Two communities, each just ferry ride away from downtown—but they each feel like a whole other world.

Pia the Peacemaker, by Thomas Dambo, located on Bainbridge in Sakai Park

Bainbridge Island

Hop on a ferry from downtown Seattle for a picturesque ride to this enchanting island abundant with green spaces, cheerful eateries, and boutiques.

Explore

Make the short stroll from the ferry terminal to explore downtown Winslow, including the free and beautifully designed Bainbridge Island Museum of Art and the touch-friendly Kids Discovery Museum. Gorgeous Bloedel Reserve is a delight for short hikes and viewing local flora.

Eat and Drink

Among several great seafood spots, Proper Fish serves up perfectly battered fish and chips and fish tacos, and Doc’s Marina Grill offers chowders and grills along with harbor views. Nearby Pegasus Coffee House has been serving espresso drinks since 1979. The venerable Streamliner Diner turns out classic American dishes and boasts a pet-friendly deck. Sawatdy Thai Cuisine is a pleasing stop after exploring the parks on the island’s west side, and Nirvana Indian and Nepalese Cuisine is a standout for Asian fare. Pick up healthy sandwiches and snacks before a hike at Jake’s Pickup.

Shop

You’ll discover a variety of charming shops in Winslow, including the stylish gift shops Plum and Dana’s on Bainbridge. The rich fudge at Bon Bon Candies is irresistible. Wilder Grace carries discerning men’s and women’s fashion and jewelry, while Celtic Crossroads is known for jewelry, wool sweaters, and cookies and teas imported from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.

USS Turner Joy

Bremerton

This family-friendly Navy town is reached via a scenic ferry ride from Seattle and abounds with cool museums and eclectic places to shop and eat.

Explore

From the ferry terminal, walk the short distance along the waterfront through Harborside Fountain Park, with its cool whale-inspired copper fountains, and continue next door to see the impressive exhibits at the Puget Sound Navy Museum. Farther along Sinclair Inlet, explore the decks of the USS Turner Joy, a decommissioned 1950s warship that’s now a museum. Then see what’s showing at the Roxy movie theater.

Eat and Drink

Local Boys Taproom pours 40 craft beers, plus mead and ciders, while friendly Dog Days Brewing presents occasional live bands and trivia nights. Axe and Arrow Gastropub serves elevated classics like Wagyu beef chili and black truffle prime rib. Check out the burgers and side sauces (dill-ranch, curry ketchup, wasabi garlic) at casual Fritz Fry House. The Prohibition-era vibe at Remedy Speakeasy is complemented by old-school cocktails and creative comfort food. The Lumpia Factory turns out authentic Filipino dishes. Jump-start your day with mocha or cold brew at Coffee Oasis, which also serves hefty breakfast sandwiches and burritos.

Shop

You’ll find many indie shops in the historic downtown, including Bremerton Mercantile, a modern general store that dispenses whimsical gifts and artwork, and Collective Visions Gallery, where you can view regional artworks. The Game Wizard and Blue Sky Hobbies carries an impressive selection of board games, comics, and other diversions, and Ballast Book Company is one of Kitsap Peninsula’s best sources of literature.