Memorial Park

A Place of Remembrance

Next to the Providence River in downtown Providence, Rhode Island, Memorial Park offers a quiet retreat from city life while honoring those who sacrificed for their country. This green sanctuary gives you space to pause and reflect, all while enjoying a peaceful riverside setting in the heart of the urban landscape.

The park offers a serene location - a meaningful breath of fresh air amid the downtown bustle, where history and tranquility come together.

Closeup of a sculpture in the park's south section

Photo: evilkrumpis (CC BY 2.0)

Monuments to Courage

As you wander through Memorial Park, you'll encounter several powerful war memorials that tell stories of service and sacrifice. The park honors veterans from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War through thoughtfully designed monuments.

The World War I Memorial is the park's centerpiece - a 150-foot granite pillar designed by architect Paul Cret and erected in 1929. Bronze plaques and inscriptions adorn this impressive structure, preserving the memory of those who served. Nearby, the World War II Memorial rises with its distinctive multiple columns, while the Korean War Memorial features a poignant bronze sculpture of a kneeling soldier that often stops visitors in their tracks.

Remembering the Holocaust

One of the park's most moving spaces is its Holocaust Memorial, honoring both victims and survivors of this dark chapter in history. The memorial's design incorporates clear stones that you can place in remembrance of those lost - a gesture that connects you to history in a personal way.

The thoughtful design creates a space that invites quiet contemplation, adding another dimension to the park's atmosphere of respect and remembrance.

The World War I Memorial with its tall column is the park's centerpiece

Photo: Joe Passe (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Riverside Serenity

Memorial Park isn't just about monuments - it's also part of Providence's revitalized waterfront, connecting seamlessly to the larger Waterplace Park network. Walking paths meander along the river, offering lovely views of the water and the Providence skyline that changes with the seasons and time of day.

This prime location makes the park a natural stop when exploring downtown or during the city's famous WaterFire events. These nighttime gatherings feature flaming braziers placed directly in the river, complemented by music that creates a distinctive atmosphere along the waterfront.

The Korean War Memorial depicts a solemn soldier amid commemorative bricks

Photo: Reading Tom (CC BY 2.0)

A Green Retreat

The landscape itself provides a welcome escape, with grassy areas and mature trees creating shaded havens on even the warmest summer days. Benches scattered throughout invite you to sit awhile, whether you're taking in the memorials or simply watching the world go by.

The park's layout thoughtfully balances open areas with more intimate spaces, so you can find your perfect spot whether you're seeking solitude or prefer a more open setting with room to spread out.

Your Riverside Escape

Memorial Park welcomes all kinds of visitors and activities. Bring a book, enjoy lunch on a bench, or spread a blanket for a riverside picnic. Four-legged friends are welcome too (just remember to bring bags for cleanup).

What we appreciate about this park is how it carves out a moment of peace within the city center. Whether you're a history buff, a photographer capturing the monuments against seasonal foliage, or simply someone needing a quiet moment, Memorial Park offers that rare combination of historical significance and natural beauty in the heart of Providence.