Bellingham is a fast-developing city in northwestern Washington. The city is halfway between Seattle and Vancouver, Canada. The city is home to Western Washington University. Bellingham is known for its quick access to the North Cascades and the San Juan Islands. The city is often ranked as one of the best places to retire, mostly because of the natural beauty, mild weather, and cultural options. Good to know – With no major sports teams within an hour’s drive, one of the most popular local teams is the Roller Betties. This local roller derby team is a major social activity.
Bellingham has nine breweries and its annual beer week celebration. One of the most popular local breweries is Boundary Bay Brewery.
One of the popular areas is Fairhaven Historic District, which has boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants in 19th century buildings. Mount Baker Theatre is a great spot for live shows. For an experience that is outside the box, stop by the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention.
Bellingham’s most famous event is the annual Ski to Sea event. The event dates back to 1973 and bills itself as the original adventure race. Every Memorial Day weekend, teams compete in a relay race that includes legs of cross country skiing, downhill skiing, running, road biking, canoeing, cyclocross biking, and sea kayaking.
The city offers the usual benefits of being on the water (boating, fishing, kayaking, etc.). However, there are plenty of other options. One of the best experiences is Whatcom Falls Park, which has several paths that explore the variety of waterfalls.
Winters are cold, wet, and dreary. It is the wettest season of the year and generally not a great time to visit. Daily highs are in the mid-40s.
Springs are still rainy with daily highs in the upper 50s. While spring isn't the best time to visit, Memorial Day weekend is very popular for the Ski to Sea relay race.
Summer is the best time to visit Bellingham. June to September is the dry season. Summer highs are in the low 70s.
Falls are fairly mild, but also a time of transition. Septembers are warm, dry, and beautiful. By November, the weather is much cooler and wetter.
