How should I get to Providence, RI by train or bus from New Jersey/NYC?

I really need to visit an old friend in Providence, RI and I’m trying to figure out the best way. I can’t go by car because the mileage is already super high and I’ve been having issues with it lately. I’m trying to figure out different ways I could do it from here to there. It’s also possible that my friend could pick me up halfway somewhere.