45 Best Things to do in Bellingham!

Bellingham is a charming city located in the Pacific Northwest, located between the vibrant city of Seattle and the Canadian border. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Bellingham offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and small-town charm. The city is surrounded by lush forests, breathtaking mountains, and the serene waters of Puget Sound, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Bellingham during your visit to Washington.

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1. Historic Attractions

Fairhaven Historic District

Originally founded in 1883, Fairhaven Historic District became part of Bellingham in 1903 and known for its red brick buildings, waterfront views, and rich history. The district is located on the south end of Bellingham, near Chuckanut Drive and Bellingham Bay, making it a scenic destination for visitors. The streets are filled with local shops, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. One of the highlights is Village Books, an independent bookstore that has been a favorite among locals for years. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour, exploring historic buildings and learning about Fairhaven’s past.

Old City Hall (Whatcom Museum)

Constructed in 1892, Old City Hall is a historic landmark for over a century and originally served as the city hall for the former town of New Whatcom. Today, it is home to the Whatcom Museum, which features exhibi ts on local history, art, and culture. The building’s Victorian architecture, with its red brick exterior and clock tower, makes it a striking sight in downtown. Inside, visitors can explore historical exhibits, including displays on the region’s early settlers and industries. It also houses the John M. Edson Hall of Birds, showcasing a collection of taxidermied birds from the Pacific Northwest.

Pickett House

Built in 1856 by Captain George Pickett of the U.S. Army, Pickett House was constructed using lumber from the Roeder-Peabody mill and had a simple design with two rooms on the first floor and two bedrooms on the second floor. Captain Pickett lived in the house while overseeing the construction of Fort Bellingham, but he left in 1861 to serve in the Civil War. Over time, the house changed ownership several times before being donated to the Washington State Historical Society in 1936. In 1941, it became a museum and later housed the Daughters of Pioneers, who still maintain the site today.

Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway

The Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway is a beautiful coastal route, known as Washington’s original scenic byway, this 24 miles road follows State Highway 11, connecting Burlington to Bellingham. The drive pass along sandstone cliffs, providing breathtaking views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands. Along the way, visitors can stop at Larrabee State Park, Washington’s first state park, featuring beaches, tide pools, and hiking trails. The route passes Oyster Dome, a popular hiking spot with panoramic views. Travelers can enjoy fresh seafood at Taylor Shellfish Farms, known for its oysters and shellfish.

Western Washington University

Founded in 1893, Western Washington University sits on 215 acres and offers a mix of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The campus is located near Bellingham Bay, providing students with access to outdoor activities and a vibrant city atmosphere. The university is home to over 14,000 students, with a focus on liberal arts, sciences, business, and environmental studies. The Western Libraries provide research resources, while the Viking Union serves as a hub for student activities. The campus features modern facilities, green spaces, and public art, including the Outdoor Sculpture Collection.

Roeder Home

Built between 1903 and 1908, Roeder Home was designed by Alfred Lee, the same architect who built the New Whatcom City Hall and Old Main at Western Washington University. The house was commissioned by Victor Roeder, son of Captain Henry Roeder, one of Bellingham’s founders. Located in the Broadway Park Historic District, the home features brick and stucco exteriors, with Chuckanut sandstone accents from the family-owned quarry. In 1971, the home was donated to Whatcom County Parks & Recreation, and today it serves as a venue for weddings, receptions, and community events.

Peace Arch Historical State Park

The Peace Arch Historical State Park is a unique destination that sits right on the U.S. — Canada border. The park is home to the Peace Arch, a 67 foot monument built in 1921 to celebrate the peaceful relationship between the two countries. The arch stands on the exact boundary line, with half of the park in Washington and the other half in Canada. The site was officially designated as a state park in 1931 and visitors can walk freely between two sections without passing through border. Interpretive panels throughout the area share information about the monument’s history and significance.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Whatcom Falls Park

Covering 241 acres, Whatcom Falls Park features four waterfalls, with the main one visible from a historic stone bridge built in 1939 to 1940. The park has over 5 miles of trails, passing through forests, meadows, and along Whatcom Creek. Visitors can explore the fish hatchery, which helps maintain local fish populations. The Whirlpool Falls area is a popular swimming spot in summer and the park has basketball courts, tennis courts, playgrounds, and picnic shelters, making it a great place for families. Seasonal changes bring different sights, from blooming plants in spring to colorful leaves in fall.

