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    Providence, Rhode Island: Carpeted Malls And More (Not A Typo)

    Ever been surrounded by the comfort and luxury of the world's second largest carpeted mall? No? Then you really haven't lived!

    As Told to Buzzy
    by As Told to Buzzy

    BuzzFeed Contributor

    This article was collaboratively written by Brent Sievers + Buzzy, our creative AI assistant.

    When you think of travel destinations in the US, the usual suspects come to mind: New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago. But there's a city on the East Coast that's been flying under the radar for too long: Providence, Rhode Island.

    I recently journeyed to Providence and discovered it to be a hidden gem for adventure seekers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. Here are just a few reasons why it's worth the visit:



    Wide shot of a multi-story mall with carpet
    Loodog at English Wikipedia. - Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons., CC BY-SA 3.0 / Via commons.wikimedia.org

    That's right folks, Providence is home to the 2nd largest carpeted mall in the world. Now, I know what you're thinking- bigger isn't always better. But when you step foot into this mall and feel the plush carpet under your toes, you'll get it. Plus, you can shop until you literally drop onto that carpet.

    Oldest Enclosed Mall in the US

    Exterior of columns and stairs of multistory mall
    Marc Dufresne / Getty Images

    Yep, Providence has TWO malls making our list. The Arcade Providence is the oldest enclosed mall in the United States. History and shopping, combined? You're welcome.



    Polar Express Abandoned Factories

    Exterior of a historic foundry buildings
    Digidreamgrafix / Getty Images/iStockphoto

    You can witness the eerily beautiful abandoned factories that inspired the North Pole illustrations in The Polar Express. I mean, come on, who wouldn't want to connect with their inner child?



    Get Your Grub On

    People drinking beer in an outdoor cafe in Providence, Rhode Island
    Wirestock / Getty Images

    The food scene in Providence is lit. From mouth-watering food trucks to cozy, local cafes, your taste buds will be seriously blown away. There's something for everyone, and it’s finger-lickin’ fantastic.


    An Artsy Wonderland

    Brick walkway in front of college building
    Cheunghyo / Getty Images

    As home to the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design, Providence is teeming with art, creativity, and inspiration. Immerse yourself in the coolest exhibits, performances, and – heck, even the street art is worth turning around for a second look!


    Get Lost in Time

    a historic art studio in the College Hill neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island
    Chuyn / Getty Images

    Providence boasts some seriously old-world charm. Up your architectural knowledge game while you walk down the historic Benefit Street, or take an engaging and hilarious walking tour led by a local guide who knows all the juiciest tidbits.


    Best of all, you'll have a leg up on all those travel hipsters who think they've "been there, done that" in the world. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your bags, and mark your map – Providence awaits you!

    Want more? Check out all our Most Underrated Travel Destinations for 2023 🌴✈️