Bellingham, WA

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism
Photo provided by Philip Cantrick/Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism
Whatcom Falls Park which includes a waterfall and forest scenes
Bellingham which includes a bay or harbor and rocky coastline
Photo provided by Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism

Sandwiched between the Bellingham Bay, the San Juan Islands and the rolling hills of northern Washington, this thriving city is experiencing a cultural revival.

Just south of the Canadian border, this coastal city began its life as an industrial center. For decades, Bellingham centered upon the timber and coal industries but today most visit the Washington city for its natural beauty and thriving cultural landscape. At just over a century old, Bellingham is a relatively young city but one that’s history is well signposted as you explore its streets. Whether you’re using Bellingham as a launch pad to visit the San Juan Islands or you’re curious about its burgeoning arts and music scenes, there’s plenty to see and do during your stay.

Explore the downtown precinct on foot, bicycle or by bus. Thanks to relatively light traffic, parking is easily found even in the city center, so driving is equally viable. The cultural center of the city is centered upon the downtown precinct and the streets surrounding Western Washington University. A young population keeps things innovative and there are plenty of cultural sites to see. Admire the sculpture collection at the university, which features work by prominent American artists including Richard Serra and Beverly Pepper. Visit the nearby Whatcom Museum of History and Art, the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention and the Pickford Film Center for more cultural activities.

Take a trip through the dramatic landscape surrounding the city to really understand what the state of Washington is about. Perched on the edge of Bellingham Bay you can reach the San Juan Islands in less than an hour, or head east to reach the famous Mount Baker, a glacier-covered volcano that is a haven for skiers and snowboarders.

Bellingham is serviced by an international airport but is also just a short drive from the major cities of Seattle and Vancouver. Accommodations can be found on the waterfront or in the Meridian shopping precinct but those wanting a more rural escape will find holiday apartments and bungalows near Mount Baker and in the rural farmland to the northeast of the city.

Where to stay in Bellingham

30 mins south of the Canadian border you stumble upon historic Fairhaven with cobblestone walks, murals, restaurants and antique shops. 

Don't miss this quirky fish n' chip joint.

Fairhaven

4.5/5(67 area reviews)

Restaurants, shopping, and spas are some highlights of Fairhaven. Make a stop by Bellingham Cruise Terminal or Bellingham Bay while you're exploring.

Fairhaven
Bellingham featuring a cascade

Bellingham City Center

While visiting Bellingham City Center, you might make a stop by sights like Marine Life Center and Cornwall Beach.

Bellingham City Center
Default Image

Puget

Though Puget might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Mount Baker Theatre and Cornwall Beach.

Puget
Impromptu visit to the lake made for a beautiful photo opp.

Samish Hill

While visiting Samish Hill, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Padden Park and Lake Padden Golf Course.

Samish Hill
Views uplake from the Ranger Station in Lake Chelan, WA

Sehome

While Sehome isn't home to many top sights, Cornwall Beach and Mount Baker Theatre are some notable places to visit nearby.

Sehome
Aslan was started by some WWU alum who stayed in bham after school. Awesome beer and good food! Make sure to stop by!

York

While York isn't home to many top sights, Mount Baker Theatre and Depot Market Square are some notable places to visit nearby.

York
Oxford Suites Bellingham

Oxford Suites Bellingham

3 out of 5
4051 Meridian St, Bellingham, WA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$154 nightly
The price is $174 total per night from Aug 12 to Aug 13
$174 total
Aug 12 - Aug 13
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 3-star spa hotel in Bellingham. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,326 reviews)
"Clean, friendly and good location. Fair price. Wish that the pool area was open later."

Reviewed on Aug 1, 2025

Oxford Suites Bellingham
Wingate by Wyndham Bellingham Heritage Inn

Wingate by Wyndham Bellingham Heritage Inn

3 out of 5
151 E McLeod Road, Bellingham, WA
$106 nightly
The price is $121 total per night from Sep 2 to Sep 3
$121 total
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Bellingham. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
7.2/10 Good! (1,004 reviews)
"Older place but clean. Service was outstanding though. Couple hours after leaving I got a cs From hotel letting me know they found a watch in my room. It was my expensive running watch! So grateful to them for finding it and letting me know they have it."

Reviewed on Aug 3, 2025

Wingate by Wyndham Bellingham Heritage Inn
Lavissh Inn & Suites

Lavissh Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
805 Lakeway Dr, Bellingham, WA
$129 nightly
The price is $146 total per night from Aug 4 to Aug 5
$146 total
Aug 4 - Aug 5
Total includes taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Bellingham. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,005 reviews)
"Easy access"

Reviewed on Jul 29, 2025

Lavissh Inn & Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
'Emerald Lake' Studio - WE HAVE WATER LILIES!

'Emerald Lake' Studio - WE HAVE WATER LILIES!

Bellingham
Book a stay at this family-friendly apartment in Bellingham. Enjoy free WiFi, a water park, and a garden. Popular attractions The Hitting Zone and Bloedel Donovan ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (257 reviews)
Hidden gem - beautiful and private getaway
"This is a lovely home in a quiet and beautiful neighborhood on a private lake. It truly is a hidden gem. Staying in the studio was perfect for my husband and I. We arrived to a thoughtful gift basket with a message acknowledging our anniversary - this was so personal and kind. All directions and ..."

Reviewed on Jul 28, 2025

'Emerald Lake' Studio - WE HAVE WATER LILIES!
Waterfront Bellingham Bliss: Steps to Beach!

Waterfront Bellingham Bliss: Steps to Beach!

2 out of 5
Bellingham
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Bellingham. Enjoy a beach locale, laundry facilities, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Squalicum ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (9 reviews)
Great View- private-quiet
"Stayed for a couple nights while my boat was in the shipyard. Convenient - worked out great for us"

Reviewed on May 17, 2025

Waterfront Bellingham Bliss: Steps to Beach!
Cozy Micro-Brewery Home

Cozy Micro-Brewery Home

Bellingham
Stay at this vacation home in Bellingham. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Fairhaven Village Green and Bellingham Cruise ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (162 reviews)
"Great place, short stay. Easy!"

Reviewed on Jul 30, 2025

Cozy Micro-Brewery Home
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Cities near Bellingham

Other places like Bellingham