Downtown Winslow, Bainbridge Island

Head over to close-by Bainbridge Island for a fun day trip…no car required. Park in Seattle, grab the jogging stroller and walk onto the ferry to Bainbridge. Little ones will love watching the ferry workers in action and the short 35 minute ride is just enough time to walk a few laps, watch the passing boats, & look for sea life. Kidimu Children’s Museum is currently constructing their new facility (slated to open in Oct ’10), but check out their fun temporary location downtown.  A brand-new playspace has just opened in the museum’s old location this month, called Peacock Family Center and has both open-play and drop-off childcare available…check site for hours and details.   Have lunch in the Big Star Diner, which has been featured on the Food Network show “Diners, Drive-in’s and Dives” and is housed in an old train car or Casa Rojas  in the Pavilion. Also at the Pavilion, upstairs above the theater, is Kid’s UP Parent Child Center with drop-in times for indoor play-perfect for the under-6 set.   Stroll through charming downtown Winslow where you’ll find a slew of shopping and dining options.  Bainbridge Bakers is perfect if you’re in the mood for soup & sandwiches and Mora Iced Creamery provides a sweet treat for dessert. If you’re shopping for the kids, don’t miss Calico Cat toy store and Possum’s Boutique .

Finally, if the kiddos want some playtime, the Waterfront Park behind the grocery store has a playground and a path to access the water. Keep your eye on the time so you don’t miss your boat back home!

-Angie J. Ballas