Bristol does not stand out much at first glance from the towns stretching between Providence and Newport, but the birthplace of the Independence Day parade will surprise you. Known as the "most patriotic town in America," Bristol plays host to the oldest continuous Fourth of July celebration in the nation.
A small, quiet town of 22,000 people, Bristol has more to offer than a post office and a bank. With over three dozen restaurants, two grocery and various convenient stores, you can't go hungry.
Other things to see in Bristol are the museums and historic mansions. You may want to explore the bayside estate with its variety of gardens and over 2000 trees and shrubs at Blithewold Mansion.
Linden Place Mansion, the centerpiece for the historic town of Bristol has sculptured-filled gardens to visit. Herreshoff Marine Museum, "America's Cup Hall of Fame," displays more than fifty classic sailing and power yachts built from 1859 to 1945, steam engines, fittings, photographs and memorabilia. The America's Cup Hall of Fame is a tribute to the 154 year tradition of the world's most distinguished international competition.
Bristol also has one of Rhode Island's finest state parks, Colt State Park. Opened year round, Colt State Park is best known as a place for holding picnics, weddings or any social activity. Colt State Park is the best place to spend an afternoon or evening reading, swimming, tanning, walking or jogging while enjoying its peaceful environment and glamorous seaside view.
You can get to Bristol on the RWU shuttle or on bus 60.
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