Providence to Hartford train

Though some might say that it is overshadowed by nearby Boston, Providence is an interesting destination on its own. A quaint college town with a deep historical value, Providence allows fans of U.S. history to marvel at historic buildings such as the ones on Benefit Street, which boasts the highest concentration of Colonial houses. As you stroll around the streets of Providence at night, don’t forget to take a detour to WaterFire, a sculpture project that features bonfires along the rivers of Providence. Accompanying the bonfires are the sounds of ceremonial gongs and various music programs, which brighten up the night. For those seeking a unique cultural experience, the Federal Hill quarter sits among the most famous Little Italian neighborhoods, and it features some of the best Italian restaurants in town.

The staple dish of Providence is oysters, which are not difficult to find in the city. However, if you can endure a short drive, Matunuck Oyster Bar, an oyster restaurant located 40 miles south of South Kingstown, provides some of the freshest and most delicious oysters around. Some other notable establishments include Birch, Oberlin, and Tallulah’s Taqueria.

The Providence airport is located in nearby Warwick which is only a 6 miles’ drive from the city. The main bus hub for Providence is found at the Rhode Island Convention Center Parking Garage, where travelers could catch a bus from Greyhound or Peter Pan Bus Lines. The main Amtrak train station is located just a 10-minute walk across the Woonasquatucket River.

Hartford is the capital of Connecticut, and a New England destination with literary attractions, charming parks, and engaging activities for families.

The homes of Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe, both in Hartford, have been turned into museums to learn more about these authors and their lives. If you prefer Edward Cullen to Tom Sawyer, you may appreciate that a more contemporary literary giant, Stephenie Meyer, was born in Hartford too.

The Elizabeth Park Conservancy is a spread of formal gardens and grounds where you can walk, picnic, and catch outdoor concerts or tours. Kids will love the antique carousel in Bushnell Park, as well as the hands-on exhibits at the Connecticut Science Center. For those who prefer to wander through cute downtowns, West Hartford offers some of the best shopping in the area.

With a large nearby airport, and many intercity bus and train services providing access to hubs like Boston and New York, getting to Hartford is about as easy as a walk in Bushnell Park.