Providence 2012Providence combines the accessibility and friendliness of a small town with the culture and sophistication of a big city. It’s got a thriving arts community, vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, a renowned restaurant scene and tons to do before or after Netroots Nation.

Click here for information about Providence, including dining options, attractions, weather and more. (And special thanks to our friends at the Providence CVB for this great resource!)

Rhode Island Convention Center
All Netroots Nation keynotes and breakout sessions will be held in the Rhode Island Convention Center (RICC), located in the heart of downtown Providence. The RICC is adjacent to the Westin Providence and just one block from the Providence Biltmore.

Getting there
Just an hour from Boston and three hours from New York City, Providence is is easy to get to and easy to navigate. It boasts a convenient airport, fast and reliable train service and a simple bus system. Warwick’s TF Green Airport is located just 10 minutes from downtown Providence and is serviced by most major airlines including Southwest, Continental, Delta, United and US Airways.

The Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) offers non-step rail service from the airport to downtown Providence. The MBTA also runs low-cost commuter trains to Providence from Boston and other points in Massachusetts. Visit www.MBTA.com for schedules and fares.

Providence is located on Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor between Washington DC/New York City and Boston. High-speed Acela Express train service transports passengers from New York City to Providence in about two and a half hours. For rates, schedules and passenger information, call 800-USA-RAIL or visit www.Amtrak.com.

Getting around
Providence is an extremely walkable city. You can also take advantage of the Rhode Island Public Transportation Authority (RIPTA) to travel within Providence and see more of Rhode Island.

You can access the city’s Downtown, Federal Hill and East Side neighborhoods through RIPTA’s Providence LINK Trolley. LINK trolleys run on compressed natural gas and offer two routes to many of Providence’s restaurants, theaters, historic sites, shopping and more. The cost is $2 per person, per ride or $6 for a one-day pass. For specific routes and more information, visit www.RIPTA.com.