Bristol
Vibrant. Dynamic. Historic.
Bristol, Vermont
Bristol is a mountain town in Vermont’s Champlain Valley region, surrounded by Green Mountain National Forest. Discover one of Vermont’s best-known family-friendly swimming holes, close access to outdoor recreation right from Main Street, and a walkable downtown with a people-powered art scene and seasonal local dining.
Featured Attractions
Bristol’s bucolic setting among thousands of acres of preserved public land, waterfalls, and parks offers lots of opportunities to get outside. Downtown, art galleries and local shops inspire.
Bristol Eagle Park
Eagle Park is home to one of the first riverside Universal Fishing Platforms in Vermont, making fishing more accessible.
Read More about Bristol Eagle ParkRead MoreVermont Marketplace
This general store in the heart of downtown Bristol offers local products from many producers and a quintessential shopping experience.
Read More about Vermont MarketplaceRead MoreBristol Trail Network
Multiple segments of trail add up to about three miles of recreation immediately adjacent to the village, with access to the New Haven River and amazing views to the south and west.
Read More about Bristol Trail NetworkRead MoreGreen Mountain National Forest
Almost 400,000 acres of public land offering recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and hunting, including Bristol Cliffs Wilderness, characterized by beautiful and dramatic cliffs.
Read More about Green Mountain National ForestRead MoreArt on Main
This community-supported nonprofit gallery displays, exhibits, and sells the work of local artists.
Read More about Art on MainRead More
Attraction Spotlight
Bristol Falls
The New Haven River carves a lively path through the forest near downtown Bristol. With a 14-foot waterfall leading into a deep swimming hole, shallow places perfect for wading in the river, and even a rope swing and a cave to explore, Bristol Falls are a great destination for a refreshing dip in the summer. With plenty of scenic beauty all around and some invigorating hiking, there’s lots else to do, too.
Event Spotlight
Bristol Harvest Festival
More than 65 craft vendors and exhibitors enliven the town green, along with kids activities, food trucks, and live music in late September.
Things to Do in Bristol, Vermont
Learn more about what Bristol has to offer in this downtown guide.
Read more about Things to Do in Bristol, VermontStart Planning
The Vermont Vacation Directory
See the Vermont Vacation Directory to search by category, services, and resources for more of what Bristol offers visitors. Here’s a sampling:
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Transportation Options
For Bristol
Local Transportation
- Taxi Service and/or Rideshare: Middlebury Taxi, Uber
- Bus services: Tri-Valley Transit
Discover More
Find local guides and trip planning resources from Bristol’s downtown organization.
Visit Bristol CORE about Discover More
Meet the neighbors
The Champlain Valley Region
Explore the nearby towns, farms, mountain passes, and, of course, Lake Champlain.
