Hampton Inn & Suites Providence Downtown: A Historic Stay in the Heart of Rhode Island
3-Star hotel in Providence, Rhode Island ✈
During my recent trip to Providence, Rhode Island, I stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites Providence Downtown. Located at 58 Weybosset Street, the hotel is in the heart of the city’s downtown area. This property is an excellent blend of history and modern convenience, offering easy access to several local landmarks, and shopping options.
Providence, Rhode Island is one of the oldest cities in the United States. The city is home to institutions like Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), fostering a dynamic atmosphere of innovation and creativity. Providence also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including renowned museums and theaters, making it a charming destination.
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“If you’re planning a trip to Providence and want a centrally located hotel with comfortable accommodations and a touch of historical character, the Hampton Inn & Suites is a great choice.”
Location and Historical Features
The Hampton Inn & Suites is housed in a historic building, and the hotel pays homage to its roots in subtle ways. For instance, there’s an old letterbox in the hallway, still functional, which is a delightful touch. As I walked around the lobby, I also noticed plaques near the elevators marking the water levels reached during the devastating hurricanes of 1938 and 1954. These plaques serve as a sobering reminder of the city’s resilience and history.
The location of the hotel is unbeatable. It’s directly across the street from the Arcade, America’s oldest indoor shopping mall. This made it convenient for me to explore the unique shops and eateries inside the Arcade without venturing far from my accommodations. The hotel’s central location also means you’re within walking distance of popular attractions like the Rhode Island State House and Waterplace Park.
Amenities
The Hampton Inn & Suites offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable. The buffet breakfast, included with the room, was a solid way to start each day. The spread included a variety of options, from eggs to fresh fruit, yogurt, and pastries. There was also a waffle station, which seemed to be a favorite among families staying at the hotel.
The gym was small but well-equipped, featuring treadmills, ellipticals, free weights, and other basic workout equipment. It was clean and quiet during my visit, making it a convenient option for maintaining my fitness routine.
Valet parking was another service I utilized during my stay. The process was smooth, and the staff was quick and efficient, which made coming and going hassle-free. While valet parking came at an additional cost, it was worth it for the convenience, especially in a busy downtown area where parking can be challenging.
The Suite
I stayed in a one-bedroom suite, and it was impressively spacious. Upon entering, I found myself in a large living room furnished with a sofa bed, a comfortable chair, a work desk, and a flat-screen TV. The sofa bed is a great option for families or groups needing extra sleeping arrangements. The living area had plenty of natural light thanks to large windows that offered views of the downtown streets.
From the living room of my suite, I had a great view of the "Superman Building," located just a few blocks away. This iconic building, officially known as the Industrial National Bank Building, has earned its nickname due to its striking resemblance to the fictional building where Clark Kent worked as a reporter in the Superman comics. The building's Art Deco design, with its prominent shape and towering presence, has made it a standout feature in Providence's skyline and a favorite landmark for both locals and visitors alike.
The bedroom was equally spacious, featuring a king-sized bed with crisp white linens and plush pillows. The bed was incredibly comfortable, providing a great night’s sleep after long days of exploring the city. There was also ample storage space, including a large closet and dresser, making it easy to unpack and settle in.
The bathroom was modern and clean, with a shower that had impressively strong water pressure. It also included a hairdryer, which was a convenient addition. The suite came equipped with a mini refrigerator, perfect for storing snacks or beverages, a microwave and a coffee maker.
The Hampton Inn & Suites Providence Downtown also has a few notable features that enhance its appeal:
Business Center and Meeting Rooms: For business travelers, the hotel provides a 24-hour business center and meeting rooms. These spaces are equipped with essential facilities for small conferences, presentations, or work sessions, making it a practical option for those traveling for work.
Complimentary Wi-Fi: Throughout the property, including guest rooms and common areas, there is complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. This ensures you stay connected, whether for work or leisure.
Pet-Friendly Options: The hotel allows pets for an additional fee, which can be a bonus for travelers who want to bring along their furry companions.
Historic Building Details: Beyond the functional letterbox and hurricane plaques, the building’s architecture itself reflects its historic nature. High ceilings, large windows, and preserved elements in the lobby and corridors give the property a unique character compared to newer hotels.
Accessibility Features: The hotel caters to guests with mobility challenges by offering accessible rooms, elevators, and facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.
Exploring Providence
During my stay at the hotel, I had the opportunity to explore Providence, visiting the following locations:
• Walking the Riverwalk: The Riverwalk provided a peaceful and scenic way to experience the city. I enjoyed the views of the river and the charming pathways connecting various parts of downtown.
• Memorial Park: I spent time exploring the memorials at Memorial Park, reflecting on the significance of the tributes to veterans and historical events. It’s a serene spot for quiet contemplation.
• Visiting the Arcade: Just across the street from the hotel, the Arcade is a must-see. It’s the oldest indoor shopping mall in America, and its unique shops and eateries make it a delightful stop.
• The Rhode Island State House: The State House impressed me with its grand architecture and historical exhibits. The massive dome is a highlight, and the interior showcases the state’s rich history.
• The Atheneum: Visiting the Atheneum was a treat for a book lover like me. This historic library, with its collection of rare books and quiet atmosphere, was both fascinating and inspiring.
• The Lippitt House Museum: Taking a tour of the Lippitt House Museum allowed me to step back in time to the Victorian era. The museum’s detailed exhibits and preserved interiors provided an insightful look at Providence’s history.
• Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Bridge: This stunning pedestrian bridge is a new addition to Providence's landscape. It replaced the old I-Way Bridge, which had been a major highway overpass for vehicles but was not pedestrian-friendly. The new bridge offers a safer and more accessible route for walkers and cyclists, connecting the east and west sides of the city. It's named in honor of Michael S. Van Leesten, a community leader and advocate for the city's development.
Staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites Providence Downtown was a pleasant experience. The hotel’s blend of historical charm, convenient location, and modern amenities made it a comfortable and practical choice for my visit to Providence. The proximity to the Arcade and other downtown attractions added to the convenience, as did the valet parking service.
If you’re planning a trip to Providence and want a centrally located hotel with comfortable accommodations and a touch of historical character, the Hampton Inn & Suites is a great choice. It caters well to both business and leisure travelers and provides a dependable experience that you can count on from the Hampton brand.
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