Things To Do
Drinks
- Beer - Bellingham is the home of many great breweries. We like to enjoy a pint at Kulshan (3 locations - in summer Trackside is a good option), Otherlands, and Goods Local Brews (tap house not a brewery, but serves local beer). - Cocktails - More interested in a cocktail? Red Light, Storia Cucina, Jacks, Elk St Tavern, and Galloways all serve tasty libations. - Dive Bars - want underwhelming drinks for the right price? Our go to (and also neighborhood bar) is the Cocoanut Grove (not misspelled). Another good one is The Waterfront Tavern which is slowly sinking into the sea and was a favorite of Ted Bundy. The Cabin Tavern is great when summer is in session and students are out of town. They also serve the best burger in town.
Food
Breakfast - Old Town Cafe, Birch Door, Arlis's (Diner) Lunch - El Suenito, Greek Town (food truck), Old World Deli Dinner - Storia Cucina, Thai Maison, Bantam
Taylor Shellfish Farms
What's better than oysters? Oysters with a view! Great spot for lunch/not late dinner.
Artist Point
Stunning mountain views 1.5 hours east of Bellingham. Take Hwy 542 all the way to the end to visit Artist Point. Be sure to take the short walk out to Huntoon Point (https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/artist-ridge). There is snow here late into summer, so be sure to bring proper shoes. Want a longer hike? Check out Chain Lakes Loop (https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/chain-lakes-3) or Lake Ann (https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/lake-ann).
Whatcom Falls Park
Great walking trails, an off leash area, swimming hole, and of course the waterfall!
Zuanich Point Park
Look for marine life while enjoying a paved stroll. On a windy day (most days) you can find people flying cool kites.
Boulevard Park
Woods Coffee is located in the park and it is an easy walk to historic Fairhaven which has shops and restaurants.
Little Squalicum Beach
Have a dog? This designated off leash walking area and beach is amazing! Even if you don't have a dog, the pier is worth a visit. We recommend parking in the Bellingham Technical College parking lot or in the small lot on the corner of Marine and W Illinois.
Bloedel Donovan Park
Public park with the most access to swim in Lake Whatcom.
Galbraith Mountain Biking
Need a bike rental? Fanatik Bike Co is your best bet https://www.fanatikbike.com Most parking is located at: Galbraith Mountain and Padden Trails Parking Lot
Canada
Bellingham is only a 20 minute drive to the Canadian border. The community of White Rock is just over the border with many delicious restaurants and Vancouver is an hour away. You can find border wait times online and it is best to avoid rush hour. You need a passport to travel to Canada.