If you’re looking for a place to live that offers affordable housing and interesting local history, you’ll want to consider Providence, Rhode Island. The city is home to a booming job market, affordable housing, and fun things to do. Here are a few tips for relocating to Providence:
– Take a long walk. Rhode Island has a network of walking trails, and the Blackstone River Greenway is a 48-mile biking and walking path that runs from Worcester, Massachusetts, to Providence, Rhode Island. There are several access points along the path. Alternatively, you can take a stroll on the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk, located in Newport. Access points are on Bellevue Avenue and Ledge Road, and it offers stunning views of the Narragansett Bay.
– Check out the local shops. Providence is home to a vibrant nightlife, with clubs and bars ranging from quirky, eclectic bars in the college district to upscale martini bars downtown. There are even several techno clubs for the younger crowd. While these are the most popular spots, be aware that Rhode Island law prohibits the use of “happy hour” drink specials. But if you’re traveling with kids, there’s no shortage of places to spend an afternoon.
– Take a guided tour. Providence’s history and architecture are both worth exploring. Self-guided walking tours offer an excellent way to experience the city’s rich cultural history. If you’re on a budget, you can also rent a bike and explore Providence on foot. Many bike paths also offer scenic views of downtown. And don’t forget to take the bus. It’s easy to get around the city by public transportation.
– Explore the arts. Providence is home to Brown University, an Ivy League college founded before the American Revolution. It’s the seventh-oldest university in the country. Located in the heart of downtown Providence, you’ll find a plethora of historic sites and attractions. The City Hall, located at 11 Westminster Street, is the tallest building in the city. It houses local and international art, and is associated with the Rhode Island School of Design. It is open on Sunday and third Thursday evenings.
Community wealth building foundations have been a vital part of Providence’s culture for over 100 years. The Rhode Island Foundation, the city’s largest community foundation, has provided more than a thousand discretionary grants to organizations throughout the city, including The Genesis Center, Grow Smart Rhode Island, and the Olneyville Housing Corporation. All three organizations seek to improve the lives of Providence’s disenfranchised residents. The foundation provides ample rental units and subsidizes job training programs.
In the twentieth century, Providence experienced a dramatic transformation. It was a leader in shipping and agriculture, but the British taxation system affected its economic growth. The city was also a vocal critic of the Sugar Act, which adversely affected the international rum trade. The Gaspee Affair, which led to the first major violent attack of the American Revolution, changed the city’s economic industries from maritime activities to manufacturing. The manufacturing industries brought in many immigrants from abroad.