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The Best Ways to Enjoy Spring Outdoors in Providence

There’s nothing like feeling the warm sun on your face after a long winter. As the seasons change and spring arrives, it’s the perfect time to step outside, stretch your legs, and soak up the fresh air. Spending time outdoors isn’t just a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature—it also comes with major health benefits! Whether you’re taking a stroll through the park, tending to a garden, or simply relaxing in the sunshine, getting outside can do wonders for your body and mind. 

Health benefits of being outdoors 

Research shows that even small amounts of walking can increase longevity, improve heart health, and help maintain mobility. Plus, soaking up natural sunlight gives your body a boost of vitamin D, which supports bone health and regulates sleep. Beyond the physical benefits, nature is a natural stress reliever. Studies have found that being outdoors can lower anxiety, improve focus, and even enhance memory. 

Spring is also the perfect time to connect with others while enjoying the great outdoors. A chat with a neighbor on a morning walk or a group outing to a local park can foster social connections, which are key to emotional well-being. At Charlesgate, we encourage our residents to take advantage of the warmer weather, whether through our seasonal walking club or simply spending time outside with friends. So go ahead—step outside, take a deep breath, and welcome spring with open arms! 

How to get outside in Providence, RI 

State and local parks 

Enjoy the fresh air in one of Providence’s many parks. Walk the trails, take a scenic bike ride, have a picnic, go kayaking, catch a show, or wander through beautiful botanical gardens. Providence has many choices for state parks, including: 

• Colt State Park 

• Lincoln Woods State Park 

• Goddard Memorial State Park 

• Rocky Point State Park 

• Blackstone River State Park 

Attend a festival or outdoor event 

There’s always something going on at Waterplace Park and Roger Williams Park. Starting late April, head to Roger Williams Park for Food Truck Fridays where they’ll have music, drinks, and lots of delicious food. WaterFire Providence, an art installation centered around nearly 100 bonfires on the river, usually runs May through November. Walk the Waterplace park, check out the installation via gondola, or have dinner on a terrace overlooking the spectacle. During summer, there are tons of festivals and holidays happening around the city. 

Explore outdoor public spaces 

Visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo to wander around and watch the animals. In rainy weather, the botanical gardens at the park offer an indoor space that feels like the great outdoors. Discover some new favorite plants or flowers at public gardens and parks across Providence. Try your hand at gardening at a community garden, or go fishing at the parks. Take a stroll on a self-guided historical walking tour to learn more about Providence. Enjoy a walk along the river walk and grab a bite to eat on an outdoor terrace. 

Spring is the season of renewal, and there’s no better time to embrace the great outdoors. Whether you explore a new park, attend a festival, or simply enjoy a sunny afternoon on the patio, fresh air and movement can boost your health and happiness. At Charlesgate, we make sure our residents have plenty of opportunities to do just that—because a little sunshine and fresh air go a long way!