Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US, but it has a compact adult nightlife scene. Most of it is in Providence, with a couple of venues further north in Cumberland and Woonsocket. Our directory currently lists eight clubs across the state: six in Providence and one each in Cumberland and Woonsocket. Distances are short, so visitors from Boston or Worcester can reach most of them in under an hour.
How strip clubs are regulated in Rhode Island
Strip clubs are mostly regulated at city level. In Providence, the Board of Licenses handles business and liquor licensing and enforces local ordinances and state law. A club needs an adult entertainment licence to present dancers, and that licence can be taken away. In December 2018 the Board voted 3 to 1 to revoke the licences of the Foxy Lady after three dancers were arrested; a week later the state Department of Business Regulation ruled the club could reopen as a nightclub, but without an adult entertainment licence, while it appealed.
Rules on dancers’ age have also changed. In 2009 it emerged that no state or local law stopped teenagers from working as dancers. Ten Providence clubs then signed a pledge not to hire anyone under 18, and the mayor issued an executive order saying adult entertainment licences would not go to clubs that hire minors. Venues that serve alcohol admit guests aged 21 and over, so bring a valid photo ID.
Rhode Island is also known for a separate legal episode that has nothing to do with strip clubs. After a 1980 change to state law, indoor prostitution was not a crime; the gap was closed on 3 November 2009, when the governor signed a law making it illegal statewide. It remains illegal today.
Providence
Two of the city’s clubs sit close together on Allens Avenue; the others are spread around the city.
- Club Desire — 1 Franklin Sq, Providence
- The Cadillac Lounge — 361 Charles St, Providence, RI 02904
- Foxy Lady Providence — 318 Chalkstone Avenue, Providence, RI 02908
- Club Fantasies — 28 Sims Avenue, Providence, RI 02909
- Wonderland — 257 Allens Ave, Providence, RI 02905
- Wild Zebra Gentlemen’s Club — 245 Allens Ave, Providence, RI 02905
Given the licence history above, check the Foxy Lady’s current status before you visit.
Cumberland
- Mickeys Valley View Pub — 46 Carpenter Street, Cumberland, RI 02864
Woonsocket
- Rhode Island Dolls — 579 Front Street, Woonsocket, RI 02895
What to check before you go
- Confirm the club is open and licensed. In Providence, adult entertainment licences can be suspended or revoked. Call ahead or check the club’s own channels before a long drive.
- Bring valid photo ID. Venues that serve alcohol admit guests 21 and over and check ID at the door.
- Ask about cover charges and house rules. Prices, dress codes and rules for private areas differ from club to club. Ask at the door so you aren’t surprised.