Love coastal charm, mountain views, and outdoor adventure? Head to Bellingham, Washington! Located between Seattle and Vancouver, Bellingham blends Pacific Northwest beauty with a lively arts scene, farm-to-table dining, and easy access to sea and slopes. It’s a year-round haven for explorers and creatives alike.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Bellingham is from May to September for sunny days, farmers markets, and outdoor recreation. Fall is great for hiking and fall foliage, while winter offers skiing nearby at Mt. Baker. Spring brings blooming gardens and fewer crowds.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Located off I-5, Bellingham is about 90 minutes north of Seattle and 1 hour south of Vancouver, BC.
  • By Air: Fly into Bellingham International Airport (BLI), with domestic flights and seasonal service to western U.S. cities.
  • By Train: Amtrak’s Cascades route stops in Bellingham, offering scenic rail access from Seattle and Vancouver.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Bellwether – Waterfront luxury with marina views, spa services, and walkable access to restaurants and trails.
  • Chrysalis Inn & Spa – Boutique hotel on the bay featuring a relaxing spa and elegant rooms with fireplaces.
  • Heliotrope Hotel – Retro-modern lodging near downtown with a community vibe and local coffee on tap.

Top Attractions

1.Walk, Bike, or Watch the Sunset Along the Waterfront at Boulevard Park

Walk the waterfront boardwalk and enjoy a romantic sunset over Bellingham Bay.

Walk, Bike, or Watch the Sunset Along the Waterfront at Boulevard Park

© Courtesy of trac1 - Fotolia.com

Established in 1980, Boulevard Park is a waterfront community park on the eastern shores of Bellingham Bay. Its waterfront location makes it a popular place to view beautiful sunsets over the water. The park contains hiking trails, including access to the 2.5-mile South Bay Trail.

Hikers who travel south along this trail will venture out over the water on the historical Taylor Dock. To the north, there are views of the Canadian Border Peak. Other park facilities include picnic areas, playgrounds, restrooms, and a fishing dock. Coffee and snacks are available at Woods Coffee, located right on the water.

470 Bayview Dr, Bellingham, WA 98225, Phone: 360-778-7100

2.Tour the Timeless Elegance of Historic Lairmont Manor

Admire elegant architecture and discover this romantic, historic estate.

Tour the Timeless Elegance of Historic Lairmont Manor

© Lairmont Manor

Lairmont Manor has been a Bellingham landmark and gathering place for over 100 years. This grand 25-room Italian Renaissance mansion was commissioned by Charles X. Larrabee, the founder of the city, and designed by Seattle architect Carl Gould, Sr.

The home has hosted many social, musical, and political events throughout its history and even served as a nursing school and hospital for a time. Today, Lairmont Manor is a popular place for local weddings. The home also hosts private events such as parties, business meetings, family retreats, auctions, seminars, concerts, and recitals.

405 Fieldston Road, Bellingham, WA 98225, Phone: 360-647-1444

Places to Visit for Nature Lovers

3.Paddle, Picnic, or Hike the Trails at Lake Padden

Hike forest trails or paddle calm waters on a peaceful weekend trip.

Paddle, Picnic, or Hike the Trails at Lake Padden

© Courtesy of Alberto Masnovo - Fotolia.com

With its mountains, forests, lakes, and ocean, Washington State is a nature lover’s dream. Lake Padden is a 147-acre lake located near Interstate 5 just south of Bellingham and is surrounded by Lake Padden Par. The lake is stocked with many species of fish, including rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and coastal cutthroat trout.

Non-motorized and electric motor boats are allowed on the lake, and fishing is easily available from the shoreline. The surrounding park is open daily and contains picnic and barbeque areas, walking trails, shelters, playgrounds, restrooms, a basketball court, and a golf course.

4882 Sammish Way, Bellingham, WA 98229

4.Escape to Tranquility and Coastal Charm on Lummi Island

Ride the ferry and explore this quiet, affordable island escape.

