The Bloedel Reserve & Sightseeing

The Bloedel Reserve offers a serene and captivating escape into the natural beauty of Bainbridge Island. Visitors can explore the stunning 150-acre botanical garden at their own pace, seeing diverse landscapes that range from peaceful meadows to a meticulously landscaped Japanese guest house. With knowledgeable guides on hand to share insights and local recommendations, this tour provides a unique opportunity to discover the island’s natural and cultural charms. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil respite or a chance to connect with the great outdoors, the Bloedel Reserve promises an unforgettable experience.

Key Points

• The tour offers a visit to the 150-acre Bloedel Reserve, a botanical forest garden on Bainbridge Island, accessible via a short ferry ride from Seattle.

• Participants can explore the Reserve at their own pace, with a private guide providing insights into the diverse flora and serene Japanese guest house.

• The tour includes transportation via luxury vehicles and provides snacks, sparkling water, and regular water for a comfortable experience.

• The maximum group size is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience with personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.

• Bainbridge Island, the destination, offers a charming downtown, a thriving food scene, and additional natural attractions like Fay Bainbridge Park.

Overview of the Tour

The Bloedel Reserve & Sightseeing offers an excursion from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, where visitors can explore a 150-acre botanical forest garden known as the Bloedel Reserve.

The private tour format allows for personalized exploration, with a visit to Fay Bainbridge Park also included.

Guests will travel to the island via ferry and be transported on-site in luxury vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Throughout the tour, travelers will be provided with generous snacks, sparkling water, and regular water, creating an intimate and well-catered outing.

Transportation and Meeting Details

To reach the Bloedel Reserve & Sightseeing tour, guests must first take a ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, which takes approximately 35 minutes. The meeting point for the tour is the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, located at 550 Winslow Way E, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110. Once on the island, on-island transit is provided in a luxury Mercedes minibus, Ford F450, or luxury SUV.

Meeting Point	Ferry Duration	Island Transit
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art	35 minutes	Luxury Mercedes, Ford F450, or SUV
550 Winslow Way E
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour includes a ticket and private guide for the Bloedel Reserve, allowing guests to explore the 150-acre botanical forest garden at their own pace.

Along the way, guests will enjoy generous snacks, sparkling and regular water.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Gratuities are included, so guests can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the reserve.

With a focus on comfort and convenience, the tour provides a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Tour Experience and Highlights

Guided exploration of Bainbridge Island and the Bloedel Reserve offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

The tour highlights include:

1. Meadows and diverse flowers that captivate the senses.
2. A Japanese guest house with a serene garden, providing a peaceful respite.
3. Knowledgeable guides who share insights and recommendations for local dining, enhancing the overall experience.

Positive reviews praise the tour’s ability to showcase the natural wonders of the area while providing personalized attention to guests.

The intimate group size ensures an exclusive experience throughout the excursion.

Pricing and Booking Information

The tour price starts at $299.00 per person, though it’s important to note the non-refundable policy for cancellations.

Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received at the time of booking.

The tour accommodates infants, who must sit on laps, and strollers are accessible. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Exploring the Bloedel Reserve

Nestled within Bainbridge Island’s lush landscapes, the Bloedel Reserve offers visitors a captivating natural sanctuary to explore.

The 150-acre botanical forest garden features:

1. Serene meadows filled with diverse flora and fauna.
2. A Japanese guest house surrounded by a meticulously maintained garden.
3. Winding trails that lead visitors through towering trees and peaceful ponds.

Guided by knowledgeable staff, guests can enjoy the reserve’s natural beauty and tranquility.

The tour provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the delicate balance between man-made and natural elements, creating a truly memorable experience.

Discover Bainbridge Island

Why not explore the charming Bainbridge Island, just a short ferry ride from Seattle? This picturesque island offers a delightful change of pace from the bustling city. Stroll through the quaint town, browse local shops, and savor the flavors of the island’s thriving food scene. For nature enthusiasts, the Bloedel Reserve promises a tranquil refuge, where you can learn about lush gardens and serene forests. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day trip or a deeper connection with the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty, Bainbridge Island is sure to delight.

Getting to Bainbridge	Explore the Island	Dining Highlights	Natural Gems
35-min ferry from Seattle	Charming downtown	Cafe Nola	Bloedel Reserve
Passenger/car ferry available	Local boutiques	Doc’s Marina Grill	Fay Bainbridge Park
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art as meeting point	Historical sites	Blackbird Bakery	Japanese Garden
Luxury transportation provided	Art galleries	Streamliner Diner

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the History Behind the Bloedel Reserve?

The Bloedel Reserve was established in 1970 as a private botanical garden by Prentice Bloedel. It’s now a 150-acre nature preserve that showcases diverse plant life and natural landscapes for public enjoyment.

Are There Any Accessibility Options for Visitors With Disabilities?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed. Visitors with disabilities should inquire about accessibility options before booking, as the private tour format may offer some flexibility to accommodate individual needs.

Can I Bring My Dog on the Tour?

No, dogs are not allowed on the tour. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but the guide can assist guests with limited mobility. Strollers are accessible for infants and young children.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code. Guests can wear comfortable, casual attire suitable for a day outdoors exploring nature. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended to navigate the Bloedel Reserve’s trails comfortably.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed at the Bloedel Reserve?

Photography and video recording are generally allowed at the Bloedel Reserve, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the peaceful atmosphere. Guests are advised to check with staff for any special restrictions during their visit.

The Sum Up

The Bloedel Reserve offers a tranquil escape into nature’s beauty, with diverse landscapes and a peaceful Japanese guest house. The tour allows for personalized exploration at your own pace, with knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience. It’s a perfect way to learn about the island’s natural and cultural charm. After the tour, visitors can further explore the delights of Bainbridge Island.