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12 Best Things To Do In Charming Bristol, Rhode Island

• Destinations
• Rhode Island
• United States

Bristol, Rhode Island , is one of America’s most patriotic towns. Host of the oldest 4th of July parade in the country, Bristol is a beautiful coastal town with a fascinating history. There are so many fun and entertaining things to do and see in the charming town of Bristol. It will make a great stop on your next East Coast getaway.

Note: Some information in this piece was obtained during a sponsored press trip, but all recommendations are my own.

1. Blithewold Mansion And Gardens

Blithewold , the Old English word for “happy woodland,” perfectly describes the expansive summer estate where the Augustus Van Wickle family escaped from the busy life in their home in Pennsylvania.

The original house burned down and the new English style manor was completed in 1908. Residing on 33 acres of land, Blithewold Mansion gardens are a thing of beauty year-round. As you wander the grounds discovering no less than 10 distinct garden areas, you will encounter over 500 different woody plants and countless numbers of annuals and perennials. The giant sequoia tree growing by the front portico is a particularly interesting specimen for a Rhode Island home.

The Blithewold Mansion is a delightful example of the American Arts and Crafts movement during the late 19th century architectural Country Place Era of mansions and gardens. The patio overlooks a grand lawn that sweeps down to Narragansett Bay, offering impressive water views.

Regularly scheduled events — like the Outdoor Yoga Series, Nature Drawing, and the Sunset Concert Series — happen weekly during the summer. Enjoy Tea & Scones on the patio then tour the mansion and gardens for a fun outing at this historic mansion.

2. Linden Place

Linden Place is a beautiful Federal-style mansion designed by architect Russell Warren. Built in 1810, it was home to the long and tumultuous history of the George DeWolf family. If these walls could talk, they would tell tales fraught with slave trading, privateering, rum running, and other nefarious goings on. Once the pillars of Bristol, DeWolf and his family fled Rhode Island in the middle of the night to escape creditors after a series of financial misfortunes. Years later, one of DeWolf’s daughters, Theodora, returned to the family mansion with her husband Christopher Colt. She renamed the mansion Linden Place and once again the family took up their elevated status as Bristol royalty.

Linden Place holds a variety of tours including the Hauntings at Linden Place, Bristol and the Slave Trade Talk and Walking Tour, and the Ladies of Linden Place Tour.

3. Colt State Park

On a beautiful 464 acres — along Narragansett Bay — sits Colt State Park . Once a gentleman’s farm built by Samuel P. Colt, a DeWolf descendent, the park was his private farm, but he graciously welcomed the public to enjoy its beauty. In 1965 the State of Rhode Island purchased the Colt Farm for the free and public use for residents and guests.

This gorgeous state park offers a beach, playing fields, picnic groves, a public boat ramp, rest facilities, walking trails, and bridle paths. It is also part of the East Bay Bike Path.

4. Mount Hope Farm

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Mount Hope Farm is a bucoli 127-acre, picturesque country estate. Visitors can stroll the farm’s ponds, fields, and enjoy views of Mount Hope Bay. The Mount Hope Farm Trail is a paved, easy 2.5-mile loop that offers views of the fields and the bay.

You can also stay at the Inn at Mount Hope . Get away from it all at the historic, 1745 Georgian-style, Governor Bradford House, where the guest rooms represent famous past owners. The North Pasture House is an 18th century, post and beam cottage relocated from Maine. It is available for a quiet, contemplative stay. The South Pasture House is the former pool house. Built in the 1930s, it has large windows and beautiful views. These lovingly restored buildings offer a unique and peaceful stay only steps away from the bustling downtown area. Perfect for large family gatherings, each house can be rented for a group getaway.

5. Coggeshall Farm Museum

The Coggeshall Farm Museum is a living museum representing the work-a-day life of late 18th century Rhode Island farming families. The living museum grows heirloom plants, is home to heritage-breed animals, and offers live interpretations of life on the farm.

Join the costumed artisans for one of their special events. Textile Weekend offers visitors a peek into the start-to-finish creation of period clothing. Music and Art Weekend showcases 18th-century art and music along with a traditional fife and drum demonstration. At FairyTale Farm, children will love seeing their favorite fairy tale characters come to life. Visit Goldilocks, Hansel and Gretel, the third little pig, and many others scattered across the farm.

In 2020, the Coggeshall Farm Museum and Old Sturbridge Village joined together in a partnership to preserve the history of rural New England. If you are interested in more information on Old Sturbridge Village, visit our article How To Spend A Day At Historic Sturbridge Village, Massachusetts .

6. Herreshoff Marine Museum

The Herreshoff Marine Museum and America’s Cup Hall Of Fame is home to the Hall of Boats, which houses over sixty boats. The largest is the 75′ Defiant , which defended the America’s Cup Championship in 1992. Visitors can explore Herreshoff’s model room where over 500 models are on display. You can climb aboard one of the restored ships for a first hand shipboard experience.

