Roger Williams Park

History and Design

Established in 1871, Roger Williams Park is a sprawling 435-acre public park located in Providence, Rhode Island. It serves as the city's largest public park and a beloved recreational space for residents and visitors alike.

The park was created on land bequeathed to the city by Betsey Williams, a descendant of Rhode Island's founder Roger Williams. The landscape was designed by Horace Cleveland, a prominent landscape architect of the 19th century.

Spring bulbs bloom beneath colorful trees in the Botanical Center

Photo: ian02054 (CC BY 2.0)

Natural Features

The park features a diverse landscape, including approximately 100 acres of lakes, rolling hills, and wooded areas. It is home to over 100 species of trees and shrubs, providing a lush green space within the urban environment.

The park's design follows the naturalistic style popular in the late 19th century, with curving paths and scenic drives that allow visitors to experience the varied terrain and vistas.

Vibrant yellow and purple pansies in bloom

Photo: Gary Brownell (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Key Attractions

Roger Williams Park houses several notable attractions within its grounds. The Roger Williams Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the nation, occupies 40 acres of the park.

The park also includes a Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, offering educational experiences for visitors of all ages. The Botanical Center, opened in 2007, provides a year-round tropical escape with its greenhouses and outdoor gardens.

Flowering trees frame the curved pond in spring

Photo: ian02054 (CC BY 2.0)

Historic Structures

Historical structures dot the landscape, including the Casino, a Colonial Revival-style building from 1896 that now serves as an event space, and the Temple to Music, a Greek-style bandstand constructed in 1924.

The park also features several gardens, including a Victorian Rose Garden and a Japanese Garden, which add to its horticultural appeal.

Ornate carousel horse at Carousel Village

Photo: ian02054 (CC BY 2.0)

Recreation Opportunities

Recreational opportunities abound in Roger Williams Park. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lakes, with swan boats and kayaks available for rent.

The park offers numerous walking and biking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The Carousel Village, complete with a historic carousel, provides entertainment for younger visitors.

Throughout the year, Roger Williams Park hosts various events and programs, from seasonal flower shows to outdoor concerts, making it a vibrant center of community activity in Providence.