Honestly I feel awful giving it such a low rating but when we visited there were only a few stores, restaurants open. We actually wanted to dine at one of the establishments but the lady said she closes at 2:00. Who closes at 2:00 on a Saturday? The architecture is beautiful but unfortunately not worth the trip because there isn't anything to visit. The potential is there but not right now, sadly. read more

The Arcade Providence - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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Nearly 200 years old, this neoclassical building is charming and historic (it's supposedly the first enclosed shopping mall in US!) - but mostly charming. The first floor consists of small eccentric shops and cafes while the upper floors have been converted into studio apartments. (I am entranced by the idea of residing there - just think, I can leave my apartment in my Jammies and walk downstairs to a cafe for my morning coffee.). A great place to browse the shops for unique gifts and a bite. read more

The Arcade Providence - The Arcade's entrance - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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The Arcade Providence is in a historic building and is worth the visit if you happen to be in town. However, I wouldn't get your hopes up about shopping or staying here for a long time. We were staying in a hotel across the street and needed to get some Providence souvenirs. I looked up gift shops/souvenir places and it told me to head to one of the stores in The Arcade. Walking in, you could tell this place was extremely beautiful once. The architecture is incredible and there is a lot of potential here. People comment that it's underutilized and they aren't wrong. Even though the place is bright and sunny and feels safe, there's also a feeling of abandonment and dereliction that I just couldn't shake. There aren't many stores to shop at or places to eat at. There's one restaurant that seems to be doing well, we saw people at the whole time we were in Providence, but that was it. Hopefully, soon, more life will be injected into this place because it is very beautiful and historical and has a lot of potential. read more

The Arcade Providence - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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Historic, yes. Fun to visit, check. We'll lit and clean, you bet. Underutilized and ultimately not worth it, unfortunately yes. Although a great historic building, there really isn't much here other than a couple restaurants that didn't interest me. Overall, if I was in city again I may pop in, but otherwise I'm in no rush to go back. read more

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The Arcade Providence is the oldest indoor shopping mall in the United States. It's small and quaint, but also very quiet every time I visited. There are a few interesting food stops, including Lobanton, and even a shop dedicated to H.P. Lovecraft merchandise. I also appreciated the historical photos displayed throughout. A couple of things to note: Parking isn't free - there's a garage across the street and paid street parking nearby. Also, accessibility could be an issue - I didn't notice a wheelchair ramp on one side of the mall (maybe there's one on the other side?). Overall, it's a neat place to explore, especially if you appreciate history and architecture, but it's more of a quick visit rather than a full shopping experience. read more

I saw someone recommend The Arcade on an Instagram post, and honestly, what a disappointment. The place is dead - everything's closed. The only nice thing is the entrance design, which I actually really like. The streets around are pretty, but there's not much to do around here... read more

We visited The Arcade Providence. We saw: Two Livi's restaurants (Pockets and Mexican), One unique bookstore (if you like horror, this one's for you) One nail/waxing/sugaring/threading place And that was it. Underutilized - Check. It's a nice space, but it needs businesses and foot traffic, which will bring in more shops and more foot traffic. Right now, it was moribund and not popping. The architecture is awesome. Look around - look at the front. read more

A cool piece of Providence history that has been underutilized over the last few years. The Arcade is a small mall located in a beautiful building in downtown Providence, and is actually the oldest enclosed indoor mall in the country dating back to 1828. While it is beautiful inside and out and has a popular Lovecraft-themed bookstore and some good restaurants, there are a noticeable amount of empty spaces in here. I believe the second and third floors are used as micro-loft rentals, but can't find much information on them. While I did enjoy spending time here, it seems that with a bit more advertising and effort, the Arcade could truly be revitalized and live up to its potential. read more

The Arcade Providence - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

The Westminster Arcade (also known as the Providence Arcade, Arcade Providence, or The Arcade) is a historic shopping center at 130 Westminster Street and 65 Weybosset Street in downtown Providence built in 1828. It is known as the first enclosed shopping mall in the United States and has been lauded as a fine example of commercial Greek Revival architecture. It served as a shopping center for many years before falling into decline in the late 20th century. It has since been closed for renovation and rehabilitation several times, and most recently reopened its doors in October 2013 as a residential and commercial mixed-use building. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1976. Today, a bunch of small shops, restaurants and service businesses fill the lowest level (street level). The upstairs has micro lofts that many use as a Pied-à-terre...if you live in other parts of the state or the region. So in 2021, The Arcade Providence started offering these lofts for sale, for the first time, residential and retail condo units. Prices began at $145,000 for a residential studio loft. Many of the units have modern improvements, but the historic beauty of The Arcade Providence's interior atrium and exterior remains intact and unchanged. In the past 10 years many businesses have come and gone, so the experience is different for those who have not been in several years. read more

