L ocal Helps Local
Your trusted local credit union since 1936.
Photo by Dani Winters Photography
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Photo by Syd Sprouse
Photo by Cocoa Laney
THE FACE OF ORGANIC FARMING
Boldly Grown Farm
8855 Ershig Rd., Bow, WA 98232
@boldlygrownfarm
360.330.4516
info@boldlygrownfarm.com boldlygrownfarm.com
Boldly Grown Farm was born out of a desire to make the world a better place. Owners/Operators Amy Frye and Jacob Slosberg (that’s us!) came to Skagit Valley after meeting at the University of British Columbia farm. Our passion to feed our community with high-quality, sustainably grown food while stewarding the land, fostering agricultural careers, and building community led us to start Boldly Grown in 2015. Now located in Bow (just off Chuckanut), we and our dedicated team grow 35 acres of Salmon-Safe and organically certified vegetables, grains, legumes and flowers. Come check out our year-round farm stand, winter CSA, or visit one of the many local restaurants and retailers that carry our products. We’d love to be your farmers!
What’s Online
Welcome Newcomers Guide is produced annually by K&L Media, Inc., a small business that celebrates all things local through our publications. In addition to Welcome, we also publish Bellingham Alive, a lifestyle magazine for the North Sound, and North Sound Life Guestbook, a visually stunning hardback that’s perfect for introducing guests to our area and communities. Head to welcome-whatcom.com (or bellinghamalive.com) to access content from all three of our publications, including full Digital Editions, articles that fall under Life, Style, Taste, Home, and Wellbeing, and more. Read on for more information, and we’ll see you online!
Weekly Online Exclusives
Alongside every print issue of Bellingham Alive magazine, we publish an Online Exclusive for our dedicated readers. These exclusives enable us to go in-depth with our subjects, learn new things, and share stories that inspire our curiosity.
Events
Our Events calendar is stocked with regional happenings big and small—everything from book launches and concerts to kids’ activities, arts events, and more! Anyone can submit an event, and once it’s reviewed by our staff, it’ll be live on the site.
Newsletter
Sign up for our weekly newsletter, the Weekend Agenda, to stay up to date on local happenings as well as events, deals, and promotions from your favorite local retailers.
Social Media
We share our articles, well-wishes, and important updates on Instagram and Facebook, where you can find and follow us @bellinghamalive. We love connecting with readers, so leave us a comment or shoot us a message!
PUBLICATIONS
Bellingham Alive
NSL Guestbook
Welcome Newcomers Guide
PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER
Lisa Karlberg
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Anne Godenham
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kristen Boehm
ART AND GRAPHICS MANAGER
Brandee Simons
DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR
Isabel Hyde
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES
Michael Roe | Kristy Gessner
WRITERS
Cocoa Laney | Amberleigh Brownson
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS
Aubrey Black | Ava Boorn
Sofia Bouma | Isabel Hyde
Chloe Nelson | Kristy Nguyen
Evan Riley | Kota Sato
Syd Sprouse | Will Story
Briana Tuvey | Sol Vandeman
OFFICE MANAGEMENT
Jenn Miranda
CLIENT SERVICES CONCIERGE
Megan Gonzales
CONTACT US
CORPORATE OFFICE
K&L Media, Inc.
432 W. Bakerview Road, Suite 101 Bellingham, WA 98226
INQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS
jenn@bellinghamalive.com bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576
ADVERTISING
sales@bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576
EDITORIAL INQUIRIES
editor@bellinghamalive.com 360.483.4576
COVER Dani Winters Photography
WWelcome Home
Explore your new area and discover why so many LOVE Whatcom County.
ELCOME! YOU’VE DISCOVERED the most beautiful place in Washington state, at least from our point of view. Whatcom County is diverse in so many ways, from the beauty of the landscape to the people who live here. When you come to Whatcom County, you don’t come just to work, you come for a new and better lifestyle that balances work and play. You have come to the right place.
Around every corner, you’ll discover why so many of us gravitated here. We come from all different backgrounds and from around the globe. Many just came to visit and ended up finding home, while others were born here and never wanted to leave. Others started their journey at Western Washington University and couldn’t bear the thought of leaving. Whatever the reason, and wherever your journey began, we’re glad you chose Whatcom County to be your new home.
As you start to explore the area, be sure to make a trip into Fairhaven. This historic district is full of boutique shops and amazing restaurants, not to mention the South Bay Trail, which starts near Fairhaven Village Inn and leads all the way to Bellingham’s downtown core. On the way, visit Boulevard Park, grab a latte from Woods Coffee, and enjoy the sunset over Bellingham Bay.
Downtown Bellingham is another destination full of history, charm, and plenty to do and see. Wander the streets, check out the eclectic shops, and find your new favorite restaurant. While exploring, make sure to stop by the Whatcom Museum’s Lightcatcher building, a relatively new structure that is already an iconic landmark. Another town treasure is Mount Baker Theatre. Many world-renowned productions stop here on their way from Seattle to Vancouver, meaning you get to
experience global talent in an intimate atmosphere. It is not to be missed!
Head north toward the Canadian border for stunning trails, hikes, clam digging, crabbing, epic sunsets, and oh… the food. Leader Block Trattoria & Bar in Ferndale was remodeled late 2022 and is a not-to-miss experience, as is Packers Kitchen + Bar at Semiahmoo Resort, which is located on the waterfront of Semiahmoo Bay with beautiful views of White Rock, B.C. They hold amazing waterfront barbeques with live music in the summer.
Next, find your way to Lynden, our charming Dutch town full of unique boutiques and restaurants. If you love antiquing, Lynden is a gold mine. Visit during the annual Northwest Washington Fair or the Northwest Raspberry Festival and get a firsthand taste of the area’s bountiful crops. It also hosts the annual Whatcom Home & Lifestyle Show in April, for those needing to update their home and garden.
Mountain lovers, simply drive east on Mount Baker Highway to a little slice of alpine heaven. Whether you’re looking for world-class skiing, epic hikes among lakes and wildflowers, or just a beautiful bike ride through the forest, the Mount Baker area has it all. For something gentler, take your pick of the Chuckanuts, Galbraith, or visit one of the county’s numerous parks. Wherever you go, and whatever city you are now calling home… Welcome to the neighborhood! We look forward to meeting you and helping you settle in.
Sincerely,
Lisa Karlberg President | Publisher
Photo by Diane Padys
CDear Friends!
Welcome to Whatcom County!
OAST SALISH PEOPLE have been residing in this region since times immemorial! Whatcom means "noisy water" in Lummi language, and Whatcom County is the homeland of the Lummi and Nooksack tribes. The civil war era fueled the Homestead Act and the settling in the US West started with a frenzy for gold and other mineral mining. In 1855 the Point Elliot Treaty was signed with several Pacific NW tribes including Lummi Nation.
Whatcom County has been welcoming newcomers from across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and beyond for many generations. I emmigrated from India to Canada and moved to Whatcom County some 40 years ago. If you’ve decided to call this place home, then we already have something in common and share our love for Whatcom County! I’d like to offer a few ideas as you settle in.
Whatcom County, also called the Fourth Corner of the United States, is a beautiful place to explore for its natural beauty. The destinations are many to choose from, like Point Roberts or Lummi Island, Mount Baker for skiing in winter and hiking in summer, the ocean for water sports year round, North Cascades National Park for every season, and hundreds of miles of mountain bike and hiking trails and thousands of acres of County and City parks. As you may already know, this beautiful corner of the world offers incredible recreation opportunities—where else can you ski, cycle, and sail all on the same day?
Stop by your local library and get a library card! Libraries are cradles of local culture and knowledge, and Whatcom County has some great ones with very helpful and friendly staff. They can point you to the local history section, where you can learn about the customs of the Coast Salish people, the outsized dreams of the first pioneers, or the cunning of local smugglers. Also, I’ve found that librarians can advise on much more than books— they’re always ready to share their favorite hikes, must-see museums, and suggestions for what to do on a free afternoon.
Whatcom County is the top raspberryproducing county in the United States. We
have the best blueberries and are the number-two dairy producing county in Washington State. But there’s much more than that, from farm-fresh produce, farmers’ markets, and artisan baked goods to our vibrant arts and music scene. You’ll have opportunities to satisfy your established tastes by visiting all our microbreweries and variety of restaurants, allowing you to push your boundaries with new culinary and cultural experiences. Our small-scale, locally-owned businesses contribute so much to the color and character of our communities, and I believe that patronizing them is our civic duty!
Whatcom County’s community is friendly and welcoming. Consider joining a hobby club or service organization, or volunteer at a community group. There’s a wealth of opportunity for civic engagement! My own first steps into the public arena began with my involvement in a foundation to support my children’s schools. Perhaps you too will find something that provides personal enrichment while also giving back to your community.
Do you know your local elected officials? Get involved in the civic affairs of your local community or city. Learn about your elected representatives at various government levels. It is your local public servants who are responsible for your roads and parks, schools and emergency services, and so much more. Speaking as County Executive, please know that County Government is here to serve you, and we are committed to being accessible, responsive, and transparent as we do the people’s business.
“I love Whatcom” is the way to enjoy this place, and to learn more about the place you live and share with your family and friends!
Satpal S. Sidhu
Whatcom County Executive
360.778.5200
ssidhu@whatcomcounty.us
311 Grand Ave., Bellingham
My Garden Nursery
My Garden Nursery is the fun and colorful garden center on East Bakerview road with the big purple flamingo out front. My Garden has an enormous selection of colorful annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, berries, fruit trees, and indoor tropical plants! Plus everything you will need to keep your plants happy and healthy!
Home of Mr. Dilly Pickles and the Purple Flamingo Cafe!
• Shop unique gifts and tropical plants in a twinkling magical Christmas setting. mygardennursery.com 929
You will find lots of fun items like fragrant soaps, socks, jewelry, and other unique gifts. There is even a food truck called the Purple Flamingo Café serving panini sandwiches and hot maple donut holes. Each month has something new to see, taste and experience! Details of events at mygardennursery.com
EVENTS ALL YEAR ROUND!
January
• The Indoorplant-a-Palooza! Seminars
• Workshops
• Plant swap
February
• The Big Berry Bonanza!
• Seminars
• Food samples.
March:
• Ciscoe Morris & Mushroom Madness Month!
• Seminars on Foraging mushrooms
April
• My Garden Nursery celebrates 10 years!! April 1st is Party Day!!
May, June
• Flowers, Flowers, Flowers!
July
• 35% OFF Ceramic Planters!
• 20% OFF Tropical plants like bananas and cannas.
August
• Frequent Flower Point Spending!
September
• Sasquatch September!
October
• Clearance Carnival!
• Dilly and Dally’s Birthday party!
November
• Christmas Trees, wreaths, paper white bulbs and Amaryllis.
• Santa pet pictures.
December
City Mayors County Council
DISTRICT 1*
Kaylee Galloway
360.303.1644, kgallowa@ co.whatcom.wa.us
DISTRICT 3
Tyler Byrd
360.778.5021
tbyrd@co.whatcom.wa.us
DISTRICT 5
Ben Elenbaas
360.778.5025 belenbaa@co.whatcom.wa.us
DISTRICT 2
Todd Donovan
360.483.8474
tdonovan@co.whatcom.wa.us
DISTRICT 4
Mark Stremler
360.851.1776
mstremle@co.whatcom.wa.us
AT LARGE-POSITION A
Barry Buchanan
360.224.4330 bbuchanan@co.whatcom.wa.us
AT LARGE-POSITION B
Jon Scanlon
360.592.3149 jscanlon@co.whatcom.wa.us
*Civic positions subject to change.
