Although counting down to the sunny months may be a universal experience, Pacific Northwest-ers who’ve endured several rainy days especially prize the beloved PNW summer. One of the best places to enjoy summer PNW style is Bellingham, WA, with its backyard full of luscious outdoors (water and mountains) along with a lively downtown.
Even if you already have your summer booked, we’ve compiled 15 fun-filled options to add to your summer to-do list. Whether you’re a long-time local or are looking to buy a home or rent an apartment in Bellingham, you’re sure to find something to spark your interest. After all, Bellingham (or Bham) is one of the best places to live in Washington – year round!
1. Stroll through the art cafe
Located in one of Bellingham’s historic downtown buildings is one of the best ways to beat a summer slump. If you’re craving an iced latte or are in the mood to get creative or do a little shopping, The Majestic Art Cafe has it all. This spot is a community hub offering workshops, community events, parties, and classes, – all owned and operated by a collective of small business owners, artists, and entrepreneurs. Owner Britni Ann recommends “'[taking] an art walk through the understory of The Majestic Ballroom…[and] into the art cafe for a dose of local art and gifts.” Occurring every first Friday of the month, the art walk is a great way to connect with locals, support small businesses, and even shop for a new piece to decorate your home or apartment. If you can’t make it to the art walk, we also recommend checking out their other events like the Art Market or Art and Waffle Jamboree.
2. Cool down on kayak
To make the most of a PNW summer, getting out on the water is a must. Although there are several water vehicles to choose from, may we suggest a kayak? Dragonfly Kayak Tours offers incredible engaging experiences with the option to “choose from daytime, sunset, bioluminescence, and overnight tours to explore the stunning landscapes of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands,” says owner Tori Ayres. These tours are guided by experts and boast both vibrant sunsets and views of bioluminescent organisms. With the natural Washington wonders, you’re sure to leave with unforgettable memories of Bellingham’s summer beauty.
3. Check out the downtown farmers market
It wouldn’t be a summer to-do list without noting the local farmer’s market! The Downtown Bellingham farmers market is a community classic occurring every Saturday and is an opportune way to connect with local farmers, businesses, and residents. This spot has everything you could want from fresh produce, seasonal flowers, and tasty treats – all while supporting local Bham businesses. So, if you find yourself with an empty spot on your Saturday schedule, we highly suggest checking out the farmers market whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking to take a summer stroll.
4. See Bellingham vistas via bike
Taking advantage of the summer weather is a must, and what better way than by a bike ride? Located on the waterfront, Sun-E-Land Bikes rents and sells electric bikes for the perfect summer activity. Not only is Bellingham one of the most bike-friendly cities in America, but its various routes are abundant with stunning views of the verdant PNW. Regardless of where you choose to ride, a Bham bike ride “is one of the best ways to experience local destinations, parks, and trails,” says owner Matt Holmes. We really can’t recommend it enough: putting on your sunscreen, sneakers, and going for a scenic bike ride this summer.
5. Stop for a pint at a local brewery
The PNW is known for its breweries and Bellingham really does have some great ones. If you’re stopping for a post-bike ride drink (or not), we suggest checking out Kulshan Brewing Company. Founded in 2012, this spot is renowned for its consistently delicious and well-balanced ales and lagers. Not only do they have great drinks, but Kulshan sustainably produces their beer and is an exceptional third location in the Bham community. “Whether you’re looking for a cozy night of live music at our Sunnyland Taproom, lively trivia at our Roosevelt Taproom, or a chance to soak in the sun at our award-winning beer garden, Trackside, our three unique locations provide a space for every taste,” says general manager Emily Mallos.
6. Get creative and make some art
A great summer activity – alone, with friends, or with a significant other – is to get creative. Whether you’re looking to make art, view it, or talk about it, the Allied Arts of Whatcom County is the place to be. They are the region’s lead arts organization, are dedicated to fostering arts in the community, and offer it all from “fun and inspiring events and festivals, monthly gallery shows, cross-cultural community building through arts activities, and even an art supply thrift shop,” says program manager Xandra Blackburn. We especially recommend attending an event to connect with residents or stop by their thriftshop to sustainably shop for supplies for a home decor DIY.
7. Try forest therapy yoga
If you’re looking for outdoor community events, Recreation Northwest hosts great ones suitable for all ages. Founded in 2013, this Bellingham non-profit teaches the health benefits of being in nature and promotes outdoor recreation. They offer a plethora of outdoor classrooms and experiences like forest therapy yoga, geocaching in their Geocaching Adventure Lab, and “Get Your Dose of Nature,” a guided nature immersion experience. Their three mission-aligned programs (Parkscriptions, Advocacy, and Stewardship), in combination with their core values, create unique nature experiences for all to enjoy – especially in the sunny Bham months.
