Day trip from Sheraton Grand Seattle: Bainbridge Island by ferry
Yes — from Sheraton Grand Seattle you can walk about 10 minutes to the downtown ferry terminal (Pier 52) and take a walk-on ferry to Bainbridge Island. The ferry ride is roughly 30–40 minutes each way; plan for a half- to full-day trip into Winslow for shops, restaurants, and shoreline walks.
In this guide
Getting from Sheraton Grand Seattle to the ferry terminal
Sheraton Grand Seattle sits at 1400 6th Ave in downtown Seattle, about a 9–11 minute walk from the downtown ferry terminal (Pier 52) where ferries to Bainbridge Island depart. The hotel front desk or concierge can confirm the best walking route and current terminal signage.
Wear comfortable shoes and allow a little extra time if you want to stop at Alder & Ash for coffee or a quick breakfast before you go. If you need to check train or bus connections, Westlake Station and nearby transit stops are a few minutes’ walk from the hotel.
- Walk from the hotel to Pier 52 (downtown ferry terminal) — roughly 10 minutes
- Check ferry schedule before you leave; peak times can be busier
- Ask concierge at Sheraton Grand Seattle for real-time ferry info and walking directions
| From | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Sheraton Grand Seattle to Pier 52 | About 10 minutes on foot |
| Ferry to Bainbridge Island | About 30–40 minutes one way |
| Winslow (Bainbridge dock) to shops | Short walk from the dock |
Ferry ride: what to expect
The walk-on Washington State ferry between downtown Seattle (Pier 52) and Bainbridge Island takes about 30–40 minutes each way. The ride crosses a working waterway, so you’ll see Seattle’s waterfront and often the downtown skyline as you leave or approach the city.
The ferry has indoor seating, outdoor decks, restrooms, and a snack/coffee kiosk. On clear days the outdoor decks give the best views for photos; on wet or cold days the indoor seating area is a practical choice.
- Bring a light jacket — wind and spray are common on the outer decks
- Restrooms and a small café are available on the ferry
- No car is needed — this is a walk-on ferry service
| Onboard feature | Notes |
|---|---|
| Indoor seating | Heated, useful in cooler weather |
| Outdoor deck | Best for skyline and Puget Sound views |
| Cafe | Snacks, coffee, and light items available |
Winslow village: walking route and highlights
The ferry arrives at Winslow on Bainbridge Island; the town center is a short walk from the dock. Winslow’s main street has independent shops, galleries, and cafes that make it easy to explore on foot without needing a car.
Plan your route based on what you want to do: browsing shops and galleries, visiting the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, or sitting for lunch at a café with waterfront views. Many visitors combine a casual walk with a meal and some time in the galleries or parks.
- Bainbridge Island Museum of Art — small local museum (check hours before you go)
- Main Avenue in Winslow — shops, galleries, and cafes
- Waterfront walk near the ferry dock for views back toward Seattle
| Activity | Why go |
|---|---|
| Shopping on Main Avenue | Local boutiques and art shops |
| Lunch or coffee | Multiple cafes and casual restaurants |
| Short waterfront walk | Good photo vantage of Seattles skyline |
Timing your day trip from Sheraton Grand Seattle
A typical half-day plan: leave the hotel mid-morning, catch a ferry across, spend 2–3 hours in Winslow (lunch, a walk, a museum or shops), then return on an afternoon ferry. If you want a more relaxed visit, plan a full day with a later return to Seattle.
Ferry schedules vary across the day, so check the Washington State Ferries schedule for exact departure and arrival times. Weekends and holidays can be busier; arriving at the terminal a little early reduces stress.
- Aim to arrive at Pier 52 10–15 minutes before departure if you’re walk-on
- Allow 30–40 minutes for each ferry crossing when planning time back at the hotel
- If you have a late flight or event, check evening ferry times to ensure you can return when you need to
| Trip length | What you can do |
|---|---|
| Half-day (4–5 hours) | Quick walk on Main Ave, lunch, waterfront photos |
| Full day (6–8+ hours) | Museum visit, longer walks, relaxed lunch/dinner |
What to pack and practical tips
Pack layers: Puget Sound conditions change during the day and can be breezy on the ferry. Comfortable footwear and a rain shell are sensible choices most of the year.
Bring a small daypack for purchases, a water bottle, and any medications. If you plan to visit museums or galleries, check their websites for hours and any admission requirements before you leave the hotel.
- Layers and windproof jacket
- Camera or phone for skyline photos
- Cash or card for food and small purchases — most places accept cards
| Season | Tip |
|---|---|
| Summer (Jul–Aug) | Sunny days but still bring a light layer |
| Wet season (Nov–Mar) | Rain jacket and waterproof shoes recommended |
Returning to Sheraton Grand Seattle and evening plans
After the ferry, walk back to Sheraton Grand Seattle and use hotel amenities to unwind. Guests often return to relax at Alder & Ash, drop by the Fountain Wine Bar for a drink, or head to the 35th-floor pool and Sheraton Fitness Center if they prefer low-key evening plans.
If you need to freshen up after the ferry, in-room showers are available and in-room dining runs until 11:00 PM. The hotel’s location also makes it easy to continue exploring downtown on foot after your return.
- Alder & Ash: breakfast, lunch, dinner (hours listed on hotel site)
- Fountain Wine Bar: open in the evenings for local wine and craft beer
- 35th-floor indoor pool and fitness center: pool hours and fitness center access available to guests
| Hotel service | Notes |
|---|---|
| In-Room Dining | Available daily until 11:00 PM |
| Pool | 35th-floor heated indoor pool open 5:30 AM–11:00 PM |
| Fitness Center | Bi-level Sheraton Fitness Center open 24 hours |