Marine Park

Covering 1.9 acres, Marine Park is a waterfront spot located in Fairhaven, near the Bellingham Cruise Terminal. The park features a gently sloping beach, making it a great place for beachcombing, birdwatching, and kayaking. The picnic shelter is renovated, is available on a first-come, first-use basis, providing a nice space for outdoor gatherings. The park connects to a nationally recognized trail system, allowing visitors to explore area on foot. The views of Bellingham Bay add to the relaxing atmosphere and seasonal changes bring different sights, from wildflowers in spring to colorful sunsets in fall.

Lake Padden Park

Covering 160 acres, Lake Padden Park providing space for hiking, biking, paddling, swimming, and horseback riding. The main loop trail around the lake is 2.6 miles long, offering an easy walk with scenic views. The park has tennis courts, basketball courts, picnic shelters, and a fishing dock, making it a great spot for families. The boat launch at the east entrance allows visitors to explore the lake by kayak or canoe, while the lake is home to mallard ducks, cormorants, buffleheads and local wildlife. The Lake Padden Golf Course, located on the eastern shore, offers an 18-hole championship course.

Boulevard Park

Located along South State Street and Bay View Drive, Boulevard Park features with well-marked walking trails, picnic tables, a playground, and a fishing dock, providing plenty of options for relaxation and recreation. The Taylor Dock boardwalk connects Boulevard Park to Fairhaven, offering a scenic walk over the water. Visitors can enjoy barbecue grills, viewpoints, and interpretive displays that highlight the area’s history and environment. The park hosts events, including concerts and community gatherings. The Woods Coffee shop is a great place to grab a drink while enjoying the waterfront views.

Boating and Sailing

Bellingham is a great place for boating and sailing, with easy access to Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands. Several companies like San Juan Cruises offer boat rentals, sailing lessons, and guided tours, making it simple for visitors to enjoy the water. San Juan Sailing & Yachting and NW Sailing Adventures provides sailing instruction, boat charters, also providing kayaks and for rental, helping guests explore the area by sailboat or powerboat. For a unique experience, visitors can board the Schooner Zodiac, a historic 160 foot tall ship, and take part in sailing maneuvers while enjoying the scenery.

Fairhaven Park

Covering 136 acres, Fairhaven Park has open fields, wooded trails, and a playground, making it a good spot for families. The spray park is open from June 15 to September 15, provides a fun and exciting way to cool off during warm months. The labyrinth offers a quiet space for reflection, while the trail system connects to Padden Creek, where visitors can see salmon runs and waterfalls. The park has picnic shelters, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and basketball courts, giving plenty of options for recreation. The park’s history includes conservation efforts to protect local wildlife and natural spaces.

Cornwall Park

Covering 70 acres, Cornwall Park has open fields, wooded trails, and a creek, making it a peaceful spot for visitors. The trail system includes 1.5 miles of paths, that leads through forests and open fields. The park has tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball courts, and horseshoe pits, offering plenty of options for recreation. The disc golf course is a popular feature, with 9 holes spread across the park. The spray park provides a fun and exciting way for kids to cool off during warm months. The Cornwall Rose Garden, located near the southern end of the park, adds to the natural beauty of the area.

Hiking Trails

Bellingham has many great hiking trails that offer beautiful views and outdoor adventures. South Bay Trail is a popular path that connects downtown Bellingham to Fairhaven, running along the waterfront and providing scenic views of Bellingham Bay. Forest and Cedar Park offers wooded trails and quiet spots for nature walks. Klipsun Trail is another option, winding through residential areas and green spaces. Whatcom Falls Park has trails that lead to waterfalls, a fish hatchery, and forest areas, making it a favorite among locals.

Lake Padden Park features a 2.6 miles loop around the lake, perfect for an easy walk with peaceful surroundings. Fragrance Lake Trail is a moderate hike that takes visitors through forests and leads to a scenic lake. Pine and Cedar Lakes Trail is a more challenging route, climbing through dense forests to reach two quiet lakes. Chuckanut Falls Trail is a short and easy hike that leads to a small waterfall, offering a relaxing nature experience. Teddy Bear Cove via Interurban Trail provides a coastal walk with views of Chuckanut Bay.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Bellingham is a great place for kayaking and paddleboarding, with access to Bellingham Bay, Lake Whatcom, and Chuckanut Bay. Several companies offer rentals, guided tours, and lessons, making it simple for visitors to enjoy the water. Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures provides guided sea kayaking tours, allowing guests to explore the Salish Sea and its natural beauty. Dragonfly Kayak Tours offers half-day and multi-day excursions, giving paddlers a chance to experience the coastline. KayakShare.com provides self-service kayak rentals at Marine Park, making it easy for visitors to get on the water.

