16 Things to Do in Bainbridge Island (With & Without a Car!)
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Located just a short ferry ride from Seattle, Bainbridge Island is a charming destination with plenty of activities to explore.
And the best part? You don’t need a car to explore it – there’s a wide range of activities to do with and without a car!
From art galleries to hiking, you can discover the best of Bainbridge Island without ever getting behind the wheel.
Here are 16 of the best things to do in Bainbridge Island, no matter how you plan to get around.
Do You Need a Car on Bainbridge Island?
No, cars aren't essential for getting around Bainbridge Island, as many of the shops and restaurants are within a 15-minute walk from the ferry terminal.
Plus, it's hard to beat the ocean breeze through your hair that only a walk or bike through town can truly provide
Bainbridge Island Without a Car
These activities are perfect if you are tight on time or don’t have a car – they’re within walking distance from the ferry terminal!
1. Blackbird Bakery
Start your ultimate Bainbridge Island experience off right – with freshly baked goodies from the beloved Blackbird Bakery.
From the heavenly cinnamon rolls to their signature maple pecan scone, you’ll love every bite.
And with fresh, seasonal ingredients baked into each creation, you can be sure that every item on the menu is top-notch. Make sure you buy extra for the ferry ride back!
2. Have Ice Cream at Mora
If you’re looking for something sweet, you can’t miss a trip to Mora Iced Creamery.
Their rotating selection of more than 70 hand-churned recipes features sinfully rich, extra-creamy flavors.
Think dulce de leche or banana split – plus creative seasonal picks like eggnog ice cream around Christmas.
Let your taste buds go wild – everyone deserves an extra scoop every once in a while!
3. Have a Nice Meal
Conversation and delicious food come together at the Harbour Public House.
Enjoy spectacular views of the waterfront while feasting on locally sourced American classics.
Their award-winning burgers can fill any craving, and their beer selection will quench your thirst. Make sure you try their Pub Famous Chowder too!
4. Bainbridge Brewing
If craft beer is your idea of fun, be sure to drop by Bainbridge Brewing – they take their beer very seriously.
Pick up a pint of their carefully brewed craft beers and don’t miss their hard ciders, wine and locally-made Kombucha.
There’s two locations: stop by The Alehouse if time is limited or you don’t have a car as it is just 1 block from the ferry terminal.
For those wanting to explore more, The Brewery & Taproom awaits; approximately 2 miles north!
5. Charter a Sailboat
Ready for an adventure on the high seas? Don your sea legs and join a private sailing tour of Bainbridge Island.
Board the boat at the city docks, hoist the sails and watch Seattle’s stunning skyline unfold before you. Catch glimpses of iconic Mt. Rainier, and keep an eye out for seals and whales!
6. Fay Bainbridge Park
Nothing beats a good trip to the beach and Fay Bainbridge is definitely up there with the best.
Enjoy the sights of Mount Rainier and Mount Baker while you relax, or get involved with a game of volleyball or let the kids play on the nearby playground.
If you’re feeling adventurous, go camping here! Limited space means it’s best to plan ahead though – last minute sites can be hard to come by.
7. Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
If you’re looking to treat your eyes to some art, be sure to check out the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art.
It has a great selection of rotating exhibits from local artists, so no matter how often you visit there will always be something new to see.
To top it off, the museum store is like an adult candy shop selling irresistible trinkets from jewelry to home decor. You never know what treasures will be uncovered!
8. Bloedel Reserve
At the Bloedel Reserve, you can enjoy a stunning assortment of biodiversity, where nature and landscaping come together in perfect harmony.
Take your time and just wander! For the truly adventurous, embark on a private tour for a personalized journey. The pickup point is just minutes away from the ferry terminal.
Expect nothing less than an unforgettable experience with nature at its finest.
9. Go Winery Hopping
Book a winery tour and waltz your way from vineyard to vineyard as you take in all that makes Bainbridge wine so special.
Sample award-winning wines made from the finest grapes and learn about the winemaking process.
And we haven’t even gotten to the best part yet – a delicious gourmet dinner awaits at the end of your extravagant day!
Bainbridge Island With a Car
The activities listed below are great if you’ve got four wheels and have more time to burn!
10. Main Street
The island’s Main Street is an ideal spot to while away a lazy afternoon. Window shopping, people-watching, and dining out are all fair game here.
Cafés, bookstores and specialty shops beckon from both sides of the street, alongside popular eateries like Streamliner Diner.
Don’t forget to stop by Blackbird Bakery for coffee and a croissant.
11. Halls Hill Lookout and Labyrinth
This hidden gem, tucked away in a forested setting overlooking Blakely Harbor, is made entirely with stones from the island itself.
The stone mosaic labyrinth is the showstopper here; it’s the perfect spot for daydreaming and clearing your head. Plus, its breathtaking water views give the beautiful forest setting an extra edge!
Just make sure you keep your visit to the lookout respectful – after all, blissful nature vibes aren’t any fun when someone is belting out some tunes at the top of their lungs.
12. Fort Ward Park
Make sure to pack a picnic lunch when you visit Fort Ward Park on Bainbridge Island – after all, it’s no ordinary park.
With its quiet trails and stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound, this 137-acre former military base has been turned into a tranquil public space that’s perfect for an afternoon spent breathing in some fresh air.
Bring your buddies and grab a spot by one of the several grills – you’re set for an afternoon get-together. Take in the view of the ferries sailing past and the sound of seagulls searching for their next meal.
Bainbridge Island is a great place to visit any time of the year, but you’ll really appreciate it during the fall season when it’s full of colorful leaves and crisp air.
13. Grand Forest
For folks looking for an outdoor adventure, Bainbridge Island is the place to be.
Home to the majestic Grand Forest, this lush, second-growth forest offers miles of trails and alluring scenery that will make you feel like you’re a world away from the city.
With trail markers set up along the way, you can explore the winding routes with ease.
While it may disappoint thrill seekers who love steep elevation gains, those simply seeking tranquility may find that perfect moment here.
After all, the best things often come at the slowest of paces.
14. Battle Point Park
Located in the middle of the island is Battle Point Park, a great spot for getting some exercise and enjoying nature.
Not only can you get your steps in on a gorgeous path around the lake, but it also boasts Frisbee golf and tennis courts if you’re in the mood to move.
Best of all is that during summer months there are outdoor concerts for everyone to enjoy!
15. Gazzam Lake Nature Preserve
Take a nature hike over to Gazzam Lake Nature Preserve in Bainbridge Island.
You’ll get your cardio fix with 500-feet of elevation, and treat your eyes to the beautiful second-growth forest that the 444-acre park has to offer.
Ducks, pheasants, and other feathered friends will join you as you explore the extensive trail system for 6.8 miles – it’s a wonderland for any outdoor enthusiast!
16. Have a Beach Day
Bainbridge Island is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a snapshot of serene, beachy bliss.
Whether you want to spend your days building sandcastles or admiring the views from afar, you’ll find it here!
Here are some of the best beaches on Bainsbridge Island that you should check out: Lytle Beach, Fort Ward Park, Pritchard Park, and Fay Bainbridge Park.
