Red Hook ESB is a specific beer. India Pale Ale is a style of beer,

I was going to purchase Red Hook IPA but ended up getting Bridgeport IPA. I
may try the Red Hook one to compare the taste between the two.

from the others. If you've decided that an IPA is at least close to
what you like, then I suggest two things:

That's just it...I'm not sure if IPA is what I'm looking for. I just need
to try out several beers I think.

Try IPAs from many different brewers. See if a beer store near you
will let you make "mix-packs". You can then get one bottle from each
brewer to see which you prefer. Without knowing where you are, it's
hard to make specific recommendations.

Good idea about the mix-packs. BTW, I am in Washington state.