Let's Explore Bellingham, WA
a day trip to bellingham
Bellingham is a town about two hours north of Seattle, almost up near the Canadian border. I had never been to Bellingham before my two older brothers ended up going to college there. I was still in high school at the time and my parens & I would visit them every few months; go out to lunch and see their dorms and explore the town a bit. I always liked Bellingham but I never really appreciated it for my own until I ended up going to college there as well just a few years after. I was at Western Washington University in Bellingham for four years from 2011-15 and made some incredible memories while I lived there. As a freshman with no extra spending money haha, to going back now and experiencing all of the new fun places that have opened since I left, I thought it would be fun to compile a list of places to eat and things to do for any price point/age.
I know a lot of you live in Seattle or the surrounding areas but have never been to Bellingham before, and I always get so many questions about it whenever I am there. It is always funny to me how we live in an area that is really SO close to many towns and cities but we rarely make an effort to explore and experience them. I think if you have the chance to explore it you will really fall in love; whether you are just making a day trip or want to stay a few nights, here are my suggestions for making it an amazing getaway!
breakfast & brunch
The Birch Door: This is a newer restaurant in Bellingham; transformed into the cutest breakfast and lunch spot from what was once a office space off of Meridian. You wouldn't imagine that an office building would be able to feel very cozy or have the type of atmosphere that it does. When you walk in through the giant, you guessed it, Birch Door, you’re greeted by wood beams and colorful carpets and a whole lot of character. It is always packed with people so if you’re planning on going on a weekend try to plan ahead and make a reservation. I have been to the Birch Door twice now and each time have ordered something very different, but both were incredible. Matt is much more of a breakfast/brunch person than I am; I think he might choose to eat potatoes and eggs over anything else haha. WHAT TO ORDER: If you are looking for a classic breakfast (think: scrambled eggs, toast, amazing potatoes, bacon, etc.) then this will be your new favorite spot. They also are known for this amazing and massive apple pancake that you will have to bring a friend to share with - it’s HUGE.
Diamond Jims: This has been one of Matt’s favorite breakfast places since he was in college. It is sort of a hole in the wall place; the type you might drive past if you didn’t know that it was there. WHAT TO ORDER: They make these amazing scrambles with eggs and potatoes (always a winning combo haha) that are equal parts cheese and deliciousness.
Little Cheerful: Known for super delicious breakfast and brunch options, and located right on Main Street downtown, this is the perfect spot to start the day with a friend. It does have pretty limited seating and I don’t think they let you split the check, so maybe opt for somewhere else if you have a big party.
need a coffee break?
Makeworth Market: The perfect spot to work on homework, take a meeting, or just take a coffee break in a big, open, and creative space. I love that Makeworth Market is big enough to fit so many people but still feels like a really cozy coffee shop. With the big windows facing North State Street, white brick interior and art from different Bellingham local creatives showcased on the walls, the atmosphere can not be beat. WHAT TO ORDER: Both times I have been I have got the oat milk latte, once iced and the other hot. They are delicious! The seasonal drink right now is a pumpkin spice latte and it was really good; I am not usually one to order hot drinks but it was honestly amazing. I also have had the homemade biscuit and house jelly and it was also very tasty. I think they have a bakery in Bellingham they get all of the fresh goods from each morning.
Camber: I like Camber equally for the coffee and for the vibe. As one of the first newer coffee shops to hit Bellingham a fe w years ago, they really did a great job of making a modern and trendy coffee shop have the feel of “Bellingham”. You can order delicious breakfast with your coffee as well. I like the corner booth (I happened to sit here both times I have been to Camber) and love to people watch haha! I am not a coffee ‘snob’ by any means, but I do know people who are slightly more picky with their coffee say this stuff is really good.
Woods Coffee at Boulevard: Probably the most classic place in Bellingham to get coffee, I spent many nights here with friends in college doing homework and studying. It is right on the bay, so the view can not be beat! This is a popular spot for both tourists and those who reside in Bellingham, for the location and experience. Because Woods coffee originated in Bellingham it holds a special place in the hearts of people who live there! It’s really like the Starbucks of Bellingham haha! WHAT TO ORDER: Although this is a coffee spot, their food options are actually really incredible too. I LOVE the Baja Croissant (pro tip: ask for it heated up to melt the cheese!) if I am looking for something more filling than just a pastry. It’s got turkey, spicy guacamole, bacon and cheese in a croissant. I usually order some sort of caramel or coconut blend drink but what Woods is really known for is the Avalanche; a sugary blended ice drink.
Babygreens: Babygreens is also a newer addition to Bellingham’s coffee scene, but what sets this one apart is that it’s also a plant shop! I think the first time I went it was the grand opening, so it was pretty packed and there wasn’t really any space to sit down or hangout in the store. It isn’t somewhere I would go if I am needing to work or have a meeting (maybe check out Makeworth Market for that) but it is the coolest combination coffee shop I have seen. I love that you can order coffee or even a mimosa, and shop for new plants as you wait for your drink. The plants that hang from the ceiling and fill up the shelves in the store are actually available for purchase! When I was there last they had a gal working who owned a local greenhouse in the area, and she would explain how to take care of each plant that someone picked out. I got a little fiddle fig plant when I was there last; I thought the variety of plans was incredible and was such a fun experience & must-stop place while in Bellingham.
lunch & apps
La Fiamma Burger: One of the more classic places to eat in downtown Bellingham; a college favorite of mine that seems to have stood the test of time haha, I still really enjoy their burgers, shakes and especially the sweet potato fries. If you are vegetarian or don’t eat beef there are also options for you. You can get a veggie burger, or turkey burger as well. WHAT TO ORDER: Upgrade to the sweet potato fries, you will not be disappointed.
Boundary Bay: Even though Boundary Bay is mostly known for their brews, I actually started going here in college and it quickly became the go-to spot for birthday and celebratory meals with my friends. You could definetly go for either lunch or dinner, but I think as far as serving size and feel of the restaurant goes, that it makes more sense for lunch. You can sit inside, on a deck outside, and in the summer they even offer “garden seating” for an even more casual outside feel. WHAT TO ORDER: If you like seafood they do a great job of adding some seasonal seafood favorites into their menu. If you see the crab mac & cheese on the menu, you’ve got to order it.
Mallards: Another Bellingham classic, Mallards is actually an ice cream shop in downtown Bellingham that offers really unique and sort of out-there combinations. If you are an ice cream enthusiast you might like to try some of their interesting flavors. Personally I stick to some of the more simple flavors haha but they have a wide variety to choose from!
happy hour
Aslan Brewing: If you are someone who loves to check out different breweries, I think you would really like Aslan. They have inside and outside seating so it is perfect for any season. I love this as an option for really good food if you want to be in a more casual atmosphere. I am not a beer drinker personally but I have friends who say they love the drinks; I can speak to the food though haha! WHAT TO ORDER: I believe I got some sort of pulled pork bowl with rice, beans and cilantro. All I remember is it was delicious!
dinner time
Hearthfire: Although there are Hearthfire restaurants a lot of places, I think what makes this such a classic Bellingham dinner spot is definetly the view. I think Matt and I went here for our six month dating anniversary in college haha and it would be considered a more ‘fancy’ place to dine. Right on the bay with an incredible view of the mountains and ocean, it really is the perfect spot to get dinner and catch the sunset. WHAT TO ORDER: I personally love surf & turf, and they have a great steak and shrimp combo that comes with potatoes and veggies that is really good.
Mambo Italiano: For the Italian food lover, this spot is just for you. I love that it’s tucked away in Fairhaven, in the cutest little quaint spot. It has lots of character and is the perfect spot to cozy up with some lasagna and wine. I love that it has a pretty casual vibe too - no need to get too dressed up for dinner. In college this was our favorite spot for Birthday Dinners! It’s delicious & not too spendy either.
where to stay
Chrysallis Spa & Hotel: Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in all of Bellingham, this hotel & spa sits right on the end of the boardwalk and right on the bay. With luxury lodge style rooms, they make for the most incredible and relaxing stay. You can have a spa day or make a reservation at the restaurant downstairs, or walk right outside of the hotel and go for a run down the boardwalk. If you are less of an adventurer and more of the chillin’ type haha then relax from the comfort of your room and take I the view from your window seat.
what to do
Walk the boardwalk: Starting at Boulevard Park (where Woods Coffee is) take the boardwalk to the left and walk it all the way into Fairhaven. It’s only about a 15 minute walk but will give you another little town to explore. Fairhaven is like old-town Bellingham, with lots of historical buildings and hole-in-the-wall shopping it is the perfect place to walk around and experience Bellingham. We love visiting in the Fall especially because the leaves are so colorful and gorgeous.
Hike Oyster Dome: Oyster Dome is probably the most popular and most talked about hike in Whatcom county. The hike itself isn’t extremely difficult, so whether you are a beginner just started out hiking, or a more experienced adventurer you will enjoy the hike and views as well. The top of the hike looks out over the bay, and on a clear day you can see pretty far. It’s a great way to get outside and explore Bellingham and get a good vantage point too.
Whatcom Falls: The best part about exploring the falls is that anyone can do it! You could go for a family walk, run the trails, or even jump in the falls in the Summertime. My favorite tie of year here is in the Summer because it is shaded and stays cool. It really is such a beautiful area.
Chuckanut Drive: Mostly known as the back way through the fields to get to to the freeway haha this road is actually really fun to explore. I remember one day in college Matt took me on a date day to explore Chuckanut and we had the best time. We would start in Bellingham and work our way down south, but you could also come up to Bellingham this way and extend your drive a little bit with the stops. There is a small town a few miles into Chuckanut drive where you can stop for coffee and baked goods. If you keep driving you will find Taylor Shellfish Farms where you can stop for oysters and shellfish fresh from the bay. You can actually buy raw oysters and shuck them yourselves; either eating them raw or BBQing them at the Farms. It is a very Pacific Northwest experience! I remember trying an oyster raw for the first time and I think that was honestly the last time I ever had one haha, not for me but I know so many people love them & to get them so fresh is amazing! If you do this drive in the Springtime/Summer chances are you might run into Snowgoose Ice Cream. You may notice a long line of people sticking out of a wooden barn-like structure haha well that is the line for the ice cream! Every time I have ever been it’s been busy, which goes to show how good it really must be.
Walk Downtown: Downtown Bellingham has tons of little shops + places to eat, grab drinks, or just explore. If you are in downtown, walk to Apse Jewelry - they have some of my favorite handmade and designed pieces of jewelry!
Hope you enjoy one of my fave towns in WA! xx