10 Traveler Resources in Rhode Island That You Shouldn't Miss

The Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau's Visitor Information Centers are open to answer questions and provide expert advice on how to make the most of your stay in the Providence area. Our information specialists can assist you with planning either an entire trip - from accommodations to transportation - or a fun-filled day.

Escape the airport hustle and bustle of the airport terminal and enjoy complimentary fine food by a locally renowned chef, complimentary beers, wines, spirits and signature Escape Lounges cocktails, all in relaxing surroundings with high-speed WiFi. Complimentary entry to American Express Platinum Card members + 2 guests. A day pass can be purchased for $45 at the door or $40 prior to arrival at EscapeLounges.com.

Chartered in 1747, the Redwood Library & Athenæum is a museum, rare book repository, the nation's oldest public Neoclassical building and the oldest operating lending library still in its original structure. Designed by Peter Harrison and built in 1750 the library contains over 200,000 titles in its Circulating and Special Collections, another 751 titles forming the Original Collection which were purchased by the founders, and an exceptional collection of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century portraits by such artists as John Smibert, Robert Feke, Charles Bird King, and Gilbert Stuart. In addition there is a range of sculpture, furniture, and decorative arts. Lectures, gallery talks, and musical events are scheduled throughout the year, and unique gift items and used books are available in the gift shop. Tours given Monday through Friday at 10:30am and 2:00pm, Saturdays at 10:30am.

The Providence Athenæum is an independent, member-supported library and cultural center located on Providence’s historic Benefit Street. Over its nearly 200 years of existence, the library has welcomed illustrious writers, spirited thinkers, and energetic community members through its doors to engage in reading, conversation, and debate. At its heart, the Athenæum encourages a love of reading and learning to all. Free & open to the public.

Make the Newport Visitor Information Center your first stop for all of your maps, materials, tickets and tour needs. Information specialists are available with complimentary maps and brochures on local events, attractions, lodging, shopping and dining.

Maintained by the Rhode Island Historical Society, the library holds the largest and most important historical collections in existence relating to Rhode Island. The RIHS Library houses some 5,000 manuscripts, 100,000 books and printed items, 400,000 photographs and maps, 9 million feet of motion-picture film.

Blackstone Valley Visitor Center is the welcome center for Rhode Island's Blackstone Valley. Known as the Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution, Blackstone Valley is home to many historic and cultural sites, as well as great outdoor recreational opportunities, arts and entertainment. The Visitor Center is located just minutes off of Interstate 95 in Pawtucket, RI near the Massachusetts border. Come see our museum-style timeline wall covering the history of the region and giant floor map showing the lakes, rivers, highways, parks and attractions across the entire Blackstone River Valley! We also offer visitor information, brochures, guides and maps. In addition, Blackstone Valley Visitor Center also hosts a gift shop with locally made gifts and souvenirs, a rotating art gallery of featuring local artists, and a theatre to view a short movie on the history of Blackstone Valley.