This is the perfect museum for every boat lover to gaze fondly over a wide collection of boating history.

7. Yellow Feathers Tours

Yellow Feathers Tours offers a unique peek into the tumultuous history of Bristol and the otherworldly beings that haunt local buildings. Their Bristol Haunted Walking Tour offers guests a nighttime stroll through central Bristol, filled with stories of betrayed loves and long forgotten residents. You can schedule a tour with Yellow Feathers Tours by emailing [email protected] .

8. Ferry To Prudence Island

Prudence Island sits in the middle of Narragansett Bay a few miles from Bristol. The sparsely inhabited island offers few amenities, however, it is a beautiful spot for hiking and bird watching. Prudence Island Light is a pretty spot to enjoy a picnic lunch.

You can reach the island on a quick ride on the Prudence & Bay Islands Transport .

9. Claire D. McIntosh Wildlife Refuge

Nature lovers will be enchanted with the Claire D. McIntosh Wildlife Refuge . Visitors can explore the refuge’s woods, wetlands, and walk the beautiful boardwalk out to Narragansett Bay. Search for ospreys, green herons, red-tailed hawks, painted turtles, snapping turtles and other saltwater marsh fowl and land animals. Be sure to stop by the Nature Center for an encounter with a life size, 33-foot-long model of the North Atlantic right whale.

Enjoy a walk down the Claire D. McIntosh Wildlife Refuge Trail . This easy 1.1-mile loop takes you through the marsh and down to the bay.

10. East Bay Bike Path

The East Bay Bike Path traverses from India Point Park in Providence to Independence Park in Bristol. The 14.5-mile-long path is mostly flat and passes along the Providence River, Narragansett Bay, Claire D. McIntosh Wildlife Refuge, and Colt State Park. With many beautiful vistas along the way, this is a lovely way to enjoy the beauty of coastal Rhode Island.

Not sure you want to pack your bike — no problem. You can visit Bristol Bikes and they will hook you up with just the right option to match your biking prowess. They offer everything from single-speed cruisers to Pedego electric cruisers.

11. Bradford-Dimond-Norris House

When you visit a town as charming as Bristol, you want your accommodations to reflect the history and stately grandeur of the area. The Bradford-Dimond-Norris Bed & Breakfast (BDN) is just the spot. Guests will enjoy the casual elegance of BDN along with the gracious and attentive innkeeper, Brian. The rooms are beautifully furnished with period antiques, including four-poster beds and cozy rugs, while the baths are modern spa-like spaces.

Situated in the heart of the historic downtown and a short block from the waterfront, staying at the BDN is like visiting a welcoming wealthy old relation. Be sure to enjoy your morning coffee on the wide front porch while you watch Bristol wake and meet the day. 

12. Dining In Bristol

In this historic coastal town you will find a wide selection of dining options. Of course, there will be copious amounts of fresh seafood, but you will also find expertly crafted turf dishes too.

At DeWolf Tavern you can dine waterside on the patio, enjoy a nibble in the first floor tavern, or explore a finely crafted dinner in the upstairs restaurant. The menu changes seasonally to best utilize the local produce. The Shrimp Pakora with sweet chili sauce is a perfectly crunchy starter. For your entrée, try the Bacon Wrapped Bistro Filet with red onion marmalade and pickled Fresno chilis, or the roasted cod with Portuguese clam sauce for a taste of the sea.

Aidan’s Pub is another great spot on Thames Street. The Fish & Chips are perfect with some Guinness, a classically delicious Irish pairing.  

Pro Tip: When planning your trip to Bristol, visit Discover Newport for all the up-to-date information about the Bristol and Newport areas. If you are considering a visit to nearby Newport, check out some of our ideas for your coastal getaway in How To Spend A Perfect Weekend In Beautiful Newport, Rhode Island .

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

Bristol (Rhode Island)

• 1 Understand
• 2.2 By plane
• 3 Get around
• 5.1 Outdoors
• 5.2 Fourth of July
• 7.1 Breakfast
• 7.4 Seafood
• 9.1 Bed and Breakfasts

Bristol is a quintessential New England waterfront town. Part of the East Bay communities along with Warren and Barrington , it is on a peninsula in Rhode Island surrounded by Narragensett and Mount Hope Bays. This coastal community has a rich 325-year history and hosts the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the United States. The town has plentiful year-round recreational activities, and a spectacular waterfront that provides beautiful views and many water sports. The town has not lost its historic "Main Street America" feel with many stately homes, tree-lined streets and old-town store fronts.