Fishing Charters

Bellingham is a great place for fishing charters, offering access to Bellingham Bay, the San Juan Islands, and nearby rivers. Several companies provide guided fishing trips like Sail the San Juans specializes in catching salmon and steelhead fishing, with trips that take visitors to Nooksack, Skagit, and Stillaguamish Rivers. NW Explorations Yacht Charters offers saltwater fishing trips, targeting salmon, halibut, and lingcod, while also providing whale watching and scenic tours. San Juan Sailing & Yachting provides boat rentals and guided fishing trips, allowing visitors to explore the area around Bellingham.

Bloedel Donovan Park

Located on the shores of Lake Whatcom, Bloedel Donovan Park offering visitors access to swimming, boating, and fishing. The boat launch is a key feature, allowing easy access to the lake for kayaks, paddleboards, and motorboats. The park has picnic areas, barbecue grills, and open fields, making it a great place for gatherings. A playground provides space for kids to enjoy, while the basketball and volleyball courts offer options for sports. The Bloedel Boat Rentals service operates seasonally, providing kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards, along with guided tours that offer visitors to customize their trip.

Golfing Courses

Bellingham has several golf courses that offer great experiences for players of all skill levels. Lake Padden Golf Course is a public 18-hole course with a practice facility, driving range, and putting green, surrounded by trees for a peaceful setting. North Bellingham Golf Course is designed in a Scottish links style, featuring rolling fairways and views of Mount Baker. Shuksan Golf Club is known for its elevated tees and scenic views, offering a mix of open and wooded holes.

Sudden Valley Golf Club sits near Lake Whatcom, providing a mix of meadows, creeks, and elevation changes. Bellingham Golf and Country Club is a private course with a historic clubhouse and well-maintained greens. The courses offer lessons, tournaments, and practice areas for players looking to improve their game. Most courses have on-site clubhouses with dining options, making them perfect for relaxing after a round.

3. Iconic Landmarks

SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention

The SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and hands-on workshops that highlight scientific discoveries over the past four centuries. One of the most exciting attractions is the MegaZapper Electrical Show, where visitors can see massive lightning bolts created by a Tesla coil. The museum’s collection includes early radios, telegraphs, phonographs, and electrical devices, showing how technology has evolved. Guests can explore displays on scientists like Nikola Tesla, Thomas Edison, and Benjamin Franklin, learning about their contributions to electrical innovation.

Sehome Hill Arboretum

The Sehome Hill Arboretum is a peaceful natural space with 175.5 acres of second-growth forest. The area has 5 miles of trails, perfect for walking and exploring local plants. One of the highlights is the 80 foot wooden observation tower, offering views of Bellingham Bay and the city. Another highlight is the rock tunnel, hand-cut in 1923, which was once used for car traffic. It is filled with trees like Douglas fir, red cedar and Western hemlock, along with native shrubs like Oregon grape and salal. Visitors can also see remnants of coal mining history, as the hill was once used for mining in the 1850s.

Mount Baker Theatre

Designed by architect Robert Reamer in a Moorish-Spanish style, Mount Baker Theatre is a historic performing arts venue that has been entertaining audiences since 1927. It is the largest of its kind north of Seattle and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The main theater has a seating capacity of more than 1,500 for large performances, while the Walt on Theatre and Encore Room provide additional spaces for smaller performances and events. The venue hosts concerts, plays, comedy shows, film screenings and Broadway productions, making it a cultural hub for the community.

Lynden Heritage Museum

The Lynden Heritage Museum features over 20,000 artifacts, making it one of the largest collections in the region. Founded in 1976, this museum has a collection featuring with horse-drawn buggies donated by Fred Polinder. The building itself has historical significance, as it was originally a blacksmith shop and farm implement store built in 1913. Visitors can explore exhibits on agriculture, transportation, and early settler life, learning about the town’s roots and development. Lynden is known for its dairy and raspberry production, and the museum highlights the role of farming in local economy.

