If you aren't sure that Providence has a lot to offer, you can be sure that this bright little New England city is both full of history and full of culture. And we aren't the only ones who say so, The Washington Post recently published an article on Providence's historic yet modern appeal, and Providence ranked in the top 10 cities in the country to visit in Travel and Leisure's 2009 ranking. But don't just take our collective word for it, you should probably come see for your self. When you do, here are some of the highlights we think you should be sure to check out.

Avon Cinema

If you'd like to watch a cult classic, Avon Cinema is the perfect spot. Located on Thayer Street, Avon Cinema shows new independent films you won't find anywhere else, and hosts midnight showings of old favorites. 260 Thayer Street; 401-421-3315; avoncinema.com

Bank of America City Center

Modeled after New York's Rockefeller Center, the Bank of America City Center is an outdoor skating rink located in the heart of Providence. Much more than just an ice rink, the Center features year-round events including music festivals and Providence Roller Derby. 2 Kennedy Plaza; 401-331-5544; providenceskating.com

Benefit Street’s Mile of History

Located in the College Hill neighborhood, in the shadow of Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design, Benefit Street boasts one of the most impressive and concentrated collections of Colonial Homes in the country. Explore America’s past with a self-guided walking tour, courtesy of the Providence Preservation Society. 21 Meeting Street; 401-831-7440; ppsri.org

Cable Car Cinema and Cafe

Located at the foot of the East Side, the Cable Car gives a funky twist to the traditional theater-going experience. Popcorn, plastic seats and romantic comedies are replaced by a quaint cafe, cozy couches and indie films. 204 South Main Street; 401-272-3970; cablecarcinema.com

Culinary Arts Museum at Johnson and Wales University

This is the premier museum for avid foodies and historical curiosity seekers alike, who can tour an exhibit of that most classic Rhode Island culinary staple, the diner, as well as displays of antique stoves, kitchen gadgets, culinary showpieces and the New England Tavern. Eat up. 315 Harbourside Boulevard, Providence/Cranston line; 401-598-2805; culinary.org

Providence Art Club

Occupying a procession of historic houses across from the First Baptist Church on Thomas Street, the Providence Art Club is one of the oldest in the nation. Its two galleries – the Dodge House Gallery and the Maxwell Mays Gallery – are open to the public and feature a range of exhibitions, all in a setting redolent of Providence’s history. 11 Thomas Street; 401-331-1114; providenceartclub

Providence Athenaeum

For a good read and a bit of history, check out the Providence Athenaeum. A spot frequented by legendary writers like Poe and Thoreau, this library is the fourth oldest in the country and a must-see for bibliophiles and history buffs alike. 251 Benefit Street; 401-421-697; providenceathenaeum.org

Providence Children's Museum

A museum where the kids can actually touch things! Providence Children's Museum provides interactive exhibits where kids and grownups can explore, make music and learn in a fun way. The massive dragon on the building is pretty cool, too. 100 South Street; 401-273-5437; childrenmuseum.org

Roger Williams Park Botanical Center

The largest public indoor display gardens in New England are right here in Providence. Experience nearly 12,000 square feet of horticultural displays between two connected greenhouses that are always growing and changing. No matter how many times you visit, you will experience something new.

1000 Elmwood Avenue; 401-785-9450; providenceri.com/botanical-center

Waterplace Park & Riverwalk

If you want to take in the city and catch some street art, take a walk through Waterplace Park. Designed to conjure up images of the picturesque bridges in Venice, passing through Waterplace Park is an excellent way to get the feel of downtown Providence. 1 Financial Way