Your Best Summer Experience Isn’t By Car, It’s on a Gondola in Rhode Island

Summer in the Ocean State is the best time of the year. While we can certainly take a road trip to one of our incredible beaches, that's not the only summer experience we can have. Growing up in Rhode Island, I often loved spending time at Waterplace Park, where I could take a walk along the Woonasquatucket River while taking in the water and city views. Providence has always been a special place for me, and one of the best experiences you can have this summer in Rhode Island is on a gondola ride in the city.

I remember when WaterFire Providence started at Waterplace Park back in 1994. This floating art exhibition of braziers set in the water are filled with wood and set ablaze creating a mesmerizing show at night. This water and fire art show draws thousands of people from around the state and parts of New England each year, and it has grown tremendously throughout the years. Gondola rides eventually became a big part of the event.

Known as "The Renaissance City" due to the city's revitalization in the 1990s, there has been quite a bit of Italian influence in Providence over the years. So, it's quite fitting that Venetian-style gondola rides are offered. Any time I come to Providence and see gondolas floating down the river with passengers on board, I am reminded of the gondola ride I took in Venice, Italy, years ago. To this day, that was one of my favorite travel memories, and I love knowing I can have a similar experience in Providence. While I have yet to take a gondola ride in Providence, my sister has and shared that it was a wonderful experience.

Gondola rides are offered through La Gondola, owned by Matthew Haynes, who is known as "Marcello" when working as a gondolier. Exploring Providence's downtown on a Venetian gondola will be your new favorite thing to do here! Due to its popularity, reservations are strongly recommended, although walk-ups are possible if a gondolier is available.

Your summertime gondola experience will begin at the Gondola Landing at One Citizens Plaza in downtown Providence. Since certain map apps may lead you astray, follow the detailed directions on the La Gondola website.

Your ride with La Gondola is 40 minutes long unless you book one during a WaterFire event, in which case the ride is 30 minutes. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion like an anniversary or engagement, planning a romantic date, or wanting a fun, family-friendly adventure, a gondola ride is one of the best ways to explore the city of Providence. So, sit back, relax, and listen to the songs sung by your gondolier. You'll never forget it!

To view trip experiences and book your gondola ride, visit the La Gondola website. For this year's WaterFire event schedule, head to the official website of WaterFire Providence.

Have you experienced a gondola ride during summer in Rhode Island? Believe me, it may be one of the best summer memories you can have this year!