Nestled between the Salish Sea, Chuckanut Mountains, and Mount Baker, Bellingham is an outdoor lover’s dream. Hike forested trails, paddle glimmering bays, ski legendary powder at Mount Baker, or catch views on scenic drives like Chuckanut. Spring, summer, fall, or winter—the next adventure is never far.

With oceanic, warm-summer Mediterranean weather and the Cascade rain shadow, summers stay in the 70s with less rain than Seattle. Add some of the cleanest air in the country, and Bellingham offers refreshingly crisp days perfect for enjoying the outdoors all year long.

With a cozy population of 91k, Bellingham brims with arts and culture—live music, galleries, street festivals, and the historic Mount Baker Theatre. The Bellingham Festival of Music, farmers’ markets, and a vibrant arts scene offer something for all ages, all year long.

Just under 90 miles from Seattle and 20 miles from Canada, Bellingham feels worlds away while staying well connected. A regional airport, cruise terminal, Amtrak service, and strong local transit make travel easy—so you can enjoy a peaceful pace without sacrificing access to major cities.

Bellingham Public Schools are known for strong academics and community support, with neighborhood schools like Parkview, Lowell, and Carl Cozier. Western Washington University adds to the city’s appeal with vibrant campus culture, continuing education, and lifelong learning for all ages.

Bellingham’s food scene features cozy cafes, inventive breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Savor fresh oysters by the bay, vegan dishes downtown, or locally sourced fare throughout the city. With flavors as diverse as the landscape, every meal offers a true taste of the Pacific Northwest.

Pedal scenic waterfront trails or tackle world-class mountain biking at Galbraith Mountain—Bellingham has it all. With bike-friendly streets, dedicated paths, and a culture that embraces cycling, it’s perfect for commuting, exploring, or adventuring on two wheels, no matter your pace or level of experience.

Bellingham is a hiker’s paradise, with trails for all levels just minutes away. Stroll mossy paths at Whatcom Falls, climb to views at Oyster Dome, or explore alpine lakes near Mount Baker. From quick morning walks to full-day treks, adventure begins right outside your door.

Bellingham offers epic kayaking—from serene bays to rugged coastal waters. With eight official Washington water trails, paddlers enjoy endless exploration through Chuckanut Bay, Lummi Island, the Salish Sea, and scenic inlets. Challenging currents, wildlife-rich routes, and stunning mountain views combine for unforgettable paddle adventures.