BELLINGHAM
Kim Lund
360.778.8100 mayorsoffice@cob.com
FERNDALE
Greg Hansen
Mary Lou Steward
360.371.8618 msteward@cityofblaine.com
360.685.2350 LYNDEN
Scott Korthuis
360.354.1170
NOOKSACK
Kevin Hester
kevin@cityofnooksack.com
Bruce Bosch
bbosch@cityofsumas.com
EVERSON
John Perry
360.966.3411 mayor@ci.everson.wa.us
THE FACE OF REAL ESTATE Compass Real Estate
Kerri Zender-Boudousquie & Matthew Boudousquie
Kerri, a Whatcom County native and client-focused Compass agent, has built her success on understanding her clients’ needs and delivering exceptional service. Now joined by her husband Matthew, a New Orleans native and award-winning chef known for his farm-to-table and Cajun-Creole cuisine, they bring a fresh, dynamic approach to real estate. Matthew’s attention to detail, paired with Kerri’s deep local knowledge, offers clients not just a transaction but a truly personalized experience. Their mission is to help you find a place to call home while fostering lasting connections within the community.
HUMAN & PUBLIC SERVICES
Border Crossings
Lynden
360.354.2183
Pacific Highway, Blaine
360.332.5771
Peace Arch, Blaine
360.332.8511
Sumas
360.988.2971
Food Banks
Bellingham Food Bank 1824 Ellis St., 360.676.0392
Blaine Food Bank 500 C St., 360.332.6350
Commodity Foods | Lummi Nutrition Education Program | Community Services 2830 Kwina Rd., 360.380.6957
Ferndale Food Bank
1671 Main St., 360.384.1506
Foothills Food Bank
8255 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls, 360.392.8149
Lynden Project Hope
205 S. British Columbia Ave., 360.354.4673
Meals on Wheels
315 Halleck St., 360.733.4030
Nooksack Valley Food Bank 100 E. 2nd St., Everson
Point Roberts Food Bank 1487 Gulf Rd., Point Roberts, 360.945.1711
The Salvation Army 1515 Birchwood Ave., 360.733.1410
Licensing
Auto, Boat, & Trailer
360.902.3770
Driver
360.676.2096
Hunting & Fishing
360.902.2464
Marriage
360.778.5100
Marine, Biotoxin, & Red
Tide Information
800.562.5632
Public Libraries
Bellingham Public Library - Barkley 3111 Newmarket St., Ste. 103, 360.778.7290
Bellingham Public Library - Bellis Fair 1 Bellis Fair Pkwy., Ste. 616, 360.778.7320
Bellingham Public Library - Central 210 Central Ave., 360.778.7323
Bellingham Public Library - Fairhaven 1117 12th St., 360.778.7188
Birch Bay Vogt Library Express
7948 Birch Bay Dr., Blaine
Blaine Library
610 3rd St., 360.305.3637
Everson Library 104 Kirsch Dr., 360.966.5100
Ferndale Library 2125 Main St., 360.384.3647
Island Library
2144 S. Nugent Rd., 360.305.3597
Lynden Library
216 4th St., 360.354.4883
North Fork Community Library
7506 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls, 360.599.2020
Point Roberts Library
1437 Gulf Rd., 360.945.6545
South Whatcom Library
10 Barn View Dr., Sudden Valley 360.305.3632
Sumas Library 461 2nd St., 360.988.2501
Senior Services
Blaine Community & Senior Center 763 G St., Blaine, 360.332.8040
Everson Senior Center
111 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.3144
Ferndale Senior Activity Center
1999 Cherry St., Ferndale 360.384.6244
Lynden Community/Senior Center
401 Grover St., Lynden 360.354.2921
Northwest Regional Council
600 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham, 360.676.6749
Point Roberts Senior Activity Center 1487 Gulf Rd., Point Roberts 360.945.5424
Sumas Community Senior Center
461 Second St., Sumas 360.988.2714
Whatcom Council on Aging/ Bellingham Senior Activity Center
315 Halleck St., Bellingham, 360.733.4030
Whatcom Love INC
360.671.6201
Shelters
HUSLY Temporary Shelter
2500 E. St., Bellingham, 360.296.3813
Ne-Alis Tokw (My Sister’s Place)Lummi Victims of Crime Domestic Violence Shelter 360.312.2015
Lighthouse Mission Ministries 1312 F St., Bellingham, 360.733.5120
Lydia Place 1701 Gladstone St., Bellingham, 360.671.7663
New Way Ministries 360.354.9930
Sun House 515 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 360.392.1324
Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County Safe Housing Program 1407 Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.671.5714
The PAD House 360.393.0116
YWCA Bellingham 1026 N. Forest St., Bellingham, 360.734.4820
Ferndale Severe Weather Shelter 2034 Washington St., Ferndale, 360.380.2200x4
Social Services & Other
Adult Protective Services (DSHS)
877.734.6277
Agape Home 360.733.3796
Alcoholics Anonymous
360.734.1688
Bellingham Community Services Office (Washington State Department of Social & Health Services) 877-501-2233
Blaine Community Assistance Program 360.392.8484
Blaine Family Service Center
360.332.0740
Brigid Collins Family Support Center
360.734.4616
Burn Ban Information
360.778.5903
Care Crisis Response Line, Compass Health
800.584.3578
Child Protective Services (CPS)
866.829.2153
Coast Guard Emergency
360.734.1692
Department of Social & Health Services
877.501.2233
Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services Helpline
360.715.1563
Forest Fire Reporting
800.562.6010
HomesNOW homesnow.org
Lummi Victims of Crime
360.312.2015
Northwest Washington American Red Cross
425.252.4103
Pass Reports (WSDOT)
800.695.7623
Poison Information Center
800.222.1222
Recovery Cafe Bellingham
The Way Station, 1616 Cornwall Ave., Ste. 205, Bellingham, 360.676.6177
Tl’ils Ta’á’altha Victims of Crime
360.325.3310
Washington Recovery Hotline
866.789.1511
Whatcom Homeless Service Center
360.734.5121
WWU Survivor Advocacy Services at the Counseling & Wellness Center
360.650.7982
Special Needs Resources
Max Higbee Center
1400 N. State St., Ste. 101, Bellingham
360.746.7181
The Arc of Whatcom County
2602 McLeod Rd., Bellingham, 360.715.0170
Whatcom Developmental Disabilities Program
509 Girard St., Bellingham, 360.778.6012
Tourism Information
Bellingham | Whatcom County Tourism
360.671.3990
Transportation
Alaska Marine Highway System
360.676.8445 ext. 3
Amtrak Reservation
800.872.7245
BoltBus (Cordata Station)
360.676.7433
Greyhound
800.231.2222
Lummi Island Ferry
360.778.6200
San Juan Islands Ferry
888.464.3701
Washington State Ferries
888.808.7977
Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA)
360.676.7433
WTA Paratransit
360.733.1144
Bellingham International Airport
360.671.5674
Paine Field (Everett)
425.388.5125
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac)
U.S. Post Offices Acme
Blaine
City
Custer
Deming
Everson
Whidbey Telecom
360.321.1122
Xfinity by Comcast
800.934.6489
Electricity
City of Blaine Electric Water & Sewer Services
360.332.8311
City of Sumas Electric Water & Sewer Services
360.988.5711
Puget Sound Energy Inc.
888.225.5773
Whatcom County Public Utility District No. 1
360.384.4288
Garbage, Recycling, Compost
BELLINGHAM
Green Earth Technology (compost)
360.354.4936
Sanitary Service Company
360.734.3490
Northwest Recycling, Inc.
360.733.0100
Recycling & Disposal Services, Inc. (Whatcom)
360.384.8011
POINT ROBERTS, BLAINE, LUMMI, BIRCH BAY, POINT WHITEHORN
Cando Recycling & Disposal
360.945.2636
NOOKSACK, EVERSON, SUMAS
Nooksack Valley Disposal & Recycling
360.351.3400
Internet
CenturyLink
800.244.1111
CSS Communications Inc.
877.671.4878
DirecTV
855.842.4388
HughesNet
866.347.3292
Frontier
877.599.1870
PogoZone
360.676.8772
Xfinity by Comcast
800.934.6489
Propane
CHS Northwest Multiple locations, 360.734.4010
Economy Propane 2163 Natures Path Way, Blaine, 360.332.3121
Northwest Propane 8450 Depot Rd., Lynden, 360.354.4471
Propane Gas, Ind. 5387 La Bounty Dr., Ferndale, 360.384.4922
Vanderyacht Propane
6811 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden, 360.398.1234
Water & Sewer
Bellingham Water & Sewer Services
360.778.8011
Birch Bay Water & Sewer District
360.371.7100
Blaine Electric Water & Sewer Services
360.332.8311
Everson Water & Sewer Services
360.966.0282
Ferndale Water & Sewer Services
360.384.4006
Lynden Water & Sewer Services
360.354-1170
Nooksack Water & Sewer Services
360.966.2531
Sumas Electric Water & Sewer Services
360.988.5711
Whatcom County Public Utility District No. 1
360.384.4288
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Fire & EMS (NON-EMERGENCIES)
Bellingham
360.778.8400
Blaine
360.318.9933
Deming
360.592.5094
Everson | Nooksack
360.966.5757
Ferndale
360.384.0303
Lynden
360.354.4400
Maple Falls
360.599.2823
Sumas
360.988.9563
Police & Sheriff (NON-EMERGENCIES)
Bellingham Police Department
505 Grand Ave., Bellingham, 360.778.8800
Blaine Police Department
322 H St., Blaine, 360.332.6769
Everson Police Department 111 W. Main St., Everson, 360.966.4212
Ferndale Police Department 2220 Main St., Ferndale, 360.384.3390
Lummi Nation Police Department 2665 Kwina Rd., Bellingham, 360.312.2274
Lynden Police Department 203 19th St., Lynden, 360.354.2828
Nooksack Indian Tribe Police Department 5016 Deming Rd., Deming, 360.592.9065
Sumas Police Department 433 Cherry St., Sumas, 360.988.5711
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office
311 Grand Ave., Bellingham, 360.778.6600
Washington State Patrol & Border Patrol
Emergencies
911
U.S. Customs & Border Protection
360.380.0408
to the Neighborhood WELC ME
Cities of Whatcom County
FROM COASTAL TOWNS to mountain getaways, there’s plenty to explore in Whatcom County. The area features several thriving urban communities as well as world-class access to the outdoors, so whether you’re a city dweller or a nature enthusiast, you’re sure to find a place that suits your style.
Bellingham is the county’s largest city, and more than 90,000 people reside within its limits. It offers the best of both worlds in terms of urban amenities and outdoor adventure. Entertainment, shopping, and dining options abound in the downtown corridor and historic Fairhaven Village. Residents also have access to numerous parks, recreation areas, and trails, so there’s always something to do.
The town of Ferndale is located just outside of Bellingham, and if you continue heading north, you’ll encounter Custer along I-5 and Lynden nestled northeast of Ferndale. The border town of Blaine, which contains the seaside village of Birch Bay, is located in the northwest corner of the county. Visitors will find two ports of entry and Peace Arch Park, which straddles the boundary between Canada and the United States.