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Excellent historic spot to visit and chill when touring downtown Providence. Built in 1828, The Arcade is the first enclosed shopping mall in the United States and has been lauded as a fine example of commercial Greek Revival architecture (see https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Westminster_Arcade). Whether you're into liquor or caffeinated beverages, you can grab a drink at New Harvest Coffee & Spirits and relax. There are also a couple of intriguingly unusual shops, like Lovecraft Arts & Sciences (their poster that says "Give the Gift of Weird" says it all), Carmen & Ginger Vintage Goods, Bad Taste new/vintage shop, etc read more

From an architectural and historical perspective, I absolutely love this building! The Arcade is the oldest indoor shopping mall in America built in 1828. Residing between Weybosset and Westminster streets, Greek Revival colonnades welcome you at both ends, up granite steps, across a small portico into an interior not much changed in almost 200 years. In it's most recent reincarnation, two upper levels house micro-apartments while the ground level continues to house a variety of small, local businesses. During pandemic, many of these unique businesses have closed their doors. Luckily many remain including Impulse hair design, Liv's pockets, Rogue Island and more. I have no doubt this beautiful building will once again be bustling with activity post-pandemic. It's a definite 'must stop' while visiting Providence especually for anyone who enjoys history or architecture. It's worth a stop to check out the eclectic shops and to grab a bite to eat and drink. Also a good spot for taking a break from the weather. ;) read more

The Arcade Providence - I love this building. So happy it continues to thrive. - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

This cool little arcade boasts that it is the nation's oldest indoor shopping mall. It's a beautiful building, featuring "Greek Revival columns, granite walls, and classic facades". The downstairs level has shops and local eateries while the upstairs floors are home to very small, and popular apartments. There are 48 "micro-lofts" available, and they are usually accompanied by a long waiting list! How big are the little apartments? They range in size from 225-800 sq. feet, and features typically include a kitchen with full-sized or 3/4 sized refrigerator, sink, dishwasher and microwave. None of these units have stoves! Renters can cook with anything that doesn't have an open flame. The units have a full bath with shower, and built-in beds with seating and storage. Though I haven't been in one of these, the photos online look pretty cool, if you don't mind living small! The arcade only takes a couple of minutes to stroll though - which I highly recommended for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just looking to grab a bite in a unique setting. It's in a great location, a good spot to begin the Providence Public Art Walking Tour. read more

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Meh Great looking building One of or the first indoor mall in America.??? But it's basically empty...!? Why is it empty if it's so beautiful!???? read more

The Arcade Providence - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

The Arcade is situated only a few steps away from our hotel so we took a walk through on Saturday afternoon. There were very businesses open and even fewer customers seen during our brief visit. read more

The Arcade Providence - exterior - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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I have always been enamored with this historic mall that sits in the middle of downtown Providence and has been there since 1828. Today there are a few places to eat and drink and some eclectic stores. I had a delicious cup of coffee served with a smile at New Harvest Coffee and Spirits then wandered across the mall to the cool little bookshop named the Lovecraft Arts and Sciences Council. I remember that for years businesses could not survive on the second and third levels of the Arcade so it is great that they got creative and converted the space into mini lofts. If you are not from Providence, put the Arcade on your must visit list! And if you are from Rhode Island, support the businesses located here! read more

The Arcade Providence - Since 1828...and you thought your mall was old! - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

This is a very historic building which houses a few shops, restaurants, and micro lofts. It is a national historical landmark, one of the oldest malls in America! The second and third floors consists of apartments. The first floor is open to the public. It's cute and small! It's located in a central location and is in walking distance to many places such as restaurants, bars, and theaters. I love the building, you could tell it has a lot of history; it was built in 1828 and has large columns on the outside. There's a coffee shop in there that also makes mixed drinks. There were a couple of small takeout restaurants. The shops were mainly bookshops and art shops. It's one of those places that you have to stop by. I like the micro lofts concept because you can live very efficiently with very little space. If I were a single person living in the city, this would be my location of choice! read more

The Arcade Providence - The oldest mall in America - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

this place was really cool to see in person. i remember seeing a video about this place and the micro lofts with the small shops downstairs. very cute! i ended up getting a bag of chips from one of the coffee shops. but IT WAS FUCKING HOT IN THERE! so stuffy! but the fucking AC on!!! if you want people to eat and shop then keep it comfy for them!! there wasn't much there. just a weird oddities shop and a few eateries. maybe a salon? but it would be nice for small shops to stay for a longer time becuz it seems like they switch out businesses alot and who knows why. read more

