Ferry + Downtown + Bloedel Reserve + Waterfront • 35 min ferry from Seattle

A relaxed island escape right from downtown Seattle — ferry views, coffee, beautiful gardens, a walkable downtown, and the waterfront, all in one easy day.

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Before you go

• Ferry: Take the ferry from downtown Seattle
• Car: Bring one if you're visiting Bloedel Reserve
• Bloedel: Book a timed-entry ticket in advance
• Walk: Bloedel's main loop is ~2 miles
• Weather: Bring a light rain layer outside summer
• Return: Check the ferry schedule before heading out </aside>

The Route

Take the ferry from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island.

Stay outside for at least part of the ride — you'll get great views of Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline.

☕ First stop — Downtown Bainbridge

Downtown Bainbridge is small but packed — grab coffee at one of the cute local spots, bakeries, or little shops right off the ferry. It's perfect for a slow morning walk.

At night, it turns into a low-key wine spot with local tastings, bars, and restaurants all within walking distance.

🚗 Drive ~15 mins north

Head from downtown toward Bloedel Reserve.

📍 Second stop — Bloedel Reserve

A 140-acre nature reserve filled with forests, landscaped gardens, ponds, and open meadows.

Follow the main ~2-mile loop and give yourself around 1.5–2 hours to explore without rushing.

↩️ Head back Downtown

Drive back toward the ferry terminal for the rest of the afternoon.

🌊 Third stop — Waterfront