Ultimate Travel Guide to Bellingham and Whatcom County

1. Overview of Bellingham

Bellingham is a versatile destination suitable for both short weekend getaways and extended stays. This vibrant city offers a wealth of activities, from arts and shopping to gourmet dining and outdoor adventures. Visitors will find plenty to do, whether they’re interested in experiencing the local wildlife, indulging in delicious food and wine, or enjoying stunning views of Bellingham Bay.

2. Fun Things to Do

Local museums are a major draw for visitors. Here are some must-see attractions in Bellingham:

• Whatcom Museum: This museum spans three buildings, showcasing regional art, history, and culture. The Lightcatcher Building hosts both national and regional exhibitions and is a Smithsonian affiliate, with an interactive gallery for families.
• Spark Museum of Electrical Invention: Featuring an impressive collection from early radios to static electricity machines, this museum provides engaging exhibits such as a replica of the Titanic radio room and an 18th-century laboratory interpreting the basics of electricity.

3. Fun Things to Do Near Bellingham

• Tennant Lake Park Interpretive Center and Fragrance Garden: A fantastic destination for birdwatching, this area features a boardwalk and exhibits highlighting local habitats and wildlife.
• Hovander Homestead Park: A family-friendly park with picnic areas, farm animals, and historical buildings, perfect for a day of outdoor fun.
• Lynden: A quaint town rich in Dutch heritage, offering unique shops, eateries, and the Lynden Pioneer Museum.
• Silver Reef Casino: Located in Ferndale, the casino features gaming, dining, and entertainment options.

4. Outdoor Recreation

• Whatcom Falls Park: A scenic park featuring numerous trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas.
• Urban Trails: Explore various trails throughout Bellingham, including the South Bay Trail and Cornwall Park.
• Western Washington University Outdoor Sculpture Collection: A scenic stroll through extraordinary artworks on the university campus.
• Golf: Bellingham is home to over a dozen public golf courses, ideal for both casual and serious golfers.

5. Outdoor Recreation Near Bellingham

Bellingham offers numerous outdoor activities close to scenic waters and majestic mountains. Explore whale watching and hiking trails as part of your adventure:

Whale Watching and Sightseeing Cruises

Experience thrilling whale watching tours, often featuring orca sightings along with other marine wildlife. Numerous operators offer options that may include kayaking or gourmet meals.

• Island Adventure Cruises
• Island Mariner Cruises
• Gato Verde Adventure Sailing
• Mystic Sea Charters
• Outer Island Expeditions
• San Juan Island Commuter

Hiking

Whatcom County is filled with beautiful hiking trails catering to all skill levels, including:

• Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve: A forest trail with scenic views finishing at a rocky beach.
• Chuckanut Ridge Trail: A 4-mile trail offering breathtaking vistas of the San Juan Islands.
• Horseshoe Bend: A gentle trail alongside the Nooksack River, perfect for beginners.
• Fire and Ice: A short, interpretive trail at Heather Meadows featuring stunning mountain views.
• Picture Lake: A picturesque loop trail showcasing the iconic Mt. Shuksan view.
• Artist Ridge: A breathtaking hike accessible only a portion of the year, providing unforgettable vistas of Mt. Baker.

6. Scenic Drives From Bellingham

For those looking to enjoy the landscape from their vehicle, consider these spectacular drives:

Chuckanut Drive

This stunning 21-mile route runs from Burlington to Bellingham, showcasing picturesque farmlands, berry farms, and incredible waterfront views of the San Juan Islands.

Mt. Baker Highway

Traveling approximately 60 miles, this scenic highway leads to Artist Point in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Along the way, discover farms, vineyards, and breathtaking views of Nature.

7. Special Events & Festivals

Bellingham and Whatcom County host a variety of seasonal celebrations:

• Dirty Dan Days Seafood Festival (April)
• Holland Days (May)
• Ski to Sea Festival (May)
• Historic Fairhaven Festival (May)
• Bellingham Festival of Music (July)
• Northwest Washington Fair (August)
• Whatcom Artist Studio Tour (October)

8. Shopping & Galleries

• Jody Bergsma Gallery: Showcasing dreamlike watercolor art.
• Backcountry Essentials: A haven for outdoor gear, perfect for adventurers.
• Mark Bergsma Gallery: A celebration of Northwest themes in photography.
• Bellingham Farmers Market: A vibrant market featuring local produce and crafts.

9. Dining

Whatcom County offers a delicious variety of local cuisines. Enjoy fresh seafood, farm-to-table dining, and more in Bellingham’s diverse restaurants:

• The Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro: Known for its unique dishes and craft beers.

10. Hotels & Lodging

Hotel Bellwether provides a luxurious escape with elegant accommodations and stunning views of Bellingham Bay. In addition, Fairhaven Village Inn offers a boutique experience with easy access to the local attractions and delightful amenities.

Getting to Bellingham

By Car

Bellingham is conveniently located 89 miles north of Seattle on Interstate 5.

By Air

Bellingham International Airport is served by major airlines, providing easy access for travelers.

By Train

The Amtrak Cascades offers stops at Fairhaven Station, linking Bellingham with larger cities.

By Bus

Greyhound services several daily routes to and from Fairhaven Station.

By Water

The Bellingham Cruise Terminal is the endpoint for the Alaska Marine Highway System, providing scenic ferry services for travelers.