Bristol Rhode Island's 250th Celebration in 2026

Before the Boston Tea Party, there was the Gaspee Affair—right here in Rhode Island!

Join us in Bristol for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration marking 250 years of American history, culture, and community. This milestone anniversary invites locals and visitors alike to honor our past, celebrate our present, and look ahead together.

Learn More

Christmas in Bristol this weekend! ✨
If you’re looking for cozy, festive, small-town magic — Bristol, RI is the move. Here are a few holiday highlights you won’t want to miss:

🎁 Bristol Grand Illumination
📍 Town of Bristol
📅 Saturday, December 6 at 5:00 PM
Kick off the season with lights, music, and that classic Bristol charm.

🎄 Bristol Christmas Festival
📍 Unity Park, Wood St.
📅 Saturday, December 6 – Sunday, December 7
Local vendors, holiday treats, community events, and festive family fun.

🛍️ State Street Holiday Fair
**Vendors will set up INSIDE the Maritime Center**
📍 Bristol Merchants Association
📅 Saturday, December 6 from 10–4
Perfect for shopping small and supporting local makers.

🎅 Bristol Santa House
📍 High Street
A must-see stop for holiday photos and memory-making.

Save this if you’re planning holiday weekend adventures + share with someone who loves Christmas in Rhode Island. ✨

#ChristmasInBristol #BristolRI #RhodeIslandChristmas #HolidayEventsRI #NewEnglandChristmas #SmallTownMagic #ShopSmallRI #FestiveThingsToDo #WeekendGuide #ExploreBristol 🎁🌟

Bristol is buzzing this weekend — here’s your guide to all the cozy, creative, and music-filled moments happening around town! 🍂🎶🎨
Save this for your weekend plans ⤵️

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21
• Bristol Art Museum – Oil & Acrylic Painting with Bill McLane (1–3 PM)
• Vigilant Brewing – No Joke Smoke BBQ + Music Bingo (5–9 PM)
• Tragmar Ale Works – Live Music with Ricky Alexander (6–9 PM)
• Pivotal Brewing – Jimbo Harris Grateful Dead Acoustic Duo (6:30–9:30 PM)
• The Lobster Pot – Live Music

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 + SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23
• Mount Hope Farm – Farmers Market (now indoors!) – Sat 9–12:30
• Bristol Garden Club – Pumpkin Centerpiece Sale – Sat 9–12:30
• Rogers Free Library – Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Etiquette Class – Sat 10–11
• Coggeshall Farm – A New England Thanksgiving – Sat 10–4
• O’Brien & Brough – Thanksgiving Cocktail Class – Sat 1–3
• Bristol Santa’s House Opens – Sat 4–7:30 (230 High St)
• Vigilant Brewing – Cookie Chow, The Perky Turkey + Cat N Jimmy – Sat 5–9
• Pivotal Brewing – The Lost and Found – Sat 6–9
• Blithewold – Cozy Autumn Fires & Treats – Sat/Sun 2–3
• Blithewold – Magical Holiday Nights (Tues–Sun, 11–7 PM)

✨ Where will you be exploring this weekend?

📸 @k___elizabeth

#bristolri #theclassiccoast #rhodeisland #401love #explorebristolri

✨ Taste your way through Bristol! ✨
Newport Restaurant Week returns November 7–16, and we’re serving up the Bristol edition of this delicious tradition. From cozy cafés to waterfront favorites, each local restaurant offers its own unique prix-fixe menu — with lunch ($20 or $30) and dinner ($30, $45, or $60) options.

🍴 No reservations required (but encouraged!) — perfect for a spontaneous night out or a well-planned foodie adventure.

It’s the perfect excuse to explore Bristol, discover new favorites, and savor the local flavor that makes our coastal town so special. 🌊

📅 Save this post and start planning your culinary tour of Bristol during #NewportRestaurantWeek!