Understand [ edit ]

Bristol is a small and historic Rhode Island town with a population of about 23,000. Approximately 20.6 sq mi (53 km 2 ) including water, Bristol is a beautiful town right on the water that was founded by Roger Williams in 1636, and was named after Bristol , England. The town was eventually sold after 1685 to four Boston investors: Byfield, Wally, Oliver and Burton, three of whom went on to have schools named after them.

By the late 1700s, Bristol was a major nexus for the slave trade and was home to some of the richest men in the country. One famous family who participated in the slave trade were the DeWolf Colts, who lived in Bristol's Linden Place Mansion. As well, Colt School, next door to Linden Place and constructed largely from marble, was built and donated to the town as a memorial to Theodore DeWolf Colt by her son. Colt Farm and Colt State Park are two other donations that live on through the family.

Bristol also holds the first, longest and largest Independence Day parade in the country. Year round, the streets on the parade route are lined with a red, white and blue stripe down the middle, and there are concerts leading up to the holiday three weeks in advance. There is a carnival week where you can enjoy fireworks by the downtown waterfront, a performance by the Navy Band, and — of course — the parade.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

From Providence , go east on I-195 to exit 7. Follow Route 114 into Bristol. Alternate route;travel east on I-195 to exit 2 in Massachusetts. Follow Route 136 into Bristol.

From Boston I-95 south to Rt. 24 south. Take exit for Mt. Hope Bridge. Follow signs for Bristol and Mt. Hope Bridge. Go over the bridge and follow Rt. 114 north into Bristol.

By plane [ edit ]

• T.F. Green Airport ( PVD  IATA ) in Warwick offers many low cost and regular flights from many cities in the United States.
• Boston 's Logan Airport ( BOS  IATA ) is much larger and is generally used for most international flights.

By bus [ edit ]

• RIPTA , Phone: +1 401 781-9400. Services across all of Rhode Island. Bus #60 connects Providence to Newport. It passes through Bristol every hour with several stops along Route 114.

Get around [ edit ]

The town isn't too big, so walking or bike riding can be one of the easiest ways to get around. Most of the shops and restaurants are located in one general area making it easily accessible by foot.

See [ edit ]

Do [ edit ], outdoors [ edit ].

Bristol is a great place to enjoy all the beauty of Narragansett Bay and Mount Hope Bay. The town is on the East Bay Peninsula, making it a water lover's paradise. Boating, kayaking and other water sports are popular activities along the coast. The harbor hosts approximately 800 moorings and several docks, so travel to the area by water is an option. Rentals of equipment are available at a few locations in town (See "Buy") .

• 41.677099 -71.298596 1 Colt State Park , ☏ +1 401 253-7482 . Sunrise to sunset . 464 acres (188 hectares) park abutting Narragansett Bay. With attractions including trails for hikers and cyclists, picnic tables, fishing piers, and horseback riding, no two trips to the park are ever the same. No matter the season, there is always something to enjoy in this nature lover's paradise. Free . ( updated Jan 2021 )

• 41.675356 -71.279024 3 East Bay Bike Path ( Parking available in Independence Park ). This 14.5 mi (23.3 km) asphalt path begins at Bristol's Independence Park and extends to Providence, following the serene shoreline of Narragansett Bay. The path provides spectacular waterfront views and access to state parks, coastal marshes, and downtown shops and restaurants. It is 10 ft (3.0 m) wide and well-maintained, suitable for bikers, walkers, and in-line skaters. No motor vehicles. ( updated Jan 2021 )
• 41.68168 -71.267096 4 Juniper Hill Cemetery , 24 Sherry Avenue . Looking for an offbeat location for a romantic sunset walk, or a spooky nighttime stroll? The monuments in this cemetery may provide the ideal venue. Nearby, another cemetery on Woodlawn Avenue houses the remains of the Dewolf family, a group of 19th century slave traders and Bristol natives who were at one time among the wealthiest people in the United States.  
• 41.669671 -71.256083 5 Mt. Hope Farm , 250 Metacom Avenue (Route 136) , ☏ +1 401 254-1745 . Sunrise to sunset . This open farmland is perfect for a peaceful walk, bike ride, or hiking trip with the family or by yourself. The trails are lined with forests and wild flowers and a beautiful view of the Mt. Hope Bay. Wedding ceremonies can draw large crowds here- be wary in summertime. There is plenty of history that comes with the land as well, but you have to do a little exploring in order to find it.  

Fourth of July [ edit ]

Dating to 1785, Bristol's proud Fourth of July parade is the oldest in the United States. Bristol is enthusiastically patriotic. In early summer, many Bristolians decorate their houses in red, white, and blue in preparation for the big day- especially if their house is on the parade route!

