There’s nothing like New England in the autumn! While most people think of heading to Vermont or New Hampshire for all the Fall feels, our New England cities are wonderful (and less crowded) choices for enjoying the beautiful colors, crisp air and delicious treats! I lived in Providence, RI for a few years and it remains my favorite New England city… and it should definitely be on your list too! So I was so excited when the kind and talented owners of PVDBnBs invited me to come spend the night at one of their beautifully renovated properties right in the heart of downtown Providence.
Plotting my moves to beat my chess club champion husband!
Besides being in the extremely desirable East Side/College Hill neighborhood of Providence, close to all of the restaurants, bars, activities and historic Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design, the historic Colonial charm of the freshly renovated Queen’s Gambit flat is absolutely spectacular on the inside too! I am such a sucker for history, and I loved thinking of the generations that had lived in this flat and all of the historical touches: the windows, doors, hardwood floors all have been so lovingly preserved, but they added all of the modern conveniences. An amazing kitchen with full-size fridge, gas stove, dishwasher and Keurig (you could easily cook a full meal here with the top-of-the-line appliances), as well as super-fast wifi and plenty of places to sit and work or just chill with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. And the super chic and clever decor (the renovation was inspired by the television show The Queen’s Gambit, which is an awesome way to while away a few long winter days!) was so much fun and totally edgy and out-of-the-box.
There is a dedicated dining room and living room in this one-bedroom flat, with a smart TV and views out onto the charming terrace and rooftops of Providence. Elegant yet comfortable, we felt right at home here!
The bedroom features a marshmallow-soft king size bed as well as a darling and comfy daybed nestled in a corner, so you could easily sleep 3 people, and the flat is definitely spacious enough for everyone to move around comfortably. I loved waking up and looking out on the historic cobbled streets, and it’s quite quiet and peaceful, so if you’re in town for an academic conference or work and need peace and quiet at night, you will definitely get it.
The bathroom is a real showstopper here, not the least of which is the gorgeous emerald green! Having lived in many older flats up here in New England it’s been my experience that sometimes the bathroom renos leave something to be desired, but not at The Queen’s Gambit! Absolutely amazing in every way, huge and spacious, with top-of-the-line fixtures, beautiful tile and marble finishes and one of the most insane showers I’ve ever been in ha ha, with 3 showerhead options and room enough to have a party (not that I would want to ha ha but you could literally sleep in this shower – don’t do that though!). But I didn’t feel cramped at all and was able to relax and luxuriate after a chilly Fall day out and about in the city.
I loved the art deco theme of the bedroom, so much fun and sooo relaxing!
There’s a lot going on in Providence and lots of reasons to come to the city, but I would honestly suggest just coming for fun and making a weekend of it! So many dining options, The Queen’s Gambit is close to Wickenden and Thayer streets which are full of bars and restaurants (though don’t worry you’re far enough off the streets that you won’t hear any late-night noise), and because of RISD, Providence is filled with wonderful galleries, museums and independent film to be enjoyed as well. My favorite thing about Providence is the beautiful classical architecture and tree-lined streets, so be sure to plan plenty of time for walks to enjoy this quiet, charming city no matter what the season!
Be sure to follow @PVDBnBs on Instagram, and you can check out all 4 of their gorgeous and unique properties by clicking here. They are super fast and easy to book on airbnb, and I truly cannot recommend them enough! I know if you follow me you love the same type of classic New England history and architecture that I do, so think outside the box and make a point to book a weekend at one of these wonderful and accommodating suites in lovely Providence, Rhode Island today!
