Let’s be real, finding good accommodation in a small town like Bristol, Connecticut, isn’t always easy. You’re either scrolling through places that are too far from the action or wondering if the reviews are just being nice. We’ve been there. That’s why we put in the legwork and found the two best hotels in Bristol, Connecticut, that are actually worth your time and money. These are two of the most proper hotels we found during our last trip, and they exceeded all of our expectations. Whether you’re visiting for ESPN HQ, heading to Lake Compounce with the family, or just passing through, these hotels deliver comfort, convenience, and a little more than you’d expect.
Psst! Are you planning to visit Connecticut this fall? Here are the top Connecticut fall activities!
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Home2 Suites by Hilton Bristol
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Best for Extended Stays. The first hotel that we stayed at was the Home2 Suites by Hilton Bristol. First, let’s talk about the location, which was spot on! We were just steps away from the Bristol Event Center and only a short drive to some fun local spots like Lake Compounce, the ESPN campus, and even a quirky little gem, the Carousel Museum. We also loved that we were close to nature; Indian Rock Nature Preserve and Cedar Lake were perfect for short scenic escapes. It made our trip feel super balanced.
It wasn’t just the location, as the hotel’s amenities also made our stay. Breakfast was one of our favorite parts. Home2’s complimentary breakfast was surprisingly good. They had open-faced breakfast sandwiches, Nutella-topped pastries, and even a DIY yogurt and cereal bar with all sorts of toppings. There was also coffee, tea, hot chocolate, juices—literally something for everyone. After breakfast, we’d either hit the saltwater pool or just chill by the outdoor fireplace. There’s also a hot tub, a game room, and a gym, so you’ll never run out of ways to relax or burn off some energy.
While there were plenty of rooms to choose from, we decided to book the King Studio Suite, and it was impressively spacious. One of its highlights was its “working wall” concept, which was great for both relaxing and getting some work done. We especially appreciated the full kitchen. It had a fridge, a microwave, a sink, and even a dishwasher. Though we didn’t cook full meals, it was still a big plus for us. Furthermore, the living area was cozy with a sofa bed and a massive 55-inch TV that you could swivel around depending on where you were hanging out. Wi-Fi was strong and reliable, and the bed? Incredibly soft microfiber sheets that made it hard to leave in the morning.
“With a spacious layout and a well-equipped kitchen, this is easily the best hotel in town for long stays.”
WOW Travel
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DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol
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Best Amenities and Dining. On our trip, we also stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton, one of the best hotels in Bristol, Connecticut. It’s a comfy, well-located hotel with thoughtful perks and a warm, welcoming vibe.
Convenient Location
The location of this hotel was 10 out of 10 for us. It was super easy to get to places we had on our list: ESPN Headquarters was just a mile away, and Lake Compounce was a super quick three-minute drive. We even managed to squeeze in a quirky little detour to The Witch’s Dungeon Classic Movie Museum, which was around 5 miles out and totally worth the trip.
Thoughtful Extras
From the moment we checked in and got handed that warm chocolate chip cookie (a very underrated welcome gesture), we felt taken care of. One morning, we hit the 24-hour gym early and appreciated that it wasn’t just “there,” but actually had solid equipment. Later, we spent a relaxing evening soaking in the heated indoor saltwater pool.
For food, TimeOut Sports & Pizza Bar downstairs impressed us with its craft beers and laid-back vibe. And if you want to experience a more fancier dining experience, treat yourself to The Willows Private Dining, which has a custom tasting menu.
The Suite Life
For our stay, we booked the King Suite, and it was the best decision we made for our trip. The Sweet Dreams bed lived up to its name. We slept like logs with those five ridiculously comfy pillows! There was a huge living room where we could sprawl out, binge some TV on the massive 60-inch screen, and snack from the minibar. We also appreciated the separate desk setup, which was ideal for checking a few emails without turning the entire trip into a work mission. Oh, and the bathroom? It had entrances from both the living room and bedroom, and every corner was sparkling clean.
Read also: 11 Best Bed and Breakfasts in Mystic, Connecticut
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Where to Stay in Bristol, Connecticut
If you’re planning a visit to Bristol, Connecticut, choosing the right area to stay in can really shape your experience. While the city is compact, it has a few standout neighborhoods that cater to different kinds of travelers.
Downtown Bristol is a great pick for those who love a local, walkable vibe. You’ll be close to cultural gems like the New England Carousel Museum, local cafes, small shops, and the Bristol Historical Society. This area offers a more authentic, small-town Connecticut experience and is perfect for travelers who want to explore on foot and feel immersed in the community.
If you’re traveling with family or in town for an event, the area near Lake Compounce and the Bristol Event Center is probably your best bet. It puts you close to one of the top amusement parks in the region, ESPN headquarters, and the city’s main event venue. The best hotels in Bristol, Connecticut, are located here, offering both comfort and convenience. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to be near the action without spending too much time driving around.
For a more peaceful and scenic stay, consider the northeast side of Bristol near Pine Lake. This area is quieter and offers easy access to nature spots like Indian Rock Nature Preserve and Cedar Lake. It’s a solid choice for travelers looking to relax, go for a hike, or just enjoy the outdoors without being too far from the city center.
While we’re at it, check out our most romantic hotels in Connecticut as well!
Is Bristol, Connecticut, a nice area?
Yes, it is. Bristol, Connecticut, is a quiet, family-friendly city with a mix of suburban charm and local attractions. It’s best known for being home to ESPN and Lake Compounce, making it a pleasant spot for both visitors and residents.
Is Bristol a walkable city?
While certain pockets of Bristol, Connecticut, are walkable, especially around downtown areas, most of the city is largely car‑dependent.
Can I use Uber in Bristol?
Yes, you can use Uber in Bristol, Connecticut.
