Bellingham

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism
Photo provided by Philip Cantrick/Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism
Whatcom Falls Park which includes forest scenes and a cascade
Bellingham showing 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

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Fairhaven

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 which includes a waterfall

Bellingham City Center

While visiting Bellingham City Center, you might make a stop by sights like Marine Life Center and Mount Baker Theatre.

Bellingham City Center
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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
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Samish Hill

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

Samish Hill
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Sehome

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

Sehome
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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
Wingate by Wyndham Bellingham Heritage Inn

Wingate by Wyndham Bellingham Heritage Inn

3 out of 5
151 E McLeod Road, Bellingham, WA
The price is P5,704 per night from Aug 17 to Aug 18
P5,704
P6,502 total
Aug 17 - Aug 18
includes taxes & 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! (1,008 reviews)
"I appreciated how quickly the check-in process went. What was a little disturbing was the level of noise in the complex"

Reviewed on Jul 29, 2025

Wingate by Wyndham Bellingham Heritage Inn
Oxford Suites Bellingham

Oxford Suites Bellingham

3 out of 5
4051 Meridian St, Bellingham, WA
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! (1,331 reviews)
"Nice property and quiet"

Reviewed on Jul 28, 2025

Oxford Suites Bellingham
Hotel Leo

Hotel Leo

2.5 out of 5
1224 Cornwall Avenue, Bellingham, WA
The price is P10,755 per night from Aug 3 to Aug 4
P10,755
P12,110 total
Aug 3 - Aug 4
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Bellingham. Enjoy free parking, a 24-hour fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
9/10 Wonderful! (754 reviews)
"Cool retro hotel with modern amenities. Front desk guy was fantastic; he was friendly and informative upon check in. When we discovered that our tv wasn’t working he quickly moved us into a larger suite at no extra charge. Very pleased!"

Reviewed on Jul 18, 2025

Hotel Leo
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.
Waterfront Bellingham Bliss: Steps to Beach!

Waterfront Bellingham Bliss: Steps to Beach!

3 out of 5
Bellingham
Stay at this 3-star beach cottage in Bellingham. Enjoy free parking, a marina, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Squalicum Beach and Bellis Fair ...
Waterfront Bellingham Bliss: Steps to Beach!
Bellingham Vacation Rental w/ Private Deck

Bellingham Vacation Rental w/ Private Deck

3 out of 5
Bellingham
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Bellingham. Enjoy free parking, balconies, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Squalicum Beach and Marine Life Center ...
Bellingham Vacation Rental w/ Private Deck
Private Waterfront Bellingham Estate!

Private Waterfront Bellingham Estate!

3 out of 5
Bellingham
Stay at this 3-star beach cottage in Bellingham. Enjoy a marina, balconies, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Squalicum Beach and Bellis Fair Mall ...
Private Waterfront Bellingham Estate!
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.

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