Bristol
Bristol is a borough in Bucks County, Pennsylvania – 23 miles (37 km) northeast of Center City Philadelphia. The former county seat of Bucks County – Bristol is full of historic buildings and locations just waiting to be discovered. From an old movie house turned into a professional theater to a variety of ethnic festivals that celebrate everyone’s unique heritage and everything in between, Bristol is bustling with exciting activity.
How to Get There
Bristol is a stop on the Trenton Line. You can also get there on the Route 129 and Route 128.
Things to Do
If you love the water, Bristol is the place to be! Two large floating docks with 32 boatslips and a fishing area opened in 2017 near the iconic Bristol Wharf area.
The Bristol Cultural & Historical Foundation is tasked with preserving the rich, exciting antiquities of this history laden town. Walk Bristol’s Radcliffe and Mill Streets to see some still-standing historic, and restored town houses.
Bristol’s Mill Street is lined with unique shops and boutiques – including fantastic antique stores, a one-stop-shop for skaters and scooters, and a hobby shop specializing in all scales and gauges of model trains.
Stop by the Centre for the Arts to view amazing artistic work by local and regional artists. This vibrant and unique art gallery also offers a gift shop, studio room and reception space.
Visit the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum, where you’ll get a look at the interior of one of these beautiful town houses that is so pristine, you’ll think your stepping back in time. It is specifically modeled in the Queen-Anne style that combines modern conveniences and the technological innovations of the day along with a nostalgic styling that recalled an earlier, less industrial time.
Relax by the Delaware River while you read through generations of local and international books at the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library. You’ll learn more about the history and culture of Bristol, the Grundy family genealogy and your other interests as you peruse the eclectic collection at this vast library.
Located just a short walk from the library in the heart of the town is Bristol Riverside Theatre. The quaint theatre has a large stage capable of big shows, and provides a cultural hub for the community with enthralling children’s theatre, toe-tapping musicals and wonderful special events. There’s always something awe-inspiring on-stage here.
Also located on the Delaware River is the King George II Inn with five dining rooms, a historic tavern and an outdoor riverfront patio – it is a staple of the Bristol community.
Feeling thirsty? Enjoy a twist on a traditional tasting at Broken Goblet Brewing, where the goal is to change how you experience craft beers. Take the time to slow down and appreciate the good things in life at Calm Waters Coffee Roasters, a coffee shop and specialty coffee roaster.
Make an appointment to find out how rye whiskey is made in person at Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Rye Whiskey distillery! Enjoy an up-close view of the aging and distillation process, topped off with a whiskey tasting and an opportunity to buy the products direct from the distillery.
Hungry? Bristol boasts spots famous for their Italian hoagies, pizza, pancakes, and burgers!
Looking for outdoor adventure? Explore 4.5 miles of trails through various habitats at Silver Lake Nature Center. Don’t forget about the gift shop, hands on exhibit or amphitheater!
