Two communities, each just ferry ride away from downtown—but they each feel like a whole other world.
Bainbridge Island
This hilly and lush island is a trove of gardens, charming eateries, and can’t-find-them-elsewhere retailers. This hilly and lush island is a trove of gardens, charming eateries, and can’t-find-them-elsewhere retailers.
Explore
After making the scenic half-hour ferry ride from downtown Seattle, pop into cute Winslow, the downtown heart of the island’s eateries, retailers, and events. Visit contemporary artwork at Bainbridge Island Museum of Art and the hands-on Kids Discovery Museum. On Saturdays, April through November, visit the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market. Drive or bike to the winding trails at the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial, honoring the nearly 300 island residents unjustly incarcerated during World War II. At the north end, visit lush and textural Bloedel Reserve, with its several themed gardens.
Eat and Drink
Cool Cafe Hitchcock serves up a weekend oyster brunch, and Proper Fish perfectly batters local seafood to enjoy with chips or in tacos and sandos (traditional British-style mushy peas are optional). Check out chowders, grilled goods, and harbor views at Harbour Public House. Pull up to the Eleven Winery counter to sip chenin blanc to cabernet sauvignon. Don’t miss a sweet slice or a cookie from renowned Blackbird Bakery.
Shop
Browse artful PNW gifts at Millstream Bainbridge, and jewelry, wool sweaters, and other imports from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales at Celtic Crossroads. Tuck into Zutto Vintage and Antiques for unexpected treasures. The renovated open-air mall The Cove (formerly Winslow Mall) proffers dog items at BI Barkery, clothing at Magnolia and kid fun at Calico Toy Shoppe.
Ballast Book Co courtesy SWT Berty Mandagie
Bremerton
Hop on the ferry from downtown Seattle to wander about this family-friendly nautical destination.
Explore
What better way to start your exploration of this Navy town than on the water at the USS Turner Joy, which started its life as a destroyer in the Pacific and is now a floating museum. Round out your naval knowledge on land at the free Puget Sound Navy Museum, where you can experience life as a sailor through the exhibits. In the evenings, visit Rodeo Drive-In, which dates back to 1949 and is the largest drive-in in the Pacific Northwest. There’s something happening every weekend at the circa-1942 under-the-water-themed Admiral Theatre, from dance parties to comedy shows to concerts.
Eat and Drink
After a meal of sandos and skewers, a robot will bus your table at Yoko Yoko Ramen. Get upscale bar food, like poutine and rib eye steak, at 1920s-inspired Remedy Speakeasy. Tipsy Blackbird Wine Bar hosts a variety of fun events, including silent book clubs and art workshops. Ashley’s Pub is a welcoming spot catered to the cider, mead, or beer fan who loves a good board game.
Shop
Find a fun assortment of gifts and souvenirs at Bremerton Mercantile. Ballast Book Company carries a wide array of books, including a large selection of LGBTQIA+ picks for all ages. The owner of Little Bee Home makes candles inspired by the scents of the Pacific Northwest, each adorned with cute little wax “charms” on top.
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