Day Trip to Bainbridge Island
There is nothing more “quintessential Seattle” than a ferry boat ride. Live out your best Grey’s Anatomy dreams and take in the views of Elliott Bay and the Seattle city skyline as you enjoy a day trip to Bainbridge Island.
Bainbridge Island is an island community located in Puget Sound just west of Seattle. It’s known for its small-town atmosphere, forests, waterfront views, and as a popular commuter community connected to Seattle by ferry. Bainbridge is known for its environmental stewardship, arts community, wineries, parks, and high quality of life. The island’s downtown area, Winslow, sits near the ferry terminal and serves as the island’s commercial center. A common saying about Bainbridge Island is that it feels both close to Seattle and a world apart offering a blend of Pacific Northwest natural beauty, rich Indigenous heritage, and a history that reflects many of the broader stories of the American West.
Easily accessible from the Seattle Waterfront, the Bainbridge Ferry is a short 35-minute crossing time while you enjoy sweeping views of the Olympic Peninsula, sailboats and maritime happenings and sea life in Elliott Bay…keep your eyes peeled for local Orca pods!
The main street of Bainbridge Island, Winslow Way, is accessible from the ferry dock by walking, no car is needed. If you wish to explore more of the island beyond, you can choose to drive on the ferry. For an easy morning, afternoon or evening excursion, no car is needed to explore some of the best offerings. Here are our favorite spots to check out and make the most of your visit.
Coffee/Pastries:
Pegasus Coffee House is the OG coffee house of Bainbridge Island. At one point named the “Best Independent Coffee Shop in The World” by the Financial Times. You will find locals enjoying their morning coffee and pastries here, it’s a must stop for a morning or afternoon visit to the Island.
Blackbird Bakery is known for their unique, local baked goods offering seasonal treats you can’t find anywhere else.
Coquette Bake Shop offers scrumptious European baked specialties and great espresso.
For the truly adventurous, follow the Bainbridge Bakery Trail and try to stop at all ten local bakeries in the area.
Food/Cocktails:
You can’t make a trip over without enjoying the Neopolitan-style pizza at Bruciato. Great cocktails, amazing pizza and fun atmosphere. You may find Seattleites making a run for it here from the ferry to be first in line.
Streamliner Diner is a classic, casual breakfast and lunch spot serving diner-style local favorites.
Café Hitchcock is a great spot for PNW fair and a local brunch favorite.
For a unique immersive dining experience, Kingfisher is a restaurant, wine bar, mercantile and supper club offering a popular pre-fix menu.
Proper Fish is a fun fish n chips spot serving up proper English pub chips, but also delectable fish tacos and lobster rolls, yum!
Amelia Wynn Winery Bistro is a little off the beaten path, but for food and wine lovers, it is a real treat! Offering wine tasting and fine dining.
For delectable Vietnamese cuisine, you must visit Ba Sa. The menu is Vietnamese in the French style with Pacific Northwest ingredients and has an adorable outdoor patio for the most magical dining experience.
Shopping:
Bainbridge is home to many local craftspeople. The boutique shops along the way range from fine art and jewelry to toys, yarn and clothing and everything in between. Peruse the local shopping landscape in between your dining reservations. A full list of shops are located here.
Arts/Culture:
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial
Nature:
One of the most unique experiences you can have on the island is The Bloedel Reserve. The reserve is a 150-acre blend of forest, meadows ponds and beautiful gardens. It is one of the most beautiful outdoor experiences in the Pacific Northwest.
The island itself is surrounded by a stunning beachfront, an array of public parks and hiking at Gazzam Lake Nature Preserve, the Grand Forest and Blakely Harbor Park.