So I really wanted to love this place, but I think I have just seen way too many amazing places in my life and they spoiled me. There are definitely some cool features here though. It's in a super convenient location, they some really cute little shops, and the history behind the building is amazing. I also love how they have maps of the entire area available for free for you to take. It's a really nice added touch. So why don't I love this place? Well there really just isn't much here. I wouldn't plan to spend too much time here. They also just don't have a lot of shops here. So I was actually kind of bored. Last and definitely the most largest offense is their hours. I can not believe they close so early on a freaking weekend. That pretty much dropped them a star as well. At least be open until 8pm or even 9pm. read more

This is a great place to hangout for a little bit. It's located in a great spot in Providence, close to many other restaurants/bars and lots of street parking. There's little shops in the arcade along with New Harvest Coffee and Spirits where you can get a yummy cocktail, local beer, or coffee. The arcade often hosts events which is what I stopped by for. It was on a weeknight and there were lots of people there. They even set up a photo booth, had samples by The Perfect Sweet Macaroon, and was scooping Fountain & Co ice cream. Check Facebook for the event schedule! read more

The Arcade Providence - Shopping Centers Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

One of the oldest malls in America now repurposed and divided between micro apartments and fun, quirky retail shops down below. If walking downtown be sure to pop on in. Grab a coffee. a cocktail or a coffee-cocktail at New Harvest. Grab a quick lunch at one of the several food options such as Levi's pockets of something more substantial at roque island. From history, to craft cocktails, to vintage t-shirts to that vintage cocktail shaker you never knew you needed, to the blow out and manicure you've been meaning to get... The Arcade has it all! read more

"Officially Closed" Sad as I always wanted to go there but it used to be closed on weekends, the building itself is still quite beautiful - hopefully it reopens soon! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Providence_Arcade read more

Im not sure if I even went to the right place but nothing was really open and it was more like a ghost town then anything. wicked cute but there isn't anything really to do inside :) read more

As of 2014 (well, late 2013, actually) The Arcade is a stunning, much-needed and very welcome addition to Providence. The fact that this place was once closed down shouldn't deter you from going (and should certainly keep you from taking into account all those 1-star reviews that are now moot), as it's sure to become a celebrated and sought-after space. Sure, not all of the storefronts are open, but those that are happen to be filled with lovely local artisans, selling their crafts, wares and trades in top-notch form. The New Harvest space is lovely -- warm, cozy and distinctly Parisian in vibe; Nude is a cozy, thoughtful and sleek space with beautifully curated collections from five local clothing and two local accessory designers that will leave you dreaming of gorgeous hand made items well into your next week. There's an upholsterer, a consignment boutique, a few jewelers, a bike shop and even a small salon all under the roof a gorgeous, preserved historical building (the first indoor mall in America, to be exact!). Now, I don't know about you all, but I find that to be something worth celebrating and supporting. What I love most is that the historical integrity of the building has been preserved, and that makes shopping and perusing The Arcade all the more special. You can feel the history, and I so appreciate that the architects and designers were thoughtful and respectful in their approach to the rebirth of this beautiful space. The second and third floors are home to micro-loft living spaces, which I am very curious to see and hear about. Seeing as Westminster Street has seen such a revival over the last decade, I think it's quite awesome that The Arcade was resurrected rather than left to waste away or, worse yet, be torn down in favor of some cheap new building. I feel like The Arcade represents so much of the heart and soul of what Providence is, or at least what it is to me -- a beautiful jewel with so much to offer to those that love it. A unique place with so much history. I am so excited to see the place fill in over the next few months and years, and to see its' full potential as a gem in our little city. read more