#ExploreBristolRI #NewportRestaurantWeek #BristolRI #RhodeIslandEats #theclassiccoast #DiscoverBristol #401love

✨ What’s Happening This Week in Bristol! ✨
There’s no shortage of creativity (or costumes 👻) around town this week — from watercolor sunsets to spooky sweets and live music all weekend long! Here’s your local lineup 👇

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30
🎨 Bristol Art Museum — Watercolors for Beginners & Up with Lana Quann (10:00–1:00)
📸 Bristol Art Museum — Photography: An Introduction with Shane Gutierrez (6:30–9:00)
🍫 Vigilant Brewing — Halloween Brownie Decorating with Sarcastic Sweets! (6:00–8:00)
🎭 Linden Place — Sanderson Sisters Spellbinding Spectacular Musical Comedy (7:00–8:30)

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31
🎶 Pivotal Brewing — Uncle John’s Band (6:00–9:00)
🎃 Vigilant Brewing — Halloween Bash! Music Bingo, Costume Contests + California Taco Shop (5:00–9:00)
😂 The Kinsmen Tavern — Comedy Open Mic Night (6:30)
🎸 The Lobster Pot — Live Music: Diesel (8:00)

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
🌾 Mount Hope Farm — Farmers Market (9:00–12:30)
🛍 Linden Place — Autumn Artisan Market (10:00–3:00)
🔥 Blithewold — Cozy Autumn Fires & Tasty Treats (2:00–3:00)
🎶 Pivotal Brewing — Eddy’s Shoe (6:30–9:30)

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2
🎨 Bristol Art Museum — Drop-In Sundays! (1:00–3:00)
🖼 Bristol Art Museum — CONFLUENCE Artists’ Reception (2:00–4:00)

🍂 Get out, explore, and support local art, music, and makers this week!

📸 @k___elizabeth

#ExploreBristol #BristolRI #DiscoverBristol #CoastalRhodeIsland #RhodeIslandEvents #BristolWeekend

Main Street turns spooktacular this Sunday! 🎃👻 Bring your best costume and stroll the Bristol Merchants Association Halloween Walkabout — candy, smiles, and small-town magic from 1–3 PM! 💛 #explorebristol #HalloweenFun #bristolri

@flatbed_fiction has been spotted at the @market_mhf @mounthopefarm Vintage market ! Come down to find some book or shop the many other great vendors! The market is open from 9am to 3pm October 18th

#bristolri #theclassiccoast #rhodeisland #401love #bookish #farmersmarkets

Fall weekend plans = sorted 🍁
From cozy fairs to festive brews, Bristol’s got something for everyone this weekend!

✨ October 18–19 Highlights:
🍂 @mounthopefarm — Fall Vintage & Artisan Fair
🌻 @blithewold_ri — Free Community Homecoming Day + Fall Wedding Expo
🦉 Audubon Society — Happy Owl-oween
🍺 @pivotalbrewingcompany — Fall Fest
🎃 @coggeshall_farm_museum — Coggeshall Halloween

Whether you’re hunting for local art, sipping seasonal beer, or saying hi to a few friendly farm animals, this weekend is packed with fall fun in Bristol, RI!

📍Save this for your weekend plans + tag a friend who loves autumn adventures!

#ExploreBristolRI #DiscoverBristol #FallInRhodeIsland #BristolRI #FallFestivals #NewEnglandFall #FamilyFunRI #RIEvents #WeekendInBristol #RhodeIslandEvents

If this Nor’easter has you dreaming of cozy nights and holiday lights… same. 😉❄️
Get into the spirit early at the Holiday Preview 2025 on Friday, November 21 (5–9 PM)!
Hop on the trolley, explore downtown Bristol, and celebrate the season with our amazing local shops and restaurants.

