Providence RI

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

#2. Providence RI

Why You Should Honeymoon Here: Rhode Island’s capital city is a charmer, with a dreamy WaterFire Festival that makes many summer nights (and some winter ones, too) feel magical. Fires crackle on the rivers that wind and converge through downtown, casting a glow prettier than any Instagram filter while opera music can be heard playing. The “Starry Night” exhibit where blue lanterns hang from trees is a popular engagement spot; but for honeymooners, go ahead and treat it like mistletoe. Rounding out the Providence experience is a phenomenal dining scene, plus art galleries and self-guided walking tours through the city’s eclectic mix of neighborhoods.

Go Here Instead Of: Italy. You’ll find authentic Italian food on Federal Hill, and gondoliers will serenade you with Italian love sonnets.

Average Nightly Hotel Price: $183

Where to Stay: The Dean Hotel is a hip hotel with a karaoke bar on property that takes inspiration from Japanese “karaoke boxes” and an intimate cocktail bar. Be sure to note that you’re there on your honeymoon as some rooms are outfitted with bunk beds. (Oh, and, psst … this hotel was a strip club in its past life).

What to Pack: Pack your cold-weather accessories if you’re coming in a cold month; February is the snowiest. Layers are great for spring and fall. You might want to avoid striped shirts in the summer or risk being mistaken for a gondolier.

Romantic Date Night Spot: If pizza is your love language, head to Figidini. Wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas are made in an open kitchen, and the restaurant sources ingredients locally and from Italy.

Can’t-Miss Experience: Take a ride on an authentic Venetian gondola in the heart of downtown. Book a trip with La Gondola, and you and your date will be treated to Italian love songs and wine biscuits. (You can bring a bottle of wine, as well.)

Sweet Spot: Pastiche is a cozy, Euro-style cafe where you can order cake by the slice.

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