The parade goes by in several divisions, filled with music, motion, and color. There is an abundance of sound; diverse bugle and drum corps from all over the US, including Bristol’s own Mt. Hope High School marching band, march and play in the parade, wearing their colors and twirling flags. Performers dressed in reverence to the American Revolutionary War's servicemen and women are spread throughout the route. Various floats, Rhode Island political figures, and characters like Elmo make appearances.

The parade begins on July 4 at 10:30AM, starting the corner of Chestnut and Hope Street, and runs down Hope Street (whose traffic lines are painted red, white, and blue) until High Street. Bring your own seating. Set up early, but not before 5AM, or your items might be confiscated. Parking is plentiful outside of Hope Street and bordering roads. You can bring your own food and drink or purchase refreshments from vendors along the parade route, but alcohol is strictly prohibited. Vendors along the parade route also sell a variety of knick-knacks and souvenirs.

Fireworks occur either one day prior to the parade or one day after. You can catch a glimpse anywhere from the Bristol waterfront or downtown. Street parking is free, but it will fill up fast- arrive at least an hour before the show if you want a spot. After the fireworks, stay patient; traffic congestion might make it tough to leave.

Buy [ edit ]

• Just Ducky , 201 Gooding Ave , ☏ +1 401 253-6335 . Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM . Popular children's consignment store. Carries only top quality, gently worn children's clothing for all occasions.  
• Jackie's Loft , 448 Thames Street , ☏ +1 401 254-4251 . Retail, women's clothing and accessories  
• Bristol Bikes , Thames Street Landing , ☏ +1 401-675-2000 . Bristol Bikes is a gear shop for cycling. Clothing, equipment and rentals are available.  
• Green River Silver Co. , 297 Hope St , ☏ +1 401 253-5005 . M-Sa 10AM-6PM, Su noon-5PM . This small yet elegant jewelry store carries all real silver jewelry, so the items can be a little pricey. They have a wide variety of accessories that can be worn by any age group and a staff that is always willing to assist you.  

Eat [ edit ]

Breakfast [ edit ].

• The Beehive Cafe , 10 Franklin Street , ☏ +1 401-396-9994 . W-Sa 7AM-4PM, Su-Tu 7AM-9PM . The Beehive Café is by far the cutest little coffee shop in Bristol. Located by the water and about four feet away from Independence Park, the Beehive Café serves all sorts of organic teas, coffees, smoothies, and other caffeinated and un-caffeinated drinks. Also serving dinner now, you can attend the café for any meal of the day, or just stop by for a casual sit in alone or with company. The beehive café provides a few board games, free wifi and can also be family oriented.  
• Bristol Bagel Works , 420 Hope St , ☏ +1 401 254-1390 . M-F 6:30AM-2:30PM, Sa Su 7AM-2PM . Typical bagel shop that serves a number of delicious bagels made fresh daily, and a large beverage list. Small seating area, but has big windows that look onto the parade route, so it’s great for people watching.  
• Green Eggs , 576 Metacom Ave , ☏ +1 401 253-3443 . M-Sa 6AM-1PM, Su 7AM-1PM . Tucked in the back corner of the Bell Tower Plaza, this is the place to go for breakfast. Although it only serves breakfast, the options are plentiful as are the portion sizes. And to top it off it’s very inexpensive! The staff members are outgoing and the atmosphere has a very homey feel. Can get crowded over the weekend though, especially after masses are over on Sunday’s. They also only accept cash, but there are plenty of ATMs around to service you.  
• Hope Diner , 742 Hope St , ☏ +1 401 253-1759 . Hope Diner is an original, old school diner that actually resides in a parked and remodeled trailer home. A small location located down town on the 4th of July Parade route and bike path, it can be easily overlooked if not familiar with the downtown area. The diner gets stuffy with about twelve tables and bar seats but is good for small parties. The diner is almost always crowded and if seated on its right side you will often to hear bickering and even swearing coming from the cooks in the back kitchen. A good “diner experience” but not always family oriented. Look for the little white trailer near the gas station. Serves good food despite its awkward location. expensive .  
• The Sunset Cafe , 499 Hope St , ☏ +1 401 253-1910 . A family-owned restaurant in downtown Bristol serving breakfast and lunch. They offer Portuguese specialties such as chourico. Friendly and quaint atmosphere.  

