Best hotels in Bellingham
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Bellingham
4050 Northwest Ave, WA, 98226
Perfect for business visitors and those who want to self-cater, the rooms at this all-suite hotel come with kitchens or kitchenettes, as well as complimentary breakfast every morning. Some of the rooms are pet-friendly, and there’s a free airport shuttle whether you’re arriving or leaving.
The Inn at Lynden
100 5th St, Lynden, WA, 98264
A charming boutique hotel a few miles to the north of Bellingham in Lynden, The Inn occupies the Waples Mercantile Building, which is over 100-years-old and listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Rooms are cozy and full of character, and there are five stores on the ground floor, including a bookstore.
Hotel Bellwether
1 Bellwether Way, WA, 98225
Bask in picturesque views at the waterfront Bellwether,. From here you can view the marina, mountains and distant islands, or relax in suites with soaking tubs. For a real treat, opt for the Lighthouse Suite which sprawls over three floors, complete with a spiral staircase and wrap-around terrace.
Best restaurants in Bellingham
Mallard Ice Cream
1323 Railroad Ave, WA, 98225
Get the scoop at Mallard, a brilliant ice cream parlor with vintage stylings and a dazzling array of flavors. There are staples available all year-round, plus seasonal specials. Favorites include root beer, pumpkin, mint Oreo and cheesecake.For something more challenging, take on the ghost pepper peppermint.
Dirty Dan Harris Steakhouse
1211 11th St, WA, 98225
This local stalwart has been filling up its diners for over 40 years. Take a seat in the stylish tenement building and order up mushrooms stuffed with Dungeness crab, 15-hour smoked pork ribs, beef wellington and trademark prime rib dinners.
Saltine
114 Prospect St, WA, 98225
Bright and airy, this excellent addition to the Bellingham dining scene specializes in modern American cuisine and a few bistro classics. Steak frites never disappoint, fried green olives are an addictive appetizer, and the malted ice cream is made in-house.
Things to do in Bellingham
Whatcom Falls Park
1401 Electric Ave, WA, 98229
This serene, 241-acre park is filled with wonderful walking trails through dappled woods. There are four sets of falls that give the park its name, the most popular being the Whirlpool falls with its quaint bridge. Pack your bathers—this is the perfect place for a swim in warm weather.
Whatcom Museum
121 Prospect St, WA, 98225
Housed in a notable building, the Whatcom Museum opened at the close of the 19th century and has seen recent expansion into the stunning Lightcatcher building. There’s a great breadth of material to discover here, from Native American artifacts and artwork to sculpture from Northwest artists.
Fairhaven Historic District
WA, 98225
Park up and explore the red-brick Victorian buildings of this historic district on foot. Stroll past residential streets filled with friendly cafes, restaurants, galleries and stores. Pick up gifts from bookstores and craft shops, enjoy the bay views and discover the true allure of Bellingham.