Escape to Tranquility and Coastal Charm on Lummi Island

© Lummi Island

Lummi Island is a vibrant community of artists of every kind. Located in the Salish Sea, it is accessible from the US and Canadian mainlands by a short ferry ride. Visitors to Lummi Island will find shops and galleries featuring paintings, photographs, sculpture, furniture, jewelry, and more made by talented local artisans. Casual dining is available at the Beach Store Café. Guests can also stroll along the island’s beaches or get a relaxing spa treatment at the local spa.

Attractions for Couples

5.Browse Books and Local Treasures at Village Books and Paper Dreams

Browse shelves and discover unique gifts on an easy weekend stop.

Browse Books and Local Treasures at Village Books and Paper Dreams

© Village Books and Paper Dreams

Village Books and Paper Dreams is an independent community bookstore in Bellingham's Historic Fairhaven Village, founded in 1990 by Dee and Chuck Robinson. The beautiful bookstore, which expanded from its original location into a newly-constructed three-story location in 2004, strives to build community one book at a time, offering expansive collections of new, used, and bargain books. Titles are all chosen by in-house staff, taking local interest and community requests in mind. A collection of digital audiobooks and ebooks are also sold, along with gifts and home decor at sister store Paper Dreams. Delicious cafe drinks are sold at Evolve Chocolate and Cafe, located on the bookstore's mezzanine floor.

1200 11th St, Bellingham, WA 98225, Phone: 360-671-2626

6.Hike Forest Trails and Catch City Views at Sehome Hill Arboretum

Climb to the lookout and enjoy scenic sights on a quick nature walk.

Hike Forest Trails and Catch City Views at Sehome Hill Arboretum

© Courtesy of khomlyak- Fotolia.com

The Sehome Hill area of Bellingham has a rich and storied history. At various times, it has served as a center for coal mining, logging, and education. Today, 100 acres of Sehome Hill have been preserved as the Sehome Hill Arboretum.

Visitors to this wooded preserve can view the ancient rock layers at the Old Quarry and the vertical rock walls or climb to the top of the watch tower for a spectacular view of the entire preserve. The Quiet Rocks and the outdoor classroom provide excellent places for relaxation and meditation in a natural setting. The arboretum is open daily from 6 am to dusk.

600 25th Street, Bellingham, WA 98225

Recommended Activities for Kids

7.Explore Innovation and Curiosity at the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention

See vintage tech and explore exciting exhibits with curious kids.

Explore Innovation and Curiosity at the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention

© SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention

The ability to harness and utilize electricity radically changed the course of life on Earth. The SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention celebrates that discovery and the inventions that followed it. The museum covers 400 years of the history of electricity.

Exhibits include early artifacts from the study of static electricity, telegraphs and radios from the 1800’s, and equipment from the ‘golden age of radio’ in the 1950’s. And every weekend, the museum presents a live show featuring the ‘Mega Zapper’, a 9-foot Tesla coil that produces lightning bolts up to 9 feet long!

1312 Bay Street, Bellingham, WA 98225, Phone: 360-738-3886

8.Stroll Among Waterfalls and Forested Trails in Whatcom Falls Park

Admire cascading falls and stroll wooded trails on a family-friendly outing.

Stroll Among Waterfalls and Forested Trails in Whatcom Falls Park

© Courtesy of vanpeltj 87 - Fotolia.com

Nestled on the eastern side of Bellingham is Whatcom Falls Park. This 241-acre community park features breathtaking wooded and water scenery, including four waterfalls. Near the entrance to the park is a mossy old stone bridge that provides a great view of the main falls.

Three and a half miles of hiking trails wind through the park, making it a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park also contains picnic areas and barbeque grills, restrooms, playgrounds, tennis courts, and a fish hatchery.

1401 Electric Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98229, Phone: 360-778-7000

9.If You’re Fascinated by Art and History, Spend Time at the Whatcom Museum

Explore regional art and discover local history on an affordable cultural trip.

If You’re Fascinated by Art and History, Spend Time at the Whatcom Museum

© Whatcom Museum

Established in 1941, the Whatcom Museum spans three buildings and is a haven for history, art, and culture in Bellingham. Guests will find exhibits about the history and growth of the city in the Victorian-influenced Old City Hall building.