#ExploreBristolRI #BristolHolidayPreview #BristolEvents #RhodeIslandLife #ShopLocalRI #DowntownBristol #HolidayMagic

Rainy mornings are made for cozy stops in Bristol, Rhode Island — especially at @folklore_provisions ☕️✨ Warm up with their pumpkin pie latte and one of their fresh-baked pastries (trust us, you’ll want to try them all). This local coffee shop blends small-town charm with big flavor — the perfect Bristol café to start your day. 🌧️🥐

#ExploreBristol #BristolRI #RhodeIslandCoffee #BristolRhodeIsland #FolkloreProvisions #RhodeIslandEats #PumpkinSpiceLatte #LocalBakery #NewEnglandCafes #CoastalNewEngland

There’s just something about a September afternoon by the water in Bristol! ✨🌊

#explorebristolri #bristolri #rhodeisland #mynewengland #401love #clpicks #theclassiccoast #heyrhody

Bristol is buzzing this weekend! From vinyl nights and farmers markets to chocolate history, St. Patrick’s celebrations, and live music on High Street—there’s something for everyone. 🌟

📍 Mark your calendars:
✨ Sept 12 – @obrienandbrough (Vinyl in the Tasting Room)
✨ Sept 13 – @market_mhf , @coggeshall_farm_museum Farm, @tragmar.ale.works
✨ Sept 14 – @bristol_porchfest 🎶

Which one are you heading to? 💭👇

#BristolRI #RhodeIslandEvents #WeekendPlans #ExploreRI

🎺✨ Your guide to @bristol_porchfest ✨🎶

Bristol PorchFest is back this Sunday! Get ready as High Street transforms into a stage-lined block party with live music on porches, lawns, and stoops. From swing bands to jazz, indie to folk, there’s something for everyone — plus the limited-edition PorchFest Groove beer available at @pivotalbrewingcompany 🍻.

🗓 Sunday, Sept. 14
📍 High Street & nearby spots in Bristol
🎶 Music kicks off at 3 PM

Which porch will we see you at first? 👇

📸📸: @bristol_porchfest @pivotalbrewingcompany

#BristolRI #PorchFest #RhodeIslandEvents #CoastalRhodeIsland #theclassiccoast #401love

If you find yourself wandering down Church Street in Bristol (between Hope & High), you might come upon something unexpected… an advice column posted right on the side of a house. 💌

#bristolri #theclassicoast #rhodeisland #mynewengland #explorebristolri #401love

✨ What’s happening in Bristol this week (Sept 3–11):
• 🚗 Car Show @ The Beach – Sept 3
• 🌸 Designing with Dahlias @ Mount Hope Farm – Sept 4
• 🎶 Sunset Concert @ The Beach – Sept 5
• 🍻 Birds & Brew + Live Music @ Tragmar – Sept 5–6
• 🥕 Farmers Market @ Mount Hope Farm – Sept 6
• 🦅 Audubon Raptor Weekend – Sept 6–7
• 📚 BHPS Book Club + Lecture – Sept 6
• 🌽 Johnnycake Day @ Coggeshall Farm – Sept 6
• 🎨 Acrylic Painting @ Bristol Art Museum – Sept 8
• 📸 Composition in Art & Photo – Sept 10
• 🌍 Great Decisions @ Rogers Free Library – Sept 11
• 📰 Bosworth Lecture: Mark Patinkin – Sept 11
• 🎷 Summer Concert: The Catnip Junkies – Sept 11

👉 Save this & plan your week in Bristol!

✨ What’s on deck in Bristol this weekend? Let’s go!

⚓ Aug 22–23: Black Ships Festival (all day!)
⛵ Aug 22–24: Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta presented by Bristol Marine
🎶 Aug 23: State Street Festival (10–4)
🚶 Aug 23: Hidden in Plain Sight Walking Tour (10–11:30)
🌊 Aug 24: Middle Passage Port Marker Dedication & Unveiling (3 PM)

📍Mark your calendars, bring your crew, and explore Bristol like a local this weekend! 💙

#ExploreBristolRI #BristolRI #theclassiccoast

Snapshots from Harbor Fest this weekend hosted by @bristol_maritimecenter

📸: @nickfortunamedia

#ExploreBristol #EatShopStayLocal #RhodeIsland #bristolri #401love #theclassiccoast

We are so back. 🙌
The Mount Hope Bridge is OPEN—which means Bristol is easier than ever to get to! Come stroll our historic streets, enjoy coastal dining, and soak up the charm that makes this little town so special. 🌊✨

