Not Venice, but Providence, R.I.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – You don’t have to leave the U.S. to get a ride in a genuine Venetian gondola (serenade included). Two of the three gondolas you see gliding along the Providence and Woonasquatucket rivers in downtown Providence were built in Venice, and owners believe the third is the first truly authentic Venetian gondola built in the U.S. Its design is from the 19th century. The gondolas travel in a redeveloped portion of this very walkable city that includes landscaped parks and arched bridges. Bring your own bottle of prosecco, because the gondola company provides wine glasses, an opener and an ice bucket, along with handmade Italian wine biscuits. Trip-planning resources: Gondolari.com and GoProvidence.com