Bellingham

Day Trips

Start your day with a fresh cup of coffee from a local café in Fairhaven, surrounded by the charming architecture of this historic district. Stroll along the waterfront, taking in the views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands. Visit the Fairhaven Village Green for a leisurely morning spent admiring the sculptures and perhaps catching a local artisan market.

After lunch at a quaint bistro, explore the unique shops and boutiques that line the streets of Fairhaven. Don’t miss the Fairhaven Library, a beautiful space that often hosts local events and exhibits. Take a leisurely walk to the nearby South Bay Trail, enjoying the scenic views and the sounds of nature.

As the sun sets, head to one of Fairhaven's seafood restaurants for a delicious dinner featuring fresh local catch. After your meal, enjoy a relaxing stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the evening atmosphere. If you're up for it, catch a live performance at the Fairhaven Center for the Arts to round off your day.

Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to Whatcom Falls Park. Explore the park's beautiful trails and witness the stunning waterfalls that cascade through the lush forest. Take your time to enjoy the tranquility as you listen to the sounds of nature around you.

After lunch at a nearby café, continue your adventure with a trip to the iconic Mount Baker viewpoint. Spend the afternoon hiking the trails that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Make sure to capture some photos of the breathtaking vistas along the way.

As the day winds down, return to Bellingham for an evening at the historic Mt. Baker Theatre. Enjoy a local performance or movie, immersing yourself in the cultural scene of the city. Afterward, grab a bite at a nearby restaurant, enjoying the flavors of the Pacific Northwest.

Kick off your day at the beautiful Larrabee State Park, where you can enjoy a picnic breakfast with stunning views of the ocean. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters, surrounded by picturesque scenery. Don't forget to keep an eye out for marine life, including seals and otters.

Post-water sports, relax on the beach or take a hike on one of the many trails that wind through the park. Enjoy a packed lunch while listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore. In the afternoon, consider joining a guided whale-watching tour to spot orcas and other marine mammals in their natural habitat.

As the sun begins to set, head back to Bellingham and enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant with views of the bay. Savor local seafood dishes while reflecting on your day’s adventures. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade as the city lights begin to twinkle.

Start your morning with a delicious brunch at a local café known for its artisanal breakfast options. Afterward, prepare for a day of tasting by visiting some of Bellingham’s renowned craft breweries, starting with a brewery that offers tours of their brewing process. Engage with the brewers and learn about the art of craft beer as you sample some unique local brews.

Continue your brewery tour by visiting a few more establishments, each offering different styles of beer and a unique atmosphere. Enjoy a light lunch at one of the breweries, pairing food with their craft beer selections. Take notes on your favorites to remember for future reference.

As the evening approaches, select a brewery with a lively beer garden for dinner, enjoying the relaxed vibe and perhaps some live music. Savor the flavors of Bellingham’s vibrant craft beer scene while mingling with locals. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy pub, reflecting on your favorite brews.

Begin your day at the Bellingham Railway Museum, where you can explore exhibits that showcase the history of railroads in the region. Afterward, take a stroll through the art district, visiting local galleries that feature the work of talented artists. Immerse yourself in the creativity that defines Bellingham’s cultural landscape.

Enjoy lunch at a trendy café, and then head over to the Western Washington University campus to visit the Western Gallery, known for its contemporary art exhibitions. Spend some time wandering through the campus, enjoying the architecture and landscapes. Consider joining a guided art walk if available, to learn more about the local art scene.

In the evening, attend a performance at the Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth or check local listings for concerts and theater performances. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant that features local ingredients and flavors. End your night with a stroll through the downtown area, taking in the vibrant nightlife and perhaps stopping for dessert.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café known for its hearty meals, perfect for fueling a day of hiking. Head to the Chuckanut Mountains, where you can choose from a variety of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. As you hike, take time to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic overlook, taking in the breathtaking views of the Puget Sound. Spend the afternoon exploring more trails or visit a nearby nature center to learn about the local ecosystems. Keep your camera handy for the beautiful photo opportunities that arise along the trails.

As the sun sets, return to Bellingham and treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. Relish the flavors of the Pacific Northwest, and if you’re lucky, enjoy a dish that incorporates local wild mushrooms or berries. Conclude your day with a night walk along the waterfront to unwind after your adventures.

Start your morning at the Bellingham Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce and artisan goods while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere. Grab a coffee and a pastry from one of the vendors and take your time exploring the various stalls. Interact with local farmers and artisans to learn more about their products.

After exploring the market, join a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you can learn to prepare dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Spend the afternoon honing your skills and tasting your creations. Share your meal with fellow participants, exchanging stories and tips about local cuisine.

As the evening unfolds, choose a cozy restaurant known for its innovative menu that features local and seasonal ingredients. Savor a multi-course dinner that highlights the flavors of the region. End your culinary experience with a visit to a local dessert shop for a sweet treat to cap off the day.

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café before visiting the Fairhaven Historic District to learn about its rich history. Take a guided walking tour to appreciate the well-preserved architecture and stories behind the buildings. Engage with local historians to gain deeper insights into the area’s past.

After your tour, visit the Bellingham Railway Museum to explore exhibits that celebrate the area’s transportation heritage. Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery before heading to the Whatcom Museum, where you can view art and history exhibits. Take your time to appreciate the various collections, including local art and historical artifacts.

As the evening approaches, dine at a restaurant with historic charm, perhaps one that has been in operation for decades. Relish in the ambiance and flavors of traditional American dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the historic district, reflecting on the stories you've learned throughout the day.

Start your day early with breakfast at a bakery known for its fresh pastries and coffee. Head out to Larrabee State Park for a morning of wildlife watching, exploring the different habitats that attract various species. Bring binoculars to catch glimpses of birds and other wildlife as you wander the trails.

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park’s scenic spots, surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, consider a guided nature tour or a kayak trip to get closer to marine life in the bay. Learn about the ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts in the area.

As the day wraps up, return to Bellingham for dinner at a seafood restaurant that highlights fresh, local catch. Enjoy a meal with views of the bay, reflecting on your wildlife experiences. To end the day, take a peaceful walk along the shoreline, basking in the serenity of the ocean.