Lunch [ edit ]

• Bristol House of Pizza , 55 State St , ☏ +1 401 253-2550 . M-Th 11AM-9PM, Sa noon-9PM, Su noon-9PM . Don't let the name fool you. This place doesn't just serve pizza. They have a variety of different foods as well. Appetizers are served which include selections such as Buffalo Wings, Onion Rings and Mozzarella sticks to name a few. They are also known for their grinders which include selections such as Chicken Parm, meatball, etc. This is a great spot that is an ideal place to go if you are in town. $4-15 .  
• Classic Pizza , 349 Metacom Ave , ☏ +1 401 253-1871 . Here is another place where the name of the restaurant can be misleading. Even though they serve fresh baked pizzas straight from the oven, they are also known for their gyro sandwiches. They deliver. $5-15 .  
• Pizzawave , 400 Metacom Av , ☏ +1 401 253-8811 . M-Sa 5-9PM . Pizza, pasta, steak, seafood.  
• Ricotti’s , 11 Gooding Ave , ☏ +1 401 253-1614 . Sandwiches, pizza, broccoli pies. A small family owned sandwich shop that serves subs and other deli goods. Don't blink, because you might miss this small sandwich shop. Don't let its size fool you. This is a great sandwich shop for all ages. Have a big event coming up such as a graduation party or sports party? Ricotti's also provides catering. $5-10 .  

Asian [ edit ]

• Jacky's Galaxie , 383 Metacom Ave , ☏ +1 401 253-8818 . An array of different foods from Eastern Cuisine. Get your taste buds experiencing new flavors from different cultures such as Chinese, Japanese Tai, Cambodian, Vietnamese dishes. The atmosphere is contemporary and unique. Appetizers, lunch, dinners and deserts are available. If you aren't a huge sushi fan there are an array of different dinners. Great dining experience. $15-25. A family dish of sushi can be as much as $80 .  

Seafood [ edit ]

• Lobster Pot , 119 Hope St , ☏ +1 401 253-9100 . Lunch, dinner. Casual. Reservations suggested. $12-20 .  
• Quito’s Restaurant and Bar , 411 Thames Street , ☏ +1 401 253-4500 . W-Sa 11:30-9PM ,Su 11:30AM-8PM . Only open seasonally, this restaurant is well known for serving some amazing seafood. There is indoor and outdoor dining with views of the Mt. Hope Bay. Plenty of options for children, so it can be a great place for the whole family.  

Dinner [ edit ]

• Cafe Central & Restaurant , 173 Bradford Street , ☏ +1 401 264-6164 . Tu-Th Su 11:30AM-9PM, F Sa 11:30AM-10PM . Small, quaint restaurant serving European style cuisine and specializing in Portuguese food. Great atmosphere with friendly knowledgeable waitstaff. Can get pricey.  
• DeWolf Tavern , 259 Thames St , ☏ +1 401 254-2005 . Reservations suggested. Located on the beautiful waterfront in downtown Bristol, this restaurant is the ideal spot to have a romantic dinner or a formal outing. It may be pricy, but once you set foot inside the restaurant you will see why. The restaurant is renovated stone house which gives guests a sophisticated, rustic feel. Expensive .  
• Roberto's , 450 Hope St , ☏ +1 401 254-9732 . Su-Th 5-9PM, F Sa 5-9:30PM . Italian. Reservations suggested.  
• SS Dion Restaurant , 520 Thames St , ☏ +1 401 253-2884 . M-Sa 5-9PM . $12-20 .  

Drink [ edit ]

• Aidan's Pub , 5 John St , ☏ +1 401-268-4957 . Serves indoors and outdoors. Guests are welcome to park on the street, but the restaurant/bar also has parking. After drinks, why not enjoy a stroll down to the water? The scenic waterfront view makes an ideal spot for romantics.  
• Judge Roy Bean , 1 State St , ☏ +1 401 253-7526 .  

Sleep [ edit ]

Bed and breakfasts [ edit ].

• Bradford-Dimond-Norris House , 474 Hope Street , ☏ +1 401 253-6338 . 4 rooms. On the parade route.  
• Bristol Harbor Inn at Thames Street Landing , 259 Thames Street , ☏ +1 401 254-1444 . Bristol Harbor Inn is on the waterfront in the heart of downtown Bristol at Thames Street Landing. The ideal spot to truly take in and be apart of all the festivities in historic downtown. Thames Street Landing's nine historic buildings now create a boardwalk of retail shops and pedestrian walkways. Nestled in heart of all the action of Bristol. Dewolf’s Tavern and restaurant are on the ground floor, with its exceptional dining experience shows at Harbor Point, nothing is too far. Amenities include a day spa, bike and kayak rentals.  
• Mt Hope Farm , 250 Metacom Avenue , ☏ +1 401-254-1745 , toll-free: +1-877-254-9300 . This elegant, old fashioned home has been around since the mid-1700s, and still holds its charm. It has housed a number of well-to-do members in its day, including former President George Washington. The home is situated on acres of open land and has views of the water. There are four rooms, each varying in price and setup depending on ones preference.  

