Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour

Overview

Join us for this elegant stroll through time!

Allow our historically costumed, local guides to lead you down the most beautifully preserved street in all of Providence, RI- Benefit Street!

Guests will learn the history of some of Providence's most prominent residents and families, including the Dorr family, Roger Williams, and the Hoppin family. See architectural icons including the John Brown House, the First Baptist Church, the Fleur de Lys Building, and the original State House. Learn about the events that shaped our state and nation, including the suffrage movements (yes, there were two!) and the Civil War. This tour will leave you feeling more connected to the city's past and with a greater appreciation for Providence.

Benefit Street is a mostly flat street and is suitable for people of most levels of health and fitness.

City: Providence

Sat 19 Apr

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $30.00

Make a reservation

Sat 19 Apr

Starting at $30.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

A Historically Costumed Guide

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Flat terrain, suitable for most levels of health.

What To Expect

Benefit Street

We will stroll historic Benefit Street for the duration of the tour. Your guide will point out buildings of architectural, historical, and societal interest. The tour is outside and we will not enter any of the buildings. Your guide will point out any establishments that permit public entry and you are welcome to go back to see them more closely at your convenience.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (20)

cheryllynesch

Jul 2024

As a visitor to Providence, I was curious about the history of the city. Courtney made history come alive on the tour. She offered exclusive interesting facts that one would not find in a history book but rather it felt like you were reading an old diary from the 1800's, exposing some personal stories from this era, including secrets you would never know about Edgar Allan Poe for example. Courtney's passion for history and the preservation of Providence was evident during our time together.

Response from Host

Jul 2024

Thank you so much! The wealth of information available at the RI Historical Society and the Providence Preservation Society provide such a beautiful tapestry for these stories. History is not made of dates, it is made of people who lived, loved, had dreams, hopes, and fears just as we do today. Thank you for sharing my zest and for your kind review!

Mary M

Jun 2024

Very enjoyable stroll on Benefit Street. Our tour guide was dressed for the part. She was very knowledgeable and well informed. Not only about the buildings but the people too.

Response from Host

Jun 2024

Thank you for strolling with me! Every story leads to another. The history is so much more than dates and events. The lives involved, regardless of good, bad, or in between, are fascinating. Remembering our history helps us understand our present and guides our decisions for the future! I appreciate your kind review and am so glad you enjoyed your tour.

Passport737965

Jun 2024

Excellent historical tour. Interesting stories, well researched and delivered. I wanted it to last longer. I would definitely recommend.

Response from Host

Jun 2024

Thank you so much! There are so many stories to tell, it is hard for me to restrain myself and keep it close to 90 minutes, but I love knowing that you would have listened to more. The RI Historical Society and Providence Preservation Society provide such a wealth of information. They have made researching this tour such a pleasure. An epic treasure hunt that led me from one historical breadcrumb to the next! I appreciate your kind words and your support for a small, woman owned RI business.