Superman Building Providence
Providence's iconic Art Deco skyscraper, the Superman Building, is a historic landmark and Rhode Island's tallest structure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Superman Building Providence
Best Time
Best for architectural viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Providence's iconic Art Deco skyscraper, the Superman Building, is a historic landmark and Rhode Island's tallest structure.
"It's sad that the building has been abandoned for years and that it is in danger of being demolished."
📸 Drone Views
Capture breathtaking aerial shots, but always respect airspace laws.
📍 Landmark Status
It's a prominent symbol of Providence, often seen from afar.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Deco Architecture
Admire the stunning 1928 Art Deco design, reminiscent of the Daily Planet building.
Rhode Island's Tallest
Marvel at its status as Rhode Island's tallest structure for nearly a century.
Skyline Symbol
Recognize its iconic silhouette that defines the Providence skyline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse into Providence's Skyline
Future of a Landmark
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Drone Views
Capture breathtaking aerial shots, but always respect airspace laws.
📍 Landmark Status
It's a prominent symbol of Providence, often seen from afar.
💡 Redevelopment Watch
Stay updated on its ongoing restoration and future plans.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Drone Views
Capture breathtaking aerial shots, but always respect airspace laws.
📍 Landmark Status
It's a prominent symbol of Providence, often seen from afar.
💡 Redevelopment Watch
Stay updated on its ongoing restoration and future plans.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the Superman Building's remarkable scale and striking Art Deco architecture, noting its historical significance as Rhode Island's tallest building for decades. Many express sadness over its prolonged vacancy and hope for its successful restoration, recognizing its potential to once again be a symbol of Providence's strength.
"It's really remarkable for a building of this scale and architecture to also be quite tall. Even more remarkable is how it has remained the tallest building in the city for all the 90 years of its existence and the fact that it is OLDER than New York's Empire State Building by a few years. It's sad that the building has been abandoned for years and that it is in danger of being demolished. There is a website dedicated to saving the building for those who wish to help (Google 'Save Superman' to find the website)."
G Aquino
"Beautiful views of Providence RI"
Stephan (2DamnFly)
"I thought this was the building Superman actually worked in from the movies. That being said, when I climbed to the top and jumped off expecting Superman to save me, I was quite disappointed when I found myself paralyzed from the waist down and over $600,000 in medical debt. Safe to say, I will NEVER be coming back."
Lord Lard
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Superman Building is located in downtown Providence, RI. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Public transportation options, including buses that stop at Kennedy Plaza, are also available.
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity of the Superman Building. Consider the Providence Place Mall garage or the garages around Kennedy Plaza.
Absolutely! The building is a central part of downtown Providence, and you can walk around its exterior to admire its architecture from street level.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, the Superman Building is undergoing redevelopment and is not open for public tours. However, its exterior is a significant attraction.
As the building is not yet fully redeveloped for public access, there are no official visiting hours. You can view its exterior at any time.
No, there is no admission fee to view the exterior of the Superman Building. It stands as a prominent landmark in downtown Providence.
You can find historical information through local archives, the Providence Public Library, and online resources that detail its construction and significance.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities exist from Kennedy Plaza, nearby streets, and even from the pedestrian bridges over the Providence River. Drone photography offers unique perspectives.
Drone photography is permitted, but always ensure you are aware of and comply with all local airspace regulations and restrictions.
The building looks stunning during the golden hour around sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a warm glow on its facade. Daytime offers clear views of its architectural details.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
It earned the nickname 'Superman Building' due to its striking resemblance to the Daily Planet building from the Superman comics.
The Superman Building was constructed in 1928, making it a historic Art Deco skyscraper.
The building is a prime example of Art Deco architecture, characterized by its geometric patterns, setbacks, and ornate detailing.
The building has been vacant for many years but is currently undergoing a significant redevelopment project to restore and repurpose it.
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting nearby attractions like the Providence Children's Museum or exploring WaterFire, a unique art installation that often takes place on the rivers, providing engaging experiences for younger visitors after viewing the building's exterior.
📸 Photographers & Drone Enthusiasts
For drone enthusiasts, the building provides a unique canvas for aerial shots. However, it's crucial to adhere strictly to all FAA regulations and local airspace restrictions to ensure safe and legal operation. Capturing the building's scale against the Providence skyline from above can yield truly spectacular images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Superman Building: A Providence Landmark
+1Despite its architectural grandeur and historical significance, the Superman Building has faced a prolonged period of vacancy. Bank of America, its last major tenant, vacated the premises in 2012, leaving the once-vibrant structure empty and prompting concerns about its future. This vacancy has been a subject of much discussion and concern among residents and city officials, highlighting the challenges of preserving and revitalizing historic urban landmarks.
+1Fortunately, the narrative is shifting towards a brighter future. A significant redevelopment project is underway, aiming to restore the building to its former glory and adapt it for modern use. This ambitious undertaking promises to breathe new life into the iconic structure, ensuring its continued presence as a vital part of Providence's identity and economic landscape.
The restoration is not just about preserving a building; it's about investing in the future of Providence. Architectural Significance and Nickname Origin
The moniker 'Superman Building' is a direct nod to its visual similarity to the Daily Planet building, the fictional newspaper headquarters where Clark Kent worked. This comparison, popularized by fans and media, has made the building instantly recognizable and a beloved icon for both residents and visitors. The nickname adds a layer of pop culture charm to its already impressive architectural credentials.
+1
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