Transit Options
Travel Tips: Getting Around Town
Providence is a small city both in terms of population and geography, with most major urban attractions located within a few miles of the downtown area. Renting a car is a good option for visitors who also wish to explore the nearby countryside and scenic coastline, but if you plan to spend most of your time in town, it's better to avoid the hassles of driving and parking and rely on public transportation instead.
In good weather, downtown Providence, Federal Hill and the East side are easily explored on foot, and there's no better way to appreciate the city's historic architecture and neighborhood diversity. Just wear comfortable shoes, brace yourself for the occasional hill, and avoid walking alone at night in areas you don't know to be safe after hours.
The Providence LINK Trolley System operated by the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (www.ripta.com) connects downtown Providence to College Hill, Fox Point, Federal Hill, the capitol district and south Providence using environmentally friendly compressed natural gas vehicles. These are not real trolleys, but the trackless system offers efficient service on two lines with departures every 15 minutes throughout the day. Fares for Providence LINK and all city buses are $1.50 per ride, or buy a day pass for $6. From May through October, RIPTA also offers high-speed ferry service between Providence and Newport.
Taxis are not particularly plentiful in Providence, so don't be surprised by lengthy waits after you request a cab.
| 
)
