Things to Do at Brown University

Complete Guide to Brown University in Providence

About Brown University

Brown University, founded in 1764, stands as one of America's most prestigious Ivy League institutions in the heart of Providence, Rhode Island. The campus easyly blends historic colonial architecture with modern academic facilities across College Hill, creating a picturesque setting that has educated notable alumni including John F. Kennedy Jr., Emma Watson, and Anderson Cooper. The university's distinctive red brick buildings and tree-lined walkways make it one of the most beautiful college campuses in New England. As the seventh-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, Brown University offers visitors a chance to explore centuries of American academic history while experiencing the busy energy of a contemporary research university. The campus features impressive examples of Georgian, Victorian, and modern architecture, along with world-class museums, libraries, and cultural venues that are open to the public. The university's location on College Hill provides commanding views of downtown Providence and creates an intimate college town atmosphere within a major city.

What to See & Do

Van Wickle Gates

The iconic wrought-iron gates that serve as the ceremonial entrance to campus, traditionally opened only twice per year for freshman arrival and graduation

The Main Green

A historic 22-acre quadrangle surrounded by beautiful brick buildings, perfect for strolling and taking in the classic New England campus atmosphere

Carrie Tower

A 95-foot Gothic Revival bell tower built in 1904 that offers panoramic views of Providence and houses a carillon with regular concerts

John Hay Library

The university's former main library featuring rare books, manuscripts, and special collections including the famous Lownes Collection of sheet music

David Winton Bell Gallery

A contemporary art gallery showcasing rotating exhibitions of student, faculty, and visiting artist works in a beautifully designed space

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Campus grounds are accessible 24/7, but individual buildings have varying hours. Guided tours typically run Monday-Friday at 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, and 3pm, with weekend tours at 10am, 11am, and 1pm

Tickets & Pricing

Campus visits and self-guided tours are free. Official admissions tours are complimentary but advance registration is recommended through the Brown University website

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the best weather and campus atmosphere. Fall foliage season (mid-October) is particularly spectacular

Suggested Duration

Allow 2-3 hours for a complete campus visit, or 1-1.5 hours for the official guided tour

Getting There

Brown University is located on College Hill in Providence, easily accessible by various transportation methods. From T.F. Green Airport, take a taxi or rideshare (20 minutes) or the RIPTA bus Route 20 to downtown Providence, then transfer to local buses. Amtrak serves Providence Station with direct trains from United States (1 hour) and United States (3.5 hours). From the train station, take RIPTA bus Route 92 or a short taxi ride to campus. If driving, take I-95 to Exit 22A (Downtown Providence), then follow signs to College Hill. Street parking is limited, but visitor parking is available in university lots with permits from the Visitor Center.

Things to Do Nearby

this destination
Providence's authentic Italian-American neighborhood featuring excellent restaurants, specialty food shops, and the famous atwells Avenue
this destination
The Rhode Island School of Design Museum houses an impressive collection of art from ancient to contemporary, just a short walk from Brown's campus
Benefit Street Mile of History
A tree-lined street featuring the largest concentration of colonial and Victorian architecture in America, including historic houses and museums
this destination
An award-winning fire sculpture installation on the downtown rivers, creating a magical atmosphere during scheduled lighting events
Providence Athenaeum
One of America's oldest libraries where Edgar Allan Poe courted his future wife, featuring beautiful architecture and rare book collections

Tips & Advice

Visit during the academic year (September-May) to experience the full campus energy and student life atmosphere
Download the Brown University Mobile app for self-guided tour maps and detailed building information
Check the campus events calendar for public lectures, concerts, and exhibitions that visitors can attend
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the campus is built on a hill with many stairs and steep paths

Tours & Activities at Brown University