Things To Do
Newport
There's plenty of fun things to do in Newport, Rhode Island, which is only about a thirty minute drive from Bristol. A few suggestions: Cliff Walk: You can walk along the ocean, where there are really pretty views of the water, and of many of the Newport mansions. Breakers: The Breakers was the summer house of the Vanderbilts, and is a fascinating look at the peak of early 20th century luxury. International Tennis Hall of Fame: (Bradley's suggestion, Maayan says this is a waste of time). If you're a real tennis nut, this is a really interesting spot. Touro Synagogue: This is the oldest synagogue in the United States, and it is still operating today! It's an Orthodox congregation these days, so they won't give tours on Saturdays.
Providence
Providence is a fun little city to spend an afternoon in. Here are a few of our favorite spots: Roger Williams Park/Zoo: It's the best zoo in New England (Maayan went to camp here for many years and loves the Moon Bears) Rhode Island School of Design Museum: This is a cute art museum in downtown Providence Brown University: Enjoy the ivy-filled environs of this university (and maybe get some early college searching in for your high school student.
Bristol and Surrounding Areas
Colt State: A beautiful park along Narragansett Bay, a beautiful place for a picnic or walk. Blithewold: The Blithewold mansion and gardens are gorgeous to walk through. Herreshoff Marine Museum: For the naval nerds among you can learn about the marine history of the area, and especially about the America Cup yacht race.