Pennsylvania's rich history and beautiful landscape make it the perfect destination for explorers of all ages. But, if you really have to whittle your time down to the best places to visit, you'll definitely want to add the oldest town in Pennsylvania to the top of the list. Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, there are plenty of things to do in Bristol, PA.
Buckingham Township first emerged in 1681. The quaint town a little over 20 miles from Philadelphia officially changed its name to Bristol in 1702 but wasn't incorporated until 1720.
Technically, Pennsylvania only has one legal town: Bloomsburg. However, that doesn't stop Pennsylvanians from the term town for boroughs and villages.
Snuggled against the Delaware River, Bristol is directly across from Burlington, New Jersey.
Wrapped in history, Bristol takes visitors to a simpler time in Pennsylvania. A self-guided walking tour will take you past 910 Radcliffe Street, the oldest home in Bristol, and...
Here is 200 Mill Street, a charming building constructed in 1781.
Stop by King George II Inn for a delightful meal and a hearty dose of history. The inn was founded in 1681, the same year the town itself was founded, and is, according to local lore, a hotspot for the paranormal.
Dine at the King George II Inn at 102 Radcliffe St, Bristol, PA 19007.
Bristol's outdoors provides plenty for visitors to see and to do. Stop by Bristol Wharf, overlooking the Delaware River, for a scheduled concert or event, for a leisurely stroll, or...
Simply to enjoy the view from the gazebo.
Bristol is also home to a Harriet Tubman statue in Basin Park. Visit the statue to learn more about Tubman's role in the Underground Railroad and as a solider and a nurse.
Find the Harriet Tubman Statue at 150 Basin Park, Bristol, PA 19007.
Embark on a free tour of the Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum, dedicated to the Grundy family of Bristol. Joseph Grundy, born in in 1863, served as a U.S. Senator for a year. Joseph named his Victorian home after his sister.
Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Museum is 610 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA 19007. Call the museum at 215-788-9432.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will want to spend a few hours at Silver Lake Nature Center, featuring hands-on exhibits, a kids' play area, and nearly five miles of hiking trails.
Silver Lake Nature Center is located at 1306 Bath Rd, Bristol, PA 19007.
Experience the culture of Bristol by taking in a performance at Bristol Riverside Theatre, which dates back to 1986.
Find the Bristol Riverside Theatre at 120 Radcliffe Street, Bristol, PA 19007.
No matter what you do or what streets you roam while in Bristol, one of the most historic towns in Pennsylvania, you're likely to hear history's soft whispers, giving you insight into the past.
Bristol, the oldest town in Pennsylvania, is definitely worthy of at least one visit by every Pennsylvanian. Technically, however, there's only one legal town in the state, and you'll also want to add it to your bucket list.
If you plan on spending the night in Bristol, PA when you visit, book a stay at the highly-rated Lily Inn!
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