Hotels in Bristol, Connecticut

A little about Bristol...

Bristol is situated in Central Connecticut, twenty miles south-west of Hartford with easy access to all major highways. It is a wonderfully diverse and family friendly community that offers a wide range of historical, entertainment and dining opportunities.

Bristol is the eleventh largest city in Connecticut and is primarily known as the home of ESPN, whose central studios are in the town. Bristol's nickname is Mum City because it was once a leader in chrysanthemum production. The city is also home to Lake Compounce, the oldest continuously operated amusement park in North America, and to both the New England Carousel Museum and the American Clock and Watch Museum. The name of the local daily newspaper is the Bristol Press. It is also home to The Tattoo teen newspaper, one of the first online newspapers.

The American Clock & Watch Museum features a vast collection of timepieces dating from the oldest 1690 lantern clock to the fascinating nineteenth century animated varieties. Open April - November, many of the clocks are continuously running and chiming.

Bristol has one of the largest number of structures of any town in Connecticut listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is also home to Lake Compounce Family Theme Park, which is the oldest continuously operating
amusement park in the United States, featuring over 20 exciting rides.

The magic of a bygone era and magnificent carousel figures will enthrall your family during a visit to The New England Carousel Museum.

The Lock Museum of America is located in neighboring Plymouth. It is the oldest museum which details the development of locks, both simple and ornate, dating from the 1500s.

Reminisce about days of the past at the home of the Greater Bristol Historical Society, or at the Burlington Tavern Day, an annual re-enactment of life in the Colonial period.

The Military Museum, in the Bristol Armory, is a tribute to the Bristol men and women who served this nation and who, upon occasion, were called upon to make the ultimate sacrifice.

Known nationwide for its annual Chrysanthemum Festival and Parade held in September, The Witch's Dungeon Classic Horror Museum which has attracted thousands, the Bartlett Giamatti Regional Little League Center, and the Great Teddy Bear Jamboree in October. Muzzy Field, located on the outskirts of the city's scenic Rockwell Park, hosts many collegiate tournaments and sporting events. The Barnes Nature Center and the glacial formations in the Hoppers at Birge Pond are also unique Bristol attractions.