Providence is the capital of Rhode Island and the largest city of Rhode Island. Providence is located at the head of Narragansett Bay on the Providence River near the Atlantic coast and intersected by two rivers and built on three hills. Rhode Island which started as a seafaring town is New England’s prime commercial, financial, and industrial centers as well as one of the largest jewelry manufacturers in the country. It revived its economy after the decline during the Second World War.

Summer is seasonably warm and moderated by ocean breezes. Spring and autumn are mild and sunny, and winters are moderately cold.

Area: 18.5 square miles (2000)

Elevation: 80 feet above sea level

Latitude: 41.82 N

Longitude: 71.42 W

Average Temperatures: January, 28.7° F; August 71.9° F; annual average, 51.1° F

Average Annual Precipitation: 46.45 inches total; 36.0 inches snowfall

Population: 176,862 as on 2005

Attractions

• State Capitol
• Roger Williams National Memorial
• Old State House
• Joseph Brown House
• Market House
• Roger Williams Park

Festivals

• Rhode Island Spring Flower and Garden Show
• Columbus Day
• Festival del Sancocho
• Convergence X
• Rhode Island International Film Festival
• Great International Beer Competition