A small town in Elkhart County, Bristol was founded by European settlers approximately 200 years ago. Today, Bristol looks forward to the future with the same revolutionary spirit. The surrounding farmland has developed into greater industrial complexes, such as the manufacturing businesses, which has brought increased vivacity and employment opportunities. The population in 2000 was recorded at 1,382 people. Bristol commits itself to staying true to their small town reputation without feeling out of tune with the modern-day advantages.

In total, there are eight schools in Bristol, Indiana. They have three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school. There are two total public schools and one private school. Kessington Christian School is a private school for grades 5 – 12. Bristol Elementary School and York Elementary Schools are the two public elementary schools.

People are drawn to fascinating historical landmarks such as the Rush Memorial Center or the Bristol Opera House. Annual festivals, such as Bristol Homecoming, Storytelling Festival (both hosted in Congdon Park), the Flintlock & Tomahawk, and Bonneyville Mill Days draw attention to Bristol, along with the Fruit Hills Race. The two rivers here, the St. Joseph River and the Little Elkhart River, attract a multitude of nature lovers who enjoy water activities, such as kayaking and canoeing. Bristol is littered with a few quaint, littler parks such as Congdon, Hermance, and Cummins Parks.