In the foothills beneath Mount Baker, Deming, Maple Falls, and Glacier each offer a unique brand of mountain town charm. Further along Mount Baker Highway is Artist Point, which features an array of trails as well as stunning mountain vistas as far as the eye can see. If you instead take State Route 9, you can pay a visit to the towns of Sumas, Everson/Nooksack, and Acme
Bellingham
FROM THE BUSTLING downtown area to the serenity of the bay, Bellingham has plenty to offer visitors and residents alike. Its history can be traced back thousands of years as the homeland of the Coast Salish peoples, who thrived off the region’s bountiful seafood and who live in the area to this day. After the gold rush spurred population growth among European settlers, four separate towns came into existence: Fairhaven, Whatcom, Sehome, and Bellingham. These settlements were combined in 1903 to form the Bellingham we know today.
The city has historically catered to industries such as fishing, mining, and lumber. For a peek at Bellingham’s industrial past, pay a visit to the waterfront, which functioned as a tissue mill from the ‘60s until the mid-2000s and was recently redeveloped into a mixed-use space with public art and access to the bay.
Nowadays PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center and Western Washington University are the city’s largest employers, and Bellingham’s population has nearly doubled in size since the mid-20th century. It continues to draw transplants from across the state and country thanks to its clean air, natural beauty, and safety.
There are more than 20 neighborhoods in Bellingham, including Barkley, Fairhaven, Lettered Streets, Columbia, Birchwood, Cordata, Sunnyland, and Sehome. The Bellingham Bay forms a natural
boundary west of the city, and the North Cascade Mountains lie to the east.
Located in the southeast is Lake Whatcom, a 10-mile-long lake that provides both drinking water and plenty of summertime fun. Finally, head due south along the bay to visit the Chuckanut Mountains. These natural wonders can be accessed with just a five-minute trip outside the city, and they contain a wealth of scenic overlooks and trails.
Downtown Bellingham is the city’s hub for commercial activity and entertainment. Shoppers can explore everything from upscale boutiques to eclectic gift shops, home decor outlets, and much more. There’s also a diverse restaurant scene, so whether you’re craving crispy eggplant bao at the new Redlight Kitchen & Bar location, date night bites at The Temple Bar, or Peruvian sandwiches at Cafe Rumba, you’ll find an eatery to appease just
about any appetite. Need a pick-me-up after your meal? The downtown corridor also has locally-owned coffee shops in spades, from cozy Camber Coffee to the spacious and contemporary Makeworth Coffee Roasters
If you happen to be downtown on a Saturday morning between April and December, swing by Depot Market Square for the Bellingham Farmers Market. It features more than 100 vendors selling everything from local produce to baked goods and even handmade jewelry.
Bellingham has a thriving arts culture, and the Mount Baker Theatre is the city’s most iconic venue when it comes to live entertainment. It’s been around since 1927, and names such as Ira Glass, David Sedaris, and even Jane Goodall have each graced its stage over the years. Other quintessential music venues include Wild Buffalo House of Music, The Shakedown, and all-ages
venue The Blue Room, all conveniently located downtown.
The Whatcom Museum is a major point of reference for visual art, and it consists of several separate buildings: The Lightcatcher Building (which contains the Family Interactive Gallery), the Old Fire Station No. 1 (home to the museum’s photo archive), and the distinctive Old City Hall. Bellingham’s downtown area is also home to several independently-owned galleries like Geheim Gallery and Meloy Gallery. In terms of handmade goods, places like Brazen Shop + Studio and Third Planet Boutique provide a brick-and-mortar space for artisans to sell their wares.
Downtown Bellingham Partnership organizes First Fridays every first Friday of the month, and it’s a great opportunity to connect with artists and makers. It’s a monthly celebration of local business during which artists open their studios, galleries and museums stay open late, and even restaurants and retail shops offer special events and deals. Allied Arts of Whatcom County produces a new gallery show in their downtown space every month, as well as organizing special events like the Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival and the Holiday Festival of the Arts. During the first two weekends of October, the public is invited to visit local artists’ private studios for the Whatcom Artist Studio Tour
Bellingham is also a dream destination for those who are interested in the fine art of craft beer. Boundary Bay Brewery & Bistro, Aslan Brewing Co., and Structures Brewing are downtown classics, while the Sunnyland neighborhood boasts spots such as Wander Brewing, Kulshan Brewing, and Otherlands Beer, the latter of which is also known for its must-try Eastern European eats. With more than 15 breweries to choose from, you’ll be hard-pressed to pick a favorite. Cider drinkers should check out Bellingham Cider Co., whereas Chuckanut Bay Distillery serves up some of Bellingham’s finest spirits and shareable snacks at its restaurant, the Penny Farthing Bar & Restaurant—they also opened a rooftop bar in late 2024!
The beer may be delicious, but balance is the key to health. Thankfully it’s easy to stay fit and active year-round in Bellingham, and in addition to the great outdoors, there are plenty of indoor fitness centers to pick from. Whether you’re looking for standard gym amenities or niches such as Muay Thai, rock climbing, or even aerial yoga, there’s a gym out there for everyone. For healthcare, Bellingham has PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center as well as smaller clinics that specialize in everything from traditional to naturopathic medicine.
Whether you’re an athlete or a spectator, the Ski to Sea race is another can’t-miss summertime affair. This multi-sport relay starts with a Mount Baker ski run and finishes with sea kayaking in the Bellingham Bay. Other annual sporting events include the Bellingham SwimRun, Lake Whatcom Triathlon, Bellingham Bay Marathon, and the Bellingham Traverse
In addition to all these fun and games, the city’s educational offerings are a major draw for new residents. Western Washington University was named as the top public master's-granting institution in the Pacific Northwest by the 2022 U.S. News & World Report College Rankings. Other higher-ed options include Whatcom Community College, Bellingham Technical College, and Northwest Indian College. Younger learners have access to an array of respected K-12 institutions, including public, private, Montessori-style, and faith-based options.
Another perk for Bellingham residents is the city’s proximity to numerous trip-worthy areas. If you’re seeking an urban getaway, you don’t have to look far—Seattle is 90 miles away, and Vancounver, B.C. is just under 60 miles away. For a less metropolitan escape, head south to the Skagit Valley. Skagit County is known for its agricultural
by W. Scooter
Photo
Photo by Melissa McCarthy
bounty, annual Tulip Festival, and access to the San Juan Islands via the port town of Anacortes.
The most picturesque way to get to Skagit is by taking Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway . Nestled between the Chuckanut Mountains and the bay, this stretch of road features stunning views of the water, mountains, and San Juan Islands—stop in the tiny town of Bow for an exceptional pastry from Breadfarm . Alternatively, if you go east past the Cascade Mountains, you’ll find yourself in the Methow Valley . This area offers ample opportunities for outdoor
recreation and is especially beautiful when the leaves start to turn.
Of course, Bellinghamsters don’t even need to leave the city for a dose of outdoor fun. Bellingham is a haven for mountain bikers, and Galbraith Mountain offers more than 60 miles of world-class trails that are also fit for horseback riding and hiking. Hikers and trail runners can also head to the Chuckanut Mountains for day hikes in stunning areas like Fragrance Lake , Lost Lake , Raptor Ridge , and the breathtaking Oyster Dome . For a backpacking adventure, Pine and Cedar Lakes Trail is an ideal overnight destination.
No visit to Bellingham would be complete without a stop by Whatcom Falls, which boasts four sets of waterfalls and several miles of walking trails. Other must-do walks include the Interurban Trail, which connects Fairhaven and Larrabee State Park, as well as the loop around Lake Padden. In addition to being a fullservice marina and public boat launch, Squalicum Harbor has walking trails and is a great spot for sunset-watching. Regardless of age, background, or interests, there’s a place for everyone in Bellingham. It’s no wonder residents are proud to call this idyllic city their home.
Photo by Dani Winters Photography
Photo by Dani Winters Photography
Photo by Dani Winters Photography
Events
Bellingham, Barkley, Fairhaven, Sudden Valley
January
Padden Polar Dip & Resolution Walk/Run
February
Fairhaven Chocolate Walk
March
Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival
St. Patrick’s Day Parade
April
Bellingham Beer Week
Dirty Dan Murder Mystery Weekend
May
Ski to Sea Race & Fairhaven Festival
CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival
June
Padden Triathlon
Bellingham SwimRun
July
Bellingham Festival of Music
Bellingham’s 4th of July Celebration
Bellingham Pride Tour de Whatcom
Downtown Sounds (July and August)
August
Downtown Sounds (July and August)
Bellingham Traverse
Noisy Waters Mural Festival
September
Bellingham Bay Marathon
Bellingham VegFest
Eat Local Month
October
Bellingham SeaFeast
Bellingham Exit
Whatcom Artists Studio Tour
Cloud Mountain Farm Fruit Festival
November
Allied Arts Holiday Festival of the Arts
Fairhaven Winterfest (Late November through December)
December
Fairhaven Winterfest (Late November through December)
Holiday Port Festival & Gingerbread
House Contest
*Event dates based on 2024 events and are subject to change.
Photo by Melissa MCCarthy
City
of Commerce
Bellingham
Blaine
Barkley Village
NESTLED IN THE northeast corner of Bellingham is Barkley Village, an urban community with a small-town spirit. This mixed-use Barkley Neighborhood was created in 2010 when the Mount Baker neighborhood was split between what are now Barkley and Irongate. It’s situated to the east at the Sunset exit of I-5, just north of Alabama Hill.
This walkable urban village offers shopping, sightseeing, and a great selection of restaurants. Many of Barkley’s homes feature views of Bellingham Bay, and apartment-dwellers also have plenty of options for upscale rentals. A full calendar of community events ensures that new residents have ample opportunity to meet their neighbors.
Barkley is home to businesses with both local and international reach, with the neighborhood’s commercial heart situated between Woburn Street and Barkley Boulevard. This area has a high concentration of offices, clinics, and shopping destinations like Hamann’s Gallery & Gift.
For groceries, Haggen Food & Pharmacy is also located in the center of Barkley Village. Not in the mood to cook? Residents can dine out at local favorites such as Overflow Taps, Just Poké, Scotty Browns, and Zen Sushi & Bar
To see what the outdoors have to offer, head east down Sunset Drive for the Mount Baker Scenic Byway, an idyllic stretch of road that offers worldclass skiing and hiking. If you’d prefer to stick closer to home, Barkley Village has a myriad of trails that will take you all over town. Whatcom Falls, Big
Rock Garden, and Northridge Park are only a short trek or bike ride away. In the summer, Bloedel Donovan Park is the destination for swimming.
If you’re looking for something to do this weekend (and throughout the year), Barkley has you covered.
On the Barkley Village Green , keep an eye out for events such as the Vietnam Veterans Car Show , Bellingham Veg Fest , Barkley Village Wine Walk , and the summer farmers market. In addition, the Concert on the Green event is an annual favorite featuring live music for a good cause.
For an evening on the town, start by grabbing happy hour at the Blue Abode Bar . Next, head to the Regal
Barkley Village IMAX & RPX for popcorn and a movie. To finish off the night, Overflow Taps is the spot for craft beer and wine, and they collaborate with craft breweries to donate money to water projects in low-income countries.
