Skip to main content
Check out our new 3D map!

Michael S Van Leesten Memorial Bridge

at James, Bridge St, Providence, RI 02903

partly cloudy (46°F)

Last Updated: 8:15am

The Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Bridge, located in Providence, Rhode Island, is a pedestrian bridge that spans the Providence River, connecting the east and west sides of the city. Originally built as part of the I-195 redevelopment project, the bridge was named in honor of Michael S. Van Leesten in recognition of his contributions to civil rights, economic development, and community leadership in Providence.

The bridge offers both functional and aesthetic value, providing a key pedestrian and cyclist connection between neighborhoods and serving as a public gathering space. The design of the bridge is modern, with sweeping curves and integrated lighting, making it a visually striking addition to the city’s waterfront. It plays a significant role in connecting various public spaces and has become a symbol of unity and progress in the city, reflecting Van Leesten's lifelong commitment to bridging divides within the community.

Events

View All Events

No events found.

#pvdpedestrianbridge

Follow on Instagram

Manchester street station
.
.
.
.
.
#Sony #longexposure #longexposure_shots #architecture #night #providence #rhodeisland #manchesterstreetpowerstation #michaelvanleestenpedestrianbridge

75 2
Open post by with ID 18191795524209336
Manchester street station . . . . . #Sony #longexposure #longexposure_shots #architecture #night #providence #rhodeisland #manchesterstreetpowerstation #michaelvanleestenpedestrianbridge

Senior portrait session with Olivia from earlier today at the new PVD Pedestrian Bridge! .
.
.
.
.
#seniorpictures #seniorportraits #providence #pvdpedestrianbridge #portraitphotography #canon #canon5dmarkiii

14 1
Open post by with ID 18119934184070776
Senior portrait session with Olivia from earlier today at the new PVD Pedestrian Bridge! . . . . . #seniorpictures #seniorportraits #providence #pvdpedestrianbridge #portraitphotography #canon #canon5dmarkiii

Thank you to everyone who participated in the inaugural Red Scarves Across the River World AIDS Day even hosted by hello_apri. The red scarves along the bridge honored those who we’ve lost since the beginning of the AIDS epidemic, recognized people living with HIV, and helped raise awareness about HIV. Thank you to all of those who volunteered, knit scarves, and stopped by. We greatly appreciate your generosity. Also, thank you to our partner plantcitypvd who made delicious red velvet cookies for the occasion. And finally, thank you to all of my colleagues at APRI who deliver critical services to people living with and at risk for HIV every day. #redscarvesacrosstheriver #worldaidsday #pvdpedestrianbridge #pvd #redscarfproject #plantcityprovidence

94 9
Open post by with ID 18133623634300079
Thank you to everyone who participated in the inaugural Red Scarves Across the River World AIDS Day even hosted by hello_apri. The red scarves along the bridge honored those who we’ve lost since the beginning of the AIDS epidemic, recognized people living with HIV, and helped raise awareness about HIV. Thank you to all of those who volunteered, knit scarves, and stopped by. We greatly appreciate your generosity. Also, thank you to our partner plantcitypvd who made delicious red velvet cookies for the occasion. And finally, thank you to all of my colleagues at APRI who deliver critical services to people living with and at risk for HIV every day. #redscarvesacrosstheriver #worldaidsday #pvdpedestrianbridge #pvd #redscarfproject #plantcityprovidence

🌻 PVD appreciation post 🌻
.
What a stunning sunset in providence tonight! Can you believe this is unfiltered!?
.
#russillorealestate #rhodeislandrealestate #rhodeislandrealtor #rhodeislandhome #rhodeisland #providence #providenceri #pvd #1000suns #michaelvanleestenpedestrianbridge #providencerhodeisland

419 11
Open post by with ID 17859077441133378
🌻 PVD appreciation post 🌻 . What a stunning sunset in providence tonight! Can you believe this is unfiltered!? . #russillorealestate #rhodeislandrealestate #rhodeislandrealtor #rhodeislandhome #rhodeisland #providence #providenceri #pvd #1000suns #michaelvanleestenpedestrianbridge #providencerhodeisland

#Eveninng #Sunset #photography #providence #rhodeisland #pvdpedestrianbridge

12 0
Open post by with ID 17886382690674263
#Eveninng #Sunset #photography #providence #rhodeisland #pvdpedestrianbridge

Absolutely honored to meet dawnducky08 tonight!!!!

