If you’re looking ahead into the new year and wondering where your next destination should be for your weekend getaways in Washington, we have the perfect hidden gem in Puget Sound, just a quick ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. Known for its ideal blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, the island provides visitors with lush forests, rocky beaches with sandy stretches, and peaceful waterfronts perfect for relaxation.
Strolling through Winslow’s quaint downtown, you’ll discover boutique shops, galleries, and cozy cafes that invite exploration. Or take a peaceful hike through the award-winning Bloedel Reserve, one of the top-rated things to do on Bainbridge Island, where manicured gardens meet old-growth forests with a historic estate home and Japanese Tea House. Add a stop at one of the local wineries for a tasting, and you’ll have a fun day on your hands!
Whether planning romantic weekend getaways in Washington or a family-focused trip, Bainbridge Island combines nature, unique things to do, and activities for all ages. First, you’ll want to book your overnight lodging, and our Bainbridge Island Hotel is one of the best places to stay! As the only boutique property downtown, we have an array of accommodations, including cozy rooms for two, ideal for romantic trips, and townhouse-style lodging with multiple rooms, full kitchens, and bathrooms for families or small groups. Book your room today!
Start Planning Your Weekend Getaways in Washington
On a trip to Bainbridge Island, visitors can explore various activities, including shopping at eclectic boutiques, dining at diverse restaurants, and engaging in outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and sailing. The island’s parks and trails provide ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the scenic landscapes.
Here are the best things to do on Bainbridge Island on your next weekend getaway:
Outdoor Adventures:
- Visiting Bloedel Reserve: A nationally recognized nature preserve, Bloedel Reserve is consistently rated as the best thing to do on Bainbridge. The 150-acre forest garden is renowned as one of North America’s top botanical gardens. It is home to architectural gems, including a historic estate house and a Japanese tea house.
- Beachcombing at Fay Bainbridge Park: This beach offers the quintessential Northwest treasure-hunting experience. You’ll find beach glass, pretty agates, and picturesque driftwood formations. The views are some of the best of the city skyline and Mount Rainier.
- Hiking in the Grand Forest: If you like hiking through emerald-green forests, these popular wooded trails are for you! Clear maps and marked routes connect miles of the central island corridor.
Rainy Day Activities:
- Tour the Bainbridge Island Art Museum: Just two blocks from the ferry terminal, this beautifully curated museum is well worth a visit during your weekend getaways in Washington. There is an impressive collection of local, indigenous, and international artists.
- Wine Tasting in Winslow: There are a handful of tasting rooms on Winslow Way where you can spend a lovely afternoon sampling Washington wines. Stop by Fletcher Bay Winery next to the museum, then pop up to Eagle Harbor Wines and Eleven Winery.
- Painting at Heart & Soul: Perfect for a chilly day outside, head to this pottery painting experience to pick your own vessel and let your creativity soar!
Savor Local Flavors:
- Breakfast at the Streamliner Diner: A long-time stalwart business on the island, this classic diner is one of the best restaurants on Bainbridge for breakfast favorites. Grab a stool and sit up at the counter for a front-row view. There is often a wait, so go early before the morning rush.
- Lunch at Via Rosa 11: Perhaps one of the island’s most hidden gems, this wonderful Italian kitchen is tucked away in Rolling Bay. Although it may look unassuming from the outside, as you step inside, you’ll be transported to a charming Italian bistro with homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza.
- Dinner at Agate Restaurant: Recently voted as the best restaurant on Bainbridge Island, especially for romantic dinners for two, Agate is a perfect spot to indulge in Northwest-inspired cuisine, including steak, fish dishes, and fresh salads.
The Best Hotel on Bainbridge Island
One of the most important elements for your weekend getaways in Washington is your lodging, and The Eagle Harbor Inn is the best choice on Bainbridge Island. Not only are we the only lodging property in downtown Winslow within walking distance to the ferry and more, but you’ll also find the warmest hospitality, most luxurious accommodations, and cozy spaces to unwind.
As a guest at our Bainbridge Island Hotel, you’ll enjoy some unique perks, including passes to our local gym, fresh Pegasus Coffee each morning in the lobby, and free parking. We have five guest rooms, ideal for couples on a romantic getaway or solo travelers looking to refresh. Our two townhomes, with full eat-in kitchens, laundry facilities, and more, are perfect for small groups or families.
Another unique aspect of visiting our small island community is the journey to get here. The Washington State Ferry system connects several islands in the Sound and beyond, making for a lovely passage showcasing the Northwest’s beauty. The view from the ferry is exceptional, with the impressive Seattle skyline in the background and a lush, secluded island awaiting you as your destination. Book your lodging today!
