by D. Raposa

Created on: September 01, 2009   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Traveling in Providence, Rhode Island without a vehicle? However will you get around town? Easily, that's how! Already a pedestrian-friendly city, Providence boasts one of the most comprehensive public transportation plans in the country. It works hard to get you where you want to go, when you want to get there, and for as little money as possible.

The bulk of Providence's public transport needs are managed by the paid-fare bus and trolley systems of the Rhode Island Public Transportation Authority (RIPTA,

http://ripta.com). Utilizing Kennedy Plaza in the Downtown area as its main departure hub, fares are relatively cheap (starting at $1.75, with various passes available), timetables are reasonable (with reduced Sunday and holiday schedules), and departures are consistently on-time. Add air-conditioning in the summer (it gets quite muggy) and heat in the winter ( it gets quite nippy), and riders have a comfortable, reliable ride that's easy on the pocketbook.

In-city service is provided by the trolley system (aka the LINK). These vehicles travel two routes around Downtown Providence exclusively, connecting with area attractions and unique, personality-driven neighborhoods (like Federal Hill, which welcomes visitors with a pineapple-embossed archway!). Trolleying is a fun and convenient way of experiencing the state capital - and it sure beats walking up the almost-vertical-that's-how-steep-the-hills-are College Hill landscape!

While also offering local service, the premier function of the RIPTA bus fleet is to connect Providence to virtually all other major areas of Rhode Island (including the boonies!). Connecting service through Providence is also made from the buses to T.F. Green Airport, Greyhound and Bonanza bus lines, and Amtrak's Acela and Northeast Express routes.

An open and realistic city, Providence understands that its citizens and visitors may want to see what's what beyond the city limits. A partnership with the neighboring state of Massachusetts facilitates easy access between the two states for work and play. Ride a bus to the state line, or head to the train station to board the Massachusetts commuter rail system (MBTA), which provides train service to/from Providence into Boston.

Whether you want to get out of the city and head for the shore, are coming into town from one of the outlying areas, or visiting from out-of-state, Providence is going to be your public transportation portal. As the capital of The Biggest Little State in the Nation, Providence can easily play with the big boys when it comes to providing great public transportation at a reasonable price.

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