#providence #pvdpedestrianbridge #petstagram

16 3
Open post by with ID 18047214337767018
Absolutely honored to meet dawnducky08 tonight!!!! #providence #pvdpedestrianbridge #petstagram

So fun watching my hubby yajnarom perform today! He joined theprovidencedrumtroupe in the park.
Local friends: if you want to see more, the Providence Drum Troupe performs Thursdays at 6:30 pm at the #michaelvanleestenpedestrianbridge in downtown Providence 🙏
.
.
.
.
.
#indianclubsofficial #indianclubs #positivevibrations #meditationinmotion #movementismedicine #hiyaj #collaboration

35 12
Open post by with ID 17964383812412638
So fun watching my hubby yajnarom perform today! He joined theprovidencedrumtroupe in the park. Local friends: if you want to see more, the Providence Drum Troupe performs Thursdays at 6:30 pm at the #michaelvanleestenpedestrianbridge in downtown Providence 🙏 . . . . . #indianclubsofficial #indianclubs #positivevibrations #meditationinmotion #movementismedicine #hiyaj #collaboration

Pedestrian Bridge, Providence RI
Expertly modeled by m_piedmonte and Eric D’Agostino •
•
•
•
•
#providence #rhodeisland #pvd #newengland #ri #brownuniversity #pawtucket #providencenightlife #providenceri #nightlife #usa #hookah #eastprovidence #footbridge #pvdpedestrianbridge #photography #exploremore #travel

77 2
Open post by with ID 17849665105851017
Pedestrian Bridge, Providence RI Expertly modeled by m_piedmonte and Eric D’Agostino • • • • • #providence #rhodeisland #pvd #newengland #ri #brownuniversity #pawtucket #providencenightlife #providenceri #nightlife #usa #hookah #eastprovidence #footbridge #pvdpedestrianbridge #photography #exploremore #travel

History

Taken in 1958 by Providence photographer Lawrence Tilley as part of the ongoing Historic American Buildings Survey, this photo documents the rare occasion of a parking lot becoming something better. Prior to becoming a parking lot, this area was filled with buildings, including the original location of Brown & Sharpe.

Historical context courtesy of @pvdnowandthen.

Map

Michael S Van Leesten Memorial Bridge is owned and managed by the City of Providence.

Del’s Lemonade

Del’s Lemonade

<p>Del’s Lemonade is a classic Rhode Island sweet treat known for its signature frozen lemonade, offering seasonal flavors like original lemon and watermelon, plus make-at-home mixes. This long-standing local favorite also caters events with mobile service, bringing its refreshing, slushy-style beverages to gatherings across the area. Visit the website to explore flavors, shop mixes and merch, or book Del’s for your next event.</p>

Fox Point Hurricane Barrier

Fox Point Hurricane Barrier

<p>The Fox Point Hurricane Barrier is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers flood-protection landmark that shields about 280 acres of downtown from tidal surges and hurricanes. Completed in 1966, the 700-foot concrete structure spans the Providence River and features three large tainter gates, flanking earthen dikes, and a pumping station capable of discharging river floodwaters into Narragansett Bay. Built in response to devastating floods from the 1938 hurricane and Hurricane Carol in 1954, the barrier helps protect the city’s commercial district, infrastructure, and homes, with operations shared between the Corps and the City of Providence.</p>

La Gondola Providence, Inc.

La Gondola Providence, Inc.

<p>La Gondola Providence, Inc. offers private Venetian-style gondola rides along the Providence and Woonasquatucket rivers, featuring romantic outings, family-friendly trips, and customizable group tours. Guests can choose from trip packages that may include historical narration, live Italian music, and special event options such as weddings, reception cruises, and photo sessions. The company operates seasonally, weather permitting, and provides gift certificates for memorable experiences on the water.</p>

LUMUKU

LUMUKU

<p>LUMUKU is a creative studio and public art initiative focused on uplifting communities through vibrant illustration, large-scale design, and playful, educational games. Their work spans murals, exhibitions, and interactive experiences that encourage connection, learning, and joy, complemented by a shop featuring art and game products.</p>

Plant City

Plant City

<p>Plant City is a plant-based food hall and marketplace featuring multiple chef-driven restaurants, a coffee bar, and a retail market offering vegan groceries and goods. Open daily with extended weekend hours, it serves a wide range of cuisines and menus, including the SĒZN dinner experience on select evenings. The spacious, stylish venue hosts private events and community programming, and provides online ordering and reservations through its website. Suitable for vegans and non-vegans alike, it’s a destination for dining, shopping, and gatherings in Providence.</p>

Providence Kayak

Providence Kayak

<p>Providence Kayak offers single and tandem kayak rentals on the Providence and Woonasquatucket Rivers, letting paddlers explore Riverwalk, Waterplace Park, and scenic downtown waterways under historic bridges. Rentals start at 45 or 75 minutes, with staff assistance for easy launch and landing plus route and safety guidance. Seasonal operations also include a second location at Lincoln Woods State Park for freshwater paddling on Olney Pond. Booking and gift cards are available online.</p>

