Bainbridge Island Spotlight — Mark Middleton Real Estate

The beauty of Bainbridge Island precedes itself - and for good reason! For many, the allure of traveling by ferry is whimsical enough; and then when you arrive you're immediately swept into charming, small town life. Bainbridge Island definitely has a magic all it's own and I am always eager to share my favorite attractions and events with everyone from lifetime residents to those just visiting for the day. So, keep reading for some of my favorite Summer things to do, see, and eat on Bainbridge Island!

To Eat:
Pegasus Coffee: a local establishment since 1979. They've been roasting their own beans since the beginning and work closely with Higherground Cafe, a non-profit organization aimed at fighting hunger and homelessness, by donating beans. Some of the best coffee in the state (which is not a statement I make lightly)!

Bruciato: the name means "burnt" or "scorched" - this wood-fired pizzeria just happens to be next door to our Bainbridge Island Realogics Sotheby's International Realty office and serves up the best slices on the Island.

Hitchcock and Hitchcock Deli: The first being your best bet for a beautiful meal with locally sourced ingredients and recently named to Eater Seattle's best-of-list. However, they only serve dinner; so if you're just in town for the day your better bet is the more casual deli. They serve sandwiches, soup, and even offer charcuterie and deli meats by the pound from a case.

To See:
Gazzam Lake Nature Preserve: a moderate hike through forested paths that lead around Gazzam Lake. An additional path will take you to a view point of the Western side of the island. A lovely way to spend a few hours (dogs, bikers, and horseback riders all allowed).

Bloedel Reserve: An inspiring public 150-acre reserve created by Mr. Bloedel, who was colorblind, and focused on incorporating as many textures as possible when planning the pathways through the garden.

Creosote Park: Less of a real park, and more of a spot for some ferry boat watching and idyllic views of Seattle. Also includes a decent strip of rocky beach for a quick stroll away from the busier parks and trails. (Follow Eagle Harbor Dr NE eastward to Creosote Pl NE. Somewhat of a construction zone on one side but great views on the other.)

To Do:
Salt House: A great way to spend some time between park hopping and eating delicious meals. A lovingly curated store with Pacific Northwest inspired, American-made, housewares and gifts. The Winslow location is their flagship store but they now also have a location in the Madison Park neighborhood of Seattle.

Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BIMA): Free to visit and the first large attraction you'll come across off of the ferry from Seattle. A small but thoughtful collection of paintings, films, and creations from Washington state artists.

Paraffine: Across the street from Salt House, this store is a do-not-miss for candle lovers. They also have an amazing collection of Swedish and Finnish teas, some of which cannot be found anywhere else in America! (Surrounded by other local gems, Covet Boutique, Petit & Olson, Millstream, and Sweet Deal... among others!)

Upcoming Events:
July 24th: Bainbridge Sings
July 29th: SummerFest
August 4th: First Friday Art Walk
September 9th: Bainbridge Island Quilt Festival

Click here to read more about Bainbridge Island on my dedicated profile page.

Current Listings on Bainbridge Island: