provides local artists a platform to showcase their work for free. Open Thursday to Saturday, I was particularly drawn to a collaboration with Haus of Glitter, a local dance, performance, and justice group, which hosted a slow-flow yoga class ($5).

I reserved my spot about a week ahead, joining around 15 other students. The class was beautifully paced and serene, allowing me to spend most of my time either meditating on my mat or relaxing in a cozy seat. It truly felt like a small but transformative experience.

When you think of Rhode Island, a diverse group honoring their ancestors and indigenous peoples may not come to mind. But perhaps it will now. Classes are held on the first Saturday of each month at 8:30 am. Don't forget to bring socks and a blanket to soften your knees.

What was the most useful item you packed?

A good pair of sneakers and a hat were essential. We did a lot of walking, and Providence turned out to be hillier than I had anticipated. Our hats were lifesavers during a light rain on Friday night and again on Sunday while we hopped between coffee shops before heading to the airport.

What tip do you wish you had before your trip?

Matthew Garza from The Haus shared this insight: “I invite everyone to visit the former residence of Esek Hopkins, where our creative endeavors and historical initiatives are taking place. It's an opportunity to learn about the history of slavery in the U.S., get involved in our project, sign our petition, and observe our efforts to transform and rededicate the site.”

Although I couldn't make it this time, I plan to return for another winter in Providence—and I'll definitely add this significant location to my itinerary.

Rachel Lewis visited Providence with the support of The Rhode Island Tourism Council and The Beatrice. Dinogo Planet does not accept complimentary services in exchange for favorable coverage.