Located on the shores of Bellingham Bay, this laid-back city is know for its craft beer and stellar outdoor recreation. Bellingham makes a great base for those looking to hit the trail, get out on the water, or venture to the western side of North Cascades National Park.
Beyond exploring the mountains and the sea, visitors can enjoy a thriving dining scene and outstanding museums and galleries. Whether you’re looking to browse local art, sip a creative cocktail, slurp fresh oysters, or get your heart pumping mountain biking, Bellingham has you covered.
Things to Do in Bellingham
With so much to see, here are some highlights to help you plan your trip, from scenic drives and outdoor recreation to shopping and cultural experiences.
Arts & Culture
Mount Baker Theatre
Built in 1927 as a vaudeville movie palace, Mount Baker Theatre holds everything from live plays and concerts to educational talks. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the theater still retains the building’s character.
Pickford Film Center
Looking for an independent film or documentary? Turn to this small indie theater in downtown Bellingham. Enjoy wine and beer in the cozy lobby or take your beverage into the theater to enjoy during the show. A second location, Pickford on Grand, opened in 2025.
Spark Museum of Electrical Invention
Explore the history of electricity at the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention. This museum in downtown Bellingham is home to an extensive collection of radios, telephones, telegraphs, and more. Time your visit for a weekend to see the electrifying MegaZapper Electrical Show, which offers guests the chance to experience loose electricity blasting out of a large Tesla coil.
WWU Outdoor Sculpture Collection
Enjoy a walk through the Western Washington University campus as you take in an impressive outdoor sculpture collection that features international, national, and regional artists. Western’s outdoor art is one of the top university collections in the United States.
Whatcom Museum
Explore exhibitions covering art, nature, and history at this multi-building downtown campus. Take in art in the modern Lightcatcher Building, home to the People of the Sea and Cedar exhibit and the Family Interactive Gallery. Or explore history exhibits and the John M. Edson Hall of Birds in historic Old City Hall.
Mural Tour
Bellingham is home to a wide range of murals and outdoor art that can be viewed for free on a self-guided tour. Don’t miss Gretchen Leggitt’s expansive mountain mural spanning the length of two football fields.
Also See: Where to See Murals
Outdoor Recreation
Larrabee State Park
Washington’s first state park is located south of Bellingham off Chuckanut Drive. The park boasts 8,100 feet of Samish Bay shoreline and offers spectacular views of the San Juan Islands. Visitors can enjoy tide pools, camping, and hiking.
Whatcom Falls Park
This city park has multiple trails that wind through a scenic gorge complete with waterfalls and bridge. The park also has picnic areas and tennis courts.
Hiking
Bellingham and the surrounding area are rich in hiking trails, from easy urban walks to strenuous climbs. Take in views of Lake Whatcom from the top of Chanterelle Trail, a moderate 4.8-mile roundtrip hike. On this dog-friendly trail, you’ll traverse a series of switchbacks and gain 1,000 feet in elevation. Head east along Mount Baker Highway to Horseshoe Bend, which takes you along the rushing blue waters of the Nooksack River. Travel Tip: Stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and keep a safe distance from wildlife.
Mountain Biking
Routinely recognized as a top mountain biking destination in Washington and located within riding distance of downtown Bellingham, Galbraith Mountain draws mountain bikers from across the state and beyond. With 65 miles of trails over 2,800 acres, there’s a trail for every skill level.
Water Adventures
Bellingham is home to 100 miles of Salish Sea shoreline, lakes, and the nearby Nooksack River. Visitors will find endless options for boating, kayaking, fishing, and more. Check out the Whatcom Water Trails Map.
Snowsports
Mount Baker offers endless options for snow activities, events, and sports during the winter, from snowshoeing to skiing. The Mount Baker Ski Area holds the record for most snowfall in a single year and is known for having one of the best early seasons in North America.
