Rhode Island may be a small state, but we certainly have a lot of history. Since 2000, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has published its Dozen Distinctive Destinations and RI has had four locations cited – Westerly, Newport, Providence and Bristol. Some states have never had an entry. And there are those who wonder why we like to live here. The program recognizes cities and towns that offer an authentic visitor experience by combining dynamic downtowns, cultural diversity, attractive architecture, cultural landscapes and a strong commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization. In each community, residents have joined together and taken action to protect their town’s character. 
Our latest entry, Bristol, was described as "a quintessential New England waterfront town." And they later stated "[w]ith its unwavering commitment to preservation, Bristol continues to maintain the picture-perfect charm of a historic port town." But then again, we knew that. Bristol is a great location for art boutiques, museums, cafes, parks, and a fantastic tree lined main street. The character of the town has continually grown from its beginnings in 1680 as part of the Plymouth Colony and then as a town in Massachusetts, and finally becoming a town in RI in 1747. Sitting near the top of Narragansett Bay, the town folks have always held a love for the sea and that seaport tradition continues today, albeit, slightly more recreational. [Editors note - July 8, 2010]: I just heard this morning on the radio and read on EastbayRI.com that Family Circle magazine gave Bristol a rank in the top 10 towns to live in 2010.
Our latest entry, Bristol, was described as "a quintessential New England waterfront town." And they later stated "[w]ith its unwavering commitment to preservation, Bristol continues to maintain the picture-perfect charm of a historic port town." But then again, we knew that. Bristol is a great location for art boutiques, museums, cafes, parks, and a fantastic tree lined main street. The character of the town has continually grown from its beginnings in 1680 as part of the Plymouth Colony and then as a town in Massachusetts, and finally becoming a town in RI in 1747. Sitting near the top of Narragansett Bay, the town folks have always held a love for the sea and that seaport tradition continues today, albeit, slightly more recreational. [Editors note - July 8, 2010]: I just heard this morning on the radio and read on EastbayRI.com that Family Circle magazine gave Bristol a rank in the top 10 towns to live in 2010.