In addition to the nightlife, Barkley has plenty of amenities for families. The neighborhood is home to Bellingham Public LibraryBarkley Branch , and the Barkley Village Gazebo hosts plenty of kidfriendly events throughout the year. Northern Heights Elementary School and Roosevelt Elementary School are close, but students also attend Shuksan Middle School and Squalicum High School .
Photo by David Scherrer
Photo by David Scherrer
Photo by David Scherrer
Fairhaven
HEAD TO THE southern end of Bellingham’s city limits and you’ll encounter Fairhaven, a waterfront historic district that’s home to some of Bellingham’s most colorful history. This charming area was one of the four original settlements that were eventually consolidated into the city of Bellingham.
Fairhaven was originally settled as a pioneer town in 1853. It was later founded by Daniel J. Harris, also known as “Dirty Dan,” in 1883, and its economic vitality has since waxed and waned. 19th-century real estate investors banked on it becoming the terminus of the Great Northern Railroad, but Seattle was chosen instead. In the 20th century, deep-water frontage access to resources made it an ideal site for manufacturing, but the industry eventually shifted to downtown Bellingham.
After decades of booms and busts, Fairhaven was revitalized in the latter half of the 20th century. Modern Fairhaven may not be the bustling city center of centuries past, but its history is an integral part of Bellingham’s character. Its distinctive red-brick architecture and Victorian charm make the downtown area a delight to explore.
At the heart of everything is Fairhaven Village Green, and it’s the perfect spot to stop and enjoy a sweet treat from Acme Valley Ice Cream Cafe or Sirena Gelato. Once a week during the summer months, the green
is also home to Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema
Fairhaven features plenty of art galleries, stores, and boutiques, so if you’re in the mood to shop, you’ve come to the right place. Pop into The Heron’s Nest Gallery & Art Market for some fresh art for your home or swing by Babygreens Plant Shop for a new indoor plant and fun pot to go with. For women’s clothing, head to Three French Hens, Serendipity, Eleventh St GOODS, or Adored Boutique Bella Rose Boutique also offers a curated selection of bath and beauty products. Bookworms will feel right at home
Photo by Brandee Simons
Photo by Brandee Simons
Photo by Brandee Simons
at Eclipse Bookstore or Village Books, Bellingham’s beloved indie bookstore (which also features artisan truffles on the mezzanine level at Evolve Chocolate + Cafe).
If you’re feeling low on energy, you can duck into one of Fairhaven’s numerous cafes for an afternoon pick-me-up. Cafe Blue has housemade pastries and a hip-yet-homey ambiance, and Colophon Cafe is a Fairhaven icon.
When it comes to libations, Galloway’s Cocktail Bar is a musttry for craft cocktails and art-deco ambiance. Beer lovers will feel right at home at Corner Taphouse, Stones Throw Brewery, and Paws for a Beer, the latter of which is Bellingham’s de facto dog bar (basically, a dog park with a bar). Looking for the fun without the consequences? Opened in 2024, Bloomhaven Bottle Shop is Bellingham’s first nonalcoholic bottle shop! They sell zero proof spirits, beer, and wine.
Food options abound in Fairhaven: There’s brunch at Skylark’s Hidden Cafe, Thai-Lao fusion at Maikham Lao & Thai, rolls and sashimi at Fujisan Sushi, French pastries at Iron Rooster Bakery, Hawaiian-style bowls at Fairhaven Poke, and excellent pies at Övn Wood Fired Pizza—along with plenty more.
On date night, Estelle has an excellent duck confit, whereas Keenan’s at the Pier offers waterfront views within the luxurious surroundings of The Chrysalis Inn & Spa Bellingham
Fairhaven residents enjoy easy access to numerous gyms, health clinics, and other essentials such as Haggen Food & Pharmacy. Just up the hill is Western Washington University, and Fairhaven also sports a branch of the Bellingham Public Library. For younger students, Lowell Elementary School and Fairhaven Middle School are within walking distance.
If it’s nature you’re looking for, Fairhaven Park, Arroyo Park, Marine Park, and Post Point Lagoon Estuary are all connected via the Interurban Trail. The South Bay Trail is a classic and beloved route that stretches from downtown Fairhaven, through the docks of Boulevard Park, and along the water until it finally reaches downtown Bellingham.
Hop on an Amtrak Cascades train or Greyhound bus at Fairhaven Station for a jaunt to Seattle, Portland, or Vancouver, B.C. Alternatively, take your car down the Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway for stunning waterfront views, access to Larrabee State Park , and trailheads for a plethora of classic hikes.
Local Parks
Bellingham, Barkley, Fairhaven, Sudden Valley
Arroyo Park
1700 Old Samish Rd.
Birchwood Park
2709 Cedarwood Ave.
Bloedel Donovan Park
2114 Electric Ave.
Boulevard Park
470 Bayview Dr.
Cornwall Park
3424 Meridian St.
Euclid Park
1650 Euclid Ave.
Fairhaven Park
107 Chuckanut Dr. N.
Lake Padden Park
4882 S. Samish Way
Larrabee State Park
245 Chuckanut Dr.
Little Squalicum Park
640 Marine Dr.
Maritime Heritage Park
500 W. Holly St.
Northridge Park 3400 Carrington Way
Roosevelt Park 2235 Verona St.
Sehome Hill Arboretum
600 Arboretum Dr.
Squalicum Creek Park 1001 Squalicum Way
Squires Lake Park 2510 Nulle Rd.
St. Clair Park
2015 St. Clair St.
Sudden Valley Dog Park
22 Marina Dr.
Ted Edwards Park
4150 Oriental Ln.
Whatcom Falls Park 1401 Electric Ave.
Sudden Valley
LOCATED ALONGSIDE
BEAUTIFUL Lake Whatcom, the Sudden Valley neighborhood is a serene community that’s perfect for avid golfers, first-time homeowners, and young (or not-so-young) families.
Now home to more than 7,000 residents, Sudden Valley has grown immensely since its beginnings in 1969. Originally a private property known as “The Ranch,” the 1,200acre community encompasses all there is to love about living in Whatcom County.
The 20-minute commute from Bellingham makes the neighborhood ideal for those looking for a quieter area6 that’s still close to city amenities. With an abundance of parks, playgrounds, and lake access, you get the best of both worlds: suburban perks in a woodsy, isolated atmosphere.
Don’t let the access to the 18-hole Sudden Valley Golf Course , Sudden Valley Marina (which got a new boat launch ramp in 2024), two community gardens, and two swimming pools (one of which is Olympic-sized) fool you—home prices are actually lower in Sudden Valley, making it a great location for those who are starting out on the property ladder or looking to downsize.
You don’t even have to leave the area to find amenities. The Community Center is home to a gym, sauna, game lounge, dance barn, and children’s area. You can also find lots of social events such as knitting groups, fitness classes, and mahjong. Looking for a quiet work space? A branch of the Whatcom Public Library is nearby too.
If you’re looking for a bite to eat, local eateries include Tino’s Pizza & Pasta Co.
and El Agave Mexican Restaurant. For those who’d rather eat at home but don’t want to drive into town for groceries, the Valley Market & Deli is there for all your last minute meal prep needs.
Moving to the area with your kids? Sudden Valley falls under the Bellingham Public School District, with students attending Geneva Elementary School, then Kulshan Middle School, and finishing at Bellingham Public High School
Photo by Dean Davidson
Photo by Dean Davidson
Ferndale
IF YOU DRIVE just northwest of Bellingham, you’ll find the city of Ferndale situated along the Nooksack River. With views of Mount Baker to the east and the San Juan Islands to the west, it’s safe to say that this spot is picturesque from every direction. More than 14,000 people call Ferndale home, although if you include the surrounding unincorporated areas that number grows to around 30,000.
In addition to the abundant nature and quiet pace of life, Ferndale offers easy access to urban hotspots such as Vancouver, B.C. and Seattle. It began as a dairy and logging town but has since developed into a fastgrowing manufacturing city. Given how affordable commercial properties are, prominent companies such as Samson Rope, Superfeet, Cascade Dafo, NutraDried Food Company, and Jack’s Paleo Kitchen have all made the choice to call Ferndale their home.
The Ferndale School District covers residents not only of Ferndale,
but also Custer, Lummi Island, and north Bellingham. Overall, the district serves almost 5,000 students between one high school, two middle schools, and six elementary schools.
Activities such as boating, hunting, golfing, fishing, skiing, and hiking are all within reach for residents, making Ferndale an excellent home base for families. Originally established by the
Hovander family in 1969, Hovander Homestead Park is a notable spot for education, entertainment, and trails. The Scandinavian-style Hovander House lies at the center of the park, and the grounds also include a barn that hosts farm animals in the summertime. Birders flock to Tennant Lake Park for its wetlands, walking trails, and variety of native birds.
Photo by Mariah Currey
Photo by Mariah Currey
Nearby Pioneer Park is home to 12 cedar slab log cabins that are maintained by the Ferndale Heritage Society. Throughout the year, visitors can take tours, rent specific buildings, or visit the park for special events such as the Old Settlers Weekend in July and Olde Fashioned Christmas in December.
Despite its small size, Ferndale’s food scene brings big flavor. The city is the headquarters of Barlean’s Fishery, Inc., which has been providing Whatcom County with fresh seafood since 1972. There’s also the familyowned Anytime Toffee, a.k.a. the place to go if you’re looking to satisfy a sweet tooth.
In terms of restaurants, the Leader Block Trattoria & Bar caught the attention of the Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards and won an award of excellence in 2019. Other notable eateries include Yeah Baby Boards for Insta-worthy charcuterie boards and Battle’s Kitchen for authentic Cajun and Southern bites. DownTime Taps, FrinGe Brewing and District Brewing are popular watering holes.
Local Parks
Ferndale
Hovander Homestead Park
5299 Nielsen Ave., Ferndale
Jensen Family Forest Park
8051 Stein Rd., Custer
Metalworks Skate Park, 5532 2nd Ave., Ferndale
Star Park
5477 Ferndale Rd., Ferndale
Centennial Riverwalk Park
5667 Front Ave., Ferndale
Events
Ferndale
June
Lummi Nation Stommish Water Festival
July
Ferndale Old Settlers Picnic
December
Olde Fashioned Christmas
*Event dates are based on 2024 events and are subject to change.
Photo by Dean Davidson
Photo by Mariah Currey
Lynden
LOCATED ROUGHLY 30 minutes north of Bellingham, the city of Lynden is best known for its bountiful agriculture and strong Dutch heritage. As the second-largest city in Whatcom County, this tightknit community boasts roughly 15,000 residents and is steadily growing. Even so, visiting Lynden feels like returning to simpler times—with the addition of modern amenities and a noteworthy shopping and dining scene.
Lynden’s economy has historically revolved around the farming of berries, dairy, and row crops. To get your hands on those famous berries, you can buy a punnet or pick them yourself at local farms such as Haugen’s Raspberries, Clark’s Berry Farm, and Kamm Creek Farm. Lynden is also home to dairy farms like Twin Brook Creamery, which produces some of the best milk that Whatcom County has to offer.
In the summertime, Lynden hosts two annual events celebrating the area’s rich agricultural tradition: the Farmers Day Parade and the Northwest Raspberry Festival There’s also the Northwest Washington Fair, an annual extravaganza of food, fun, and farming.
During the fall, you’d be remiss not to visit Bellewood Farms & Distillery for a day of family-friendly fun. Their property features a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, and approximately 25,000 apple trees—so yes, you’re obliged to try the cider before you leave.
