What Bellingham Is Known For - Beyond the Obvious
I hear people all the time talking about how beautiful Bellingham is from the nature, the culture, all that good stuff, I mean, how can they help themselves (see my “5 Reasons Why Bellingham is a Good Place to Live” blog to get the idea)?! But I wanted to dive a little deeper. So, let’s delve into the lesser-known aspects of what makes Bellingham unique, shedding light on some hidden gems that may surprise you!
1. Craft Beer Capital
Bellingham's craft beer scene may not be a secret to locals, because trust me, we know, but it's relatively unknown to many outsiders. The city has quietly become a hub for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting a remarkable concentration of breweries and taprooms. In fact, Bellingham was named one of the "10 Best Small Beer Cities in the U.S." by Thrillist. Here is a few if you’re even in town checking things out:
Boundary Bay Brewery: Pioneering craft beer, local food and community in the Pacific Northwest since 1995 it is Bellingham’s oldest brewery.
Aslan Brewing Co.: Committed to sustainability, Aslan Brewing offers a diverse range of organic beers in a welcoming atmosphere.
El Sueñito Brewing: Tucked in the Sunnyland neighborhood is a spot that brings more than beer! They have authentic tamales from Frelard Tamales in Seattle!
Gruff Brewing: With 16 taps, Gruff regularly releases experimental, small-batch beers.
Structures Brewing: This small, experimental brewery is beloved for its unique and inventive beer creations.
Stemma Brewing: A family-run production brewery and is open to all ages!
2. Historic Fairhaven District
Bellingham's Fairhaven district is steeped in history and charm. Founded in the late 1800s, this area has preserved its Victorian-era architecture and small-town ambiance, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a glimpse of the past.
Fairhaven Historic District: Take a stroll through the Fairhaven Historic District, where you'll find cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and beautifully restored buildings that transport you back in time.
Fairhaven Village Green: This charming little park hosts a variety of community events from movies on the lawn to band concerts, making it a beloved gathering place throughout the year.
3. Unique Shopping Experiences With Treats!
Bellingham offers a shopping experience that goes beyond the typical chain stores found in many cities. Locals and visitors alike can explore a variety of unique, independent shops and boutiques and then getting a treat or a bite to eat is as easy as looking at the storefront next door.
Village Books And Paper Dreams: This beloved independent bookstore in the heart of Fairhaven offers a curated selection of books, gifts, and a cozy reading nook. They even have a publishing side of the business for local authors to investigate!
Mallard Ice Cream: Located in Downtown Bellingham, Mallard Ice Cream offers a rotating menu of handcrafted, small-batch ice creams with creative flavors like Lavender Lemon and Salted Caramel Stout.
4. Arts and Culture Beyond Galleries
While Bellingham does have its fair share of galleries, the city's arts and culture scene extends beyond the canvas.
The Upfront Theatre: Founded by renowned comedian Ryan Stiles, The Upfront Theatre is a destination for improv comedy enthusiasts, featuring live, unscripted performances since 2004.
Mount Baker Theatre: Beyond hosting performances, this historic venue offers architectural beauty with its ornate design and rich history and is definitely worth a visit.
Bellingham Theatre Guild: Don’t discount community theatre! They are a nonprofit volunteer organization that has been producing theatre in Whatcom County, Washington, since 1929, including more than 700 productions with over 7,000 performances. They have taken root in a building they purchased in 1944 and haven’t stopped since!
5. Maritime Heritage
With its proximity to the Salish Sea, it's no surprise that Bellingham has a rich maritime heritage that often goes overlooked.
Bellingham Cruise Terminal: It’s been around since the late 80’s but can easily be overlooked since it’s tucked away. But it is the southern connection for the Alaska Marine Highway System. You can see whale watching tours, there are seasonal foot ferries and charter vessels to the San Juan Islands. Over 200,000 passengers use the BCT each year!
Bellingham Maritime Museum: This hidden gem showcases the city's maritime history, including exhibits on boat-building, fishing, and the importance of the sea to Bellingham's development.
So, while my town is undoubtedly celebrated for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, it's essential to recognize the city's lesser-known treasures. From a thriving craft beer scene and a historically preserved district to fun shopping experiences, Bellingham offers a well-rounded lifestyle that goes beyond the obvious attractions. If you're considering making Bellingham your home, too, these hidden gems may just be the icing on the cake.
Thank you for reading!
