The visitor center at Roger Williams National Memorial is open from 10 AM to 4 PM, Wednesday through Saturday, from May to November, and Thursday through Saturday during the rest of the year.
There is no entrance fee to visit Roger Williams National Memorial. Admission is free.
From Providence, take Interstate 95 South to Exit 38 – Charles Street, then left onto Ashburton Street, continuing through three lights to arrive at this historic enclave, a testament to the founder of Rhode Island and the ideals of liberty and freedom.
Free 2-hour parking in a lot off North Main Street, no overnight parking, no RVs or large vehicles, motorcycles allowed. No parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
Roger Williams National Memorial, situated in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, is a poignant tribute to the state’s founder and a champion of religious freedom. This landscaped urban park, spanning 4.5 acres, is a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. The memorial honors Roger Williams, who in 1636, established Providence as a refuge where individuals could worship freely, a principle that would later influence the nation’s founding documents.
The park’s design features winding paths, open lawns, and groves of trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The 1736 Antram-Gray House serves as the visitor center, offering insights into Williams’ life through exhibits, videos, and a bookstore. A focal point is the site commemorating the freshwater spring discovered by Williams, now enshrined within the Hahn Memorial.
Throughout the year, the memorial hosts various events, including Junior Ranger programs, festivals, and cultural activities. Summer brings vibrant festivals and outdoor concerts, while fall is marked by the changing hues of the trees. Local artisans and nearby towns add to the park’s allure, offering handmade crafts and gourmet delights.
For those seeking a deeper connection, ranger-led tours and historical walks are available. The memorial’s proximity to other Providence parks, such as Burnside Park and India Point Park, makes it an integral part of a larger urban green space. As a place where history meets natural beauty, Roger Williams National Memorial is an indispensable destination for those who appreciate the intersection of landscape, culture, and historical significance.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 51 523
- Established year
- 1965
Top 3 Facts about Roger Williams National Memorial
The memorial is located at the site of a freshwater spring discovered in 1636, which was central to the founding of Providence Plantations, and is now part of a 4.5-acre urban greenspace at the foot of College Hill in downtown Providence.
This historic site, honored for its founding father of religious freedom, is a serene oasis. Here, you can spot a variety of birds, including herons and egrets, and observe ray-finned fishes and amphibians in the tranquil waters. The surrounding landscape is dotted with diverse flora, creating a natural haven that contrasts beautifully with its urban setting. Visit to experience the rich biodiversity and historical significance that make this place a unique urban retreat.
This urban greenspace, spanning 4.58 acres, is marked by a freshwater spring that Roger Williams was drawn to in 1636. The spring, now a symbolic wellspring of religious freedom, is surrounded by winding paths, open lawns, and groves of trees, creating a serene oasis in the heart of the city.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during warmer months for interpretive programs and festivals. Plan a few hours to explore the 4.5-acre urban park with paved paths and historic sites. Park at the free 2-hour lot and start at the visitor center. Bring water and snacks, as options are limited. Enjoy the Junior Ranger programs or cultural events in spring and summer.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a waterproof jacket. Bring a daypack with essentials like a first-aid kit, headlamp, and refillable water bottle. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and multi-tool. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
When exploring this urban oasis, respect local flora and fauna by staying on designated paths, avoiding litter, and not disturbing wildlife. Be mindful of seasonal blooms and weather conditions to minimize your impact. Leave the area as you found it, or even better, to preserve its unique urban natural beauty.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water edges, and check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call park authorities at 911 or the park’s emergency number. Be cautious of seasonal temperature and terrain changes.Follow signs and advisories to ensure safety.
Seasons
Visit in spring as temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, with mild weather and blooming greens. Catch the Spring Park Clean Up event, a perfect time to immerse in history and nature.
Explore this 4-acre oasis from dawn to dusk during summer’s warm months (May to September, 70s-80s°F). Enjoy picnics, informational panels, and serene landscapes. Catch the Planetarium Show at the nearby Museum of Natural History on Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 PM. Ideal for a peaceful, educational summer outing.
Visit in fall, when crisp 50-60°F temperatures and vibrant foliage enhance the historic landscape. Enjoy Junior Ranger programs, festivals, and the Hello Fall Weekend celebration in late September, featuring local vendors and community events. Ideal for a serene autumn afternoon.
Visit in winter, from December to February, when temperatures range from 20°F to 40°F. Crisp air and serene landscapes offer a tranquil experience, though visitor center hours are limited. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful, less crowded excursion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Roger Williams National Memorial has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the memorial is Providence, Rhode Island, where Roger Williams founded the settlement in 1636. The memorial is located at 282 North Main Street in Providence.
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Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6 feet are not allowed.
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Parking is free for up to 2 hours. There is no mention of specific restrictions for camper vans, motorhomes, or other types of vehicles.
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At the memorial, you can see the site where Roger Williams founded the settlement of Providence in 1636 after being expelled from the Massachusetts Bay Colony for advocating religious freedom. The site features the 1736 Antram-Gray House as the Visitor Center, educational exhibits, and self-guided walking tours that highlight Williams’s contributions to religious freedom and his interactions with the Narragansett tribe. You can also learn about how Williams’s ideals influenced the Founding Fathers and the creation of the Rhode Island Charter of 1663.