When the holidays arrive, the Northwest Lighted Christmas Parade showcases a procession of glittering tractors, floats, and farm equipment. It’s sponsored by Edaleen Dairy, a local farm that produces some of the best ice cream in the county. If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in luck—two of their six storefronts are located in Lynden.
As you might imagine, Lynden’s small-town charms make it an ideal place for families. The Lynden School District serves over 3,000 students and includes three elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, and an alternative learning school. Lynden is also home to beautiful parks such as Berthusen Park, Bender Fields, and City Park, a.k.a. Million Smiles Playground Park.
It’s worth mentioning that Lynden is the largest Dutch settlement in the state. To immerse yourself in the town’s storied history, head to Front
Photo by Mariah Currey
Street , also known as Old Dutch Town . You’ll find the Lynden Pioneer Museum , which houses a life-sized replica of historic Front Street businesses as well as an early 20th century farmhouse. For a taste of the Netherlands, stop into Lynden Dutch Bakery for traditional Dutch treats (or check out sister business Just Desserts for all-American goodies such as pie and ice cream).
Other worthwhile sights include the 72-foot-tall windmill on the corner of Front and Seventh Street. If you’re hungry, step inside the windmill for a meal and a craft cocktail at The Mill at Seventh. Front Street is also home to other noteworthy stops including the Lynden location of Village Books & Paper Dreams , the J ansen Art Center , The Newsroom Pub , and Overflow Taps . Only a block away, Lynden Skateway reigns supreme as the only roller rink in Whatcom County, and the nearby Inn at Lynden offers luxurious lodging in the historic Waples Mercantile Building.
Local Parks
Lynden
Bender Fields
8770 Bender Rd.
Berthusen Park
8837 Berthusen Rd.
Lynden City Park
8460 Depot Rd.
Events
Lynden
March
Spring Craft & Antique Show
April
Whatcom Home & Garden Show
June
Lynden Farmers Day Parade
July
Northwest Raspberry Festival
August
Northwest Washington Fair
Vintage Farming Days
October
Fall Craft & Antique Show
December
Lynden Lighted Christmas Parade
*Event dates are based on 2024 events and are subject to change.
Photo by Esther Chong
Photo by Zoe Deal
Photo by Esther Chong
Blaine
LOCATED RIGHT NEXT to Canada, the bordertown of Blaine boasts wide expanses of coastline, views of Vancouver Island and Point Roberts, and a population of roughly 6,000. Children attend the Blaine School District, which operates a high school, middle school, elementary school, and two primary schools.
Between Blaine and Douglas, B.C. you’ll find the Peace Arch, the centerpiece of the Peace Arch Historical State Park. It was constructed to celebrate peace between the United States and Canada, and to this day its towering white design is an iconic part of Blaine’s culture and history. The surrounding park is perfect for families and gatherings, featuring 19 acres, 85 picnic tables, playgrounds, and even a kitchen for rent.
At nearby Marine Park, visitors can walk the trails and beaches or have a picnic while the kids play on a nautical-themed playground. In the spring the park holds the Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival, an annual event that features live bird presentations, local vendors, and an allday birding expo.
Afterwards, stop for a bite to eat at one of Blaine’s local restaurants, including Border Town Pizza,
Chada Thai, and Drayton Harbor Oyster Company for seafood. Jack Niemann’s Black Forest Steak House is best for those who prefer turf over surf, and Paso del Norte is the place to go for authentic Mexican fare.
Need a pick-me-up? A latte from The Railway Cafe should do the trick. Alternatively, if you’re looking to wind down after a long day, a pint of craft beer from Gateway 1890 Taphouse & Grill or glass of wine at The Vault Wine Bar & Bistro is sure to quench your thirst.
The Semiahmoo Spit is another worthwhile stop to make while in town. Nestled between Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor, Semiahmoo Park features trails with great views and plenty of wildlife. At the end of the spit is Semiahmoo Resort, an upscale getaway that features luxury suites, a spa, golf, pickleball, beachside activities, and an on-site restaurant, Packers Kitchen + Bar .
For an immersive history lesson, take a ride on the Plover Passenger Ferry during the summer months. This boat once transported cannery workers between Blaine and Semiahmoo Spit. At the end of the ride, make sure to stop at Alaska Packers Association Museum
Local Parks Blaine/Birch Bay
Bay Horizon Park
7467 Gemini St., Blaine
Birch Bay State Park
5105 Helweg Rd., Blaine
Blaine Marine Park
200 Marine Dr., Blaine
Halverson Park
5075 Anderson Rd., Blaine
Lighthouse Marine Park
811 Marine Dr., Point Roberts
Lily Point Marine Park
2315 APA Rd., Point Roberts
Lincoln Park
1800 H St., Blaine
Salishan Park
1275 Blaine Ave., Blaine
Semiahmoo Park
9261 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine
Events
Blaine/Birch Bay
January
Polar Bear Plunge at Birch Bay
March
Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival
July
Blaine’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July Festival & Street Fair
August
Drayton Harbor Days/Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival
Birch Bay Days & Crab Festival
December
Ring of Fire and Hope
*Event dates are based on 2024 events and are subject to change.
IBirch Bay
F YOU DRIVE just south of Blaine, you’ll reach the tranquil beach community of Birch Bay. The area gets its name from the body of water enclosed by Point Whitehorn and the Semiahmoo Peninsula. With roughly 10,000 residents, Birch Bay features a picturesque waterfront with plenty of recreation year-round.
The crown jewel of this small community is Birch Bay State Park. With more than 8,000 feet of beaches and warmer-than-usual water (for Washington, at least), the park offers a multitude of activities. For wildlife lovers, Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve is the place to potentially see porpoises, spotted seals, and various birds.
If you’re looking for a quick breakfast, Rooted by the Bay has coffee and early morning eats. For
lunch and dinner, your options include CJ’s Beach House, Bay Breeze Restaurant and Bar, and The Beach at Birch Bay. There’s also Beach Cat Brewing, one of the newer additions to Whatcom County’s ever-growing craft beer scene.
A fantastic family-friendly attraction is Station 49, an amusement park with an arcade, minigolf, and go-karts. The center also features a miniature train that meanders through the park and surrounding forest. After your ride, pick up some drinks and snacks from The Saloon to refuel.
Round out the rest of your day by visiting Birch Bay Square for shopping. Among the assortment of stores, you’ll find locally owned businesses such as Betty Be Good Boutique and Bow Wow & Woofs
Mount Baker Foothills
MOUNT BAKER IS a hub for outdoor fun, be that summertime hiking or winter snow sports. Its surrounding communities are also worth a visit, and you can reach them via State Route 542 (running northeast from Bellingham, also known as Mount Baker Highway) and State Route 9 (running north and south). You’ll encounter no shortage of charming stops along the way.
Mount Baker Highway
Follow the Nooksack river down this breathtaking highway and you’ll soon find yourself in Deming, a small but growing community whose population was last counted at 427 in 2022. Deming is also home to the Nooksack Indian Tribe, approximately 2000 members strong and headquartered there in their ancestral homeland, where they maintain a Tribal Council and Tribal Government. Each June, make sure to catch the Deming Logging Show to witness a host of entertaining logging feats, all for the benefit of “busted up loggers” injured in the woods. Of course, no visit to Deming is complete without a visit to North Fork Brewery or Rifugio’s Country Italian Cuisine—or both if you’re extra hungry. Continue northeast along the river and you’ll discover the tiny, charming towns of Kendall and Maple Falls
There’s not much retail to speak of, but Maple Falls does have a grocery store as well as a coffee shop. As for the outdoors, Silver Lake Park is located to the north and offers camping, cabin and lodge rentals, boating, and fishing.
Your next stop is Glacier, the gateway to Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and portions of the North Cascades National Parks. Here you’ll find several lodging options as well as eateries such as Graham’s Restaurant, Chair 9 Woodstone Pizza & Bar, and local favorite Wake ‘n’ Bakery. You’ll need the fuel to tackle the hiking trails; popular routes starting in or near Glacier include Skyline Divide, Church Mountain, and Heliotrope Ridge. If you’re in need of information or a permit, the Glacier Ranger Station has you covered.
As you continue, take a detour at the spectacular Nooksack Falls, a nearly 90-foot waterfall located down Forest Road 33. Head back up the highway and you’ll hit Mount Baker Ski Area, a ski resort respected for its backcountry access and inbound routes. Fun fact: The area, contrary to its name, is closer to Mount Shuksan than Mount Baker. It’s also the site of the world’s greatest recorded snowfall in one season (1,140 inches!).
Your travels will be rewarded when you reach Artist Point, the final stop along the highway. It offers indescribably spectacular views of the
Cascade mountains as well as beloved hikes such as Chain Lakes, Ptarmigan Ridge, Lake Ann, and Table Mountain. This area is only accessible during warm enough weather, though, so make sure to prioritize a visit during the summer months.
State Route 9
Travelers on Mount Baker Highway will find a roundabout at Nugents Corner, and if you go north onto State Route 9 instead of continuing along Route 542, you’ll soon find yourself in the sister towns of Everson and Nooksack. These rural communities are known for their many farms and storied agricultural past. Here you can also visit Samson Estates Winery, known for its award-winning fruit wines, Raspberry Ridge Golf Course, and Cloud Mountain Farm Center, an organic farm that offers regular fruit tasting events. If you’re hungry, Herb Niemann's Steak House has authentic German eats, and Good to Go Meat Pies makes the perfect on-the-go snack.
Sumas is a gateway to Canada, and the Sumas-Huntingdon Border Crossing connects Route 9 with British Columbia Highway 11. There’s also the Sumas International Motorsport Academy (SIMA), boasting a nearly mile long race kart track that’s considered one of the best in North America.
If you continue on the highway past Nugents Corner and turn south at the roundabout after Deming, you’ll come upon the town of Acme and the unincorporated community of Van Zandt. These sleepy residential areas, situated in the valley between Lake Whatcom and the Cascade Mountains, are home to fewer than 300 people. You can pick up some fresh produce from Mama’s Garden, cross the Acme bridge, then get your burger fix at the Acme Diner
Local Parks
Mount Baker Foothills
Deming Homestead Eagle Park
5695 Truck Rd., Deming
Josh VanderYacht Memorial Park
4106 Valley Hwy., Deming
Maple Creek Park
7842 Silver Lake Rd., Maple Falls
Silver Lake Park
9006 Silver Lake Rd., Maple Falls
South Fork Park
1530 Mosquito Lake Rd., Deming
Events
Mount Baker Foothills
June
Deming Logging Show
July
Everson-Nooksack Summer Festival
*Event dates are based on 2024 events and are subject to change.
Lummi Island
A10-MINUTE FERRY RIDE into the Salish Sea will transport you to a coastal community that, despite its proximity to shore, is a world unto itself. Lummi Island’s laidback, beachy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for everything from day trips to weekends away.
Lummi Island is located less than a mile from the mainland, and fewer than 1,000 people call it home. It’s not technically part of the Lummi Indian Reservation, which is located on the peninsula across the water.
When your ferry arrives, you’ll find yourself within walking distance of several key locations. If you’re hungry, swing by the Islander Store on Nugent Road to pick up groceries and snacks, or grab a bite and a brew at Beach Store Cafe The Island Library and Beach Elementary School are also close by, as is Grange Hall , which functions as a historic gathering spot for social events such as weddings and fundraisers.
