What to Wear for a Winter Trip to Providence, Rhode Island

Got a winter trip planned to Providence, RI? Providence can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cold and dry, with temperatures averaging around 39°F (that's 4°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

First and foremost, you'll need to dress warmly, as the temperatures can drop below freezing. A coat, scarf, and hat are going to be essential. Layering is also key, so consider wearing a sweater or vest under your coat. Boots with some grip are a good choice of footwear, as they'll keep your feet warm and dry whatever the conditions.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Providence in winter—whether you're visiting the RISD Museum, taking a walk through WaterFire, exploring the Roger Williams Park Zoo, or visiting the Providence Athenaeum.

🔗 What should women wear in Providence, Rhode Island in winter?

Providence in winter is generally cold, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: heavy coat, cardigans, long-sleeved shirts, thermal baselayers, and jeans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Providence has to offer.

🔗 Heavy coat

You're definitely going to want to have a coat with you in Providence, for those icy cold snaps. When choosing a coat, look for one that is both waterproof and windproof. A hood is also a nice feature to have, as it will help protect your head and face from the elements. And make sure to pack your coat in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly if the weather takes a turn for the worse when you arrive.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Providence in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Providence, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Providence in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Providence trip despite the cold weather.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Providence, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

These would be perfect:

🔗 What should men wear in Providence, Rhode Island in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: hat and scarf, jeans, thermal baselayers, button-down shirts or polos, and walking boots. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Providence in comfort and style.

🔗 Hat and scarf

A trip to Providence in winter can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared for the chilly weather. A hat and scarf are essential accessories to keep you warm. A good hat will protect your head and ears from the cold, while a scarf can help to insulate your neck and trap heat. A statement beanie or colorful scarf will also really make your outfit pop.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Providence, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Thermal baselayers

As Providence in winter has a colder climate, you'll want to make sure you pack some thermal baselayers. Thermal baselayers are designed to keep you warm by trapping your body heat, and they can be worn under your regular clothes. They're especially useful for activities like skiing or hiking, where you're likely to work up a sweat. When choosing thermal baselayers, look for ones made of a moisture-wicking material like Merino wool. You'll also want to choose baselayers that fit snugly but not too tightly. With a little planning, thermal baselayers can help you enjoy your Providence trip despite the cold weather.

I found these which would all work great:

🔗 Button-down shirts or polos

Button-down shirts or polos are always a good idea to pack. They don't wrinkle easily and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They're also perfect for layering when the weather gets cooler at night. Pick ones that are comfortable and breathable, and ideally lightweight too. It's also a good idea to choose neutral colors like white, black, or blue as they can be easily teamed with other pieces in your wardrobe.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Walking boots

Walking boots are a must-have item for Providence, especially if your trip involves hiking or spending time outdoors. They provide support and stability on uneven terrain, and they also protect your feet from rocks, roots, and other hazards. When choosing walking boots, it's important to pick a pair that fits well and provides enough support for your ankles. It's also a good idea to get them ahead of time and break them in before you go on your trip, so you can avoid blisters when you're there.

Here are a few of my top picks:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Providence, Rhode Island will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Providence has to offer!