Mindport Exhibits

The Mindport Exhibits first opened in 1995 as an experimental project, encouraging visitors to explore creativity and discovery. Guests could interact with displays that showcased physics, biology, electronics, and visual art, creating a hands-on learning experience. The museum also featured rotating fine art installations, highlighting work from regional artists. Over the years, Mindport became a well-loved part of Bellingham’s Arts District, attracting visitors from the residents and beyond. Some of its exhibits were relocated to other venues in Whatcom County, ensuring that its legacy continues.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Bellingham Cruise Terminal & Alaska Ferry

Located in the Fairhaven District, Bellingham Cruise Terminal serves as a hub for passenger ferries, charter boats, and seasonal foot ferries. The Alaska Ferry departs from Bellingham, carrying passengers and vehicles through the Inside Passage, a scenic water route known for its mountains, forests, and marine life. The terminal has a 400 foot berth, a car loading ramp, floating docks, and a visitor information center, making travel convenient. The MV Columbia, one of the main ferries, has 104 cabins, a dining room, observation lounges, and a movie lounge, providing a safe and comfortable journey.

Marine Life Center

The Marine Life Center offers hands-on experiences and interactive exhibits that highlight the marine life of Bellingham Bay and the Salish Sea. One of the main attractions is the touch tank, where guests can gently interact with sea cucumbers, urchins, and other small creatures. The center features a rock shore habitat, algae tank, and bubble tank, allowing visitors to see different underwater environments up close. A favorite among guests is the Giant Pacific Octopus, which is part of a catch-and-release program, meaning the octopus stays for a few months before being released back into the wild.

Family Interactive Gallery

The Family Interactive Gallery (FIG) is a hands-on space designed for children and families to explore art, science, and creativity. Visitors can engage in self-led activities, including an art studio where kids can create projects inspired by different artists. The FIG also offers STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) activities, encouraging problem-solving and innovation. The space is designed to be interactive, allowing children to learn through play. Special programs include storytime sessions, artist workshops, and sensory-friendly days, making the gallery accessible to all visitors.

Whale Watching Tours

Bellingham is a great place for whale watching, with tours that take visitors through the San Juan Islands and the Salish Sea. San Juan Cruises provides whale watching trips with a hot meal and a full bar, making the experience comfortable. NW Sailing Adventures offers sailing charters and overnight wildlife viewing, allowing guests to explore the area on a 42 foot catamaran. The waters around Bellingham are home to Bigg’s killer whales, minke whales, and harbor seals, making each trip unique. The tours are led by experienced guides, who share information about the local ecosystem and wildlife.

Schooner Zodiac Sailing

Built in 1924, Schooner Zodiac is a 160 foot tall ship is known for its classic design and large mainsail, the biggest working mainsail on the West Coast. The Zodiac operates public and private sailing trips, taking guests through the San Juan Islands and Canadian Gulf Islands. Passengers are allowed to steer the ship, help raise sails or simply enjoy the panoramic views. The crew provides guided sailing experiences, teaching guests about navigation and maritime history. Seasonal trips include lighthouse tour s, seafood cruises, weddings and brewery expeditions, making it a great choice for special occasions.

Hovander Homestead Park

Covering 350 acres, Hovander Homestead Park is located along the Nooksack River and access to Tennant Lake, making it a great place for nature lovers. The park is named after the Hovander family, who moved from Sweden in 1898 and built the farmhouse, barn, and other structures, many of which still stand today. Built in 1901, Hovander House showcases Scandinavian architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can explore walking trails, picnic areas, petting farm animals and gardens, including the Fragrance Garden, which features plants with unique scents.

Bellewood Farms & Distillery

The Bellewood Farms & Distillery has 25,000 apple trees and grows 23 varieties, including its famous Honeycrisp apples. Bellewood Farms is the largest apple grower in Western Washington and focuses on farm-to-bottle distilling, producing brandy, vodka, and gin from its own apples. Founded in 2014, it was the first apple distillery in Washington and has won several awards for its spirits. The farm has a café, serving fresh food and drinks, and hosts seasonal events, including apple picking and fall festivals. Bellewood Farms supports sustainable farming practices, ensuring high-quality fruit and spirits.

