Charming Bainbridge Island is a short ferry ride from downtown Seattle.
Explore shops, galleries, museums and gardens on Bainbridge Island in an idyllic setting with picturesque harbors, sweeping coastal views, and quiet country roads.
Take the 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island by car or on foot, leaving from Pier 52 on the Seattle waterfront.
The ferry docks at the charming township of Winslow on Bainbridge Island, with plenty of shops and restaurants, and 3 museums to explore.
10 best things to do on Bainbridge Island
1. Take the stunning ferry ride across Puget Sound, from Seattle to Bainbridge Island.
The 35-minute ferry ride attracts nearly 5 million visitors each year, and is the busiest ferry route in Washington State (check Ferry Departure Times).
2. Visit charming shops and restaurants at Winslow.
The charming township of Winslow on Bainbridge Island is a 5 minute walk from the ferry, and is perfect for browsing book shops, gift shops, boutiques and galleries.
Stop for a pastry and coffee at the Blackbird Bakery (210 Winslow Way E) and then visit Bainbridge Arts & Crafts Gallery (151 Winslow Way E). Don't miss the excellent selection of books at the Eagle Harbor Book Company (157 Winslow Way). Mora's Icecream (139 Madrone Ln N) is lovely for sweet treats.
3. Explore 3 different museums at Winslow.
The Bainbridge Island Historical Museum is worth a visit, inside a 1908 schoolhouse, and the Bainbridge Museum of Art is housed inside a striking modern building. Younger kids will enjoy the interactive Kids Discovery Museum on Bainbridge Island with fun, hands-on exhibits.
4. Pick up fresh produce and artisan gifts at the Saturday Farmer's Market.
Visit the Saturday Farmer's Market at City Hall Park in Winslow on Bainbridge Island, from April to October.
5. Stroll along the waterfront path.
Stroll along the Waterfront Park near the Ferry Terminal at Bainbridge Island, and enjoy superb views of Eagle Harbor.
6. See a historic estate on Bainbridge Island, with stunning gardens.
The Bloedel Reserve and mansion is a must-see for garden enthusiasts. This beautiful estate has an exquisite Japanese Garden, Moss Garden, and Reflection Pool.
7. Explore a beautiful nursery.
The Bainbridge Garden Nursery has a lovely, forested setting with over 6-acres of gardens and outdoor sculptures to explore.
8. Check out Bainbridge Island's vibrant concert and performing arts scene.
Bainbridge Island also has a thriving performing arts scene. This includes First Sunday Concerts, and the Bainbridge Symphony.
9. Rent a bike or kayak.
Rent a bike from Bike Barn Rentals next to the Ferry Terminal (July through September), or a kayak from Exotic Aquatics Scuba Kayaking.
10. See incredible waterfront views of Puget Sound at Fay Bainbridge Park.
Drive 7-miles north of the Ferry Terminal to Fay Bainbridge Park. Stroll along sandy beaches on the saltwater coastline and take in breathtaking views of Puget Sound.
How big is Bainbridge Island?
It's 5 miles wide and 10 miles long. The total island is 65 square miles.
Where to eat on Bainbridge Island
If you'd like waterfront views, try the Harbor Public House (must be over 21), or Docs Grill if you have kids. The trendy Bruciato pizza and gelato restaurant is on the main shopping street on Winslow Way and has chic, industrial decor and a woodfire stove.
Where to stay on Bainbridge Island
If you're searching for lodging on Bainbridge Island, select from a wide choice of B&B's, hotels or vacation rentals. Some suggestions:
- Bed and Breakfast: Abode on the Sea, Skiff Point
- Hotel or Inn: The Eagle Harbor Inn
- Vacation Rental: Bauhaus
Things to do near Bainbridge Island
- Poulsbo - 12 miles north
- Naval Undersea Museum - 18 miles NW
- Port Gamble - 19 miles north
- Point No Point Lighthouse - 23 miles north
- Marrowstone Island - 46 miles north
- Port Townsend - 47 miles north
- Dungeness Spit with lighthouse - 63 miles northwest
- Olympic Game Farm - 63 miles northwest
- Hurricane Ridge - 90 miles NW
- Lake Crescent - 93 miles NW
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