At Macaroni Kid we pride ourselves on local content, but we also know that sometimes you want to get out of town and seek adventure for the day, or even a weekend. Here is just one, in a series of articles, about easy mini adventures you can take with your family.
Welcome to Bellingham, Washington.
Located 90 miles north of Seattle, and 21 miles south of the U.S.–Canada border, Bellingham is home to Western Washington University and was once a booming logging community. Located on Bellingham Bay, this city is modern, but historic, at the same time.
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I recently visited Bellingham and have created a recommendation for a family {or romantic} getaway:
Day 1:
- Drive to Bellingham through scenic Chuckanut Drive
- Lunch and walk around Fairhaven area
- Check into your accommodation of choice
- Dinner at one of the hot spots on W Holly Street, like Black Sheep (21+ only) or D'anna's Cafe Italiano (on N State St)
- Cozy up for an after dinner drink at Jack's (21+ only)
Day 2:
- Hike or visit one of the amazing local parks or waterfront areas (see below for recommendations)
- Visit one of the museums or continue to explore the shops and restaurants in Fairhaven (see below for recommendations)
- Sporting Event at WWU or outdoor movie or concert in Fairhaven
- Early Dinner in Fairhaven at the Colophon Cafe
Day 3:
- Breakfast at Skylark's Hidden Cafe
- Any last minute shopping or another outdoor adventure or museum exploration, before heading home
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TOP SPOTS TO VISIT:
- 1320 Commercial St, Bellingham, WA 98225
- Bellingham Railway Museum is a train and railroad museum boasting of a great collection relating to railroad history.
- Facebook page
- Upcoming Events information
- Chuckanut Drive begins at 1-5 exit 231 in Burlington
- Washington State’s original scenic byway, better known as WA State Highway 11. Chuckanut spans 20 miles and offers incredible views of the San Juan Islands and Olympic Mountains.
- The Fairhaven area is situated on the south side of Bellingham, on Bellingham Bay.
- A popular, local neighborhood, packed with shops and restaurants. A wonderful place to walk around rain or shine.
- Facebook page
- Upcoming Event information
- From Bellingham, follow Samish Way, and Lake Padden Park has several entrances off Samish Way.
- The park is popular during the warmer months, and features picnic areas, playgrounds, swimming, horseback riding, fishing and hiking.
- Hiking information
- Fishing information
- The Sehome Hill Arboretum, a 175.5 acre park, with 6 miles of trails, is located on the south side of Bellingham adjacent to Western Washington University. Enjoy the old-growth tree canopy as you head up to the observation tower, almost any of the trails in the Arboretum will lead you there. Climb to the top for sweeping views of the cityscape and Bellingham Bay.
- Park map
SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention
- 1312 Bay Street, Bellingham, WA 98225
- The Spark Museum of Electrical Invention is a treasure trove of scientific knowledge and gives you details on electricity production and much more.
- Facebook page
- Upcoming Event information
- 1401 Electric Avenue in the Whatcom Falls Neighborhood
- Whatcom Falls Park is quite spacious, most of which is wooded areas and beautiful gardens.
- Detailed Park information
- Trail Guide
- 121 Prospect St, Bellingham, WA 98225
- Whatcom Museum was established in 1892 and pertains to disseminating the local art and history. You can find here many interesting exhibits, paintings, artworks extensive photo archives by great artists and budding talent that are awe-inspiring.
- Facebook page
- Upcoming Event information
Fairhaven, a popular, local neighborhood, packed with shops and restaurants.
Photo Credits: Diana Reul
All opinions and recommendations are my own. I was not paid for any part of this article.
