About This Tour
Join us for this elegant stroll through time! Allow our historically costumed, local guides to lead you down the most beautifully preserved street in all of Providence, RI- Benefit Street! Guests will learn the history of some of Providence's most prominent residents and families, including the Dorr family, Roger Williams, and the Hoppin family. See architectural icons including the John Brown House, the First Baptist Church, the Fleur de Lys Building, and the original State House. Learn about the events that shaped our state and nation, including the suffrage movements (yes, there were two!) and the Civil War. This tour will leave you feeling more connected to the city's past and with a greater appreciation for Providence. Benefit Street is a mostly flat street and is suitable for people of most levels of health and fitness.
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Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour
This 1.5-hour walking tour explores local history, focusing on specific time periods and local stories. It's well-suited for individuals or couples interested in a deeper understanding of a place's past, with a focus on historical context rather than entertainment.
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What's Included
Additional Information
Meeting Point
Please meet your guide to the right of the Barker Playhouse, at the gates of the Tillinghast cemetery.
Special Instructions
Meet your guide on Benefit Street, at the Tillinghast Cemetery gates located to the right of the Barker Playhouse (400 Benefit St Providence, RI). We recommend arriving ten minutes in advance of your scheduled tour, to allow time in the event of traffic or difficulty finding parking. Parking is on-street parking. Please note, it can be challenging to find parking. We recommend parking on Benefit Street, Transit Street, or Arnold Street. Please follow all parking regulations and be mindful of any signs prohibiting parking. Please use the bathroom prior to your arrival. There are no bathrooms on the tour. Benefit Street is a beautiful street. We will walk outdoors for the duration of the tour. Please dress in weather-appropriate clothing and bring with you any items necessary for your comfort, including water, a snack, sunscreen, or cold-weather gear. Please wear comfortable, stable shoes. Benefit Street is predominantly flat, but the sidewalk includes brick, cobblestones, and at times broken surfaces.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
Providence Ghost Tour
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Trusted local operator
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Parasols and Pocket Watches: A History Tour
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by Providence Ghost Tour, a local sightseeing provider.
What's included?
This tour includes A Historically Costumed Guide. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long is this tour?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for a full refund. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. All necessary equipment is provided.
Will I receive instant confirmation?
Yes, you'll receive instant confirmation when you book.
What to expect on this tour?
This sightseeing experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to A Historically Costumed Guide.
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