With a Farmers Market, Weekly Music, and Seasonal Festival, There’s Nothing Like a Summer Weekend in This Connecticut Town

Ah, summer in Connecticut. Is there a better season? If you ask me, I think not! The weather is warm, the beaches are ripe for exploration, and it's the perfect time for a weekend getaway. Choosing where to go for a few days can be difficult, though. We have so many great cities and towns just waiting to be enjoyed. One of the best places to check out on a summer weekend is the town of Bristol. This suburb of Hartford has so much to do, and this is the perfect season to bask in all the fun Bristol has to offer.

Bristol is one of the largest suburbs surrounding the capital city, but there are still plenty of green spaces and beauty to enjoy. This includes the stunning stonework of St. Joseph Church, located in downtown Bristol. Originally built out of wood in 1855, it was eventually replaced with granite in 1925 and remains a city landmark. This is a must-visit location when in Bristol, CT, this summer.

Summertime also means baseball season, and the Bristol Blues are always in style. This collegiate team plays in the New England Collegiate Baseball League. You can check out a schedule of games and get more information from the Bristol Blues website. Tickets only cost $6, or purchase a season pass for $100 for adults and $30 for kids.

Did you know the oldest amusement park in America is in Connecticut? Lake Compounce opened up in 1846 and has been continuously operating ever since. This is one of Connecticut's most popular summer destinations, and it's easy to see why! With thrill rides, kiddie rides, and a water park all included in the price of admission, it's an unbeatable family day trip in Bristol.

Looking for something a bit more low-key? Bristol's Rockwell Park has a splash pad, playground, volleyball courts, basketball courts, hiking trails, and more. You can see all of the park's amenities on the Bristol Parks, Recreation, Youth, and Community Services website. A great time to visit in the summer is during the free Rockwell Summer Festival hosted by the West End Association of Bristol. This family-friendly event features more than 150 vendors.

The two-acre Federal Hill Green is another great green space in Bristol. This area frequently hosts concerts, festivals, and other events. There's also a playground, a ball field, a gazebo, and benches for your comfort and convenience.

If you need any other reason to come to Bristol this summer, the farmers' market is a particularly delicious summer tradition in Bristol. Fruits and veggies from around the region are available for purchase at this event, and there will be live music. The Connecticut Tourism Office has all the information you need about this year's farmers' market schedule.

Are you planning on spending a summer weekend in Bristol, Connecticut, this year? What are your plans for the summer in Connecticut? Check out the Bristol All Heart website for more information about all things Bristol, CT.