Visiting Campus? Plan a Perfect R.I. Weekend
If you’re planning to visit Johnson & Wales University for an Open House or campus tour, here's how to make the most of your trip by exploring downtown Providence and some of Rhode Island's most beautiful nearby attractions.
From award-winning restaurants and waterfront walks to an easy ferry connecting Providence to Newport, Rhode Island is one of the best places to explore. Whether it’s your first time visiting New England or returning, here’s my perfect weekend itinerary so you can make the most of your stay.
Friday Evening in Providence: The Best Places to Begin Your Weekend
There are many hotels in walking distance from JWU, as well as convenient Airbnbs which can sometimes offer more unique experiences. After checking in late afternoon, it's a great idea to stretch your legs with a walk through beautiful downtown Providence.
One of my favorite walks throughout downtown is along Providence Riverwalk, where you'll see scenic bridges, art, views of the skyline and even a seasonal ice cream stand! You can then continue toward Waterplace Park to view the river basin and perhaps check out some shops across the street at Providence Place Mall.
Around 7pm, I suggest heading to an Italian restaurant in one of Providence’s most celebrated neighborhoods, Federal Hill, also known as the city's Little Italy. One of the best ones you can find is called Massimos Ristorante; some of their delicious signature dishes include Chitarra alla Carbonara (with guanciale and a farm fresh egg), hand-carved Prosciutto di Parma and Fig & Taleggio Pizza. Don’t miss out on dessert at Pastiche Fine Desserts after your meal.
Discover Providence Like a Local on Saturday
Start your morning around 9am with a coffee, because no morning is complete without one and Providence has no shortage of incredible cafés to choose from. I'd start the day at The Nitro Bar, Small Point Café or Ellie's, three of my favorite spots for coffee and breakfast.
By late morning, spend some time exploring College Hill along with some other amazing historical universities around the city like Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design, both in walking distance from JWU’s campus. The RISD Museum lets visitors explore both ancient and contemporary global art and design, with pieces by Picasso, Monet, Warhol, Manet and many other recognized artists. Don’t miss strolling on Benefit Street, famed for hosting the largest concentration of 18th- and 19th-century colonial homes in America.
In the afternoon, head to Roger Williams Park, one of Providence's most beautiful outdoor locations. Spanning 435 acres, the park features scenic walking trails, peaceful lakes, the Roger Williams Park Zoo, a botanical center, and even swan boats you can rent for a memorable afternoon on the water.
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) buses make it super easy to travel between Providence neighborhoods and beyond.
As evening approaches, stop by one of Rhode Island's best seafood restaurants, Hemenway's, which is run by JWU alum Tobey Sanborn ’97. This iconic Rhode Island restaurant overlooking the river offers delicious seafood caught fresh from New England’s fishing ports and is well known for its oysters, fisherman-style stuffed lobster and huge seafood casseroles.
What to Do in Rhode Island on a Sunday
After you’ve gotten to know Providence a bit, Sunday is the perfect opportunity to explore other parts of the state.
One of Rhode Island’s most popular destinations is Newport, which is less than an hour from Providence! You can drive or for a more scenic adventure, take the ferry. The Seastreak ferry runs four times a day, seven days a week, with tickets costing $12 each way for adults and $6 each way for children. The ferry offers beautiful views of Narragansett Bay and is a great way to keep the entire family entertained!
Plan to spend most of your day, around six hours, exploring everything Newport has to offer. One of my personal favorite things to do during the summer season is unwinding at Easton's Beach (also called First Beach), one of Newport's most famous beaches. Bring boogie boards, towels, chairs and snacks and relax for the day! If you're looking for a change of pace, consider touring the iconic Newport Mansions, which have recently been featured in HBO's "The Glided Age". These spectacular estates are among Newport's most famous attractions.
Be sure to explore Newport’s famed Thames Street and Bowen Wharf, where you'll find some funky local shops, boutiques, art galleries and lots of food options to choose from. The waterfront setting makes it easy to slow down, enjoy the breeze and take in the gorgeous views.
Monday Must: Experience a JWU Campus Tour
After spending your weekend in Rhode Island, it’s time for the best part.
Beginning in the morning, JWU’s campus tours gives prospective students and families a great look at academic programs, campus life and all the opportunities that await future Wildcats.
Campus tours are offered Monday through Saturday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, providing plenty of flexibility to choose a time that works best for you. Lasting about 60 to 90 minutes, each guided tour introduces you to campus life, academic buildings and residence halls.
Consider booking both the Downcity Campus tour and the Harborside Campus. The campuses are only about a 10 minute drive, making it easy to experience both in one day. Harborside is where you'll find the College of Food Innovation & Technology (CFIT), along with JWU's athletic facilities.
If your visit happens to fall on Monday, August 10, you'll have the opportunity to attend JWU's Summer Open House, where you can experience an even more in depth look at life as a Wildcat.
Before heading home, stop by one last famous Providence food location, Providence Coal Fired Pizza. Popular favorites include Meatball, the Bianca, Pesto Shrimp and Margarita. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal and soak in the last little bit of city’s local flavor before heading home.