Things To Do In Bellingham, WA

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! Scenic Western Washington University sits atop a large hill overlooking the beautiful Samish Bay. The campus is surrounded by beautiful green forests and boasts amazing views of the great outdoors. It’s no wonder Bellingham was named one of the top communities for outdoor lovers by National Geographic Adventure, so if you’re into being outside Western Washington is the perfect university for you! Mount Baker is located nearby so students often head there to get away into the mountain. Before you take some time to hike Whatcom Falls Park as it’s a Bellingham “must-do.”

If you’re looking to do something other than venturing the great outdoors, get into the WWU school spirit and head to a Vikings sports game, and join in on cheering with the best of The Blue Crew! Head to the Fairhaven Historic District and take a stroll down the streets and be sure to stop into the variety of shops and eateries. If you’re into music and/or theater performances be sure to check the Mount Baker Theatre roster for what shows are coming near you! Students also really like to hang out at the Underground Coffeehouse. Catch local bands and students play music, read poetry, perform comedy and so much more any given day of the week.

Highlights include:

Hike Whatcom Falls
Ski Mount Baker
Stroll through the Fairhaven Historic District
Hang out at the Underground

Bars & Restaurants Near WWU

When it comes time to indulge, students at WWU often head to a spot near campus or to Downtown Bellingham for some food or nighttime shenanigans. Bellingham is full of popular bars and restaurants and, if we let it, our list could go on forever! To help get you started, here are a few places you’ll want to check out over your next few years living in Bellingham.

Best Restaurants In Bellingham, WA:

Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro
D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano
Homeskillet
Boomer’s Drive-In
Mi Mexico

Best Bars In Bellingham, WA:

Aslan Brewing Company
Kulshan Brewing Co
The Green Frog
Wander Brewing
The Temple Bar

Outdoor/Recreation At WWU

Get your adventure on and head to the Western Washington University Outdoor Center, where they provide you with access to boat rentals, hiking equipment, biking equipment, and more. Students can either arrange trips on their own or participate in group excursions ranging from snowshoeing and skiing in the Cascades to boating in the Puget Sound.

Behind the Fairhaven dorms are the Sehome Arboretum. Here, students can hike the trails to the top and see all of Bellingham for miles and miles! During the warmer months, heading to Locust Beach (which is the closest to campus) is a great place to enjoy some fun in the sun with peers.

It’s safe to say that the majority of students at Western Washington University enjoy spending time outdoors. Some enjoy hiking the inter-urban trail on Bellingham's south side, while others enjoy the more scenic walk down to Teddy Bear Cove or just swimming at Lake Padden. Whatever your outdoor-loving heart desires, you can probably find it in Bellingham!