From Wikitravel

Bristol Bristol, Rhode Island is a quintessential New England waterfront town. It is situated on a peninsula surrounded by Narragensett and Mount Hope Bays. It is part of the East Bay communities along with Warren and Barrington, RI. This coastal community has a rich 325 year history and hosts the oldest, continuous 4th of July celebration in the United States. The town is plentiful with many year round recreational activities and a spectacular waterfront that provides beautiful views as well as 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.

[edit] Get in

[edit] By car

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.

[edit] By air

• T.F. Green Airport (PVD)[1] in Warwick offers many low cost and regular flights from many cities in the United States.

• Boston's Logan Airport (BOS), [2] is much larger and is generally used for most international flights.

[edit] By bus

• R.I.P.T.A., Phone: +1 401-781-9400, [3]. Services across all of Rhode Island. Bus #60 connects Providence to Newport. It passes through Bristol every hour with several stops along Route 114.

Ocean State Adventure, 99 Poppasquash Rd, ☎ (401) 254-4000, [4]. Wed- Sun 10-6. Ocean State Adventures offers a vast array of outdoor needs. The store sells everything for your paddling needs. Rentals, tours, classes and camps are all services offered by OSA for the best views of the Ocean's States coastlines.  edit

[edit] Get around

[edit][add listing] See

• Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, 101 Ferry Road, ☎ +1 401-253-2707, [5]. 10AM-5PM. An excellent piece of historic Bristol. An English-Style mansion of 45 rooms, with 33 acres of lawns and vividly colorful gardens host to an impressive collection of flowers from around the world. However, it can be incredibly uncomfortable and hot walking around the gardens in the middle of the summer. $10, children under 15: free.  edit

• Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology, ☎ +1 401-253-8388 (fax: +1 401-253-1198), [6]. Hitherto the Haffenreffer museum has been located within Bristol, displaying a collection of various cultural artifacts from the Americas, Africa and Oceania. However, due to mold and other reasons, the museum is turning its Bristol site into storage and has relocated its exhibition in Manning Hall on the Brown University campus, in Providence.  edit

• Herreshoff Marine Museum, 1 Burnside Street, ☎ +1 401-253-6222 (fax: +1 401-253-6222), [7]. May-Oct 10AM-5PM. Yachting museum and America's Cup Hall of Fame. Dockage space is available at the Museum pier, reservations are recommended. $8 Adult, $7 Senior, $2 Student, free under 12.  edit

• Mt. Hope Bridge. Mt. Hope Bridge was completed in 1920. It was built and owned by the Heffenreffer family. The family had plans to build and operate a horse race track across Mt. Hope Bay. The bridge was built in order for residents from Bristol to get to the racetrack, however they ran out of funds by the time the bridge was done being built.  edit

[edit][add listing] Do

Bristol is host to many events and celebrations, particularly in and around the 4th of July.

• Boating.  edit

Bristol is a great place to enjoy all the beauty of Narragansett Bay and Mount Hope Bay. The town is perfectly situated 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 listings in the Buy section for rental shops.

• Colt State Park, Hope St., RIparks Rt 114, Bristol, RI

(401) 253-7482 Admission: Free Open year round Sunrise to sunset Office Hours 8am-4pm Facility rentals available Trash policy: no cans on premise; you pick and carry Services / Features Children's Activities, Grill, Picnic Area, Restroom, Public Beach, Wildlife Refuge, Nature Center, Alcohol Prohibited, Pets Allowed, Saltwater Fishing, Fishing Pier, Roller-skating, Cross-Country Skiing, Bike Trail, Bird Watching Trail, Hiking Trail, Horseback Riding, Jogging Trail, Off-Road Trail Colt State Park is a 464 acre, nature lovers paradise. No matter the season, there is always something here to enjoy. The park's many amenities provide plenty of activities for everyone in the family. Whether relaxing by the bay, fishing on the dock or hiking on one of the many trails, no two trips to the park will ever have to be the same. The park is the perfect place to hold family and friend functions in the picnic areas or in the main house, once owned by the Rockwells. Weddings are also available on premises for a nominal fee. Inquire at the office for pricing and availability.

• East Bay Bike Path, RIparks

Open year round Sunrise to sunset No motor vehicles allowed No snow removal on path Dogs permitted on leash Obey path traffic pattern: Bikers on the right; walkers on left.

Colt Experience some of the diverse natural beauty that this corner of the Ocean State has to offer. A scenic 14.5-mile path traversing the communities of Providence, East Providence, Warren, & Barrington, begins right here in Bristol. The serene journey starts at Independence Park and continues along the northeast shore of Narragansett Bay. The path provides spectacular waterfront views, access to several state parks, coastal marshes & ponds. It is a 10' wide, asphalt-paved path. The well maintained trail is suitable for bikers, walkers and in-line skaters. The old, converted railroad system provides us with not only plenty of exercise, but practical connections to travel to other towns within the area without the hassle of driving. Downtown shops and restaurants are steps from the path, as well as access to the Audubon Society. The bike path has received national acclaim for its ease and appearance; considered one of the most enjoyable rides throughout New England. Expansion projects are still the works that will continue the trail and connect with the Blackstone Trail in the northern part of the state.

[edit] The Fourth of July Parade and Festivities

Bristol’s parade has been annually running since 1785. The parade annually begins on July 4th 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.

Bristol is a town that is very proud of their American Spirit. Like stated, this is one of the oldest Fourth of July Parades in the entire country. If you decide to travel to Bristol during the beginning of the summer, you will witness Bristolians decorating their houses in red, white and blue (especially if their house is located on the parade route!)Their enthusiastic patriotism is evident all year round, but it really shines during the months leading up to July. Fourth of July fireworks either occur one day prior to the parade or one day after. The fireworks can be seen along the Bristol Waterfront, but if you simply take a stroll the downtown area at night, you can be sure to catch a glimpse of the fireworks. Street Parking is available on the streets of Downtown Bristol and it is conveniently free. Bristolians know of this parking convenience, and know to head downtown at least a good hour prior to the firework show. It is recommended that you do this same for parking can become tricky downtown. Once the firework show is complete, don’t expect leaving to be easy. It can get pretty crowded and streets may become closed , so patience is advised.

You must bring your own seating. The parade is always well-attended, do not wait too long to set up your seating arrangements, but do so no earlier than 5AM, otherwise your chairs, towels, and/or coolers will be confiscated. Plenty of parking is available downtown, apart from strict parking bans which go into effect for Hope Street and surrounding streets the night before. It helps to know someone in town, a friendly driveway is a great convenience when the parade is over and people rush to their cars and make crowded parking lots your painfully slow exit.

You can bring your own food and drink as well as 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.

The parade itself 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 march and play in the parade wearing their colors and twirling their flags. Bristol’s own Mt. Hope High School marching band performs along the route. Various floats from different organizations drive the parade route as well. Among other marchers found walking the parade route would be Rhode Island political figures and Elmo. The parade is also rife with historical and patriotic reverences to our Revolution as well as our men and women in uniform.

The parade, as well as other Fourth of July activities have their own website[8] for further information.

[edit][add listing] Buy

• The Bead House, 11 Constitution Street, ☎ (401)253-1188, [9]. Tues-Sat 11 to 6 Sunday 12 to 5 Closed Mondays. The Bead House sells beads, jewelry and metal art in a full service store located in a restored Victorian home in Historic Downtown Bristol.  edit
• The Toy Shop, 450 Hope Street, ☎ (401) 253-8982. M-F 9:30 to 5:30, Sat 10 to 5, Sun 10 to 4. A classic toy store located in the heart of Bristol's downtown shopping district. Offers a large selection of quality toys for all ages. Voted Best Toy Store by Rhode Island Monthly magazine.  edit
• Just Ducky, 34B Gooding Plaza, ☎ (401) 253-6335. Tues, - Sat. 10 to 5. Popular children's consignment store. Carries only top quality, gently worn children's clothing for all occasions.  edit
• Jackie's Loft, 448 Thames Street, ☎ (401)254-4251. Retail, women's clothing and accessories  edit
• Striper Moon, 11 State Street, ☎ (401) 253-5499, [10]. Tues. - Sat. 11 to 6, Sun. 12-5. Men's and Women's clothing and accessory store with island and nautical style.  edit
• Leg Up Bowtique and Barkery, 54 State Street, ☎ (401)254-9600. Tues- Sun. 12 to 5. A friendly pet store and bakery specializing in fun and unique dog toys, treats, clothing and accessories.  edit
• Northwind Sports, Thames Street Landing, ☎ (401) 2544295, [11].  edit Northwind Sports is a gear shop for water sports. Clothing, equipment and rentals are available. Bike rentals are also on premises.
• Ocean State Adventure, 99 Poppasquash Rd, ☎ (401) 254-4000, [12].  editWed- Sun 10-6. Ocean State Adventures offers a vast array of outdoor needs. The store sells everything for your paddling needs. Rentals, tours, classes and camps are all services offered by OSA for the best views of the Ocean's States coastlines.

[edit][add listing] Eat

• Bristol House of Pizza, 55 State St, ☎ +1 401-253-2550, [13]. M-Sa 5PM-9PM. Don't let the name food you. This place doesn't just serve pizza. They also 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.  edit

• Classic Pizza, 390 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. If you had a long day at work and don't have the energy to go to the restaurant, don't worry...they deliver.  edit

• Daily Scoop, The, 446 Thames St, ☎ +1 401-253-2223, [14]. This ice cream shop on the waterfront of downtown Bristol. They don't only serve ice cream. They serve smoothies as well as milkshakes. Need an ice cream cake for your kid's party? They have that too * DeWolf Tavern, 259 Thames St, ☎ +1 401-254-2005, [15]. 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.  edit expensive.  edit

• Hope Diner, 742 Hope St, ☎ +1 401-253-1759. Small location, it can be easy to overlook if you're not familiar with the downtown area. Look for the little white building near the gas station. Serves good food despite its awkward location. expensive.  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 to choose from that don't include raw fish.  edit

• Kam Shing Restaurant, 16 Gooding Ave, ☎ +1 401-254-1012. Asian-style lunch buffet Inexpensive.  edit

• Lobster Pot, 119 Hope St, ☎ +1 401-253-9100. Lunch, dinner. Casual. Reservations suggested. $12-$20.  edit

• Papa Joe's Wrap Shack, 567 Hope St, ☎ +1 401-253-9911, [16]. Su-Tu 11:30AM-9PM, W-Sa 11:30AM-10PM. Pizza and wraps. Small and limited seating arrangement. Inexpensive.  edit

• Persimmon, 31 State St, ☎ +1 401-254-7474, [17].  edit

• Pizzawave, 400 Metacom Av, ☎ +1 401-253-8811, [18]. M-Sa 5PM-9PM. Pizza, pasta, steak, seafood. Located behind a Blockbuster, not necessarily visible from the road at a glance.  edit

• Redlefsen's Rotisserie and Grill, 444 Thames St, ☎ +1 401-254-1188, [19].  edit

• 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 located on Gooding Avenue. 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.  edit

• Roberto's, 301 Hope St, ☎ +1 401-254-9732, [20]. Su-Th 5PM-9PM, F-Sa 5PM-9:30PM. Italian. Reservations suggested.  edit

• SS Dion Restaurant, 520 Thames St, ☎ +1 401-253-2884, [21]. M-Sa 5PM-9PM. $12-$20.  edit

• Tweet Balzano's Family Restaurant, 180 Mt. Hope Ave, ☎ +1 401-253-9811, [22]. Lunch and dinner - Italian. $8-$12.  edit

• Zelia’s Diner, 20 Gooding Ave, ☎ +1 401-253-4041. Breakfast and lunch.  edit

• The Sunset Cafe, 499 Hope St, ☎ 401 253-1910. A family owned restaurant right in downtown Bristol serving breakfast and lunch. They offer Portuguese specialties such as chourico. Friendly and quaint atmosphere.  edit

[edit][add listing] Drink

• Aidan's Pub, 11 John St., Phone: +1 401-254-1375. Newly renovated this past year and now serves both indoors as well as 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., Phone: +1 401-253-7526.

• Elbow Room, 29 State St., Phone: +1 401-253-5916. Casual dining and drinks are served with a waterfront view in downtown Bristol.

• Gillary's, 198 Thames St., Phone: +1 401-253-2012. Some folks actually now call this tavern "Gillary's Tavern Niteclub" The reason for this change of name? Well, not only are drinks served, but the bar also has special events every so often. For example, Sunday nights are sometimes "Acoustic Nights" that feature special acoustic artists. Other nights have special prices on foods such as 25 cent wings. Weekends there are dance parties and Tribute bands that cover the classic hits from your favorite artists. Definitley a fun spot, but not recomended for young children.

• J.G. Goff's, 251 Thames St., Phone: +1 401-253-4523.

[edit][add listing] Sleep

[edit] Hotels and Motels

[edit] Bed and Breakfasts

• Bradford-Dimond-Norris House, 474 Hope Street, Phone: +1 401-253-6338, [23]. 4 rooms. On the parade route.

• Bristol Harbor Inn at Thames Street Landing, 259 Thames Street, Phone: +1 401-254-1444, [24] Bristol Harbor Inn is located 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.
• Hearth House, 736 Hope Street, Phone: +1 401-253-1404, [25]. 3 unique rooms.

• Rockwell House Inn, 610 Hope Street, Phone: +1 401-253-0040, [26]. 4 rooms. On the parade route. Tea or sherry in the afternoon.

• Point Pleasant Inn, 333Poppasquash Road,(401) 254-0627,(800) 503-0627 Set across the harbor, along prestigious Poppasquash, Point Pleasant Inn offers European style vacationing with opulent, yet friendly, accommodations. This 33 room converted mansion located on prime harbor view property provides ample hospitality for visitors.

[edit] Get out

This is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow!