Living in the great Pacific Northwest we are surrounded by some beautiful landscape. We have big mountains, great green forests, and some amazing waterways. On the rare sunny, or even non rainy day, that we get it is so much fun to spend time up in those mountains, or in the forests, or out on the water. The water can be an elusive one to get to if you don’t own a boat or know some really nice person who will take you on theirs. Or, you can hop a ride on our wonderful Washington State Ferry system! There are some great day trips that you can take on the ferry to some wonderful destinations around the area. These five trips are all trips that can be done in a day, trips in which you can walk onto the ferry which will save you money, and have some fun activities waiting for your family on the other side.
Edmonds to Kingston – Park your car at the Edmonds Ferry Terminal and get ready for a beautiful, short 30 minute ride to Kingston. If you are early you can explore the Edmonds beaches on either side on the dock until it is time to leave. Once you arrive in Kingston you will find a quaint little town waiting for you to explore just blocks from the ferry terminal. My favorite place is J Aime Les Crepes for some delicious crepes! They also have ice cream if someone in your party is not a crepe fan. The kids are sure to love the local candy store, Little City Candy. Then, as you wait to get back on the ferry for the ride back to Edmonds check out the beautiful park right next to the Kingston ferry dock. My kids had a blast running around, doing cartwheels, and blowing off their energy.
Seattle to Bainbridge Island – There are many things to do in Bainbridge Island but did you know that within about a two minute walk from the ferry terminal was a fantastic children’s museum? Kids Discovery Museum sits on the hill right above the ferry terminal in Bainbridge Island which makes for a fun adventure for you and the kids. Start in Seattle at the Coleman Dock, relax, and enjoy the view during the 35 minute ferry ride to Bainbridge Island. Once there, get off the ferry and walk up the hill to 301 Ravine Lane. You can find more information and directions on their website. Admission is $8.00 for adults and children, but also check their website for reduced admission days.
Anacortes to Friday Harbor – This can be a long day, but totally worth the trip. Friday Harbor is the gateway to the San Juan Islands, so this is a very popular route, especially during those beautiful sunny days. Some tips to help with the potential crowds. Anacortes Ferry Terminal has about 1,000 parking spots and it costs $10.00 to park for 24 hours. If you want to drive on, you can make reservations ahead of time on the Washington State Ferry website. If you are walking on, reservations are not recommended. Walking on or driving on, during those busy times, arrive 30-40 minutes early. Once on the ferry, the ride is about an hour, and it is a beautiful ride! Once off the ferry in Friday Harbor you will see a charming town before you just waiting to be explored. There are many shops and restaurants to suit anyone’s tastes. I took my kids over to go to The Whale Museum and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Whatever you decide to do in Friday Harbor, I promise it will be a fun day for all!
Friday Harbor to San Juan Islands – Once you are in Friday Harbor there is an interisland ferry that a person can take for free to Lopez Island, Shaw Island, and Orcas Island. Each island is very different from the next and has a flavor all its own. Shaw Island is the smallest, Orcas Island is home to Mt. Constitution and Moran State Park, and Lopez Island is known as the friendly island because of all the waving residents. It seems as if to really explore these islands you would need a bike or car. Even if you don’t get off the ferry, it would be fun to check out the landscape and waters surrounding each island.
Seattle to Bremerton – This one hour ride has some beautiful views along the way. Once in Bremerton you can walk to the USS Turner Joy and the Puget Sound Naval Museum. On the USS Turner Joy a person can tour a naval destroyer and at the Puget Sound Naval Museum, the history of the navy in this region can be learned. If you happen to have chosen a really nice day you should spend some time at the Harborside Fountain Park right on the waterfront. And don’t forget the swimsuits for the kids! They can play in the fountains while you relax.
I hope that as we come into the nicest weather of the year that you are able to take a day or two and experience a few of these trips for yourself. For more information about the Washington State Ferry routes, fares, and schedules, please go to their website. Please verify all information before beginning your trip.
Keep finding your family fun -
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