The island is only 9.25 square miles, so when it comes to transportation, biking is your best bet—if you don’t want to bring your own, you can rent a bike from Lummi Island Concierge. The north loop around the island is a laid-back 7-mile ride that begins at the ferry dock and features views of Mount Baker, the San Juan Islands, and the Vancouver
skyline. If you’re seeking a workout, the south leg is also 7 miles but includes steep hills and switchbacks.
Lummi Island’s slow pace and idyllic scenery have nurtured a strong creative scene, and it’s composed of makers of all stripes. The Ann Morris Sculpture Woods houses bronze sculptures that speak to humanity’s connection with nature; the public is invited to stop in on the first Saturday of every month. Vitreous Visions functions as a gift shop, studio, and gallery for glass artwork by Art Hohl.
During the thrice-yearly Lummi Island Artist Studio Tour or by
appointment, visitors can meet artists working in media ranging from woodwork to pottery, metalwork, painting, and more. Artisan Wine Gallery is a must-stop for wine and art lovers alike. On Fridays and Saturdays, join one of their tastings to sample high-quality wines and view work from local creatives.
If you plan to stay the night, the island has several guest houses as well as bed and breakfasts. Nettles Farm Bed & Breakfast is a dream for those who enjoy cooking with farmfresh ingredients. They provide wellstocked kitchens, a pizza oven, and
even a “kitchen garden.” Full Bloom Farm specializes in unique varieties of cut peonies, and their on-site loft is available for vacation rentals. They also sell fresh produce and eggs at their farmstand.
Outdoor adventurers should head to Baker Preserve for a hike that’s breathtaking thanks to both the views and the steep incline. It boasts an elevation gain of 1,000 feet over just 1.6 miles, but trust us: The final panorama is worth the trek. You’ll be rewarded with stellar views of the San Juan Islands and Rosario Strait. Baker Preserve is managed by Lummi Island Heritage Trust, which also maintains Curry Preserve on the northeast side of the island. Curry Preserve covers over 50 acres of land, featuring walking trails and plenty of wildlife to observe.
Once you’ve had your fill of activities, why not unwind by lounging away the rest of the day on the beach? Many are privately owned, but there are several options for public access. These include Sunset Beach (on the northwest shore near the ferry dock), and Church Beach (on the west shore). True to its name, the latter is accessible from the parking lot of Lummi Island Congregational Church. Visitors can also take a stroll through the church’s cemetery or connect with nature in a forested stone labyrinth.
See what banking is like when people come first. All Pacific NW residents are eligible to join.
Members Michael F., Matt N., & Christa S.
Education
FROM PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN to adults continuing their education, Whatcom County has something to offer every learner. The county is home to 77 public schools serving more than 27,000 students, plus 21 private schools serving over 4,000 students. Bellingham’s Western Washington University is nationally recognized as one of the best public universities in the region. Overall, Whatcom County has a high concentration of top-ranked public schools in the state, with Sehome High School landing in the top 10%.
Outside of Bellingham you'll find five other districts— Blaine, Ferndale, Lynden, Mount Baker, and Nooksack Valley— along with the Meridian School District in Bellingham.
Western Washington University, consistently ranked as one of the Best in the West universities by U.S. News & World Report, is also located in the heart of Bellingham. Their student to faculty ratio is 17:1, and 74% of faculty hold the highest degree in their field. Other options for post-secondary education include Whatcom Community College and Bellingham Technical College.
School Board Representatives
Bellingham
Camille Diaz Hackler
Director Position 1
360.441.1808
Katie Rose Director Position 2
360.603.1062
Scott Ritchey
Director Position 3
360.746.4043
Jenn Mason
Vice President, Director Position 4
360.410.4437
Douglas Benjamin President, Director Position No. 5
360.202.6150
Erika Creydt
Ferndale
Lynden Blaine
Dr. Kevin Erickson President, Director
Khush Brar
Director
Position 1 brark@lynden. wednet.edu
Danny Martinez Director Position 2 martinezd@ lynden.wednet.edu Nancy Button
Jim Verburg Director
Position 3 verburgj@lynden. wednet.edu
Steve
Tonya Hickman President, Director Position 4 hickmant@lynden. wednet.edu
Uppiano
Kenneth “Spin” Owsley Vice President, Director Position 5 owsleyk@lynden. wednet.edu
Photos courtesy of Bellingham School District Photos courtesy of Blaine School District Photos courtesy of Ferndale School District
Photos courtesy of Lynden School District
BELLINGHAM SCHOOL DISTRICT
360.676.6400, bellinghamschools.org
students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers
average years of teaching experience
BLAINE SCHOOL DISTRICT
360.332.5881, blainesd.org
students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure
classroom teachers
average years of teaching experience
FERNDALE SCHOOL DISTRICT
360.383.9200, ferndalesd.org
students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers
average years of teaching experience
LYNDEN SCHOOL DISTRICT
360.354.4443, lynden.wednet.edu
students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure
classroom teachers
average years of teaching experience
Report Card
MERIDIAN SCHOOL DISTRICT
360.398.7111, meridian.wednet.edu
students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience
MOUNT BAKER SCHOOL DISTRICT
360.383.2000, mtbaker.wednet.edu
students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience
NOOKSACK VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT
360.988.4754, nv.k12.wa.us
students enrolled graduated in 4 years per-student expenditure classroom teachers average years of teaching experience
Data compiled by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction from recent school years. Data pulled late 2024.
Colleges & Universities
Bellingham Technical College 3028 Lindbergh Ave., Bellingham 360.752.7000, btc.edu
Northwest Indian College 2522 Kwina Rd., Bellingham 360.676.2772, nwic.edu
Western Washington University 516 High St., Bellingham 360.650.3000, wwu.edu
Whatcom Community College 237 W. Kellogg Rd., Bellingham 360.383.3000, whatcom.edu
Preschools
A Loving Space School
1200 Ellis St., Bellingham 360.676.1355, lovingspaceschool.org
Bayside Co-op Preschool 910 14th St., Bellingham 360.329.2818, baysidecoop.com
Bellingham Covenant Preschool 1530 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.733.5920, bccpreschool.com
Blossom Childcare and Learning Center, Inc. 2945 Douglas Ave., Bellingham 360.752.2699, blossomchildcare.com
Busy Kids Early Enrichment and Preschool
1604 Brookwood Dr., Ferndale 360.933.0644, busykidschildcare.com
Catch the Son Preschool 2600 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.733.1277, catchtheson.org
Children’s Co-op Preschool 1409 18th St., Ste. 6306 Bellingham, 201.564.4227 childrenscooppreschool.com
Christ Lutheran Preschool 5904 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.380.2233 clcferndale.org/preschool
Gabriel’s Art Kids 2215 D St., Bellingham, 360.739.9365 gabrielsartkids.com
Gardenview Montessori School 2117 Walnut St., Bellingham P.O. Box 28636, 360.527.9638 gardenviewmontessori.org
Lakeside Cooperative Preschool 4101 Academy St., Bellingham 360.647.7578, lakesidecoop.com
Lynden Co-op Preschool 500 14th St., Lynden, 360.209.4181 lyndenco-oppreschool.com
Montessori at Samish Woods 1027 Samish Way, Bellingham 360.650.9465, samishwoods.org
North Bellingham Elementary School
5275 Northwest Dr., Bellingham 360.383.9289
Peace Arch Montessori Preschool 549 Cherry St., Blaine, 360.684.2926 peacearchmontessori.com
Whatcom Family
Cooperative Preschool 2155 Yew Street Rd, Bellingham, 360.726.2096 whatcomfamilypreschool.org
Public Schools
BELLINGHAM
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Alderwood Elementary School 3400 Hollywood Ave., 360.676.6404 alderwood.bellinghamschools.org
Birchwood Elementary School 3200 Pinewood Ave., 360.676.6466 birchwood.bellinghamschools.org
Carl Cozier Elementary School 1330 Lincoln St., 360.676.6410 carlcozier.bellinghamschools.org
Columbia Elementary School 2508 Utter St., 360.676.6413 columbia.bellinghamschools.org
Cordata Elementary School 4420 Aldrich Rd., 360.676.6461 cordata.bellinghamschools.org
Geneva Elementary School 1401 Geneva St., 360.676.6416 geneva.bellinghamschools.org
Happy Valley Elementary School 1041 24th St., 360.676.6420 happyvalley.bellinghamschools.org
Lowell Elementary School 914 15th St., 360.676.6430 lowell.bellinghamschools.org
Lummi Nation School
2334 Lummi View Dr., 360.758.4300 lns-onlinelearning.org
Northern Heights Elementary School 4000 Magrath Rd., 360.647.6820 northernheights.bellinghamschools.org
Parkview Elementary School 3030 Cornwall Ave., 360.676.6433 parkview.bellinghamschools.org
Roosevelt Elementary School
2900 Yew St., 360.676.6440 roosevelt.bellinghamschools.org
Silver Beach Elementary School
4101 Academy St., 360.676.6443 silverbeach.bellinghamschools.org
Sunnyland Elementary School
2800 James St., 360.676.6446 sunnyland.bellinghamschools.org
Wade King Elementary School 2155 Yew Street Rd., 360.647.6840 wadeking.bellinghamschools.org
MIDDLE SCHOOLS
Fairhaven Middle School 110 Parkridge Rd., 360.676.6450 fairhaven.bellinghamschools.org
Kulshan Middle School
1250 Kenoyer Dr., 360.676.4886 kulshan.bellinghamschools.org
Lummi Nation School
2334 Lummi View Dr., 360.758.4300 lns-onlinelearning.org
Shuksan Middle School
2717 Alderwood Ave., 360.676.6454 shuksan.bellinghamschools.org
Whatcom Middle School
810 Halleck St., 360.676.6460 whatcom.bellinghamschools.org
HIGH SCHOOLS
Bellingham High School
2020 Cornwall Ave., 360.676.6575 bellingham.bellinghamschools.org
Lummi Nation School
2334 Lummi View Dr., 360.758.4300 lns-onlinelearning.org
Options High School
2015 Franklin St., 360.647.6871 options.bellinghamschools.org
Sehome High School
2700 Bill McDonald Pkwy., 360.676.6481 sehome.bellinghamschools.org
Squalicum High School
3773 E. McLeod Rd., 360.676.6471 squalicum.bellinghamschools.org
Whatcom Intergenerational High School
1 Bellis Fair Pkwy., 360.543.8282 wihs.school
School District Early Dismissal & Closure Information
Closure Information (TV):
KOMO (channel 4)
KING (channel 5)
KIRO (channel 7)
KCPQ (channel 13)
Closure Information (radio):
KGMI (790 AM)
KAFE (104.1 FM)
Bellingham School District Start & End Times:
Elementary School: 8 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Early Dismissal: 12:20 p.m.
Middle School: 9:15 a.m.–3:45 p.m. Early Dismissal: 1:15 p.m
High School: 8:30 a.m.–3:15 p.m. Early Dismissal: 2:00 p.m
LYNDEN
Bernice Vossbeck Elementary School
1301 E. Bridgeview Dr., 360.354.0488 bve.lynden.wednet.edu
Fisher Elementary School
501 N. 14th St., 360.354.4291 fe.lynden.wednet.edu
Isom Elementary School 8461 Benson Rd., 360.354.1992 ie.lynden.wednet.edu
Lynden Academy
1986 Main St., Ste. A, 360.354.6675 la.lynden.wednet.edu
Lynden High School 1201 Bradley Rd., 360.354.4401 hs.lynden.wednet.edu
Lynden Middle School 8750 Line Rd., 360.354.2952 ms.lynden.wednet.edu
Snow Route Information: bellinghamschools.org/snow-routes
*Start and end times for other districts in Whatcom County vary by school. Please visit individual school district websites for more information.