See you soon in Bristol 💙

#bristolri #rhodeisland #explorebristolri

Snaps from tonight’s 4th Annual Community Night Out

#ExploreBristol #EatShopStayLocal #RhodeIsland #bristolri #401love #theclassiccoast

UPDATE: The bridge has reopened

🚧✨Friendly Reminder 🚧✨

The Mt. Hope Bridge will be closed Aug 14 at 7 PM – Aug 18 at 5 AM, but that just means it’s the perfect excuse to explore Bristol in new ways! 🛶🚲☀️

🚢 Hop on the ferry from Providence or Newport
🚴 Rent a bike + cruise the East Bay Bike Path
🍦 Stroll the waterfront & discover local gems
🛍️ Eat, shop, and stay local!

Bristol’s charm is waiting—you just have to take the scenic route to get here. 💙

📸: @captured.by.marc

#ExploreBristol #EatShopStayLocal #RhodeIsland #bristolri #401love #theclassiccoast

🌞✨ WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS in Bristol! ✨🌞
From vintage treasures to live music and outdoor adventures, here’s your guide to making the most of August 8–10 in Bristol ⬇️
📅 Friday, August 8
• 🎶 Bay Swing @borealiscoffee – 7:00–9:00 PM
• 🍀 Irish Trad Music Session at @tragmar.ale.works – 7:00 PM
• 🎤 Comedy Open Mic Night at Kinsmen Tavern – 8:30 PM

📅 Saturday, August 9
• 🛍 Flea & Fair at @bristolri_historical_society – 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

• 🎶 Los Burros at @thenest.ri – 8:30–11:30 PM
• 🎨 Music and Arts on the Farm at @coggeshall_farm_museum – all day

📅 Sunday, August 10
• 🚗 8th Annual Cruise-In For A Cause Charity Car Show at @mounthopefarm – 10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Which event are you hitting first? 👀
#ExploreBristolRI #BristolRI #WeekendEventsRI #DiscoverBristol #EastBayRI #CoastalNewEngland

If you want, I can also give you a shorter, snappier “Stories” version that’s more graphic-friendly so Explore Bristol can post it to Instagram Stories without overwhelming text.

From waterfront strolls to hidden lookout spots, there’s nothing like catching a summer sunset in town.

We stayed out just long enough to watch the sky turn from gold to blush—worth every second. 💛💫

📍Tell us: Where’s your favorite spot to watch the sunset?
👇

#ExploreBristolRI #rhodeisland #GoldenHourGoals #BristolRI #bristolri #SunsetSpots #EveningVibes #NewEnglandViews

✨Mark your calendars for @artnightbw this Thursday , July 31st from 5:30–8:30 PM! 🎨🎶 Join us for an evening of art, music, performance, and community in the heart of Bristol, RI.

Explore local galleries, studios, and creative spaces with stops including:
🖼️ @pivotalbrewingcompany
💎 @kendall.a.reiss
💆‍♀️ @alaynewhite
🖌️ @plumb_gallery
🎨 @grahamgalleryri
🏛️ @bristolartmuseum
🏠 @lindenplace
🍦 @graysbristol
📚 @rogersfreelibrary
🧵 @hotpointemporium
📜 @bristolri_historical_society
🏡 @remaxriversedgeri

Whether you’re here for the art, the music, or just good vibes with neighbors, there’s something for everyone. See you there! 💫

#ExploreBristolRI #ArtNightBristolWarren #BristolRI #401love #RhodeIslandEvents #BristolHappenings #ArtLovers #SupportLocal #CommunityVibes #BristolWarrenArts #theclassiccoast

Bristol has plenty to celebrate this week!
The @rimonthly Best of Rhode Island Awards have recognized a number of local favorites:
• @bristolsunsetcafe – Best Breakfast & Coffee Shop
• @basilandbunny – Best Vegan/Vegetarian Restaurant
• @pomodorobristol – Best Italian Restaurant
• @qhali_kitchen – Best Latin Restaurant
• @piospizzeria – Best Pizza
• @riccottis_sandwich_shop – Best Sandwich Shop/Deli
• @beau_menswear – Best Men’s Boutique
• @hairexpertsbristol – Best Hair Salon
• @justduckybristol – Best Consignment Store
• @wickedawesomepetcarespa – Best Pet Salon/Boutique
• Bristol Animal Shelter – Best Animal Shelter/Rescue
• @alaynewhite – Best Facial
• @tragmar.ale.works – Best Irish Red Ale
• @bristolsantahouse – Best Santa Experience
. @jules_icecream -Best Ice Cream

