'''Bainbridge Island''' [http://www.ci.bainbridge-isl.wa.us/default.asp] is an island city on the Kitsap Peninsula within the Puget Sound region of Washington state.

Bainbridge Island is a 35 minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle. Crossing the Agate Pass Bridge at the north end of the island will take you to the Kitsap Peninsula.

Understand

Culture

Like many Pacific Northwest residents, Bainbridge Islanders are socially progressive, outdoorsy, and physically active, with nearly every resident active in kayaking, sailing, hiking, skiing, running, or soccer. Bainbridge Island is a predominantly white, highly-educated, and - as a by-product of isolated island life - culturally and socially sheltered community. The island was once a poet's commune in the 70s and 80s, when many West-Coast artists, poets, and musicians converged to bask in the island's serene environment. Artistic and cultural events and organizations still abound, at perennial '''Pegasus Coffee''', '''The Harbour Pub''', The Lynwood Theatre, and The Bainbridge Performing Arts Center, which has its own improv comedy troupe. There is a refreshing 40s+ alternative scene involving yoga, martial arts, and social activism. The island is becoming increasingly gentrified, with many retirees settling down, particularly since it was voted the #2 place to live by Money Magazine in 2005.

By car

Cross the Agate Pass Bridge on HWY 305 from the Kitsap Peninsula or take the Washington State Ferry from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island.
  • '''Washington State Ferry''' [http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/schedules/current/index.cfm?route=sea-bi]
  • Get around

    Arriving by ferry there are usually cabs at the ferry terminal and '''Kitsap Transit''' [http://www.kitsaptransit.org] has busses that meet each ferry. It is a short walk into "Winslow" the primary shopping district on the island.

    See

    Bainbridge Island has several beautiful gardens and museums open to the public.

  • Bainbridge Gardens. retail garden with a long history, large selection and a small cafe for lunch. ttp://www.bainbridgegardens.com.
  • Bloedel Reserve. orth end of Bainbridge Island. 50 acres of outstanding display gardens. Noted for collection of rhododendrons, hardy cyclamen and other native plants. Reservations are required and there is a fee.. ttp://www.bloedelreserve.org.

  • Bainbridge Island Historical Museum. 15 Ericksen Ave NE. 206)8422773.
  • Kids Discovery Museum. 05 Madison Ave N. 206)8554650.

    Do

    Bainbridge Island is a great destination for bicycles - rolling hills and spectacular scenery. During the summer you'll find bike rentals near the ferry dock and year 'round you can rent or purchase bikes at '''Bainbridge Classic Cycle'''. [http://www.kingstonclassiccycle.com] Each February the Chilly Hilly, one of the classic bike rides kicks off the bicycle season with a ride around the island. You can get information on this ride from '''Cascade Bicycle Club''' [http://www.cascade.org/Home] or follow the itinerary on your own [http://visitkitsap.com/includes/popups/member_details.asp?ID=387&CityID=1&ThingID=49].

    With many small bays and inlets and all of Puget Sound '''kayaking''' is popular for beginners and experienced kayakers. Rentals are available on the island.

    Buy

    Eat

    There are a variety of excellent restaurants on Bainbridge, with a full-range of cuisines and price-ranges. Check out the '''The Winslow Way''' on the main drag for up-scale grilled dishes, '''San Carlos''' on Madison Ave for family-style Tex-Mex, and '''Big Star Diner''' for traditional diner fare.

    Drink

    Sleep

  • Best Western Bainbridge Island Suites. 50 NE High School Road. 1 206 855-9666. 1 866 396-9666. 1 206 855-9790. ttp://book.bestwestern.com/bestwestern/productInfo.do?propertyCode=48165.
  • The Island Country Inn.

    Get out