Car Rental in Providence

Providence is Rhode Island's capital and home to Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design, with 5 car rental agencies in the city center. The city combines historic architecture along College Hill with a thriving restaurant and art scene. Providence is located 75 km south of Boston and 300 km northeast of New York City.

WaterFire Providence, the iconic art installation event along Providence River, takes place on select evenings May–November. Federal Hill, known as 'Little Italy', is 1 km west of the center with exceptional restaurants. T.F.

Green Airport (PVD) in Warwick is located 20 km to the south, approximately 25 minutes via I-95 S. Providence city center has limited and expensive parking – pick up your car from the rental agency and park at one of the more affordable garages along Eddy Street. Plan a day trip to Newport (40 km to the south) and the Block Island ferry at Point Judith (45 km to the south) with your rental car.

Avoid I-95 during rush hour – instead, take Route 1 along the coast for a more scenic drive. How far is it from Providence to Newport? It is approximately 40 km to the south via RI-138 E and takes about 45 minutes.

Where can I find the car rental agencies in Providence city center? The 5 rental agencies are scattered throughout the center, several along Eddy Street and near Amtrak's Providence Station. Is it worth renting a car if I'm only staying in Providence city center?

Providence city center is walkable, but a rental car is necessary to explore Newport, South County beaches, and the rest of Rhode Island.

We compare prices from all major providers at Providence Center so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.