5. Natural Attractions

Tennant Lake Fragrance Garden

The Tennant Lake Fragrance Garden is part of Tennant Lake Park, providing a peaceful place for visitors to experience a variety of scented plants. It features raised beds filled with herbs, flowers, and shrubs, each chosen for its unique fragrance. The garden is designed with well-marked paths and small signs identify the plants, allowing guests to learn about their scents and uses. Nearby, the 50 foot Viewing Tower offers a breathtaking views of Tennant Lake, farmlands and distant Mount Baker. It is also a part of Hovander Homestead Park, which preserves the history of pioneer farming in the region.

Lake Whatcom

Stretching 13 miles long and a maximum depth of 350 feet, Lake Whatcom is a large freshwater lake that serves as a drinking water for over 100,000 residents. The lake is popular for boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking, with several parks and trails along its shoreline. Lake Whatcom Park on the eastern shore offers scenic views, waterfalls, and old-growth forests. The Hertz Trail, built on an old railway grade, provides an easy hike for visitors suits to all skill levels along the water. The lake has only one island, called Reveille Island, which has historical significance for Native American ceremonies.

Chuckanut Mountain

Located south of Bellingham, Chuckanut Mountain is part of Chuckanut Mountain Park, which covers over 4,000 acres and connects to Larrabee State Park. The area has a network of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, leading to waterfalls, lakes, and viewpoints. The Chuckanut Ridge Trail runs along the mountain, offering views of Bellingham Bay, Mount Baker, and the San Juan Islands. The Lost Lake Trail is another popular route, passing through forests and connecting to other trails. The Hemlock Trail is a good starting point, linking to different paths and leading to Chuckanut Falls.

Larrabee State Park

Covering 2,748 acres, Larrabee State Park is a scenic outdoor destination with wetlands and tidelands along Samish Bay. Established in 1915, it was the first state park in Washington, offering visitors a mix of hiking, boating and beach exploration. The park has over 8,100 feet of saltwater shoreline, with a stunning views of San Juan Islands. Popular activities include birdwatching and fishing, with two freshwater lakes available in the park. The Interurban Trail runs through the park, connecting to other trails in the area. Camping is also available, with 51 tent sites, 26 utility sites, and eight primitive sites.

Semiahmoo Park

Located on Semiahmoo Spit, Semiahmoo Park is a waterfront area with views of Semiahmoo Bay, Drayton Harbor, and Mount Baker. The park has trails with beach access and picnic areas, making it a great spot for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the APA Museum, showcasing artifacts from the Alaska Packers Association Cannery, telling the story of the region’s fishing and canning history. The Coast Millennium Trail runs through the park, connecting to nearby locations for longer walks. The Cannery Lodge, a historic building, is available for rentals, hosting events like weddings and meetings.

Birch Bay State Park

Located 9 miles from Blaine, Birch Bay State Park has 8,255 feet of saltwater shoreline along Birch Bay and 15,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on Terrell Creek. The park is known for its warm water, which is perfect for swimming, windsurfing, and paddling. The Terrell Marsh Interpretive Trail offers a short walk through wetlands, where guests can see wildlife. Birch Bay is a popular spot for hard-shell clamming and Dungeness crab harvesting, with the season usually starting in August. The campground is equipped with basic amenities and partial hookup sites, accommodating RVs up to 60 feet long.

Stimpson Family Nature Reserve

Covering over 350 acres, Stimpson Family Nature Reserve features old-growth trees, wetlands, and wildlife. It offers more than 4 miles of trails, including the Main Loop Trail and Geneva Pond Loop. The forest is home to Douglas fir trees over 400 years old, along with western hemlock, red cedar, and lush ferns. Visitors can see beaver ponds, streams, and moss-covered trees, creating a scenic environment. The trails are moderate in difficulty, with gentle elevation changes and boardwalks over wetland areas. The reserve is protected as part of the Lake Whatcom Watershed, to preserve the local ecosystem.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Mount Baker

From Bellingham, a day trip to Mount Baker starts on State Route 542, also known as the Mount Baker Highway, which pass through forests, past rivers, and wildlife along the way. One must-see stop is Nooksack Falls, an 88 foot waterfall that is easy to reach from the highway. Next, Picture Lake offers one of the most photographed views in the region, with Mount Shuksan reflecting in the water. The road ends at Artist Point, which sits at 5,140 feet and provides 360-degree views of Mount Baker and surrounding peaks. In summer and early fall, hiking trails lead to wildflower meadows and alpine lakes.

San Juan Islands

The journey to the San Juan Islands starts with a boat ride from Bellingham Bay, offering scenic views of the Salish Sea and nearby islands. San Juan Cruises provides full-day sightseeing tours, including a stop at Friday Harbor, the main town on San Juan Island. Visitors can explore shops, restaurants, and local attractions, making it a great place to walk around. One of the highlight is Lime Kiln Point State Park, known as one of the best places to see orca whales standing from shore. Another highlight is Roche Harbor, a small waterfront community with marinas, art galleries, and beautiful gardens.

North Cascades National Park

A day trip to North Cascades National Park takes about 2 hours drive from Bellingham, along State Route 20, also known as the North Cascades Highway. One of the best stops along the way is Diablo Lake Overlook, where visitors can see the bright turquoise waters surrounded by peaks. Another must-see spot is Gorge Creek Falls, a dramatic waterfall near the highway. The park has hundreds of miles of trails, with options for both short walks and longer hikes. Popular trails include Thunder Knob Trail, which leads to a scenic viewpoint, and Cascade Pass Trail, known for its stunning alpine meadows.

Whidbey Island

From Bellingham, a day trip to Whidbey Island takes about 2 hours drive on a scenic route across Deception Pass Bridge. Whidbey Island is known for its charming towns, coastal views, and outdoor activities, giving visitors plenty to see and do. Coupeville, one of the island’s oldest towns, has historic waterfront buildings and fresh seafood, including the famous Penn Cove mussels. Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve offers hiking trails with views of farmland, beaches, and the Olympic Mountains. Fort Casey State Park features old military bunkers and a lighthouse, adding a bit of history to the trip.

Wallace Falls State Park

A day trip to Wallace Falls State Park takes about 90 minutes from Bellingham, following Interstate 5 south and State Route 2 east toward Gold Bar. Wallace Falls is known for its three-tiered waterfall, with the Lower, Middle, and Upper Falls offering different viewpoints along the Woody Trail. The 5.6 miles round-trip hike gains about 1,300 feet in elevation, making it a moderate but rewarding trek. The Middle Falls viewpoint is one of the best spots, providing a wide view of the mountains. The park has 12 miles of trails, including routes to Wallace Lake and Jay Lake for those looking for a longer hike.

Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

From Bellingham, a day trip to Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is a great way to explore the outdoors. Covers over a million acres, stretching from Mount Baker to Mount Rainier, with rivers, glaciers, and dense forests along the way. One of the best stops is Artist Point, which provides panoramic views of Mount Baker and surroundings. Another great spot is Heather Meadows, known for its wildflower meadows and alpine lakes. The forest has many hiking trails, including Chain Lakes Loop, and visitors can explore Diablo Lake Overlook, where the turquoise waters create a beautiful landscape.

How to Reach Bellingham

If you’re flying to Bellingham, Bellingham International Airport (BLI), located just a few miles from downtown, offers regular service from airlines such as Alaska Airlines and Allegiant Air and connect cities like Seattle, Las Vegas, and San Diego. Once you land, getting to the city center is simple with taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars. For those driving, Interstate 5 connects Bellingham to Seattle, about 90 miles south, and Vancouver, B.C., 55 miles north, offering a quick and direct route.

A more scenic option is Chuckanut Drive, which provides stunning coastal views on the approach to the city. Amtrak’s Cascades route stops in Fairhaven Village, giving rail travelers an easy option from Seattle and Vancouver. Bus services like Greyhound and FlixBus also run between Bellingham and nearby cities. Travelers arriving by boat can dock at Bellingham Bay, a popular port for pleasure boating on the Salish Sea, while the Alaska Marine Highway System connects Bellingham to Alaska with ferry service for passengers and vehicles.

Local Transportation

Getting around Bellingham, is simple with several transportation options available. The Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) operates a bus system with more than 30 routes, connecting different parts of the city and surrounding areas. The buses run on a fixed schedule, making it easy to plan trips. WTA also offers paratransit services for riders with disabilities and a vanpool program for commuters. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available throughout Bellingham.

For those who prefer biking, Bellingham has bike-friendly streets and trails, including the Interurban Trail, which connects neighborhoods and parks. Rental cars can be found at Bellingham Airport, making it easy for visitors to explore beyond the city. The Bellair Airport Shuttle provides service to SeaTac Airport and Anacortes, while Quick Shuttle connects Bellingham to Vancouver, B.C., and Seattle. Amtrak’s Cascades route stops at Fairhaven Station, offering train service to Seattle and Vancouver.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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