Bellingham

Consistently rated one of the best places to visit in the country, Bellingham offers exhilaration and relaxation.  Just about an hour away from Seattle, Vancouver and Mt. Baker, this college town offers easy access to art, activity and action.

The Bellingham Festival of Music returns to celebrate its 17th season in July.  Director Michael Palmer will conduct world-class musicians from our nation’s finest orchestras in one of America’s premier festival ensembles. 

Balancing tranquility and adventure, Bellingham is an ideal base camp for exploring Mt. Baker to the east, Bellingham Bay to the west and the San Juan Islands beyond.  Or hang around town to discover some unique culture and fine dining.

Swim, fish and stroll around Whatcom Falls Park, home to the Whatcom Creek Gorge and four sets of spectacular waterfalls.  Or combine history and nature by hiking to the distinctive rocky coastlines of Larrabee Park, which in 1915 became Washington’s very first state park.

Visit the Whatcom Museum of History & Art for an introduction to local and natural history, or stop by the Bellingham Railway Museum to see the model trains that illustrate a rich history of railroading in the county.  For a hands-on treat for the kids, head to the Mindport Arts and Sciences Museum.

A day at Mount Baker offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter or camping and mountain biking in the summer. Plus, the waterfront offers yet another frontier to explore, with whale watching expeditions, boat launches and ferries to the San Juan Islands.