Those who enjoy shopping local, beautiful architecture, or history (or, all of the above) will enjoy spending some time in The Arcade in downtown Providence. In the nineteenth century, this was the nation's first shopping mall. After being shuttered for the past couple of years, it recently reopened to great fanfare, and is now home to a small collection of locally-based retailers. A tour of The Arcade - a light-filled space that is uniformly designed, right down to the store's signs - doesn't take long. At this point, there are still only a handful of stores, though they all offer very unique items (no carbon copy storefronts here). Here, you'll find a RI-based jewelry designer whose work evokes exotic travel destinations (Jessica Ricci); a beauty shop/boutique that carries makeup, clothing and accessories that are all made in RI (Luniac Glamour); a furniture shop selling handmade, classically New England-styled pieces (That Guy); and a designer collective featuring clothing and handbags that are truly distinctive--and to drive that point home, the clothing can even be customized, with the designers on site to consult (nude). There's also a coffee shop with free WiFi that stays open pretty late night (all stores have their own hours; best to check The Arcade's website before paying a visit, if you want to ensure the fullest experience possible: http://www.arcadeprovidence.com/retail/). In the months ahead, The Aracde's microlofts - small apartments offering residential space inside this amazing old building - will open. The idea of living here, while romantic, sounds pretty claustrophobic to me. As a dedicated shopper, I doubt my life could ever fit into a space less than 600 square feet. Though I'd love to consider myself a minimalist, I think everyone around me knows that's a big, fat lie. Still, I'd love to get a peek inside this cool, new downtown living option. My only hope for The Arcade's retail scene is that it expands a bit more, to include a few stores that are more accessible to all people, and all wallets (fat, thin and my personal favorite: the yo-yo dieting wallet that sometimes puffs up fat as Cartman, and quickly diminishes to something more closely resembling a stick figure). Nearly every store here stocks what I would consider lovely splurges: so I wonder how much traffic the place will experience during leaner months in between gift-giving seasons. Two or three more shops offering moderately priced items that still fit into the oeuvre of the place would go a long way in bringing folks in off the street -- not only to browse, but more importantly, to buy. For me, the best part of this lively experiment in modern-day retail is the fact that really, it's the very antithesis of "modern." In fact, it's very Old World, and that's what makes it so appealing. The artists and shop owners behind each of these businesses are almost always at their store, greeting new customers, chatting happily about their product, and they are approachable, passionate people who love what they do. Our society has eschewed this kind of shopping experience in favor of big-box stores that specialize in high volume, anonymous transactions. For this reason, The Arcade might feel like a culture shock, at first. But just go with it, and you'll quickly sense the difference, while doing your part to help the city grow in the right direction. You may never shop the mall again. read more

While the number of shops are limited, I really love going here during the week when it's very quiet to grab a coffee and check out the shops in peace and wander the neighborhood. There are a number of beautiful murals and historic buildings in the area to gawp at which makes for a perfect afternoon. read more

Love love love! Ntrendsic - funky, unique clothing store! The owner is ALWAYS in and she's just as fabulous as her products. Prices are reasonable! She only orders so many of each size..so you won't see several folks wearing the same thing you are. The Rogue - great food, warm/cozy atmosphere, farm to table food - most sourced from within 65 miles and wonderful service. Wait staff knows their products (food, beer, wine, & spirits) which makes ordering easy. I have a severe shellfish allergy and they were more than accommodating. Lunch starts at 11 and continues till 5 which is when they switch over to dinner service. Laid back atmosphere Sunday - Tuesday, Wednesday - Saturday is more of a fine dining experience. Even at the bar, which fills up quickly! Restaurant turns more casual after 9PM on the weekends! Great stop for somebody on their way to the theatre. Get Moda - A consignment store with everything from Chloe, Chanel, LV, JCrew, Kate Spade, and Coach. Everything is priced perfectly and the owners always in this store as well! Livi's Pockets - scrumptious sandwiches, THAT ARE HUGE in a bubbly and bright environment. Perfect for on the go travel or you can sit down in their dining area. Fresh ingredients and friendly staff! Noon - has the best deal on honey, 9$ for locally made. Decent bottle size! Lots of organic stuff, jewelry, home goods, cards, etcetera Other stores - Luniac Glamour, Dash, Jewelry by Jessica Ricci (who makes everything by hand in the store) New Harvest, and more! If you like supporting small businesses, you'll love this building. Check it out :) it is worth it! read more

This mall is full of great history and architecture. I was so glad to see them bring new life into the Arcade. There are a lot of charming small shops have opened and are great examples of thriving local businesses. I also stopped in and saw a coffee shop and a eatery that looks to serve some delicious pockets. There is a consignment shop that boosts some name brand stuff, worth a look. I also find the concept that they are going to use the upper floors as small Loft apartments new and interesting. I would think they would be great for students on the go in the city. The arcade is small but open, bright and refreshing, I am glad it has a place in downcity. read more

A great addition to the downtown area and a part of history. It is very cute and small. They are opening up some new things soon that look interesting. A worthy stop during a trip downtown. read more

So, being as I am relatively new to Rhode Island, I only knew the Arcade as being that cool looking abandoned mall on Westminster. I was pretty excited when I found out that they were reopening their doors with an array of new shops and restaurants. The "new" Arcade is awesome. The blend of shops, restaurants and artisans in the mall offer everything from a vintage hat to a fancy candied apple. I most frequent New Harvest coffee and spirits for their awesome gimlets and snacks. Whether you're looking to window shop, find the perfect gift, or grab a drink or dinner, the improved Arcade has a bit of everything in a great location. read more

