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Explore Bainbridge Island with a local - Neighbor in the Know

Bainbridge Island might be quiet, but it's becoming quite the star nationwide. We explore what makes Bainbridge so special. Sponsored by Windermere Real Estate.

BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, Washington — Bainbridge Island might be considered quiet, compared to Seattle- but this island is becoming quite the star across the nation!

In 2005, CNN Money ranked it as the "2nd Best Place to Live". More recently, in 2016, Vogue called it "The Nantucket of the Northwest".

I prefer to call Nantucket "The Bainbridge Island of the Northeast", but that's beside the point. There are a lot of things that make Bainbridge Island special, from its charming downtown to the beautiful views to the Bloedel Reserve.

I got a tour from a person who knows the island best - Ty Evans, a longtime local and island real estate agent. Here are some of the spots she suggested:

Winslow Way

Credit: Ellen Meny
Churchmouse Yarns & Teas selling knitting supplies and fine teas- and, you can knit in their cozy knitting area!

Winslow Way is Bainbridge's main downtown strip, just a quick walk from the ferry. Swing by Blackbird Bakery for a coffee and pastry, then try your hand at knitting at Churchmouse Yarns & Teas.

Blackbird Bakery | 206-780-1322 | 210 Winslow Way East  Bainbridge Island 

Churchmouse Yarns & Teas | 206-780-2686 | 118 Madrone Lane N 

Pleasant Beach Village

Credit: Ellen Meny
You can't beat the view from the ferry!

Another hub, a little off the beaten path, is Pleasant Beach Village. It's a bit like Winslow Way, but more of a local spot. There's the classic Lynwood Theatre, which opened in 1936, as well as several bakeries, restaurants, and shops.

Pleasant Beach Village is also a popular neighborhood to live in. More and more people are flocking to Bainbridge, whether they're young couples, starting families, or looking into retirement. The highly-regarded school system attracts families, while the 30-minute ferry ride into downtown Seattle attracts commuters. Plus, the views don't hurt.

Pleasant Beach Village | Lynwood Center Road NE, Bainbridge Island

Bloedel Reserve

Credit: Ellen Meny
The Bloedel Reserve opened to the public in 1988.

One of the best places to visit on Bainbridge Island is the Bloedel Reserve. This forest-garden is 150-acres of rolling hills, rare plants, and quiet pockets of nature. Buy a ticket at the gate, park, and stroll through one of the best-kept secrets in Western Washington. A few hours here, and you'll certainly feel connected to nature.

The historical Bloedel Manor House is open to guests, so be sure to walk through this historical home- and check out the view behind it.

Bloedel Reserve | 206-842-7631  | 7571 NE Dolphin Drive, Bainbridge Island 

This story is sponsored by Windermere Real EstateKING 5's Evening celebrates the Northwest. Contact us: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Email. 

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