✨ We’re proud to celebrate these winners, but every Bristol business—big or small—adds something special to our town. It’s the perfect time to explore, dine, shop, and show local love. Congrats, Bristol!

📋For a complete list of winners check out Rhode Island Monthly!

#BristolRI #BestofRI #ShopLocal #EatLocal #401love #rhodeisland

Golden hour hits different at Colt State Park 🌅✨
Roll the windows down, let the breeze in, and take the scenic route—there’s no better way to wind down than a sunset drive along the water. 🚗💛

Tag someone who needs a moment like this. #ExploreBristolRI #GoldenHourDrive #ColtStatePark #CoastalRhodeIsland #SunsetVibes #theclassiccoast #rhodeisland

🍦✨ It’s National Ice Cream Day and we’re serving up the sweetest way to celebrate—by supporting our local scoop spots right here in Bristol! The only question is… where are YOU getting your cone today? 👀👇

🍨 @jules_icecream – 446 Thames Street
🍦 @graysbristol – 467 Hope Street
🍭 Sugar Shack at @thebeachhouseri – 805 Hope Street

Tag your ice cream crew, grab your favorite flavor, and let’s make this the most delicious day of the summer. #ExploreBristol #NationalIceCreamDay #BristolRI #SweetSpots #rhodeisland

🚤💙 No boat? No problem! The @seastreak is your ticket to breezy bay views and the coastal charm of BRISTOL, RI — no captain’s license required 😉

Whether you’re hopping from Providence, Newport, or just want a scenic cruise around the bay, this is one of the dreamiest ways to explore Rhode Island’s coastline. ✨

🛳️ Docks right at 127 Thames Street (in front of the Maritime Center)
📅 Running seasonally from June 20 – October 13, 2025
🎟️ 2025 tickets are officially LIVE — don’t wait!

Come for the views, stay for the lobster rolls, ice cream strolls, and coastal vibes. 🌊🕶️

#ExploreBristolRI #SeastreakFerry #RhodeIslandVibes #CoastalGetaway #BristolByBoat #OceanStateViews #NewEnglandSummer

🎆 Two Days of Red, White & Blue Fun in Bristol! 🇺🇸🎉

Get ready for the most exciting 48 hours of the summer—July 3rd & 4th in Bristol, Rhode Island! Whether you’re a local or visiting for the holiday, we’ve got the ultimate celebration waiting for you. Here’s everything you need to know for two unforgettable days of small-town charm, big-time fun, and the most patriotic vibes in the country. 💥🇺🇸

🎇 July 3rd – Fireworks Over the Harbor

Start your night in true Bristol fashion:

🕘 9:30 PM – Our spectacular fireworks display lights up the sky over Bristol Harbor.

🛍️ Make it an evening! Head downtown early to:
• Shop your way through our local boutiques
• Grab a table at one of our cozy coastal restaurants
• Stroll through our historic, flag-lined streets

The energy downtown is magical on the 3rd—come feel it for yourself!

🎉 July 4th – America’s Oldest Fourth of July Parade

It’s the day we’ve all been waiting for…

🕥 10:30 AM – The iconic Bristol Fourth of July Parade kicks off! The parade steps off at Chestnut Street & Hope Street (Rt. 114) and winds its way through town, ending on High Street.

📍IMPORTANT INFO:
• Road Closures: Chestnut, Naomi & Sherry Ave close at 7:00 AM
• Hope Street (Rt. 114) and Poppasquash Road close at 8:00 AM
• Parking bans go into effect the night before—plan accordingly!

❤️ Bands, local pride, and star-spangled everything—it’s the kind of celebration that reminds you why we love this town.