The Lightcatcher is an architectural masterpiece designed to catch and display sunlight, and is home to the museum’s fine art exhibits and interactive gallery. The Syre Education Center is home to historical and photo archives that can be viewed for research purposes. On-going special events, such as classes, camps, tours, and speakers, mean there is always something happening at the Whatcom Museum!

121 Prospect Street, Bellingham, WA 98225, Phone: 360-778-8930

More Bellingham Resources:


Bellingham.org

Western Washington University

The Bellingham Herald

Attractions for First Time Visitors

  • Fairhaven Historic District – Stroll brick-lined streets, shop local boutiques, and enjoy harbor views and public art.
  • Mount Baker – Year-round adventure spot offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and jaw-dropping alpine scenery.
  • Bellingham Railway Museum – Family-friendly spot for railroad history and interactive exhibits in the city center.
  • Chuckanut Drive – A scenic coastal byway with viewpoints, oyster bars, and access to hiking trails like Oyster Dome.

Where to Eat

  • Boundary Bay Brewery – Community-loved brewpub with craft beer, hearty bites, and a beer garden with live music.
  • Keenan’s at the Pier – Upscale waterfront dining with fresh seafood, local wines, and sunset views.
  • Brandywine Kitchen – Seasonal, locally sourced comfort food in a casual downtown setting.

Local Events

  • Ski to Sea Race (May) – Epic multi-sport relay from Mount Baker to Bellingham Bay celebrating outdoor spirit.
  • Bellingham SeaFeast (September) – Celebrate the region’s maritime heritage with seafood, music, and harbor tours.
  • Downtown Art Walk (Monthly) – Explore Bellingham’s creative side with galleries, studios, and live performances.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Bellingham, Washington

  • Fairhaven Historic District (5–10 min) – Stroll brick-lined streets with indie bookstores, waterfront cafés, and Victorian charm.
  • Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway (10–30 min) – Take a breathtaking coastal drive with panoramic views, hiking trailheads, and roadside oyster shacks.
  • Sehome Hill Arboretum (5–10 min) – Climb the observation tower and explore forest paths just minutes from downtown and WWU.
  • Larrabee State Park (25–30 min) – Hike coastal trails, explore tide pools, or picnic by the water at Washington’s first state park.
  • Marine Life Center (5–10 min) – Visit touch tanks and marine exhibits at this small but engaging waterfront aquarium.
  • Big Rock Garden Park (10–15 min) – Discover outdoor sculptures and quiet walking trails in a tucked-away garden setting.

FAQ

  • Q: Where is Bellingham located?
    • A: Bellingham is the northernmost city of the contiguous United States, located on Bellingham Bay in the northwestern corner of Washington State.
  • Q: What natural attractions does Bellingham offer?
    • A: Bellingham offers beautiful water and mountain views, making it a scenic destination for nature lovers.
  • Q: What historical features can visitors explore in Bellingham?
    • A: The city is home to lovely historical homes and buildings that reflect its rich past.
  • Q: How accessible is Bellingham from major cities?
    • A: Bellingham is conveniently located close to both Seattle-Tacoma and Vancouver, making it an easy destination for travelers.

Unique Attractions

  • Q: Where is Bellingham located?
    • A: Bellingham is the northernmost city of the contiguous United States, located on Bellingham Bay in the northwestern corner of Washington State.
  • Q: What natural attractions does Bellingham offer?
    • A: Bellingham offers beautiful water and mountain views, making it a scenic destination for nature lovers.
  • Q: What historical features can visitors explore in Bellingham?
    • A: The city is home to lovely historical homes and buildings that reflect its rich past.
  • Q: How accessible is Bellingham from major cities?
    • A: Bellingham is conveniently located close to both Seattle-Tacoma and Vancouver, making it an easy destination for travelers.

Plan ahead for these Bellingham Events:
- Bellingham SeaFeast -
- Fairhaven Winterfest - from late November to late December
- Ski to Sea - May 25, 2025
- Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival

Plan Your Trip


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