Last month, we kicked off our summer road trip series, Hit the Road, with an outdoor adventure to Olympic National Park. If you checked it out, we’d love to hear about it.
This month, we’re continuing the series with a 30-minute trip to Bainbridge Island for a quick getaway. From forested parks to fine dining, this island offers a little bit of everything — making it the perfect end-of-summer vacay.
Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.
- Drive time: ~30 minute ferry ride from downtown
- Est. population: 24,859
- Avg. high in July: 66°
Things to do
Bainbridge Museum of Art
The little island museum’s permanent collection’s sculptures will stir the imagination, but artist Blake Blanco’s current exhibit “We All Dream” will really stimulate the brain with its juxtaposition of bright colors + dark themes.
Bainbridge Winery Tour
Hop on a bus and tour the island’s seven wineries and tasting rooms with a well-versed tour guide at the lead.
The Grand Forest
This park’s 240-acre lush forest will make you completely forget you’re only a couple of miles from downtown Seattle. Each of its trails are under two miles long, so you’ll also have plenty of time to find another adventure during your trip.
Eagle Harbor Book Company
If you’re looking to really build a trip with “Practical Magic” vibes, this adorable bookstore’s creaky wooden floors and well-stocked shelves might just be the inspiration for your own wistful novel. (Pro tip: check out the antique store next door for some more shopping fun.)
Grub to eat
Bruciato
We’re just going to come out and say it… dates and prosciutto do belong on pizza. And they’re even better with one of this restaurant’s artistic cocktails. (Also, Editor Alina has absolutely taken a trip to the island just for this restaurant’s pizza. We promise it’s good.)
Isla Bonita
It may look like your everyday small-town Mexican restaurant, but the flavor here is way beyond — even the refried beans are memorable. Do yourself a favor and don’t miss out on the restaurant’s jalapeño margarita if it’s offered as a special. It’s ohhh so fresh.
Coquette Bakeshop
If you’re heading over first thing in the morning, we know coffee will be one of your biggest priorities. But hold out until you get to this little cart on the main strip — those pastries will be well worth the wait.
Proper Fish
If you ask the locals where you ought to eat while visiting, most of them will point you toward this little fish + chips shop tucked in the back corner of the main strip. Grab a cup of the chowder while you’re at it.
Seabird
Looking for something a little bit fancier or more romantic for your island retreat? Seabird is chef Brendan McGill’s latest venture after he closed Hitchcock — and its locally sourced seafood dishes are unlikely to disappoint. We’ll take the Ivory King Salmon with carrot hollandaise, please.
Overnight accommodations
If you get a wild hair and decide to turn this quick day trip into an overnighter, here are some spots to stay.
Cozy Hobbit House
This tiny little hole-in-the-dirt can really help turn a regular trip into something more fantastical. It’s equipped with room for two guests + plenty of marshmallows for the fire pit.
Custom Built Oasis
Want an indoor swimming pool all to yourself? Of course you do. This stylish, yet remote home sleeps eight guests and is equipped with a hot tub + plenty of patio space.
Charming Waterfront Home
Go to an island without visiting the beach? We think not. This cozy, little six-guest home has waterfront access for those with saline dreams and an incredible view of downtown Seattle for those who miss the pavement.
