Rhode Island School of Design - Parking

Quick Stats

College Prowler Take

Since the main part of RISD exists in the middle of courthouses, cafés, and office buildings, the places that would be available for parking are reserved for the business people and customers of those places until 5 p.m. on weekdays. Places that don't have this restriction only allow parking for one- or two-hour intervals. Many students who have cars end up walking to and from class during the day, and then bring their cars back in the evening so they won’t have to walk or take the shuttle late at night or early in the morning when they’ve finished in studio. For most students, this schedule is a pain, but many find it easy to get used to.

Get used to receiving a lot of tickets. Meter maids watch your car like a hawk—if you’re in a one-hour spot and you’ve been there for an hour and a half, expect something unfriendly on your windshield. The irony is that within the main part of Providence, unless you’re talking 4 or 5 in the morning, streets near the school are probably the easiest places to park. There are a few parking lots in the downtown area that are a five- to ten-minute walk from campus, but they are prciey. Furthermore, if you are not done in studio until 3 in the morning, it may not be safe to walk downtown by yourself to retrieve your car. There are also one or two garages downtown where spaces are available for rent if you live on campus or in an apartment that does not include a parking space. Unfortunately, the same situation applies where it may be unsafe to get to it late at night. Just remember: Walking is good for you.

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Students Speak Out

Anonymous says:

The parking scene is... The parking scene is horrible—everyone gets ticketed. 12345 Parking Report

Anonymous says:

Do not park. You will get towed. 12345 Parking Report

Anonymous says:

It’s extremely hard to find a... It’s extremely hard to find a spot. Many of my friends got their car towed because they parked on the street several times. My friends don’t normally drive to get to classes. A lot of students bike a lot. So biking is another good alternative. 12345 Parking Report

Anonymous says:

The parking is horrible. There’s... The parking is horrible. There’s no student parking anywhere. Even teachers have trouble. Streets are always packed, and most places have no more than a two- hour parking limit. Car + Providence = tickets, tickets, tickets, unless you rent a space or leave your car at your apartment and walk to class. 12345 Parking Report

Anonymous says:

The parking is crappy. There’s no... The parking is crappy. There’s no parking anywhere—ride a bike. 12345 Parking Report

Did You Know?

Best Places to Find a Parking Spot
On Congdon St., after 10 a.m.

Good Luck Getting a Parking Spot Here!
The City of Providence.

P.S. There’s no overnight street parking allowed.

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Name: Helen Koh
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Major: Graphic Design/Painting

Helen is very good at sandwich making.

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