The 7 Best Historic Sites in College Hill, Rhode Island (RI)

TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS Take a tour of the 1707 home of Declaration-signer Stephen Hopkins, his family and their slaves, eight rooms full of antiques, Hopkins heirlooms and 18th century atmosphere. Learn about Rhode Island's own Founding Father and his house, the city's oldest, moved twice but virtually unmodernized, where George Washington was a guest in 1776 & 1781. Relax in our parterre garden designed by Alden Hopkins of Williamsburg. We're on Benefit Street between the John Brown House and First Baptist Church, a block from the RISD Museum, the Providence Athenaeum, the Brown campus and spectacular WaterFire. Open all year, Wednesdays 11AM to 2PM, April though November, Saturdays 10 AM to 4 PM, and year-round by appointment *** til 10 PM when it falls on FULL lightings of WaterFire (last tour at 9:30)*** Not 12/26th Tour highlights available in Chinese, Spanish, Italian, and soon French!

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.

Built in 1791 for Colonel Joseph Nightingale, a merchant who traded with China, this structure is the largest wood frame Federal-style house in the city.

The oldest Baptist church in America, gathered by Roger Williams in 1638. Open for tours: Monday - Friday 10AM - Noon and 1PM - 3PM and on Sunday immediately following the Worship Service Worship Service is at 11 AM September - May and at 10 AM June, July and August.

A National Historic Landmark, Lippitt House has one of the best preserved interiors in America, allowing visitors to experience exceptional Victorian design and American craftsmanship. Following the Lippitt family’s example of public service, the museum’s cultural programming promotes civic engagement, the arts, and history of Providence. August 2020 - Lippitt House welcomes guests to the Museum for a private outdoor tour experience. Private tours are offered, for free, on Thursdays and Fridays throughout August at 9:00 AM and 10:30 AM. Private tour times are also available Saturday August 8 and August 22. Private Outdoor Tours are one hour long and can accommodate a group up to 6 people

Roger Williams National Memorial commemorates the founder of Rhode Island and his ideal of the Liberty of Consciousness. Roger Williams arrived in what he named Providence in 1636, attracted by a freshwater spring. The site grew into a settlement with a government that ensured freedom of religion via separation of church and state. Williams built his house across the street from the spring and lived there on and off until his death. The spring was revealed in the early 20th century, later enshrined within the Hahn Memorial. Completed in 1982, the urban park hosts winding paths, open lawns, and groves of trees on 4.5 acres. Visit the Antram-Gray House, which includes a visitor center, exhibits, video, and bookstore. Free 2-hour parking is available for park visitors. Roger Williams National Memorial is the venue for many outdoor activities and events throughout spring, summer, and fall including Junior Ranger programs, festivals and cultural events.