Bristol, which claims to be the most patriotic town in America, may very well be so. The first 4th of July celebration was held there, in 1785! This fervor continues today in the three-week Celebration which culminates in the gala Parade on Independence Day which is watched by over 200,000 enthusiastic people.
Throughout Bristol's existance, sailing and shipbuilding have played an important role in life since the 17th century. This tradition continues today, with some of the best commercial and recreational boat manufacturers in the world located in Bristol. Bristol also is home to Herreshoff Marine Museum.
Bristol is located in Bristol County, of which it is the county seat, 12 miles southeast of Providence between Island Park and Warren along Highway 114 near Colt State Park and Roger Williams College. Bristol is port and longtime center for boatbuilding.
Bristol is part of the Providence-Fall River-Warwick metro area.
