Where will you find the Boston Babe today? She's at Federal Hill in Providence, RI.

Atwells Ave. is the gateway to Federal Hill.  You will begin your journey through "little Italy" by passing under the welcome arch.  The center of the arch is adorned with a pine cone or "la pigna" which is the traditional symbol of welcome & abundance in Italy.  This neighborhood is an indulgence for the senses.  Foodies will be delighted with the selection of restaurants and bakeries.  I highly recommend the decadent "All American Chocolate Cake" with a cold glass of milk at Pastiche Café .  Voyeurs will be mesmerized by the art galleries and the picturesque Piazza DePasquale, which features an ornate fountain, colorful umbrellas and cheery Petunias.  Night owls can enjoy live music at the piazza every Saturday. 

Another nifty area of Federal Hill is Broadway.   I discovered Broadway while driving to an exhibit this past spring. Broadway is for the historian who has a penchant for architecture.  ME!! This boulevard is studded with homes in the style of "Italiante", Second Empire, Queen Anne, and Victorian.  AND if that isn't enough, the Columbus Theater is definitely worth a peek.  Touted by Travel & Leisure as being "the city's reigning cool music venue", you will be awed by the lobby which is iconic of the gilded age of Newport, RI. Don't hesitate to go rogue and explore some of the side streets too.  Much to my amazement there was this carriage house that had the most beautiful façade embellished with circular windows.  I have never seen a design like it anywhere. 

Still into vinyl? Check out Analog Underground record store.  If want to spin records from the obscurest of artists, this is where you need to buy.  Don't expect to have an in depth conversation with the proprietor however, because when I asked if it was ok to snap some photos his response was half grunt/half mumble.  A grumble.....ha!  I'm wicked smaht. 

Whether it's restaurants, random street art, cute shops or a gnarly gothic church it's all here waiting to be discovered on Broadway.