Time Traveling in Providence, Rhode Island: Nostalgia-Inspired Spots
Nostalgia travel, often called “time tripping,” is a popular trend in which travelers revisit places, activities, or eras from their past to experience feelings of comfort, safety, and joy—or where they visit places evocative of another, better time. And it’s alive and well in PVD!
Time tripping focuses on emotional connection, such as returning to childhood vacation spots, visiting hometowns, or exploring retro destinations, rather than checking off new bucket-list items or attempting a new adventure. This type of travel is about comfort, with a dose of history.
This year, Providence, Rhode Island, is truly having a moment—not as a satellite of Boston or New York, but as a destination in its own right. With 2026 marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Providence offers revolutionary history without the Boston crowds. Providence has over 380 years of history, with options for travelers seeking any bygone era.
Things to see and do
For history buffs:
- Learn about the 1772 Gaspee Affair—an early rebellion against British rule (a maritime act of rebellion that precedes the Boston Tea Party)—at the John Brown House and Stephen Hopkins House, where George Washington once stayed.
- Even strolling down Benefit Street – in one of Providence’s most historic neighborhoods–offers colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and some of America’s best preserved Federal, Victorian buildings dating to the 1700s. Plus add a ‘Parasols and Pocket Watches’ history walking tour to the day!
- Providence isn’t just honoring its colonial past in 2026—it’s expanding the narrative. The newly opened AAPI History Museum, the first-ever AAPI history museum in the U.S., highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities to the region’s history and culture.
For literary fans:
- Stop by the Providence Athenaeum, which houses literature, art, and artifacts that span nearly three centuries, and was even one of Edgar Allan Poe’s hangout spots.
- Providence is also the birthplace of the famous horror writer H.P. Lovecraft, known for his cosmic horror tales. His presence is felt throughout the city, with sites like his former home and his grave in Swan Point Cemetery, which Lovecraft enthusiasts from around the world visit daily with offerings.
For 20’s, 50’s, 70’s & 90’s dining:
- Troop is the perfect spot for brunch, inspired by pop culture of the 80s and 90s!
- Ogie’s Trailer Park is one of Providence’s best kept secrets offering a classic diner aesthetic inside and a tiki bar vacation outside.
- Club Frills is a newly opened “bartender’s bar”, with groovy, eclectic, and nostalgic vibes, meant to emulate a 70’s rumpus room from the wild folks at Pizza Marvin.
- Having opened this past December, Murmur Hi-Fi Lounge is a high fidelity, analog listening lounge located in the heart of downtown Providence, Rhode Island, inspired by 1920’s listening lounges.
For timeless childhood fun:
- So many spots in Providence offer gaming to take you back in time. Check out tabletop cafe, The Crypt, or the barcade Free Play. Or if you’re feeling competitive sign up for the Courtland Club’s annual backgammon tournament.