The Guild PVD Beer Garden

The Guild PVD Beer Garden

<p>Seasonal outdoor beer garden set along the Providence River in the 195 District Park, featuring The Guild’s craft beers and rotating guest pours, weekly food trucks, and occasional special events. Open May through October (weather permitting) with family-friendly, park-style seating and skyline views; check the website for current hours, on-tap lists, and event details.</p>

The Hot Club

The Hot Club

<p>Lively waterfront bar offering casual pub fare, cocktails, and a busy events calendar with karaoke, trivia, and weekend DJ sets. Open daily into late night, it features burgers and bar classics, online ordering, and a rewards program, with periodic specials like service-industry discounts on Sundays. Popular for group hangouts and harbor views, it blends a relaxed daytime scene with an upbeat nightlife atmosphere.</p>

Tizzy K’s Cereal Ice Cream

Tizzy K’s Cereal Ice Cream

<p>Tizzy K’s serves small-batch cereal milk ice cream with rotating flavors, crafted by steeping popular cereals into a rich base for a smooth, creamy finish. Each scoop is topped with cereal crunch and a Rice Krispies treat, and the shop operates seasonally with hours that may vary due to weather. Recognized by local and regional press and named Best Ice Cream in Rhode Island by RIFOODFIGHTS, it’s a sweet stop near the pedestrian bridge for inventive, nostalgia-inspired treats.</p>

Contact Information

Providence Parks Department

1000 Elmwood Avenue, Providence RI 02905
Roger Williams Boathouse
providenceri.gov
(401) 680-7201

Supporters

Partners

Lets Keep Downtown Providence Parks Vibrant Together

Support DPPN

Join us in preserving and enhancing the Downtown Providence Park Network (DPPN)

Thousands of you joined us in downtown Providence this weekend as we honored Día de los Muertos in partnership with @rilatinoarts, @waterfirepvd, and local artists.

At the Downtown Providence Park Network, our hope was for you to learn and experience the scared Mexican tradition. The bright marigolds, or cempasúchil, guided the spirits home with their color and fragrance. Candles lit their way with warmth and light. Pan de Muerto represented the circle of life and the love that endures. We shared more than 500 pieces baked by the family at @la.artesa.bakery with hot chocolate as families, friends, and visitors gathered to honor their loved ones. The ofrenda held photos, water, and cherished mementos, creating a bridge between the living and the departed. Traditional Mexican dance @grupomisolha filled the evening with music.

Thank you for adding the name of your loved ones to the ofrenda by @alhteran. In Providence, everyone belongs.

100 4
Open post by downtownpvdparks with ID 17945354540938360
Thousands of you joined us in downtown Providence this weekend as we honored Día de los Muertos in partnership with @rilatinoarts, @waterfirepvd, and local artists. At the Downtown Providence Park Network, our hope was for you to learn and experience the scared Mexican tradition. The bright marigolds, or cempasúchil, guided the spirits home with their color and fragrance. Candles lit their way with warmth and light. Pan de Muerto represented the circle of life and the love that endures. We shared more than 500 pieces baked by the family at @la.artesa.bakery with hot chocolate as families, friends, and visitors gathered to honor their loved ones. The ofrenda held photos, water, and cherished mementos, creating a bridge between the living and the departed. Traditional Mexican dance @grupomisolha filled the evening with music. Thank you for adding the name of your loved ones to the ofrenda by @alhteran. In Providence, everyone belongs.

Downtown Providence was filled with light, color, and remembrance as we celebrated Día de los Muertos, one of Mexico’s most beautiful traditions.

Surrounded by marigolds, candles, music, and dancing, we honored life, love, and memory together. The scent of pan de muerto and the warmth of hot chocolate carried the spirit of Mexico through our city. @la.artesa.bakery

It was an honor for us to organize and host this moving celebration and to share this evening of magic and community with all who visited downtown at @waterfireprov

This is Providence — a city that celebrates every culture and every story. Here, everyone belongs. 🌼

If you missed tonight, join @rilatinoarts and @waterfirepvd tomorrow at the Southside Cultural Center at 4:30 for another beautiful celebration of Día de los Muertos. Thank you @alhteran

#DiaDeLosMuertos #DowntownProvidence #CulturaViva #everyonebelongshere

77 8
Open post by downtownpvdparks with ID 18075331139268657
Downtown Providence was filled with light, color, and remembrance as we celebrated Día de los Muertos, one of Mexico’s most beautiful traditions. Surrounded by marigolds, candles, music, and dancing, we honored life, love, and memory together. The scent of pan de muerto and the warmth of hot chocolate carried the spirit of Mexico through our city. @la.artesa.bakery It was an honor for us to organize and host this moving celebration and to share this evening of magic and community with all who visited downtown at @waterfireprov This is Providence — a city that celebrates every culture and every story. Here, everyone belongs. 🌼 If you missed tonight, join @rilatinoarts and @waterfirepvd tomorrow at the Southside Cultural Center at 4:30 for another beautiful celebration of Día de los Muertos. Thank you @alhteran #DiaDeLosMuertos #DowntownProvidence #CulturaViva #everyonebelongshere

