A Pacific Northwest Gem for Outdoor Adventure and Sustainable Living
Scroll to the bottom for a quick list!
If you’re looking for a destination that combines breathtaking natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a strong commitment to sustainability, look no further than Bellingham, Washington. Located between the sparkling waters of Bellingham Bay and the towering North Cascades, Bellingham is a gem in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or simply relaxing in a cozy coffee shop, Bellingham offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers and eco-conscious travelers alike.
Outdoor Adventures in Bellingham, WA
Bellingham is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. With its proximity to both the mountains and the sea, the city provides a wide variety of activities for adventure seekers. A must-do for hikers is the Oyster Dome trail, located in the Chuckanut Mountains. This challenging hike rewards you with stunning views of the San Juan Islands and Bellingham Bay. If mountain biking is more your speed, the Chuckanuts also offer world-class trails that wind through lush forests with scenic viewpoints.
In the city itself, Whatcom Falls Park offers an easy escape into nature, featuring beautiful waterfalls, forested trails, and picnic areas perfect for families. For those who love water sports, Bellingham Bay is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. There are also whale watching tours that leave out of this area! On any given day, you can spot locals out on the water, enjoying the peaceful views of the bay with the backdrop of the North Cascades.
Bellingham is also a great basecamp for exploring the Mt. Baker area. During the summer you can explore awesome trails like, yellow aster butte, artists point, or chain lakes loop. For winter sports enthusiasts, Mt. Baker Ski Area is just a short drive away, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the region. Known for having the world record for the most snowfall in a single season, Mt. Baker is a must-visit for powder lovers.
One of my favorite places to stay near the mount baker area is this cabin! The stay was so close to the resort. It had everything some friends and I needed to relax in between long ski days and we loved the fireplace!
Discover Downtown Bellingham
In addition to its natural wonders, Bellingham has a charming and lively downtown. The city is full of unique local shops, cozy coffee houses, and fantastic restaurants that highlight fresh, local ingredients. Start your day with a cup of coffee at Black Drop Coffeehouse, then stroll through the streets lined with independent boutiques and galleries. For art lovers, the Bellingham Arts District is home to a number of galleries showcasing local artists, adding a creative flair to the city’s character.
When it comes to dining, Bellingham doesn’t disappoint. Boundary Bay Brewery is a local favorite for craft beer lovers, offering award-winning brews and a warm atmosphere. For fresh seafood, stop by Rock and Rye Oyster House to enjoy local oysters and other seafood dishes that highlight the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. One of my personal favorite places to get cider is Bellingham cider. You can grab a post hike flight there! Also for dinner one of my favorite Mexican places is The Black sheep! If you are out of town a bit and just completed oyster dome one of my favorite breweries to go to is Terramar Brewing and distilling they have some amazing pizza!
Bellingham’s Commitment to Sustainability
One of the things that makes Bellingham stand out as a destination is its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The city has been a leader in renewable energy initiatives, and its residents are passionate about eco-friendly living. Many of the shops and restaurants in Bellingham prioritize local, organic, and sustainable products, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their time here knowing that they are supporting businesses that care for the environment. One of my favorite places to stay while in Bellingham is the twinleaf treehouse. Their property uses rainwater harvesting to supply all water to their stay!
For outdoor lovers, Bellingham’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty is reassuring. Whether you’re exploring the Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway or visiting Larrabee State Park, you can see the community’s dedication to protecting these natural wonders for generations to come.
Why You Should Visit Bellingham, WA
Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping adventures or a peaceful retreat in nature, Bellingham, Washington has it all. From hiking the Chuckanuts to skiing at Mt. Baker, this Pacific Northwest city offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Plus, with a vibrant downtown and a focus on sustainability, Bellingham is the perfect place for those who want to experience the best of the Pacific Northwest while supporting eco-friendly practices.
If you’re planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, make sure to put Bellingham on your list. Its blend of outdoor adventure, community spirit, and environmental stewardship makes it a destination that will leave a lasting impression.
Plan Your Trip to Bellingham, WA Today
For those ready to embark on a memorable adventure, start planning your trip to Bellingham today. Whether you’re a hiker, skier, or someone who loves discovering new local spots, Bellingham is waiting to be explored. You won’t be disappointed! Did I miss any of your favorites? Let me know below!
Here is a quick review of all my favorites:
Food:
D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano – Known for handmade pasta and a cozy atmosphere. Try the butternut squash ravioli or the fettuccine alfredo with shrimp.
Black Sheep Bellingham – A laid-back spot for tacos and craft cocktails, with favorites like carne asada and chorizo tacos.
Pho 99 – A local favorite for Vietnamese comfort food. Their shrimp spring rolls and Mi Bò Kho are highly recommended.
Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro – A beloved brewery with hearty dishes like mac and cheese and live music in the beer garden.
The Loft – Located in Fairhaven, offering Pacific Northwest cuisine with stunning views of Bellingham Bay. Don’t miss the cedar-planked salmon.
Keenan’s at the Pier – Known for its waterfront views and Pacific Northwest-inspired dishes like Dungeness crab cakes.
Bellingham cider – A cider flight and good food kind of vibe.
Mount Bakery Cafe – Perfect for breakfast, serving Bellingham’s best eggs benedict and cinnamon rolls.
Pel’meni – A unique spot offering Russian dumplings, perfect for late-night cravings.
Skylark’s Hidden Cafe – Great for brunch with dishes like eggs benedict, and it has a beautiful garden patio.
Hikes:
Stays:
This post may contain affiliate links at no cost to you! Thank you so much for your support and happy wandering.
Comments will load here
let me know what you think!