Step back to a winter evening in 1875 Providence with "Lippitt After Dark," an atmospheric tour of the historic Lippitt House Museum's Victorian household life. Discover politics, culture, and cuisine from a bygone era.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Basic mobility required to stand and walk up stairs during the tour.
Wildlife
History
The Lippitt House was built in 1865 and served as the family home for Henry Lippitt, who became Rhode Island’s 33rd governor, with deep involvement in local politics and philanthropy.
Conservation
The museum applies sustainable practices in preservation and encourages guests to respect the historic interiors to help protect this unique cultural resource.
Preserve Rhode Island
Step back to a winter evening in 1875 Providence with "Lippitt After Dark," an atmospheric tour of the historic Lippitt House Museum's Victorian household life. Discover politics, culture, and cuisine from a bygone era.
Preserve Rhode Island presents public programs and tours in Providence, Rhode Island, focused on the Lippitt House and related historic experiences. The organization offers guided tours, evening programs, garden concerts, and ancestry-focused events that illuminate Rhode Island’s 19th-century history and cultural heritage.
Visitors can book 45-minute guided tour tickets to explore the exquisite Victorian design of Lippitt House, view carefully preserved interiors, and learn stories about Providence’s industrialization and waves of immigration that shaped the city.
Seasonal and special events include the Lippitt After Dark twilight experience, staged as an evening in February 1875 where interpreters portray daily life, dinner preparations, and contemporary conversations about temperance and theater. The Hunter Music Series brings concerts in the garden each August, featuring local performers such as Polly Bessette and Becky Bass and offering music by the historic fountain rain or shine. Discovering Ancestral Journeys to Rhode Island is an evening program that examines the Industrial Revolution’s local impact, offers tools for tracing family history, and marks Rhode Island’s 250-year influence on American history.
Preserve Rhode Island emphasizes historically grounded interpretation and site stewardship. Program descriptions reference preserved spaces, period furnishings, and documented local histories associated with the Lippitt household. Ticketed tours and event listings specify duration, performers, and thematic focus so prospective visitors can select the experience that fits their interests and schedule.
Accessibility information, ticket purchase details, and event schedules are available through Preserve Rhode Island’s event listings so guests can plan visits with clarity and confirm hours and seasonal offerings.
Location
Providence, RI
Historic tours at Lippitt House
Tour Length
45 minutes
Standard guided tour duration
Experiences
4 offerings
Guided tours and special events
Seasonal Series
Hunter Music Series
Garden concerts each August
Book guided tours, evening programs, concerts, and ancestry events in Providence — spaces are limited for special events.
Book Early
Tour space is limited – secure your spot in advance to avoid missing out.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Be prepared for standing and walking through historic staircases during the tour.
Notify for Accessibility
If you require lift assistance or have mobility concerns, inform staff before your visit.
Arrive on Time
Gather promptly at the museum’s entrance to begin the timely guided experience.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating the museum’s floors and stairs comfortably.
winter
Warm Layers
February evenings can be chilly; layering ensures comfort before and after the tour.
winter
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the beautifully preserved Victorian interiors during the visit.
Notebook and Pen
Perfect for jotting down fascinating historical details from the guide.