8. Whale watch in the PNW
Another incredible way to experience summer in Bellingham is by boat. Whale watching is on everyone’s list – local, new resident, and visitor alike – with the season taking place from spring to fall and peaking from June through September. Outer Island Expeditions offers tours on their high-speed boats “to search for orcas, whales, eagles, seals, and so much more.” They are so confident in their skills that they even offer guaranteed sightings as whale watching is truly a PNW “right of passage.”
9. Grab a bite to eat in Downtown Bellingham
After a day on the water, in nature, or shopping Downtown Bellingham, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. To satisfy those cravings, we suggest checking out either of these two local Bham eateries for some tasty bites.
Our first recommendation is Bantam Kitchen and Bar located in the heart of Downtown Bellingham. A sister business of Mallard Ice Cream, featured in our Redfin Bellingham Bucket List, this place also highlights seasonal, fresh, and local produce. Their specialty is elevated comfort food with favorites like hushpuppies, devilled eggs, and fried chicken, to name a few. This is a split-level restaurant, so whether you’re enjoying the view from the bar upstairs or are in the intimate lounge downstairs, you’re sure to enjoy the dishes and crafted cocktails “made with the bounty of Whatcom County,” says marketing and operations director Stephanie Cheng.
Our second recommendation is Old World Deli, also located in Downtown Bellingham. Started in 2007, this place remains the only true deli in Bham along with several awards to their name. A sandwich may just be the meal of the summer, and we can’t think of a better place to get one. “Whether you’re looking for a great sandwich, sliced imported deli meats, fine cheeses, hard-to-find market goods, catering for your special event, or a great bottle of wine for dinner, we are your go-to spot,” says co-owner Chris.
10. Enjoy some art
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local art scene, one method is by finding the neighborhood art space. Make Shift Art Space in Downtown Bellingham is the place to be for all kinds of art. This non-profit supports, empowers, and creates opportunities for all of the local artists and musicians through their several events and workshops. With their “art gallery, live music every weekend, weekly workshops and classes, free community open mics, and a low-power FM radio station, KZAX 94.9, there’s something for everyone,” says executive director Riley Currie.
11. Have a hiking adventure
Like many PNW cities, Bellingham offers a multitude of marvelous hikes for all levels. With the picturesque scenes and clean air, you’re sure to find a hike to enjoy even if you’re not an avid hiker or outdoor enthusiast. Some favorites include Oyster Dome, Fragrance Lake Trail, Stimpson Family Nature Reserve (Sudden Valley), and Whatcom Falls Park. Whether the final destination is the view of the luscious trees reflecting on the lake or the rushing Whatcom Falls, or if it’s really all about the journey (and not the destination) for you, a Washington summer hike is truly a must.
12. Get active
When the sun starts to shine, a great way to enjoy the nice weather is by getting out and picking up a (new or old) sport. Whatcom Sports and Recreation offers “an affordable, safe, fun, and healthy environment where the community can enjoy a wide range of unique recreational programs and activities,” says program director Elsha Grimes. Open for all ages, this place has plenty to choose from between indoor/outdoor soccer facilities, an ice skating rink, and several semi-pro sports teams. Not only can you get your daily dose of exercise, but we can’t think of a better way to meet new people and get involved with the local community.
13. Sip on the best brew
An iced coffee and pastry pairing is the perfect sweet summer treat whether you’re on the way to a picnic, heading for a drive down Chuckanut, post-hike, or whatever Bellingham activity you’ve chosen for the day. Cafe Blue is a Black- and Queer-owned business located on 11th Street that serves tasty drinks, pastries, and breakfast dishes along with a healthy dose of community cheer. In the heart of Fairhaven, this spot “specialize[s] in creating an experience with our guests that may make you laugh or make your heart feel warm,” says owner Micah Jones. Whether it’s an iced chai to-go (okay warm is fine too – we don’t judge), brunch with the family, or pastries with the girls, this cafe is truly a Bham must.
14. Tour local Bham art studios
If art is more your speed, may we suggest a studio art tour? Occurring at the end of summer, the Whatcom Artist Studio Tour takes you through Bellingham to visit several artists’ studios – for free! “Each studio features the work of the primary artist, and some may include additional artists as well, providing a unique and compelling variety of artwork,” explains graphic designer Nancy Chambers. Whether you’re shopping for a new piece to decorate your house in Bellingham, looking for new sources of inspiration, or just looking to connect, share, and learn about art, this art exploration tour really has something for every art lover and newbie alike.
15. Miniature golf, go-karts, and more
Located in Birch Bay, just half an hour north of Bellingham, is entertainment haven Station 49. Spanning four generations of family ownership, this spot has been a local staple since the 1950s. They offer so many different activities like go karts, a miniature train ride, live music, and comedy shows, you’re sure to find something you like. Whether you’re planning a date night for miniature golf, an excursion with the kids to the arcade, or are wanting to try line dancing, this place is the spot to cure any summer boredom.
This post first appeared on Redfin.com. To see the original, click here.