Whether you’re coming for the booming fireworks or the history-making parade, these two days in Bristol are pure Americana at its best. 🇺🇸✨

Follow us @ExploreBristolRI for live updates, parking info, and behind-the-scenes moments all weekend long. Let’s make it a 4th to remember! ❤️🤍💙

#ExploreBristolRI #Bristol4th #FireworksAndParade #rhodeisland #401love #theclassiccoast #mynewengland

🎡🎆 BRISTOL CARNIVAL TIME! 🎆🎡
You’re not going to want to miss this 🎟️🇺🇸

📍 Bristol Town Common
📅 June 20 – July 3
🕔 5:00–10:00 p.m.
📅 July 4
🕛 12–6 p.m.

🎢 RIDE TICKET PRICES
🎟️ $1.50 per ticket
🎟️ 25 tickets for $25
🎟️ 40 tickets for $40
🎡 Rides take 3–5 tickets each
💥 $40 UNLIMITED ride wristbands = all the fun you can handle

🍿 Carnival eats, 🎠 classic rides, and all the 🎇 red, white & blue vibes!
✨ Tag your ride crew and meet us at the Common!

#BristolRI #FourthOfJulyCarnival #NewEnglandSummer #FamilyFun #BristolFourth #theclassiccoast #401love

🎉 Big news from the bay! 🎉
Bristol Harbor has officially been named the #2 Harbor in the U.S. by @us_harbors — and we couldn’t be prouder! 🛥️⚓️

From historic charm and stunning sunsets to the friendliest dockside vibes around, Bristol Harbor is a true gem on the New England coast. Come see for yourself why we’re making waves! 🌊💙

#ExploreBristolRI #BristolHarbor #TopHarborUSA #USHarbors #CoastalCharm #401love #theclassiccoast

🎆 BIG NEWS 🎆
Bristol’s beloved Fourth of July celebration—the oldest in the nation—was just featured in @travelandleisure! 🇺🇸✨

We’re beyond proud to see our historic, patriotic little town in the spotlight. From our red, white & blue-striped Main Street to the generations-old traditions that bring the community together year after year, there’s no place like Bristol on the Fourth. ❤️🤍💙

📰 Check out the article for all the reasons our Independence Day celebration is one for the bucket list—then come experience the magic for yourself! Parade day is almost here… 🎺🎉

📍Link in story

#ExploreBristolRI #FourthOfJuly #BristolRI #BristolParade #tlpicks #rhodeisland #theclassiccoast #OldestFourthInTheUSA

🎉 WEEKEND PLANS = SORTED! 🎶🌞
There’s so much happening in Bristol, RI this weekend—whether you’re dancing at Blithewold’s Summer Solstice Soiree, exploring maritime history at the Herreshoff Open House, or grooving to live music at the Lobster Pot 🎷🌊🍹

🎡 PLUS—the Bristol Carnival is kicking off at the Town Common! Bring on the rides, games, and cotton candy vibes! 🍭✨

📍Mark your calendar for:
✨ Friday, June 20 – Bare Bones Big Band at Blithewold @blithewold_ri
✨ Saturday, June 21 – Farmers Market, history talks, open houses & live tunes all around town

Your perfect coastal weekend awaits—let’s go Explore Bristol RI! 💛
#ExploreBristolRI #BristolRI #WeekendVibes #CoastalRhodeIsland #theclassiccoast

🎉 WEEKEND PLANS = officially handled 🙌
Here’s what’s happening in Bristol this weekend ⬇️

• 🇵🇹 Portuguese Feast at St. Elizabeth’s Church
🍽 Food, music & culture from Fri–Sun!
🕖 Fri 7–11pm | Sat 6–11pm | Sun 1:30–9pm
📍Come hungry, leave dancing 💃

• 🛍️ State Street Artisan Festival – INDEPENDENCE PARK edition! @bristolmerchantsassociation
🖼 Local art, handmade finds & coastal charm
🗓️ Saturday, June 14 | ⏰ 10am–4pm
🌊 Browsing with a breeze? Yes please.