This Saturday! Ofrenda de Luz: Día de los Muertos at WaterFire — in remembrance and respect

📅 Saturday, November 1 | 5:30–8:00 PM
📍 Along College Street, under the tent
🎟️ Free and open to all

Join the @downtownpvdparks and @rilatinoarts @waterfireprov for Ofrenda de Luz: Día de los Muertos — a heartfelt evening honoring Mexican culture, heritage, and the beautiful tradition of remembrance. @alhteran

Rooted in centuries of Mexican customs, Día de los Muertos celebrates the lives of loved ones who have passed and reminds us to cherish the bonds that continue through memory and community.

Visit the community ofrenda (altar) to write the name of a loved one on a paper calavera and leave a short memory behind.

🍞 Enjoy samples of pan de muerto and Mexican hot chocolate by @la.artesa.bakery

💃 Meet Catrinas in traditional dress and experience a vibrant dance performance by @grupomisolha at 6:30 PM

Created in partnership with local Mexican and Latino artists and cultural leaders, Ofrenda de Luz honors the spirit of Día de los Muertos with gratitude, and love.

131 2
Open post by downtownpvdparks with ID 18142830736432520
This Saturday! Ofrenda de Luz: Día de los Muertos at WaterFire — in remembrance and respect 📅 Saturday, November 1 | 5:30–8:00 PM
📍 Along College Street, under the tent 🎟️ Free and open to all Join the @downtownpvdparks and @rilatinoarts @waterfireprov for Ofrenda de Luz: Día de los Muertos — a heartfelt evening honoring Mexican culture, heritage, and the beautiful tradition of remembrance. @alhteran Rooted in centuries of Mexican customs, Día de los Muertos celebrates the lives of loved ones who have passed and reminds us to cherish the bonds that continue through memory and community. Visit the community ofrenda (altar) to write the name of a loved one on a paper calavera and leave a short memory behind. 🍞 Enjoy samples of pan de muerto and Mexican hot chocolate by @la.artesa.bakery 💃 Meet Catrinas in traditional dress and experience a vibrant dance performance by @grupomisolha at 6:30 PM Created in partnership with local Mexican and Latino artists and cultural leaders, Ofrenda de Luz honors the spirit of Día de los Muertos with gratitude, and love.

Celebrate community and honor our heroes at the Salute to Veterans 2025 Torch Ceremony in Downtown Providence.
Experience the full WaterFire lighting, live performances, and a moving tribute featuring 150 Veterans illuminating the night with a Ring of Fire at WaterPlace Park.

📅 Nov 1 | 🌅 Sunset – 10 PM | 📍 WaterPlace Park

81 1
Open post by downtownpvdparks with ID 18098230474749601
Celebrate community and honor our heroes at the Salute to Veterans 2025 Torch Ceremony in Downtown Providence. Experience the full WaterFire lighting, live performances, and a moving tribute featuring 150 Veterans illuminating the night with a Ring of Fire at WaterPlace Park. 📅 Nov 1 | 🌅 Sunset – 10 PM | 📍 WaterPlace Park

🎃 Happy Halloween Week, Providence! 👻
There’s so much magic happening downtown — from sunset celebrations to live music and WaterFire under the stars ✨

Here’s what’s happening this week ⤵️
🪘 Sunset Celebration with Providence Drum Troupe
🍴 JWU Culinary Arts Museum – RI250 Tour & Tasting
🔥 Starts at Sunset – WaterFire Activation of the Pedestrian Bridge
🎶 Live Music at The Guild PVD Beer Garden
🇺🇸 WaterFire Salute to Veterans

Celebrate spooky season, local art, and community all week long in Downtown Providence Parks 💫

#DowntownProvidence #ProvidenceParks

25 1
Open post by downtownpvdparks with ID 17864457945494221
🎃 Happy Halloween Week, Providence! 👻 There’s so much magic happening downtown — from sunset celebrations to live music and WaterFire under the stars ✨ Here’s what’s happening this week ⤵️ 🪘 Sunset Celebration with Providence Drum Troupe 🍴 JWU Culinary Arts Museum – RI250 Tour & Tasting 🔥 Starts at Sunset – WaterFire Activation of the Pedestrian Bridge 🎶 Live Music at The Guild PVD Beer Garden 🇺🇸 WaterFire Salute to Veterans Celebrate spooky season, local art, and community all week long in Downtown Providence Parks 💫 #DowntownProvidence #ProvidenceParks
@downtownpvdparks Instagram
Facebook
Twitter

30 Exchange Terrace
Providence, RI 02903

info@downtownparks.org

© 2025 Downtown Providence Park Network
Things To Do
Parks
Events
Contact Us