Bellingham Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled between the majestic Cascade Mountains and the shimmering waters of the Pacific Ocean, Bellingham is a hidden gem in the state of Washington. This vibrant city, located just 90 miles north of Seattle, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures.
Bellingham's picturesque downtown area is a hub of activity, with its charming brick buildings, tree-lined streets, and bustling shops and cafes. Stroll along the waterfront boardwalk, where you can admire the stunning views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands. Take a leisurely walk through the historic Fairhaven district, known for its quaint Victorian architecture and charming bookstores.
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Bellingham. Just a short drive away, Mount Baker beckons with its snow-capped peaks and world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities during the winter months. In the summer, hikers and mountain bikers can traverse the numerous trails that wind through the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
For a unique outdoor experience, head to Whatcom Falls Park, where you can wander through lush forests, picnic by cascading waterfalls, and spot wildlife along the serene trails. Larrabee State Park is another must-visit destination, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and camping.
Culture and history enthusiasts will also find their interests piqued in Bellingham. The Whatcom Museum showcases a diverse collection of art, history, and natural science exhibits, while the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention takes visitors on a fascinating journey through the history of electricity. History buffs can delve into the city's past at the Old City Hall, a stunning building that now houses the Whatcom County Museum.
Food lovers will be delighted by Bellingham's thriving culinary scene. From farm-to-table restaurants serving locally sourced ingredients to eclectic food trucks offering international flavors, there is something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss the chance to sample the region's renowned craft beer at one of the many breweries scattered throughout the city.
Bellingham Attractions - What to See and Explore
Bellingham offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Pickett House, Joe Martin Field, Chuckanut Mountains, Chuckanut Bay. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in Bellingham by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Bellingham.
Active
Joe Martin Field
BellinghamArenas and stadiums Baseball Sport Puget 
Whatcom Falls Park
BellinghamPark Hiking trail Outdoor activities Alabama Hill 
North Bellingham Golf Course
BellinghamOutdoor activities Golf 
Fairhaven Park
BellinghamPark Playground Basketball court South Bellingham 
Vital Climbing Gym - Bellingham
BellinghamClimbing
Museum
Pickett House
BellinghamMuseum Lettered Streets 
Spark Museum of Electrical Invention
BellinghamMuseum Specialty museum Event space 
Whatcom Museum
BellinghamMuseum Specialty museum Lettered Streets 
Bellingham Railway Museum
BellinghamMuseum Specialty museum 
Mindport Exhibits
BellinghamMuseum Specialty museum
Specialty museum
Spark Museum of Electrical Invention
BellinghamMuseum Specialty museum Event space Whatcom Museum
BellinghamMuseum Specialty museum Lettered Streets Bellingham Railway Museum
BellinghamMuseum Specialty museum Mindport Exhibits
BellinghamMuseum Specialty museum
Park
Whatcom Falls Park
BellinghamPark Hiking trail Outdoor activities Alabama Hill 
Interurban Trail
BellinghamPark South Bellingham 
Sehome Hill Arboretum
BellinghamPark WWU 
Broadway Hall
BellinghamPark Columbia 
Elizabeth Park Summer Concert Series-Bellingham
BellinghamPark Playground Columbia
Bellingham – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Bellingham, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Peace Arch State Park (Blaine), Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum (Port Townsend), Fort Worden (Port Townsend).
Best Time To Visit Bellingham
Learn when is the best time to travel to Bellingham weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Poutine
Poutine, a cherished Canadian dish, is a delightful amalgamation of crispy french fries, squeaky cheese curds, and rich brown gravy. It emerged in Quebec in the late 1950s and, despite initial ridicule, has grown into a celebrated emblem of Quebecois cultural pride.
Dish
Slider
A slider is a small, steam-grilled American sandwich, typically about 2 inches in diameter and served on a bun. The term "slider" originated from White Castle restaurants, where these miniature burgers were steamed with onions.
Fajita
Fajitas are a delectable staple in both Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine, characterized by grilled meat served on a warm tortilla. While they were originally prepared with skirt steak, today's fajitas feature a variety of meats including chicken and offer vegetarian...
Dish
Breakfast sandwich
In North America, breakfast sandwiches are a beloved morning indulgence, showcasing an array of quintessential breakfast ingredients such as eggs, cheese, bacon, sausage, and ham. These delightful fillings are typically nestled between various types of bread, including...
Food
Crab cake
Crab cakes are a cherished dish in the United States, particularly in regions surrounding the Chesapeake Bay, such as Maryland and Virginia. These delectable treats are crafted from crab meat blended with ingredients like bread crumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, eggs, and a...
Washington