• 🦪 Pro Oyster Tasting Workshop @qhali_kitchen
🔪 Learn + taste like a pro
🗓 Sunday, June 15 | ⏰ 11am–2pm
📍Little Rhody, Big Flavor vibes only

• 🎶 Father’s Day Concert @ @blithewold_ri
🎤 Live music with the DMB Project
🗓 Sunday, June 15 | ⏰ 6–8pm
@

📲 Save this reel + tag your weekend crew!
Let’s make it a good one 💛

#RhodeIslandEvents #WeekendInRI #heyrhodyphotos #401love #RIthingsToDo #bristolri
#theclassiccoast #rhodeisland

It’s time to vote for your favorite harbor! @us_harbors Annual Best Harbor Contest is here, and we need YOUR vote to crown Bristol the top US Harbor! Show your support by voting (One vote per person) Check out the link to vote!
https://www.usharbors.com/best-harbor-vote/

📸: @k___elizabeth

#bristolri #theclassiccoast #rhodeisland #usharbors #explorebristolri #mynewengland #clpicks

Easing into the week at Colt State Park

#bristolri #theclassiccoast #rhodeisland #explorebristolri #mynewengland #clpicks

Big news!! 🎉 One of the most charming small towns in all of America? Yep, we’re on the list! 💫✨ @hgtv named us one of the 50 Most Charming Small Towns in the USA and we couldn’t agree more. 🏡💛 From coastal views to cozy cafés, historic charm to hidden gems — this place is pure magic.

Tag your favorite local spot below + Stay up to date on all things Bristol by signing up for the Bristol Blast (Link in Bio) 😉👇

📸: @k___elizabeth

#SmallTownBigCharm #hgtv #bristolri #rhodeisland #mynewengland

🌞 Bristol in June: Save the Dates!
Mark your calendars—here’s what’s happening around town this month! 👇

📚 June 4
• Authors Unplugged @ @rogersfreelibrary
2–3 PM | “Extinctopedia” talk with Smithsonian scientists

🍻 June 7
• Brews & BBQ @ @tragmar.ale.works
12–8 PM | Craft beer + barbecue = perfect Saturday

• Vintage Market @ @market_mhf
9 AM–1 PM | Also happening June 8!

🌽 Every Saturday
• Farmers Market @ @market_mhf
9 AM–12:30 PM | Local produce, flowers, and more!

🎨 June 14
• Cocktail Class @ @obrienandbrough
Time TBD | Learn to shake it like a pro

• State Street Fair @ Independence Park
All-day fun by the water 🎡

⚾ June 21
• Vintage Baseball
Starts at 11 AM | Old-timey uniforms + classic vibes

🍳 June 29
• Boozy Pajamas Brunch @ @vigilantbrewing
10 AM–3 PM | Come hungry, stay cozy 🥂

🎶 Music at Sunset @ @blithewold_ri
| Garden concerts worth watching for 🌅

—

Which one are you most excited for?
#BristolRI #JuneInBristol #CoastalEvents #RIEvents #LocalHappenings #401love #theclassiccoast

Whether you’re biking, strolling, or just soaking in the views—there’s something extra magical about this path in late spring. The light hits just right, the breeze is coastal perfection, and every turn is a postcard moment. 🌾✨

It’s the perfect time of year for a walk—you just need your go-to walking buddy.
👟 Tag them below and make a plan!

#ExploreBristolRI #EastBayBikePath #GoldenHourWalks #BristolRI #WalkingSeason
#theclassiccoast #rhodeisland #mynewengland #401love #heyrhodyphotos

Today we honor the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. 🇺🇸

#memorialdayweekend #bristolri #theclassiccoast #rhodeisland #mynewengland #401love #heyrhodyphotos

@explorebristolri Bristol is usually about Bristol but if you have a chance to head over to Fort Adams to witness Boots on the Ground - it is worth your time for the sacrifice of our fallen military and the ripple effect their loss has had on our country- families, friends. Don’t miss it - Sunday + Monday- Memorial Day - more than a barbecue. @bootsontheground__ 🙏🙏🙏🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 @discovernewport

Whether you’re a fried clam fan or a raw bar regular, here’s your unofficial guide to waterfront dining this Memorial Day Weekend:

1. @lobsterpotri
A classic with a front-row seat to Narragansett Bay. It’s hard to beat their lobster roll and martini combo with sailboats drifting by.