Also See: Discover Washington’s Water Trails
Scenic Drives
Chuckanut Drive
This 21-mile route follows Highway 11 from Burlington to Bellingham, passing through picturesque farmland before winding along a cliff with views of the San Juan Islands. Attractions along Chuckanut Drive include Larrabee State Park and the famous Oyster Bar.
Scenic Mount Baker Highway
Follow Highway 542 from Bellingham to Artist Point in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Attractions along the way include Chair 9, North Fork Brewery, and hiking at Horseshoe Bend, Nooksack Falls, Heather Meadows, and Artist Point.
North Cascades Scenic Highway — Loop off the Loop
This loop winds between massive peaks and along lakes colored turquoise by glacial silt. The route passes through Whatcom County at its northern point, with stunning views of Diablo Lake, Ross Lake, and hundreds of rugged peaks.
Also See: Salish Sea Oyster Road Trip
Food & Drink
Breweries
With nearly 20 breweries in the city and Whatcom County, Bellingham is a beer lover’s dream. Kulshan’s seasonal Trackside Beer Garden is a fun option for families, while Beach Cat boasts a waterside deck. In downtown, grab a burger at Aslan or snag a picnic table at dog-friendly Gruff. Bellingham’s Fairhaven District is home to local favorite Stone’s Throw, while El Sueñito serves up tamales in the Sunnyland neighborhood.
Black Sheep
Dig into tacos made with hand-pressed tortillas paired with a refreshing margarita. Whether you’re looking for juicy carnitas or vegetarian-friendly options, this spot has you covered.
Boomers Drive-In
This casual burger joint—complete with car hop service—has been serving Bellingham since 1989. Step back in time for burgers, waffle fries, and hard ice cream milkshakes.
Brandywine Kitchen
This spot dishes up plates for omnivores and vegetarians alike. Enjoy flaky fish and chips or dig into creamy gluten-free mac and cheese.
Estelle
This chic space in Fairhaven serves up craft cocktails and creative comfort food. The menu changes seasonally and features small plates and shareable dishes. Find vegetable-forward options like roasted carrots with date sauce or heartier options like the burger or black cod.
Bellingham Cider Company
Nestled in the Art District, Bellingham Cider Co. is known for craft ciders in classic and creative flavors. Sit on the outdoor patio and order a pizza and flight to share. Popular flavors include Rainer cherry and raspberry rhubarb.
Mallard Ice Cream
A local favorite, Mallard serves up scoops, sundaes, and shakes in exciting flavors. Choose from tried-and-true chocolate or mix it up with rotating options such as lavender, cardamom, or Thai tea.
Storia Cucina
One of Bellingham’s fantastic Italian restaurants. Everything is made from scratch, including the pastas and breads, while the bar specializes in classic Italian cocktails.
Shopping
Fairhaven Shops
Located just south of downtown Bellingham, this historic neighborhood boasts local galleries and shops selling everything from books and handmade pottery to gourmet olive oil and jewelry.
Bellingham Farmers Market
Every Saturday from April through mid-December this market in downtown Bellingham features local produce, food stalls, craft vendors, fresh flowers, and much more. Sample local hot sauce, chocolates, and baked goods or take-home handmade textile art and jewelry.
Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden
South of Fairhaven at the start of the scenic Chuckanut Drive you’ll find Chuckanut Bay Gallery & Sculpture Garden. Stop in to wander the calming gardens or pick up a piece from a local artist. The gallery features etched glassworks, glazed pottery, handmade jewelry, art prints, and more.
Fringe Boutique
This woman-owned clothing boutique in downtown offers a mix of shoes, jewelry, women’s fashion, and home décor, including pieces by local artists and makers.
Bison Bookbinding & Letterpress
With locations downtown and on the waterfront, Bison Bookbinding offers a curated selection of stationary, cards, and gifts. The waterfront outpost—home to their print shop—also features fun food items.
Greenhouse
This locally owned store features a curated selection of home décor, furniture, cookware, and kitchen accessories. Find the perfect table setting or stock up on fragrant candles and soaps.
Backcountry Essentials
All the clothes, gear, and gadgets you need for your outdoor adventures, including camping, hiking, climbing, and snow sports. The shop also provides equipment rentals for popular winter and summer activities.
Major Annual Events & Festivals
Wings Over Water (March)
The Wings Over Water Birding Festival in nearby Blaine celebrates the incredible variety of migratory birds, which flock to Drayton Harbor and Semiahmoo Bay each winter and spring. Visit the festival for wildlife demonstrations, bird viewing stations, exhibits, and more.
Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival (Spring)
This multi-day film festival is one of only a few in the U.S. celebrating films directed by women. See films from all genres, from animation to documentary. The Script Studio Workshop is open to the public and provides screenwriters the chance to hear their scripts read aloud by actors.
Ski to Sea (May)
This well-known event centers around a multi-sport relay race from the slopes of Mount Baker to the waters of Bellingham Bay. Legs include everything from cross-country skiing and mountain biking to running and sea kayaking. The finish line in Fairhaven is celebrated with a parade, block party, and beer garden.
Bellingham SeaFeast (September)
Celebrate Bellingham’s maritime heritage, working waterfront, renowned fishing and seafood industries, and culinary bounty. Enjoy live entertainment, seafood, and more.
Whatcom Artists Studio Tour (October)
Artists and craftsman of all kinds open their studios to the public during two weekends each October. In addition to the tour, the Whatcom Museum hosts a showcase of work from select Studio Tour artists.
Fairhaven Winterfest (December)
Each December, Fairhaven is decked out in lights and holiday decor for the holiday season. Special attractions include a holiday market, tree-lighting celebration, horse-drawn carriage rides, visits with Father Christmas, and a lighted bike parade.
Find More Events in Washington
Where to Stay in Bellingham
Hotel Bellwether
Situated on Bellingham Bay, this upscale option is perfect for those looking to unwind in a quiet setting. The hotel offers a full-service restaurant and on-site moorage for those who want the option to get out on the water.
Fairhaven Village Inn
This boutique hotel in the heart of Fairhaven provides convenient access to shops, restaurants, and waterfront trails. The adjacent Galloways Cocktail Bar is a great place to grab a drink and light bites.
The Chrysalis Inn and Spa
Located within walking distance of Fairhaven, this upscale property boasts views of the bay and easy access to the boardwalk to Boulevard Park. Relax with a treatment at the on-site spa or enjoy sunset views and fine dining at the hotel restaurant.
Hotel Leo
This is the only hotel located in the heart of downtown Bellingham. The restored historic building features a combination of hotel lodging and residences. Originally built in 1883 as the Leopold Hotel, the space now boasts inviting shared spaces and the Amendment 21, a prohibition-era bar with an emphasis on gin cocktails.
Heliotrope Hotel
For a modern Pacific Northwest feel less than a mile from downtown, check out this renovated 1950s motel. Designed by local owners with comfort and function in mind, the Heliotrope features shared indoor and outdoor spaces for gathering with friends.
Climate & Seasons
Bellingham makes a great year-round destination. Highs typically range from the mid to low 40s in the winter to the high 70s and low 80s in the summer months. Rain can happen any time of year, so it’s best to come prepared with layers and a rain jacket.
Spring brings farmers’ markets, agricultural tours, and beautiful wildflowers. In summer, embrace outdoor recreation on the lakes, bays, and trails (aim for a weekday to avoid crowds). Come autumn, you can experience festivals and vibrant fall colors on a scenic drive or hike. It’s also a great time to take in local art and theater performances. During winter, nearby Mount Baker offers snowshoeing, skiing, and snowboarding.
Getting to Bellingham
Bellingham is located about 90 miles north of Seattle on Interstate 5 and about 20 miles south of the border with Canada. Bellingham International Airport is served by several major airlines, including Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Allegiant. The Amtrak Cascades, which runs between Vancouver, B.C., and Eugene, Oregon, stops in Fairhaven.
Looking for more Bellingham trip inspiration? Check out Visit Bellingham | Whatcom County.