FERNDALE, CUSTER, LUMMI ISLAND
Beach Elementary
3786 Centerview Rd., Lummi Island 360.383.9440 lummi-island.com/here/beach-school
Cascadia Elementary
6175 Church Rd., Ferndale, 360.383.2300 cascadia.ferndalesd.org
Central Elementary 5610 2nd Ave., Ferndale, 360.383.9600 central.ferndalesd.org
Custer Elementary
7660 Custer School Rd., Custer 360.383.9500, custer.ferndalesd.org
Eagleridge Elementary
2651 Thornton Rd., Ferndale 360.383.9700, eagleridge.ferndalesd.org
Ferndale High School
5830 Golden Eagle Dr., Ferndale 360.383.9240 ferndalehigh.ferndalesd.org
Horizon Middle School
2671 Thornton Rd., Ferndale 360.383.9850 horizonmiddle.ferndalesd.org
Skyline Elementary School
2225 Thornton St., Ferndale 360.383.9450, skyline.ferndalesd.org
Vista Middle School
6051 Vista Dr., Ferndale, 360.383.9370 vistamiddle.ferndalesd.org
BLAINE, POINT ROBERTS
Blaine Elementary School
836 Mitchell Ave., Blaine, 360.332.5213 blainesd.org/o/blaine-elementary-school
Blaine High School
1055 H St., Blaine, 360.332.6045 blainesd.org/o/blaine-high-school
Blaine Middle School
975 H St., Blaine, 360.332.8226 blainesd.org/o/blaine-middle-school
Blaine Primary School
820 Boblett St., Blaine, 360.332.1300 blainesd.org/o/blaine-primary-school
Point Roberts Primary School
2050 Benson Rd., Point Roberts 360.945.2223, blainesd.org/o/ point-roberts-primary-school
EVERSON, NOOKSACK, SUMAS
Everson Elementary School
216 Everson Goshen Rd., 360.966.2030 ee.nv.k12.wa.us
Nooksack Elementary School 3333 Breckenridge Rd., 360.966.3321 ne.nv.k12.wa.us
Alternative Learning Experiences
Alger Learning Center & Independence High School
Sedro-Woolley, 800.595.2630, independent-learning.com
Barefeet Farm School
Bellingham, 360.441.2275, barefeetfarmschool.com
Bellingham Family Partnership Program (BFPP)
Bellingham, 360.676.6424, fpp.bellinghamschools.org
Bell Creek Nature School
Deming, 360.340.9302, bellcreeknatureschool.com
Blaine HomeConnection
Blaine, 360.332.0483, blainesd.org/o/homeconnection
Cascades Montessori Middle School
Bellingham, 360.306.8723, cascadesmiddle.org
Cedar Tree Montessori
Bellingham, 360.714.1762, cedar-tree.org
Feather & Frond Forest School
Bellingham, contact@featherandfrond.org, featherandfrond.org
Nooksack Valley High School
3326 E. Badger Rd., 360.988.2641 hs.nv.k12.wa.us
Nooksack Valley Middle School
404 W. Columbia St., 360.966.7561 ms.nv.k12.wa.us
Sumas Elementary School 1024 Lawson St., 360.988.9423 se.nv.k12.wa.us
ACME, DEMING, GLACIER, MAPLE FALLS
Acme Elementary 5200 Turkington Rd., Acme, 360.383.2045 mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/acme
Kendall Elementary 7547 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls, 360.383.2055 mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/kendall
Mount Baker Academy 5100 Mitchell Rd., Deming, 360.383.2078 mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mba
Mount Baker Junior High 5100 Mitchell Rd., Deming, 360.383.2016 mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mbjh
Mount Baker Senior High 4936 Deming Rd., Deming, 360.383.2015 mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mbhs
Ferndale Family Partnership
Bellingham, 360.703.8303, ferndalesd.org
Firs and Fiddleheads Forest School
Bellingham, 360.733.6840, firsandfiddleheads.org
Lichen Early Learning
Bellingham, 360.386.5256, lichenearlylearning.org
Lynden Academy
Lynden, 360.354.6675, lynden.wednet.edu/lynden-academy
Meadows Montessori School
Ferndale, 360.778.3681, meadowsmontessori.org
Meridian Parent Partnership Program (MP3)
Bellingham, 360.398.9324, meridian.wednet.edu/mp3
Mount Baker Academy
Deming, 360.383.2078, mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/mba
Skagit Academy
Mount Vernon, 360.428.6206, skagitacademy, mountvernonschools.org
Wild Whatcom Nature Preschool
Bellingham, 360.389.3414, wildwhatcom.org
Private Schools
BELLINGHAM
Assumption Catholic School
2116 Cornwall Ave., 360.733.6133 school.assumption.org
Bellingham Christian School
1600 E. Sunset Dr., 360.733.7303 bellinghamchristianschool.org
Blue Heron Montessori School 920 24th St., 360.306.3669 blueheronmontessori.org
Cedar Tree Montessori 2114 Broadway, 360.714.1762, cedar-tree.org
Explorations Academy 1701 Ellis St., Ste. 215, 360.671.8085 explorationsacademy.org
Franklin Academy
1509 E. Victor St., 360.733.1750 thefranklin.academy
Harmony Elementary 5060 Sand Rd., 360.383.2050 mtbaker.wednet.edu/o/harmony
Montessori at Samish Woods 1027 Samish Way, 360.650.9465 samishwoods.org
The Alger Learning Center & Independence High School
100 Pine St., Ste. 103, 360.595.2630 independent-learning.com
Whatcom Hills Waldorf School 941 Austin St., 360.733.3164, whws.org
FERNDALE
Meadows Montessori School (PK-6) 2377 Douglas Rd., 360.778.3681 meadowsmontessori.org
Providence Christian School NW (K-12) 5942 Portal Way, 360.318.1347, pcsnw.org
LYNDEN
Cornerstone Christian School 8872 Northwood Rd., 360.318.0663 cornerstoneschool.us
Ebenezer Christian School
9390 Guide Meridian Rd., 360.354.2632 ebenezerchristianschool.org
Lynden Christian School 417 Lyncs Dr., 360.318.9525, lyncs.org
Taking the Classroom Outside
Outdoor Learning
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY SYD SPROUSE
IMAGINE YOURSELF IN
preschool. You look up to find a canopy of trees overhead. You hear noises of a creek rushing through, wind blowing through the foliage of the trees. Imagine days spent learning about what you find, bugs, sticks, flowers, birds, and the changing seasons. This is what outdoor education looks like, but there’s a lot more to it!
The first time I learned about outdoor education I was studying elementary education, and it became a dream of mine to open an outdoor elementary school. I fell in love with the idea of teaching kids with the beautiful natural resources the PNW has to offer. At the time I had only heard about a few early learning programs spread across the country; now there are more than 10 in Whatcom County alone. Which made me wonder why there was such an increase in outdoor programs?
I reached out to Wild Whatcom, Firs and Fiddleheads Forest School, Barefeet Farm School and Lichen Early Learning—all schools that focus on early learning for ages 3-5. I got to chat with employees and tour their facilities, learning the inside scoop about outdoor education and about the versatility of nature as a third teacher, first being the parents and second being the classroom teacher. I asked about the importance of these programs to Barefeet Farm School’s owner and teacher, Erin Majeske, and she said, “preschool changes the world.” She refers to the importance of early learning education and how these years are where kids grow and change the most.
You may be asking: how do kids stay outside all day and all year? The answer is: with the right gear and the right activities! They have a packing list to follow and they quickly learn how to keep their bodies comfortable with layers and jackets and rain boots etc. In winter they often choose to do more physical activities to keep the kids moving and their bodies
warm. But if the smoke is ever too bad or it reaches below a set temperature, school will be canceled for safety. Otherwise rain, shine, or snow, the kids are outside and in school! That's the beauty of the PNW: we don’t experience a ton of weather extremes. Firs and Fiddleheads Executive Director Kelly Ellis (Snewt) and Program Coordinator Cameron Sandgren (Akeela) believe that “[adapting to the weather] teaches kids resiliency,” as Sandgren puts it. She goes on to explain that the everchanging weather of the great outdoors changes their mindsets, teaching them to adapt to change. Instead of the classic ‘it’s raining, time to head inside’ attitude, they put on rain boots and think ‘let’s go play in puddles.’ Being able to problemsolve changes in the weather gives kids the confidence and regulation to move through different activities and appreciate all that Washington has to give.
Another thing I wondered: what’s the difference between outdoor learning
and traditional learning? Besides being outside all day, the kids don’t have the same restrictions that a classroom does. Traditional classrooms include desks, supplies, technology, books, and games— enough for 20-30 kids at a time. Outside they have space to wiggle and move as much as they need. Outdoor programs still have books and games and desks, but they are often spread out through different spaces of the forest or are a part of the landscape: logs used as desks and bark for books. These outdoor programs are for both the kids that can’t sit still and the ones that need more space. A few of the school employees talked to me about the beauty of the ability to find your own space outside. In an indoor classroom sound can bounce off walls, and there are a lot of little sounds like lights buzzing and electronics humming and other kids talking nearby. That can be overwhelming when trying to regulate and learn.
The beauty of an outdoor school is the kids know the boundaries of the forest and they are able to put physical space between themselves and any noises that are too much. The teachers saw it was easier for them to regulate their big emotions when they get to choose where they go and have the freedom to move their bodies how they need to. Nature is so good for regulation because it is a “sensory-rich environment,” says Natalie Hathaway at Lichen Early Learning.
Another aspect of outdoor learning is there are real-life examples of naturefocused subjects like seasons changing, bird migration, and weather. Sammy Jolly from Wild Whatcom talked about how they often say: “what is the story of the place that we are in?” Learning about the local natural environments of a place through pictures and articles is not the same as being immersed in it. Kids in these programs are experiencing and feeling the change in seasons, rather than identifying the weather through a window. Allowing them to learn through sensory experiences and immersion in the outdoors leads them to bigger curiosities.
Aren’t they just playing around outside? What are they actually learning? These early learning years are when a child grows the most, which is why they are often measured in months, because there is a dramatic difference between a 3-year-old and a 4-year-old.
Majeske says, “we don't follow any prescribed method of teaching. And you could do that indoors or outdoors, but
the outdoors lends itself to it more just because the environment is the teacher.”
Outdoor learning treats the environment as a teacher and the teachers as guides on their learning journey. At all of the schools, the staff members talked about how the kids have a natural curiosity about what's around them, and how they will learn skills by naturally asking questions and wanting to know more.
Teacher Akeela (Cameron) at First and Fiddleheads gave a great example of natural curiosity: she has an app on her phone that can identify bird sounds, and kids will often come up and ask her to open it. They have to be quiet to let the app work, and they are learning about these different birds because they want to, not because they got a worksheet—their natural curiosity inclines them to want to know more.
