Bristol Harbor Inn

For those searching for "Hotels Near Of Me" in the charming coastal town of Bristol, Rhode Island, the Bristol Harbor Inn presents itself as a conveniently located option with undeniable waterfront appeal. Situated at 259 Thames St, Bristol, RI 02809, USA, this inn offers guests direct access to the scenic harbor and the vibrant heart of historic downtown Bristol. You can contact the hotel by phone at (401) 254-1444 or mobile phone at +1 401-254-1444.

The Bristol Harbor Inn's most significant asset is its prime waterfront location on Thames Street, directly overlooking Bristol Harbor and Narragansett Bay. This idyllic setting allows many of the hotel's 44 guestrooms and suites to offer breathtaking views of the water, dotted with sailboats and offering spectacular sunsets. The inn is nestled in the heart of historic downtown Bristol, a town renowned for its quintessential New England charm, rich maritime history, and vibrant community.

The immediate environment is a walkable paradise, providing guests with effortless access to:

• Numerous boutique shops, art galleries, and antique stores.
• A diverse array of local restaurants, cafes, and waterfront pubs.
• The East Bay Bike Path, which runs adjacent to the property, offering miles of scenic cycling and walking opportunities.
• Historic sites and museums, including the America's Cup Hall of Fame, which is within walking distance.
• Colt State Park and Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum, both just a short drive away, offering magnificent landscapes and historical experiences.

The ambiance of Bristol itself is often described as charming and quaint, providing a more relaxed alternative to the bustling streets of Newport, yet still rich in history and beauty. The inn's location makes it an ideal base for exploring Bristol's unique attractions and enjoying its coastal lifestyle.

The Bristol Harbor Inn aims to provide a comfortable and convenient stay, with a focus on its prime location and essential amenities.

• Guest Rooms and Suites: The inn features 44 guest rooms and suites, some of which are two-bedroom, efficiencies, or include kitchenettes. Rooms are designed with a nautical theme and include amenities such as plush mattresses, imported duvets, air conditioning, cable TV, refrigerator, coffee/tea makers, and iron/ironing boards. Many rooms offer views of Bristol Harbor, and some selected units boast gas fireplaces, enhancing the cozy atmosphere. Eco-friendly bath products and I-home wireless alarm clocks are also provided.
• Dining Options: While the inn itself does not operate a full-service restaurant, it is conveniently adjacent to a lively waterfront pub and other dining establishments on Thames Street. Guests can easily sample fresh seafood and local cuisine right next door. The hotel also has an association with Empire Tea & Coffee, offering guests a 10% discount, providing a convenient spot for gourmet coffee to start the day.
• Fitness Center: For guests who wish to maintain their fitness routines, the inn provides an on-site exercise room equipped with cardio and strength training equipment and free weights.
• Micro Spa: The hotel offers a "Micro Spa" with new experiences including aromatherapy, massage, seasonal body scrubs, purifying wraps, and detoxing facials, providing opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Connectivity: Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi access is available throughout the hotel, both in guest rooms and public areas, ensuring guests can stay connected.
• Parking: Adjacent free on-site parking is provided, a valuable convenience for guests traveling by car in a popular destination like Bristol.
• Guest Services: The inn offers a 24-hour reception, express check-in/check-out, luggage storage, and safety deposit boxes. Laundry service is also available for guest convenience.
• Bicycle Rental: Guests receive discounted rental rates at Bristol Bikes, an on-site bike store, encouraging exploration of the East Bay Bike Path.
• Seasonal Marina Access: Guests may have daily use of the seasonal marina, a unique amenity for those interested in boating.
• Vending Machines: For quick refreshments, vending machines are available on-site.

The Bristol Harbor Inn is characterized by several key features:

• Waterfront Location: Its direct position on Bristol Harbor is its most defining feature, offering unparalleled views and immediate access to waterfront activities.
• Boutique Style: Described as a "contemporary boutique hotel," it offers a more personalized and intimate experience compared to larger chain hotels, with nautical-themed décor reflecting the area's maritime heritage.
• Walkability: The inn's central location in downtown Bristol makes it exceptionally walkable to shops, restaurants, and local attractions, including the America's Cup Hall of Fame.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: While not explicitly stated as pet-friendly in all current sources, some past information or general "inn" classification might imply flexibility. It is always best to confirm the current pet policy directly with the hotel if traveling with a pet, as policies can change. (Based on common practices, larger hotel chains like Holiday Inn Express often have stricter, clear-cut no-pet policies, while independent inns might be more accommodating or vary.)
• Age of Property: Recent customer reviews indicate that the property might be "tired looking" and "showing its age," with mentions of worn carpet and wallpaper in need of replacement. Some guests have also noted issues with noise (street light, AC units) and shower pressure. This suggests that while renovations have occurred (last refurbished reportedly in 2001, but room updates ongoing), some aspects of the building may still reflect its older infrastructure.
• No Pool: Based on available data, the Bristol Harbor Inn does not have an on-site swimming pool.

The Bristol Harbor Inn promotes itself as an ideal New England escape, highlighting its picturesque waterfront setting and central location in charming Bristol. It appeals to travelers seeking a blend of coastal beauty, historic exploration, and a relaxed atmosphere. Promotional messaging often emphasizes the "idyllic location overlooking the Bristol Harbor and Narragansett Bay," perfect for "breathtaking sunsets."

The inn often offers direct booking benefits, such as "Lowest Rate Matching" and "Phone Only Specials," encouraging guests to book directly for the best deals. Advance purchase options might provide savings for those booking at least 21 days in advance, although these are typically non-refundable. Seasonal deposit policies also vary, with a one-night deposit usually required for stays between May 1st and October 31st.

While the location receives universal praise for being "ideal" and "wonderful," some recent guest feedback points to a perception that the inn might be "overpriced for tired old rooms" and "needs some attention." Specific complaints include street light visibility through windows, noisy air conditioning units, and low shower pressure. This suggests that while the inn offers a fantastic base from which to explore Bristol, guests should manage their expectations regarding the modernity and overall condition of the rooms, acknowledging that some elements may reflect the age of the property. The overall charm and the excellent location remain the strongest selling points, particularly for those prioritizing immediate access to Bristol's downtown and waterfront activities.