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12 Best Things to Do in Bristol, Rhode Island

Last Updated By VacationIdea on April 13, 2024 in Rhode Island

Colt State Park

Route 114, Bristol, RI 02809, Phone: 401-253-7482

Blithewold, Bristol, Rhode Island

More ideas: Romantic Weekend Getaways in Rhode Island

Linden Place Mansion, Bristol, Rhode Island

More ideas: Rhode Island State Parks

Audubon Society Environmental Education Center

More ideas: Family-Friendly Things to Do in Rhode Island

The Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, Rhode Island

More ideas: Rhode Island Campgrounds

The Bristol Historical and Preservation Society, Bristol, RI

More ideas: Rhode Island Beaches

Leo's Ristorante, Bristol, Rhode Island

2016, 365 Hope St, Bristol, RI 02809, Phone: 401-253-9300

Jacky's Galaxie and Sushi Bar, Bristol, Rhode Island

383 Metacom Ave, Bristol, RI 02809, Phone: 401-253-8818

Bristol Art Museum

10 Wardell Street, Bristol, Rhode Island 02809, Phone: 401-253-4400

Things to Do in Bristol, Rhode Island: Mount Hope Farm

250 Metacom Avenue (Route 136), Bristol, Rhode Island 02809, Phone: 401-254-1745

The Herreshoff Marine Museum and America’s Cup Hall of Fame

1 Burnside Street, Bristol, Rhode Island 02809, Phone: 401-253-5000

Bristol Parks

In a town as gorgeous as Bristol, there is certainly no shortage of lovely parks to visit for a day out in the sun and to enjoy the best that Bristol’s gorgeous nature has to offer. The Parks and Recreation Department of the township manages most of Bristol’s parks, with tons of special events happening regularly such as fitness classes and similar mind and body programs. Some of the more popular parks in Bristol include the Colt State Park which is home to fantastic bay views, lovely trails, and an on-site museum, Independence Park, which has lots of flat space by the water. Certainly not to be missed is the Bristol Town Beach and Sports Complex, which is situated right by the entrance of Colt State Park.

• 1. Colt State Park
• 2. Blithewold, Bristol, Rhode Island
• 3. Linden Place Mansion, Bristol, Rhode Island
• 4. Audubon Society Environmental Education Center
• 5. The Coggeshall Farm Museum, Bristol, Rhode Island
• 6. The Bristol Historical and Preservation Society, Bristol, RI
• 7. Leo's Ristorante, Bristol, Rhode Island
• 8. Jacky's Galaxie and Sushi Bar, Bristol, Rhode Island
• 9. Bristol Art Museum
• 10. Things to Do in Bristol, Rhode Island: Mount Hope Farm
• 11. The Herreshoff Marine Museum and America’s Cup Hall of Fame
• 12. Bristol Parks

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bristol, rhode island

Created in 1685, Bristol embraces its three centuries of rich history which includes being the site of a landmark battle, as a sailing and shipbuilding hub, a critical Colonial Era port and all the while continuing to have the distinction of hosting the oldest, continuous Fourth of July Celebration in America.  

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• Colt State Park
• Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum
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• Linden Place Mansion
• Audubon Society Environmental Education Center
• Independence Park

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Herreshoff Marine Museum - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Thu - Sun 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• (0.03 mi) Enjoy the waterfront and sunsets from the deck overlooking Bristol Harbor!
• (0.25 mi) William's Grant Inn
• (0.22 mi) Historic Bristol walk to water, RWU, drive to Newport & Providence
• (0.31 mi) Perfectly situated charming home 2 blocks from the sea and downtown Bristol
• (0.55 mi) Bristol Harbor Inn
• (0.19 mi) The Lobster Pot
• (0.39 mi) Leo's Ristorante
• (0.41 mi) Pomodoro Pizzeria
• (0.46 mi) Aidan's Pub
• (0.47 mi) Bristol Oyster Bar

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Comprised of the towns of Bristol, Warren, and Barrington, the East Bay section of Rhode Island is quintessential New England. Bristol is best known for hosting the Annual Fourth of July Celebration which was established in 1785 and is the oldest continuous celebration in the United States.  It also features boutique-lined streets, beautiful coastlines, delicious dining, and splendid history. Colt State Park and the East Bay Bike Path are two swoon-worthy attractions that lure visitors and locals who want to pedal or play.

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There Are 3 Must-See Historic Landmarks In The Charming Town Of Bristol, Rhode Island

William Zawacki

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Pop quiz – which town in the United States has the oldest continuously celebrated Independence Day festivities? Yes, you and the title are right – it’s Bristol, Rhode Island! Which is just one of many fascinating historical facts about this charming waterfront town. The town is a deep water seaport named after Bristol, England with history dating back to 1620.

Today, the town is home to over 20,000 Bristolians and makes for a perfect destination for anyone looking to quench their history thirst. Here are three historical places we recommend you visit while in the area:

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The beauty of the town is that you can spend just one day and have enough time to fill it with historical visits. But, at the same time, you can spend an entire weekend and feel like it wasn’t long enough.

