Bristol Travel Guide

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Located in the picturesque Maine region of the United States, Bristol is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural attractions. Situated on the scenic Pemaquid Peninsula, this coastal town is known for its stunning landscapes, historic lighthouses, and vibrant arts scene.

One of the must-see attractions in Bristol is the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, which stands proudly on the rugged coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can explore the museum located in the keeper's house and learn about the history of the lighthouse and its significance in maritime navigation.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Bristol is a paradise for nature lovers. The area is home to several beautiful beaches, including Pemaquid Beach and Shaw's Fish and Lobster Wharf, where visitors can relax, swim, and enjoy fresh seafood.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the town's rich heritage, which can be explored at the Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site. This fascinating site features a reconstructed fort and museum that offer insight into the early colonial history of the region.

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Bristol also boasts a thriving arts community. Visitors can explore local art galleries, attend live performances at the Bristol Consolidated School, and shop for unique handmade crafts at the town's artisan shops.

For a taste of local cuisine, visitors can indulge in fresh seafood at one of the town's many seafood restaurants, or sample delicious homemade treats at the local bakeries and cafes.

Alternative names: Population: 2.7 thous.Area: 78.23 mi²Elevation: 164 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 43°56'50"N, 69°30'34"W

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MaineUnited States

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Bristol Top Attractions

Bristol Attractions - What to See and Explore

Bristol offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Pemaquid Point Light, Pemaquid Beach, Arch Bridge. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Pemaquid Point Light
Perched on the rocky coastline of Bristol, Maine, the Pemaquid Point Light stands as a testament to New England's maritime heritage. This iconic lighthouse, with its classic white-brick facade and black lantern room, has been guiding sailors since its establishment in...
43°52'16"N • 69°31'10"W
Pemaquid Beach
Beach
Bridge
Arch Bridge
The Arch Bridge is a historic stone arch bridge, carrying Benner Road over the Pemaquid River near the village of Bristol Mills in Bristol, Maine.

Day trips

Bristol – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Bristol, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Lost Valley Ski Area (Lewiston), Bates College Museum of Art (Lewiston), Maine Maritime Museum (Bath).

40 milesW
Winter sport, Outdoor activities, Park
Lost Valley Ski Area, Lewiston
Nestled between the rolling hills of Auburn, Maine, the Lost Valley Ski Area stands as a winter haven for ski enthusiasts and families looking for a snowy retreat. Established as a local hub for winter sports, this ski area offers a variety of slopes to accommodate...
36 milesW
Museum, Art museum
Bates College Museum of Art, Lewiston
The Bates College Museum of Art is an art museum located on the campus of, and maintained by, Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. It holds various mediums of arts that showcase Maine and the greater American area. The museum's collection offers an overview of modern and contemporary art.
16 milesW
Specialty museum, History museum, Maritime museum
Maine Maritime Museum, Bath
Maine Maritime Museum, formerly the Bath Marine Museum, offers some exhibits about Maine's maritime heritage, culture and the role Maine has played in regional and global maritime activities.
13 milesE
Specialty museum, Museum, Lighthouse
Marshall Point Light, Port Clyde
Marshall Point Light Station is a lighthouse at the entrance of Port Clyde Harbor in Port Clyde, Maine. The light station was established in 1832.
31 milesNW
Civic center, Convention center, Sport venue
Augusta Civic Center, Augusta
The Augusta Civic Center is a convention center located in Augusta, Maine. It has a total of 49,000 square feet and 26 rooms. The main room is 32,000 sq ft.