Wow how sad this place is. I remember my mom taking me there when I was young for the best chocolate cookie from I believe the Prov Cookie Co. It was the only hoping place in downtown back than. Its so sad when things from you past are no longer:( read more

Totally a fan of the restoration. I remember being inside the Arcade when I was little girl. The attention to detail is fantastic. I appreciate all the natural light that the overhead atrium brings in -- wonder what summer will be like in there? Man, the hallways are cold with the doors opening and closing -- but I suppose that can't be helped. Very nice to see the spaces on the first floor just about full. A mix of home items, clothing, jewelry, food, coffee / whiskey bar, art, vintage, and personal care. There's a little bit of everything. Overall, a gem that's been restored in the absolute center of downtown. What's not to love? PS. The homegood store (sorry that I can't remember the name..) smells absolutely amazing inside. read more

A dimmer reflection of its former glory. The first mall in the history of the country. Built in 1928 this ornately decorated and built BETTER than a brick shthouse two story historical landmark is a walk back in time. It's survived three hurricanes and a threatened demolition. About 20 something years ago it received a multi-million dollar renovation. It had a really nice revival period. The entrance is fronted by huge 21 foot columns of solid granite, each weighing in at 13 tons each. The wood floors show the wear of thousands of feet. There's a skylight that runs the entire length of the building. Pretty impressive for 19 freakin 28. Now though, there are just a few shops and food vendors keeping it alive. The condition of the building looks good, I wonder why they can't keep or attract sellers. Definitely pay a visit here and grab a coffee or something. There's a black history museum upstairs worth seeing. * data source: Quohog.org read more

4 stars for classy restoration, minus 2 stars for being a ghost "mall"! Went on a Monday at 6pm & everything besides New Harvest coffee, Rogue Island, & the threading salon was closed! Wtf??? How will this place survive? I wanted to check out the stores. But couldn't tell you if they were even good bc it was all closed.... On a Monday! The place is beautifully restored, but The Arcade still needs a major retail make-over read more

Came here on Memorial Day weekend and 75% of the stores were closed. Not sure why this is on every single list of places to visit in Providence...yes it's the oldest shopping center in the nation but that's it.. They had a few coffee/food stores as well as a boutique and a vintage store. My friends and I came here and left all under 15 minutes.. read more

We appropriately feted the re-opening of this historical treasure. I'll be able to provide a more informed review once the micro-lofts and the additional stores open. The coffee shop and the bike store were both charming. There is a purveyor of very fine (and expensive) coats from England. He was about as delightful as Britons come, and we had a thoroughly enjoyable experience trying on Barbour coats (which, believe it or not, are at the lower end of what he offers). I do hope that Providence can sustain such a high-end haberdashery. Finally, a very talented young woman, on the Westminster side, opened a jewelry shop. She creatively engages with her time abroad, and incorporates Latin sayings into her work. Talking with her was similarly fascinating - her work is unique and very reasonably priced. read more

Really nice to see the oldest mall in America reopen. Cool local business are the main feature. Clothing, art, and jewelry are the main features. There is a coffee shop/bar I'm looking forward to trying. I checked out the Arcade on opening day and it was still a work in progress. The downstairs is narrow. Making it a bit uncomfortable to walk through but that's just the design. The second floor isn't open yet. The micro lofts will be interesting to see. Overall its an exciting step for local businesses in Providence. I hope they do well. read more

I've never been here before and this is like a hidden gem right here in Providence. Great food and the shopping is interesting. It is a definite to stop by here when you get a chance. read more

Sang a chorus concert here when I was in high school and was marveled by the construction and pure art that is the Arcade. A beautiful piece of history from a time long gone... read more

Very cool to have America's oldest freestanding indoor mall right downtown! This place is truly a spot I love to patronize. There are about of dozen or so businesses inside ranging from; cute boutiques, candy stores, a bicycle shop, a full service restaurant, and so much more. The second and third floors are home to micro lofts which have been restored as well. These are similar to college dorms, but have many more amenities and much more tastefully done. The only down side to the apartments is that is no stove. Oh well. Other than that this is a great place to wander if you are downtown and tired of the oh so unglamorous Providence Place Mall. We are all about that shopping local thing so give it a walk through. I have gotten many gifts for my mom at Carmen & Ginger, full of vintage treasures that are so beyond unique. My almost weekly lunch stop at Livi's is NOT to be missed. Awesome falafel/salad with the freshest of ingredients. We welcome you! read more