Bainbridge Island Museum of Art at a glance
The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, usually shortened to BIMA, shows art and craft with a focus on the Puget Sound region. Admission is free all year. Individual events can carry a charge, so check an event before you plan around it.
The museum and its shop are open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is one of the easiest stops on the island if you arrive without a car, because it is a short walk from the terminal. If you are still choosing how to reach the island, the Bainbridge Island day trips from Seattle page compares the options.
Guided trips on and around Bainbridge Island
Day trips, wine tours and sightseeing options that fit a day in Winslow.
Hours and closing days
The museum keeps regular hours, with a few exceptions around the holidays.
Regular hours
Every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., including the shop. General admission costs nothing.
Closed
Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Early closing
Thanksgiving Eve, Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve, when the museum closes at 2 p.m.
What you will see at the museum
The collection and shows center on art and craft from the Puget Sound region. That includes book art, painting, photography, sculpture and work in other media. Exhibitions change, so no single piece is always on view. Look at the museum's current program shortly before you go if you want a particular show.
Plan on about an hour for a first visit. That leaves room for a walk through Winslow afterwards.
Address and how to get there
550 Winslow Way E, at the corner of Winslow Way and Highway 305.
On foot from the ferry
The crossing from Seattle takes about 35 minutes, and the museum is about 5 minutes on foot from the terminal. Once you leave the terminal you are already in Winslow. Fares and timetables are on the ferry page.
By car
The museum has free visitor parking. That is for visitors, though, and does not mean free all-day parking for ferry commuters. Use the terminal lot if you are leaving the island for the day.
Access inside
The building has ramps and elevators, and a wheelchair is available to borrow at the front desk. That does not mean every sidewalk nearby is step-free, so look at your route if mobility matters.
Visiting rules, groups and tours
What to know before you go in.
Photos
Photography without flash is generally allowed. Some shows or works have their own exceptions, so look for signs. Selfie sticks and tripods are not allowed.
Bags
You can leave larger bags at the entrance, free of charge.
Groups and docents
Groups of 8 or more can book a visit. Volunteer docents sometimes lead informal tours. Do not count on one at a fixed time.
Museums in Winslow compared
Winslow has more than one museum within walking distance of the ferry.
| Museum | Admission | Hours | Walk from the ferry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bainbridge Island Museum of Art | Free | Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | About 5 minutes |
| Bainbridge History Museum | Free | Daily, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | About 10 minutes |
| Kids Discovery Museum | Paid, for ages 0 to 10 | Shown in the museum's online calendar | At 301 Ravine Lane NE, check the route |
For most visitors, the Museum of Art is a sensible first stop because it is the closest and free. Families with young children can add the Kids Discovery Museum. The History Museum at 215 Ericksen Avenue NE closes on New Year's Day, Easter Sunday, 4 July, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Plan the rest of your trip
More to see around the museum.
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art: frequently asked questions
Can I book a group visit?
Yes. Groups of 8 or more can book a visit. Contact the museum itself for event tickets or a group booking. Volunteer docents sometimes lead informal tours, but not at fixed times.
Is the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art free?
General admission is free all year. Some individual events are paid.
What are the opening hours?
Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas, and closes at 2 p.m. on Thanksgiving Eve, Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.
How far is the museum from the ferry?
About 5 minutes on foot. The address is 550 Winslow Way E.
Can I take photos?
Photography without flash is generally allowed, with exceptions for some shows or works. Selfie sticks and tripods are not permitted.
Is there parking?
Yes, visitor parking is free. It is meant for museum visitors, not for leaving a car all day while you take the ferry.