Providence is filled with cultural and historical institutions, perfect for groups looking for unique off-site options. Following are a few gems.
Remember the backdrop for the 1998 blockbuster Meet Joe Black? In several Anthony Hopkins scenes, a gorgeous, chateau-like home almost stole the Oscar winner’s on-screen thunder. That structure was Aldrich Mansion (401.739.6850). Located a few miles north of Providence in Warwick, Aldrich Mansion sits on 75 acres overlooking Narragansett Bay. Built in the late 1800s as home to Sen. Nelson W. Aldrich, the estate served as the place where one of Aldrich’s children wed John D. Rockefeller Jr. Today, it is a popular place for corporate events and weddings, with 70 rooms and expansive outdoor grounds.
Construction on the Veterans Memorial Auditorium (401.222.1467) began in 1927 but was halted two years later due to economic constraints. Work began again in the late ’40s, and the venue finally opened in January 1950. For the next 30 years, performers from Pavarotti to Tony Bennett graced its stages. Another refurbishment project began in the ‘90s, and today it stands as one of Rhode Island’s most beautiful performing arts centers. The venue has more than 1,900 seats and has several places for visiting groups to hold events.
One of the oldest zoos in the country, Roger Williams Park Zoo (401.785.3510) first opened in 1872 and has since gone through many rounds of upgrades. The zoo is partly made of historic Victorian-style buildings. The venue has numerous options for group events and can accommodate up to 5,000 guests for a private party.
Groups can experience the history of Providence at the Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum (401.272.5101). The three-story house was built in 1865 for Henry Lippitt, a textile merchant who became governor of Rhode Island. Lippitt’s family lived in the home and preserved its historic quality for 114 years until finally handing it over to the Preserve Rhode Island. Today, the home is designated a National Historic Landmark and is available for tours. Groups of up to 125 people can also rent the entire first floor.
