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    Waterplace Park

    4.6 (29 reviews)

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    Robert S.

    Waterplace Park is an urban park situated along the Woonasquatucket River in downtown Providence, at the original site of the Great Salt Cove. Finished in 1994, Waterplace Park is connected to 3/4 mile of cobblestone-paved pedestrian walkways along the waterfront known as Riverwalk. Venice-styled Pedestrian bridges cross the river, along with Venetian Gondolas (seasonal service). Most of Riverwalk is below street level and automotive traffic. Waterplace Park and Riverwalk together are host to Providence's popular summertime Waterfire events, a series of bonfires lit on the river accompanied by classical and world music. The park is used by many for different events....yoga, crossfit training, aerobics, concerts, Waterfire, etc....it is also a popular backdrops for wedding pictures, quinceañeras, engagement ceremonies, etc. The park has lost some of its luster and sometimes it is not as tidy and clean as it could. A few years ago, a dragging project cleaned most of the contaminated sediment that was at the bottom of the basin. Still, it is a beautiful part of downtown Providence and a nice place for a stroll. Several restaurants in the area provide diners with waterviews...like Capital Grille and River Social.

    View from above
    Chris L.

    Beautiful spot for taking pictures and going for a quick Stroll. Across from the mall .great spot to bring a coffee and relax.

    Frank W.

    I was born in Rhode Island and worked during my college years at a business on South Water Street, but had not been back in at least 40 years. What a wonderful re-imagining has taken place in the interim with Waterplace Park the star.

    Ashley V.

    This place was such a great addition added to our date night. The scenery was so beautiful and the show and music was just a bonus for us. Definitely a place to visit for a date night.

    Tamra F.

    Waterplace Park is a nice park right across the street from Providence Place Mall. Because I'm a local and see it all the time, I don't think I really appreciate the beauty of it. If I were to put myself in someone's shoes who isn't from here, I could definitely see the appeal in it. It's a nice place to take a stroll in. It's also a great place to take pictures. Additionally, there are activities you can do on the water like kayaking or riding on a gondola.. and of course there's waterfire. I can't mention waterplace park and not mention waterfire. Waterfire is an event that is held several times in the year (they have a calendar on their site) where they light up beautiful fires along the river. There's usually food, entertainment, and some relaxing music to accompany the waterfire events. It can get crowded and parking can be tough. I'd recommend parking at the mall and walking to it.

    Sweeping views of the Mall!
    Ashley P.

    Waterplace Park is a versatile, welcoming area filled with land, water, and plenty of bridges in downtown Providence. During the days and nights this park is a relaxing respite from the hustle and bustle of the rest of downtown. Though the sounds of the city permeate the air, they are easy to block out with the sights and atmosphere of the park itself. I've walked through the park on many occasion during the day. Whether its on the way to Thayer St. or just for a change of scenery, this is a great place to visit. Plenty of benches and grass area to sit on, surrounding a basin of water in the middle. The river flows into and out of this area, making up the rest of Riverwalk. Partake in some lunch, or just catch some rays of sun before continuing on with your day. At nighttime, on certain days out of the year, Waterfire celebrations take place. Visiting the park for this event alone is well worth the time to get here. Beautiful views of the floating fires from anywhere in the park. Boat rides up and down the river, under multiple bridges, etc. Cobblestone walkways, underpasses with chandelier hangings, people selling roses. I suggest parking at the Providence Place Mall. . . it is directly across the street. Sweeping views of the mall from the park. Enjoy!

    Thien N.

    Whenever I'm in Providence, I can't help but gravitate to Waterplace Park. On bike, by foot; it doesn't matter -- it's (my) happy place. Most recently I was there for the last full lighting of WaterFire 2017, and it was beautiful. Even without the art installations, walking under the bridges or through the walking channels is a serene and romantic experience. At any given time, Waterplace is seemingly a hub of activity. Catch couples going for a stroll, friends having a picnic, or locals enjoying any one of their numerous summer events -- the park is the perfect backdrop.

    Roberta D.

    Waterplace Park is in the center of Providence. It is what makes it so beautiful! Make sure to stop by during Waterfire- you'll see swarms of people walking all throughout the park with the fires lit up on the water.

    Jason P.

    Lovely scenic area. We stayed at the OMNI near the mall and convention center which is about a minute or two away from the park. Very close to the Rhode Island State House. I must for any photographer visiting. There were gondola boats going underneath the walkways and throughout the river, which I have read about, but unfortunately did not have the chance to experience. Seemed lovely.

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    14 years ago

    A great walk down the water in downtown. The great views sparkle, there's art and art students - even when the weather drops below freezing.

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    11 years ago

    Great place to run by and super family friendly. You have to see Waterfire it's a great providence experience.

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    14 years ago

    very nice park in the city

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    11 years ago

    Great park in Providence. In the summer it's such a great place to chill wit friends.

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    Review Highlights - Waterplace Park

    This park was interesting in the fact that there isn't much greenspace, it's more of the central location for WaterFire.

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    Blackstone Park Conservation District

    Blackstone Park Conservation District

    (24 reviews)

    Wayland

    I have been walking this park for over 20 years and have watched it grow from a slightly sketchy…read morewild patch of woods to a well maintained beautiful place with easy to walking trails that make you feel you are far from the city (well a little far). The park is split by a road that goes between the River Road and Butler Ave (Irving Ave can get you there heading towards the river). It is set off and not easy to find if you don't know about it. One half has wide easy to walk on paths that loop and can give some sense of being bigger than it's foot print. The other half is more challenging due to it still wild nature, the trails are footpaths that can be difficult due to rocks slopes and leaf litter, but still a great easy way to get some steps in with a little added cardio. You have to cross Irving Ave to enter the other side. Speaking of Cardio, there are dirt and log "steps" that bring you down to the water. Dogs are welcome but should be on a leash this is NOT A DOG PARK. I say this because I have had unleashed dogs lunge for me only to be reprimanded by said dogs ignorant owner for complaining in the dog park, sheesh. Please go, bring you doggie poo bags in and bring them back out! The park usually has bags at the sign as you enter the trails.

    For a park that's in a major city like Providence, this park is super clean and well taken care of…read more It's a great park with nice wide paths and make you believe you are in the forest somewhere and not in a city. Not only do you get the quietness of a forest but also a great view of the Seekonk River. Very little road traffic , and if you like kayaking, there is a launching place into the river near here. There is also the start of the Blackstone walking path which is on Blackstone Blvd. All these places are dog friendly!

    Waterplace Park - parks - Updated May 2026

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