| Bainbridge Island | |
 | |
| Information | |
| Country |  United States |
|---|---|
| Area | 168,55 km² |
| Population | 23 025 hab. () |
| Density | 136,61 inhab./km² |
| Postal code | 98110 |
| Spindle | Pacific Time, UTC − 08: 00, UTC − 07: 00 |
| Location | |
 47 ° 38 ′ 54 ″ N 122 ° 32 ′ 8 ″ W | |
| Official site | |
THE'Bainbridge Island, To 11 km of Seattle, is located in Kitsap County and the Puget Sound, in the state of Washington. Its population is around 22,000 inhabitants.
Understand
The best season to go is of course summer, thanks to the very pleasant weather in addition to a relaxed and (f) summery spirit. In winter, however, it is often cloudy, gray, and dark, and it rains a lot, especially in December. But anyway not as much as New York in terms of volume, contrary to popular belief. Having said that, it is strongly recommended to go there in summer!
Understand
Like most people in the Northwestern United States, the people of Bainbridge are very friendly, relaxed, and even relatively progressive (so to speak). Due to their proximity to forests, waters, etc., they love nature and sport. It is an extremely wealthy suburb all in all, and rather homogeneous in terms of race and education. Like most Americans "in the provinces" they prefer to stay with their families and are not used to meeting foreigners. Also, they only speak English (apart from some who can get by in Spanish). On the other hand, they will welcome you warmly if you speak to them. They are generally interested in anything international, although the island is quite apart.
To go
Bainbridge is accessible by ferry, with a journey of 35 min pretty much from downtown Seattle. It is not compulsory to have a car as a tourist, but you will certainly be limited to the city center due to the lack of public transport. By car you will be able to enjoy the entire island. The price of a pedestrian ferry ticket is currently 5.25 USD (i.e. 4 € approximately) round trip (return for pedestrians is free). By car the price is approximately 18 USD one way, or 36 USD round trip. The ferry is huge. There is a canteen as well as vending machines on board, besides a wonderful view of Seattle and the entire region. Take advantage if the weather permits you from the solarium upstairs.
- Washington State Ferry[1]
Circulate
There is a bus network [2], but it is not frequent and especially not intended for tourists (as elsewhere in the USA). The bus station is located near the ferry terminal. Otherwise there are often one or two taxis waiting right outside the terminal.
The city center is only 10 min walk from the ferry terminal.
Do
Bainbridge is an ideal destination for the bike, with sufficiently difficult hills everywhere and a picturesque landscape. The roads, however, often lack a bike lane, so beware of passing cars and frequent curves. You will find bike rental agencies at 200 m from the ferry pier and are open year round, such as Bainbridge Classic Cycle. Every spring there is a bicycle race, named the Chilly hilly for the cold weather in spring and the many hills to climb. Inquire at Cascade Bicycle Club [3] or more simply, follow the route independently [4].
the kayak is also popular, thanks to the protected waters. You can rent one and equip yourself at a rental agency near the port.
To see
There are several very beautiful gardens as well as a museum (but no desserts by the bus).
- Bainbridge Gardens, Bainbridge Gardens
commercial garden with an interesting history (the owner is one of the last remaining Japanese immigrants), a large selection of flowers, and a small cafe. - The Bloedel Reserve, a garden known throughout the United States, located to the north of the island, offers 150 acres of beautiful and well-manicured gardens. Reservations are required and there is an admission fee of approximately $ 10. [5]
- Museum of History, 215 Ericksen Ave NE, (206) 8422773.
- Kids Discovery Museum, 305 Madison Ave N, (206) 8554650.
- Vigeron of Bainbridge. Ask at the tourist agency. (206) 8429463.
commercial garden with an interesting history (the owner is one of the last remaining Japanese immigrants), a large selection of flowers, and a small cafeOn foot, there are several paths along the harbor from the terminal.
- Eagle Harbor Books, Winslow Way.
Eat
There are plenty of great restaurants in Bainbridge, including Asian, Mexican, Italian, Indian, and even French cuisine.
- The Winslow Way, a bobo bistro in the city center, or San Carlos for Mexican cuisine but very spicy.
- The Harbor Pub, at the end of Madison Ave, where all the islanders hang out in the evenings. Be careful, American bars will refuse to accept anyone under the age of 21 without exception, and a piece of ID is mandatory for everyone.
In addition, there are three main bakeries in the city center:
- Blackbird Bakery (Winslow Way)
- Pégasus Coffee (next to the pub)
- Bainbridge Bakers.
All three make great sweets, coffee, sandwiches, and soups. Do not miss.
Housing
- Best Western Bainbridge Island Suites 350 NE High School Road,
1 206 855-9666, fax : 1 206 855-9790 - The Island Country Inn