2. @quitos_restaurant
A Bristol institution. Order the clam cakes, sip something cold, and watch the boats bob in the harbor. Come for the seafood, stay for the view (and the occasional live music).

3. @thebeachhouseri
Casual coastal vibes with serious flavor. Perfect for post-beach bites, laid-back lunches, or sunset cocktails. Bonus points if you snag an outdoor table.

4. @thameswaterside_ri
Where the energy is lively, the menu is stacked, and the vibe is pure summer. (Pro tip: go during golden hour for peak patio magic.)

Honorable Mention: @bristoloysterbarri
Technically not on the water—but the oysters are ice-cold, the cocktails are on point, and the patio is chef’s kiss. It’s the perfect pre- or post-waterfront stop. 📸 : @k___elizabeth

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#CoastalCharm #BristolRI #MemorialDayWeekend #WaterfrontDining #401love #theclassiccoast #heyrhodyphotos #EatLocalRI

Brush up on your creativity this summer in Bristol with @bristolartmuseum

From colorful teacups to coastal sunsets, our local artists are bringing inspiring workshops to town—from watercolor and acrylics to cyanotypes and self-portraiture. Whether you’re a beginner or brushing off your skills, there’s something magical waiting for you.

Upcoming classes include:
• Drawing with Kendra Ferreira
• Watercolor with Lana Quann
• Acrylic & oil with Bill McLane + Kathy Thomas
• Cyanotypes with Kim Arthurs
• Portraits with Suzanne O’Shea

Tap into your artistic side this season!
Find full details , schedules + registration info at @bristolartmuseum

#ExploreBristolRI #BristolRI #ArtInBristol #SummerWorkshops #CreativeRhodeIsland #LocalArtists #theclassiccoast #401love

Bristol in print!
This month’s @thebay_mag is serving up a full plate of Bristol highlights—from JooHee Yoon’s dreamy Birds of Rhode Island illustrations (launched with Audubon!) to landscape architect Joseph James’ graphic novel designed to inspire the next generation.

Plus, there’s a nod to the burgers at @portside.tavern (yes, they’re that good), and a stunning shot of the bay reminding us why we love living here.

Swipe through for a peek at the pages—and grab a copy to see it all in print!

#BristolRI #TheBayMagazine #clpicks #LocalFlavor #mynewengland #PortsideTavern #RIArtists #theclassiccoast

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Set Sail, Savor and Stroll
in Bristol, Rhode Island

Discover the charm of Bristol, RI—a scenic New England waterfront town just 30 minutes from Providence and Newport. Enjoy harbor views, delicious dining, unique shops, and seven museums. Whether you're up for adventure or a relaxing stroll, Bristol offers the perfect escape. Let Explore Bristol RI guide you - plan your next unforgettable visit now!

Getting to Bristol

7 Engaging Things to Do in Bristol RI: Where Thanksgiving Began

Malerie Yolen-Cohen,

Getaway Mavens

"Many small American towns may boast that they bleed Red, White and Blue, but the little coastal town of Bristol RI really does. At least on its main street, where the center line isn’t white or double yellow, but striped in the colors of the American Flag."

Small Town,

Big Charm!

Explore Bristol and find out why BIG charm comes in a small package!

Experience the heart of Bristol:

Wander through local museums and historic streets
Shop one-of-a-kind boutiques and markets
Take a cultural workshop or walking tour
Dine on fresh, locally-sourced cuisine
Bike the scenic 14-mile East Bay Bike Path
Kayak or sail along our beautiful harbor
Catch live music and celebrate like a local

Ready to experience all that our coastal town has to offer? Start planning your trip today!

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Bristol Rhode Island's 250th Celebration in 2026

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Submit it to our community calendar and newsletter to spread to work to locals and visitors alike.