Arcade (The)

Completed in 1829, the Arcade is known as America's first idoor shopping mall. It is a long Greek Revival building with frontage on two parallel streets. Strong ionic columns greet you at the sidewalk, as does a covered, external walkway leading to all three floors. Entering on any floor, one finds an open, skylighted room with a tasteful mix of shops and restaurants. Don't miss the Rhode Island Black Heritage Society's museum on the third floor. The Arcade is a good place to mingle with executives, bicycle messengers, townies, and tourists while grabbing lunch or a new pair of shoes!