As with many American cities, there is a strong emphasis on history and politics, with the State House, City Hall, John Brown House, an eighteenth-century mansion, drawing in hundreds of tourists. Brown University, another eighteenth-century building, also deserves a look, as one of the typical Ivy League universities. The city also affords a few excellent museums, including the Culinary Museum for food-lovers, the Museum of Art, and Children’s Museum, ideal for wearing out the kids with hands-on exhibitions. There are also several theatres; try the avant-garde Gamm Theatre, or the experimental Perishable Theatre. No trip would be complete without a visit to Lupo’s Heartbreak Hotel, an intimate and historic venue that has housed such big names as Bloc Party and Blonde Redheads.

Gay culture in Providence thrives thanks to a liberal and relatively young population. Miribar is an institution of Providence; a gay club that attracts a predominantly male crowd. A good spread of different events, such as western night, strip poker night, services industry night, techno night and karaoke, mean that there is something for everyone in this two-floored venue.  The Dark Lady, recent winner of the title Best Gay Bar by Rhode Island Magazine, is a very busy, mixed bar that offers drag, karaoke, retro music and go-go dancers.