Have you ever visited Bristol, RI? What was your favorite piece of the town’s history?

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Bristol

Things to do in bristol, explore popular experiences, tours in and around bristol.

Rhode Island in a Day

Newport Gilded Age Mansions Trolley Tour with Breakers Admission

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• Colt State Park
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Best things to do in Rhode Island this week: April 12-19

This week: pizza week, smokey robinson, daffodil days, spring splash, and more.

The sun peeped out this week, and if you’ve got spring fever, I’ve got the cure: this week’s lineup. I’ve rounded up the coolest times in Rhody for you, neighbor: from Wu-Tang to pizza week, Beatles hits to school vacation week ideas, ocean plunges and pyres of fire. We ride.

AFTERNOON TEA

Get your “Downton Abbey” on at Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum in Bristol April 12. Don your hats and gloves for tea, scones with sweet cream, and more. Tickets include admission to the mansion and grounds, so take a post-tea stroll. $55. 11 a.m. 101 Ferry Road, Bristol. Details here .

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I repeat: GZA in PVD. Aaaand we lost the Wu-Tang fans. They’re all standing in line at The Strand. April 13, doors 9 p.m. 18+. GA from $35; four-pack floor tickets $100. 79 Washington St., Providence. Details here .

TRACKS OF MY TEARS

… No, I’m not crying, just singing Smokey Robinson hits ahead of his show in PVD this week. The 84-year-old multiple Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, among other honors, brings his hits to PPAC April 13. He told the Globe concert-goers “can expect a party… a two-and-a-half-hour party where we will sing some songs and enjoy ourselves.” Tickets from $49.50. 220 Weybosset St. Details here .

HUG A BABY GOAT

That’s not tongue-in-cheek word play. I mean literally go outside and cuddle a baby goat. Simmons Organic Farm in Middletown offers baby goat cuddles April 13. 1942 West Main Road, Middletown. $13. Register and details here .

Not the depressing kind. The Beatles kind. Sing along to all the hits with “RAIN: A Tribute to the Beatles” at PPAC, April 14 at 7 p.m. Tickets from $42. Details here .

Hands up: Who here likes pizza? One, two, three… so everybody. Grab a slice (or three) during Providence Pizza Week, running April 14 to 20 in and outside PVD. Creative pies galore. Examples: Antonio’s Pizza by the Slice on Thayer and Wickenden offers the truffle-loaded tater tot — truffle parmesan aioli, scallions bacon, truffle oil, and cheddar cheese. PVD’s 2023 James Beard semifinalist Pizza Marvin cooks up a “Big Dipper” — spinach, baby artichokes, fontina, mascarpone. Trinity Brewhouse offers “The Dirty Bird” — fried chicken, jalapeños and hot honey — while Trattoria Appia soothes a sweet tooth: “Nutella Pizza” — brick-fired oven pizza with Nutella, strawberry and whipped cream. Vote for your fave. Details here .

SCHOOL VACATION FIELD TRIPS

This is school vacation week, but, breathe, parents, Rhody has plenty of kid fun happening. This could, of course, be an entire article on its own — but a few highlights:

FARM FUN: Bristol’s Coggeshall Farm Museum opens April 13. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m, kids and grown-ups can celebrate Opening Day with live demonstrations and conversations with farm historians; meeting farm animals including chicks, piglets, and sheep; and trying a hand at “traditional farm activities,” plus crafts, games and the like. Adults $10, ages 4-17 $5, under 4 is free. 1 Colt Drive, Bristol. Details here .

BIRDS ON THE BRAIN: The Audubon Society of Rhode Island offers a jam-packed week for “April School Vacation Week with Audubon” at six locations: Bristol, Coventry, Exeter, Smithfield, North Smithfield, as well as Seekonk, Mass.

For example, on April 15 in Bristol, cheer on Turtle Races: “Learn how they survive winter in the wild and watch them race across the finish line. Vote for your favorite competitor and see who is the fastest,” according to billing. (Free with admission. 1401 Hope St.) Meanwhile, on April 19, in North Smithfield, kids 10 and up experience a “Froggy Night at Fort Wildlife Refuge.” Young hikers will “listen to the calls of spring peepers and wood frogs found in the forested wetlands of Fort Wildlife Refuge” and may see deer, and hear owls. BYO flashlight. ($14 adult, $7 child. 1443 Providence Pike. Details here. ) For more information on these and dozens more events this week, see here .

MAD SCIENCE: The Providence Children’s Museum, geared toward kids ages 1 to 11, hosts school-age fun: “Mad Science: Fire & Ice” April 15 at 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m, while on April 17 it’s “Hug-a-Bunny,” a “snuggly afternoon” from 2-4 p.m. 100 South St., Providence. Details here .

