Car-Free in East Providence: Navigating Rhode Island's Waterfront City by Bike & Ferry

East Providence sits at the convergence of the Providence and Seekonk Rivers, making it uniquely positioned for water-based transportation. Before arriving, I mapped out my weekend using the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) app and the seasonal ferry schedule.

The city's relatively compact waterfront district means most attractions fall within a 3-mile radius—perfect for cycling exploration. I opted to bring my own folding bike, but visitors can easily utilize the regional bike share program, which has several docking stations throughout East Providence and neighboring Providence.

For accommodation, I chose the historic Wannamoisett House B&B, a mid-19th century home within walking distance of both the ferry terminal and the East Bay Bike Path. At $105/night including breakfast, it offered both character and convenience without breaking my budget. If you're bringing your own bike, consider packing a lightweight bike lock that provides peace of mind when exploring the city's cafes and museums.

The crown jewel of car-free travel in East Providence is undoubtedly the East Bay Bike Path. This 14.5-mile rail trail connects Providence to Bristol, with East Providence serving as the first major section. The path hugs the eastern shore of Narragansett Bay, offering continuous water views that shift between industrial heritage and natural beauty.

I spent my first morning cycling south from Watchemoket Square, where the path transitions from urban streetscape to dedicated trail. The section through India Point Park provides spectacular views of the Providence skyline across the water—a photographer's dream during golden hour.

Further south, Squantum Woods offers a shaded respite with access to small beaches perfect for a midday break. I found the collapsible water bottle invaluable for staying hydrated without taking up precious space in my daypack.

What struck me most was how the bike path serves as both transportation infrastructure and public space. Unlike the sterile retail environments I once designed in California, this linear park creates authentic community connections—I witnessed impromptu picnics, fishing expeditions, and watercolor painters all sharing the same space.

While bikes offer freedom on land, it's the seasonal ferry service that truly unlocks East Providence's connection to the wider Narragansett Bay. The Providence-Newport Ferry (with stops in East Providence during summer weekends) transformed my understanding of the region's geography and history.

The ferry terminal at Bold Point Park serves as the main departure point, with covered waiting areas and bike racks. I arrived early to secure a spot for my folding bike, though the ferry accommodates standard bicycles as well. The $11 one-way fare to Newport feels remarkably reasonable for the experience offered.

The 60-minute journey provides a water-level view of landmarks like the Crook Point Bascule Bridge and Conimicut Point Lighthouse that simply can't be appreciated from land. I found myself sketching architectural details in my waterproof notebook, inspired by how these structures dialogue with their natural surroundings.

For those sensitive to motion, I'd recommend a travel pillow to make the journey more comfortable, especially on windier days when the bay gets choppy. The pillow's memory foam conforms perfectly to your neck, providing support while you enjoy the scenic journey.

No car-free exploration of East Providence would be complete without dedicating time to Crescent Park, home to the historic Looff Carousel. This waterfront green space represents what I find most compelling about American urban design—the preservation of recreational spaces along valuable waterfront property.

I cycled here on my second day, following the East Bay Bike Path to where it intersects with the park. The 1895 carousel building—a National Historic Landmark—stands as a testament to the area's past as a thriving amusement park. The detailed craftsmanship of the hand-carved horses reflects an era when public spaces were designed for both beauty and function.

The park offers expansive lawn areas perfect for spreading out a pocket blanket, which packs down to the size of a smartphone but unfolds to seat 2-4 people comfortably. I spent a peaceful afternoon here watching sailboats navigate the bay while sketching the carousel's architectural details.

What struck me most was how this public space serves multiple communities simultaneously—families enjoying the carousel, fishing enthusiasts along the shore, and cyclists passing through on longer journeys. This multi-use approach to public space design reflects the best principles of accessibility that I strive for in my own design work.

While bikes and ferries form the backbone of car-free travel in East Providence, the RIPTA bus system effectively fills the gaps. Routes 32, 33, and 34 connect the waterfront areas to the more residential northern neighborhoods, operating with surprising frequency (every 20-30 minutes) during weekdays.

I utilized the bus system to reach the evolving Riverside Square district, where former industrial buildings now house studios, galleries, and craft breweries. The architecture here tells the story of Rhode Island's manufacturing past while its current uses point toward a creative future.

For exploring the urban core on foot, I found my trail running shoes provided the perfect balance of comfort and durability on mixed surfaces. Unlike the pristine retail environments I once designed, East Providence's sidewalks and streets have character—sometimes meaning uneven bricks and cobblestones in historic areas.

The most rewarding walking route connects Watchemoket Square to the Heritage Park waterfront via Veterans Memorial Parkway. This tree-lined boulevard was designed in the early 20th century as a scenic drive, but it's equally impressive experienced at walking pace, with its arching trees creating a natural cathedral effect that changes with the seasons.