The Weekly: 5/21/26 Guide to Downtown Providence
Here’s the gist: in Providence, there’s always something interesting going on. And we understand how challenging it can be to wade through all the happenings and decide what events to attend, where to eat, and what to shop for. That’s why we’re here to share the top things we’re excited about in the coming week in each installment of “The Weekly.” Each week, we’ll rant and rave unabashedly about just a slice of the food, fun, and fantastic items that we’re currently obsessed with in downtown Providence, RI.
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TACKLE YOUR WRITING PROJECTS AT THIS DOWNTOWN BOOKSTORE EVENT
Calling all creatives (and we know there are quite a few of you here in Providence): if you’re looking for a refreshing change of scenery to work on your next poem or writing project, head to Symposium Books on Thursday, May 21. From 6:30-8 pm, enjoy “Writing on Westminster” by writing the night away either inside the bookstore or outdoors at the ample seating located right on this iconic, historic street itself.
This event is free and open to the public. Just simply “Bring your current writing project and hangout in a bookish atmosphere for some literary inspiration!” Symposium is located at 240 Westminster Street in downtown Providence, RI.
JUST ANNOUNCED: SCOTCH TASTING AT GIFT HORSE
Scoop up these tickets fast, folks: downtown Providence restaurant and raw bar Gift Horse is hosting “Scotch & The Sea: A Scotch & Oyster Tasting” on Sunday, June 7 from 3-5 pm. Tickets can be purchased here.
This is sure to be an afternoon of delicious food and drinks: “Spend the afternoon with us as Glenglassaugh Single Malt Brand Ambassador: Rory Glasgow, guides you through a unique scotch tasting paired with a selection of Rhode Island oysters.”
WHAT WE’D BUY FOR THE COLLEGE GRADS FROM THESE PROVIDENCE SHOPS
We cannot believe it is college graduation season again! For those of you who have a local college grad in your life, perhaps you’re looking for great mementos of Rhode Island to gift them before they move on to the next chapter of their life. When we think of specifically delightful niche Rhode Island gifts, there’s three shops in downtown Providence where we’re shopping:
Homestyle | 233 Westminster Street | Homestyle is known for a fun variety of household items, decor, kitchenware, and countless gift ideas. They have no lack of Rhode Island-themed items, from this charming state-shaped serving plate (we know we’re not the graduates but we want this one), to this Rhode Island pint glass.
Craftland | 212 Westminster Street | We love how Craftland supports local artists on their fully stocked shelves! There’s Rhode Island inspired art; magnets, mugs, and more Rhody gifts; and whimsical t-shirts emblazoned with iconic sights and slogans.
Queen of Hearts and Modern Love | 220 & 222 Westminster Street | This adorable boutique—which is made up of two sister stories right next to each other—has so many great gifts! From clothing, to pantry items (it doesn’t get more Rhode Island than this iconic bottle of Coffee Milk Syrup), to accessories, to dishware, to makeup from the Modern Love brand itself, there’s a gift for every grad.
Plus check out Symposium Books, The Vault Collective (so many unique vintage pieces), Jephry Floral Studio, Civil (especially if you have any skateboarders graduating), and Eno Fine Wines, too.
Love this edition of The Weekly? Want to stay in the loop for future events (including for our Summer 2026 season of Movies on the Block), gift guides, new business openings, and more in downtown Providence, RI? We’ve got you! Subscribe to our newsletter and/or follow @indowncitypvd on Instagram.