SPRING SPLASH

With temps in the high 50s expected on Sunday, Westerly has renamed their ocean dunk: it isn’t so much a Penguin Plunge as it is a “Spring Splash.” Westerly’s WARM Center , an adult shelter, and WARM Welcome House of Peace Dale host the “Spring Splash” at The Windjammer April 14 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Plunge at noon. $25. 321 Atlantic Ave. Prizes for highest fundraising team and individual. Details here and here .

GETTIN’ DAFFY WITH IT

Each April, Newport goes daffy, as they expect the blooming of nearly 1.5 million daffodils. The 13th Annual Newport Daffodil Days runs through the end of the month. One daffy highlight this week: “Daffy Fun at Miantonomi Park” April 14 from noon to 3 p.m. Some 38,000 daffodils are blooming at the park, according to event billing, and the day is packed:

• A “daffy bike decorating contest and parade along Bike Newport’s new Traffic Garden, with prizes for the daffiest bikes.”
• “Daffy Dust-Up.” (Score free commemorative white tees and “get blasted with daffy colors as you dash through the daffy maze,” according to billing.
• Bring your appetite for a “daffy, yellow merengue pie slam-down.”
• Plus music, storytelling, food trucks, snap-your-own pics in daffodils and more. Free. North end of Miantonomi Park off Hillside Avenue. Details here and here .

FIRST WATERFIRE OF THE SEASON

This is not a drill, people. WaterFire, an official sign of spring in Rhode Island, blooms April 18. Expect a partial lighting. The 12 braziers in the Providence River alongside Memorial Park light at 7:30 and burn until 9:30 p.m. WaterFire Providence hosts a “community partner fundraiser, encouraging Rhode Islanders to explore Providence’s renowned restaurants, bars, and shops. Visitors have the opportunity to generate extra support for WaterFire by visiting any of the participating WaterFire Day businesses, which donate 10 percent of sales on April 18 to WaterFire Providence, according to WaterFire. Details here .

GALLERY NIGHT

Like WaterFire, Gallery Night is part of what makes PVD the Creative Capital. On April 18 — WaterFire’s opening night — you can also hop on a trolley to see galleries, museums and other creative hot-spots with one of five free guided tours, or visit the “ Make Your Own Tour ” page and go it on your own. Details here.

Until next week, Rhody: Keep rockin.’

Lauren Daley can be reached at [email protected] . Follow her on Twitter @laurendaley1 .

First American Woman to Sail Solo, Nonstop Around the World to Speak at RWU on May 15

Cole Brauer will share her historic journey in the Global Solo Challenge and experiences as a collegiate and professional sailor

BRISTOL, R.I. – After sailing 30,000 miles and spending 130 days alone at sea, Cole Brauer made history on March 7, 2024, as the first American woman to race solo nonstop around the world – a feat that fewer than 200 people have accomplished. As part of that journey, the 29-year-old professional sailor from Long Island finished second place in the Global Solo Challenge, one of the world’s most extreme sporting events, which she began last October in Spain.

Brauer’s travels will bring her to Roger Williams University on Wednesday, May 15, to speak about her exceptional journey, including the triumphs and challenges of more than four months at sea. A former member of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s varsity sailing team, Brauer will share her experiences as both a collegiate and professional sailor as well as her insights for current and aspiring sailors. The presentation will take place at 6:30 p.m. in the university’s Recreation Center Gymnasium on the Bristol campus, 1 Old Ferry Road. A Q&A portion will follow Brauer’s talk.

“Roger Williams University is delighted to host Cole Brauer, whose perseverance and passion for sailing is an inspiration for our exceptional student-athletes, especially our nationally ranked sailing team,” said RWU President Ioannis Miaoulis. “Cole’s story of pursuing her dreams and soaring to success will make for a remarkable evening.” 

At the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, Brauer was a member of three national championship-qualifying teams and was a two-time Intercollegiate Sailing Association Academic All-American Team member. The sailing team’s top scholar-athlete in 2016, she was also named the 2017 Jack Bonham Award winner, the most prestigious award in UH athletics, according to the university. 

As part of the Global Solo Challenge, Brauer was the only woman in the fleet of 16 sailors who competed in the inaugural edition of the race. She raced in her 40-foot sailboat, First Light , past Africa, Australia, and South America, prevailing over tumultuous weather, freezing water, a rib injury, and dehydration, to finish in Spain.

Brauer’s talk is open to the public. Tickets are $30 for general admission, $10 for RWU faculty and staff with ID, and free for RWU students with ID. Ticket sales will benefit the RWU sailing team and Cole’s future sailing endeavors.

For group prices for high school sailing teams, coaches should email Amanda Callahan at [email protected] . 

To purchase tickets, visit https://bit.ly/cole-brauer .

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