Another benefit of outdoor learning is the real-life examples. Instead of a teacher bringing in a fern or a picture of one, kids will see one outside and be more inclined to learn about it since they found it on their own. Outdoor education leads to a lot of learning-on-the-go moments. As Cameron (Akeela) told me in response to the common assumption that outdoor school is just for kids who can’t sit still or are very active: “we are for just about everyone.” Outdoor programs are also great for increasing fine motor skills and occupational therapy. Some kids just need extra work on tactile movements and coordination. The earth can teach them that, through climbing trees and making
mud pies and flipping logs and building forts. A lot of the time natural instincts will help them improve those skills as well as emotional skills like confidence. Coming into an outdoor program, a lot of kids learn and leave with a more confident stance, as having so much independent-led learning and freedom for self-regulated play leads to them trusting their instincts more. Teacher Akeela (Cameron) also talked about how she had a student playing in a tree and asking about leaves and why there weren’t any. This was a perfect opportunity to learn about the season cycle and when leaves do appear: natural curiosity leading to a learning moment. Often kids want to learn more when it's their own choice.
I got to ask some of the kids at Barefeet Farm School what their favorite part of outdoor school was and here’s a sampling of what they had to say: “climbing, nature, flowers, birdies, the forest, the horses.” (The school has a horse that roams close-by.) The kids’ favorite part of school is just being outside and constantly getting to enjoy what mother nature has to offer. When the kids love their environment they can thrive and learn from it. Often they don’t even know they are learning by asking these questions.
Outdoor learning is becoming a vital part of the education system because it is so versatile and customizable to the kids’ needs. These programs truly are for every child, from the energetic ones to the quiet and shy ones. Learning and growing are unavoidable outside, with their natural curiosity leading the way and the teachers there to guide them. Jolly talks about how her program is working to “reduce barriers and get more people outside and learn[ing] outdoor safety.”
Striving to get kids and their parents outside, outdoor education is a great alternative to traditional teaching. Having nature as the third teacher can help your kid grow both psychologically and physically— outdoor students are constantly improving coordination, regulation, fine motor skills, confidence, and independence. So if you're looking for an alternative to traditional learning, whether traditional isn't working for your family or you just want to get your kid outside more, check out your local outdoor programs!
Health
Healthcare
WHATCOM COUNTY’S HEALTHCARE
system is excellent, so you’re sure to find a provider that’s right for your individual needs. Healthcare is also one of the largest industries in Whatcom County, and Bellingham’s hospital, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, is the area’s top employer. In 2022, the hospital was awarded an “A” rating in a patient safety assessment by the Leapfrog Group.
Whether you’re looking for a family practitioner, a naturopath, or more specialized care, you’ll find that there’s a wealth of services available for everyone. PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cancer Center offers interdisciplinary and compassionate care to cancer patients. Whatcom County also has plenty of providers specializing in mental health, as well as several addiction treatment centers. Moreover, resources like the Chuckanut Health Foundation invest experience and resources into advancing community health.
Hospitals
PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital 2901 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.734.5400
Medical Clinics & Services
BELLINGHAM
Bellingham Asthma & Allergy
3015 Squalicum Pkwy., Ste. 180 360.733.5733
Bellingham Health
1050 Larrabee Ave., Ste. 204, 360.756.9793
Care Medical Group
4043 Northwest Ave., 360.734.4300
Cedar Male Medical
1100 Larrabee Ave., Ste. 100, 360.255.5355
Family Care Network, Bellingham Bay Family Medicine
722 N. State St., 360.752.2865
Family Care Network, Family Health Associates 3500 Orchard Pl., 360.671.3900
Family Care Network, North Sound Family Medicine
2075 Barkley Blvd., Ste. 105, 360.671.3345
Lummi Tribal Health Center 2592 Kwina Rd., 360.384.0464
IVitality
1201 13th St., Ste. 103, 360.788.5173
Mt. Baker Planned Parenthood 1530 Ellis St., 877.714.1149
Mt. Shuksan Family Medicine & Dermatology 2101 Cornwall Ave., Ste. 101, 360.647.1900
NorthStar Medical Specialists 1345 King St., 360.676.1696
Northwest Walk-In Health Clinic 2220 Cornwall Ave., 360.734.2330
PeaceHealth Cascade Brain & Spine Center 710 Birchwood Ave., 360.788.6870
PeaceHealth Same-Day Clinic at Cordata Main 4545 Cordata Pkwy., Ste. 1A, 360.788.8180
PeaceHealth Same-Day Care at Fairhaven Plaza 3125 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Ste. 106 360.788.8388
PeaceHealth Same-Day Clinic at Medical Office Plaza 3015 Squalicum Pkwy., Ste. 140 360.788.8420
Sea Mar Community Health Center 4455 Cordata Pkwy., 360.671.3225
Unity Care NW 220 Unity St., 360.676.6177
Whatcom County Pregnancy Clinic 1310 N. State St., 360.671.9057
EVERSON, SUMAS
Nooksack Tribal Clinic
2510 Sulwhanon Dr., Everson, 360.966.2106
Sea Mar Everson Medical Clinic
6884 Hannegan Rd., Everson, 360.354.0766
FERNDALE
Ferndale Family Medical Center
5580 Nordic Way, 360.384.1511
Unity Care NW
6060 Portal Way, 360.676.6177
LYNDEN
Dickson Medical Clinic
500 Front St., 360.354.4200
Lynden Family Medicine 1610 Grover St., Ste. D1, 360.354.1333
PeaceHealth Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
8844 Benson Rd., 360.733.2092
Urgent Care Facilities
BELLINGHAM
Care Medical Group
4043 Northwest Ave., 360.734.4300
Family Care Network Urgent Care
3130 Squalicum Pkwy., 360.671.4509
Super Track Urgent Care
1050 Lakeway Dr., 360.746.6531
LYNDEN
Family Care Network Urgent Care - Lynden
1610 Grover St., Ste. D1, 360.354.4567
POINT ROBERTS
Super Track, Point Roberts Clinic 2030 Benson Rd., 360.945.2580
Naturopathic Clinics
BELLINGHAM
Bellingham Natural Family Medicine
1810 Broadway St., 360.738.7654
Bellingham Naturopathic Clinic 1313 E. Maple St., Ste. 102, 360.738.3230
Fairhaven Integrative Health
1200 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., Ste. 305 360.676.1285
Halleck Holistic Health
208 Halleck St., Ste. 101, 360.325.8976
Natural Health Clinic
2219 Rimland Dr., Ste. 201, 360.734.1560
Northwest Life Medicine Clinic
851 Coho Way, Ste. 202, 360.746.6923
Pacific Center for Naturopathic Medicine
3031 Orleans St., Ste. 101, 360.734.0045
Resilience Health & Wellness 1903 D St., 360.922.8692
FERNDALE
London Health Center
2376 Main St., Ferndale 360.384.2900
Addiction Treatment Centers
Bridges Treatment and Recovery
1221 Fraser St., Ste. E-1, Bellingham
360.714.8180
Bridges Treatment and Recovery
6044 Portal Way, Ste. 103, Ferndale 360.393.4218
Clarity Mental Health & Recovery
1155 N. State St., Ste. 522, Bellingham 360.676.4458
Ideal Option Bellingham
3800 Byron Ave., Ste. 122, Bellingham 360.227.6244
MGA Crisis Intervention
3628 Meridian St., Ste. 139, Bellingham 360.200.5658
Nooksack Tribes Genesis II 2505 Sulwhanon Dr., Everson 360.398.6399
Sea Mar Visions Youth Treatment Center 1603 E. Illinois St., Bellingham 360.647.4266
Cancer Treatment Centers
PeaceHealth St. Joseph Cancer Center
3301 Squalicum Pkwy., Bellingham 360.788.8222
North Cascade Cancer Center
381 W. Horton Rd., Bellingham 360.370.2873
The Best Spas for a Little ‘You Time’
WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM
WE ALL NEED a little self-care to get through the year, and what better way to unwind than by taking some time out at a spa? The mellow lighting, fluffy robes, and relaxing music will begin to calm your nervous system as soon as you step inside, and the treatment will take it from there.
We’ve rounded up a handful of the best spas Whatcom County has to offer— from massages to facials and everything in between, you can find it here. Treat yourself to a treatment or two!
Massage & Body Wrap
Is there anything more relaxing than having your stresses literally worked out of your body by strong, able hands (and maybe an elbow here or there) while lavender essential oils tickle your nose and whale songs play over the stereo? In Fairhaven, The Spa at the Chrysalis Inn Bellingham offers more than 10 types of massage, as well as couples massages and a host of specialty add-ons to enhance your experience. If you’re looking for a fewerfrills, just-the-muscle-work option, try Northwest Academy for the Healing Arts in downtown Bellingham, where a supervised student will perform an hourlong massage for just $45.
Anti-aging
Look, aging is a privilege, but that doesn’t mean we don’t sometimes want a little perking up of the face we look at every day in the mirror. Why not bundle relaxation with a visual boost? Bellingham’s Crosier Skincare offers a handful of services to make your skin look its best at any age, and if you’re looking for something a bit more intense than a facial, try a medspa— RejuvenationMD in Bellingham offers a range of outpatient anti-aging procedures, from injectables to microneedling.
Float Therapy
Float therapy offers the kind of sensory deprivation we can only dream of during the busy holiday months. Supported by body-temperature water filled with 1,200 pounds of Epsom salt, in total darkness with your ears filled only with the sounds of your own movement in the water, you’ll be weightless and free of distraction. Still Life Massage and Float, in Bellingham, promises that their float sessions will leave skin silky, not wrinkly, and can lead to improvements in mental health, sleep, and even athleticism.
Photo courtesy of Little Oasis Wellness Spa
Photo courtesy of Apothecary Spa
Photo by Sarah Hardy Photography
Photo courtesy of Little Oasis Wellness Spa
Infrared Sauna
The Finnish (and many of their neighbors) have been preaching the benefits of sauna for generations: the heat relaxes muscles, improves circulation, reduces blood pressure, and may even delay the effects of age. But you don’t have to sit in a wooden box and breathe hot air if you find that uncomfortable— infrared saunas enable the heat to penetrate more easily, providing the same benefits of traditional saunas in a less oppressive atmosphere. In addition to their massage and spa services, Little Oasis Wellness Spa , in Bellingham, offers infrared sauna sessions—including longer sessions for return sauna-ers who’ve built up enough of a tolerance for the heat.
Packages
If you’re celebrating something special or just taking a whole day for yourself (you deserve it, after all), many of these spas offer multitreatment packages to help you relax and beautify from head to toe. Flow Motion in Ferndale has a three-hour Spa Pass that includes access to their famous Himalayan salt cave, infrared salt sauna, amethyst cave, and zero gravity massage chairs. The Spa at the Chrysalis Inn Bellingham has four preset packages to choose from, or you can create your own package by combining three or more one-hour services on the same day—you’ll get a 10% discount, plus access to the steam room and relaxation lounge.
Memberships
One trip just not enough? Why not indulge in a membership! At Blessings Salon Spa, in Fairhaven, a monthly membership gets you access to their dry sauna, steam room, and fireplace lounge, as well as either one or two discounted treatments each month (depending on which package you choose).
Fairhaven Barkley Bakerview Lynden Ferndale Blaine Birch Bay Bothell
Bellingham Fitness
Bellingham’s Premier Fitness Club
Try a complimentary day pass! Must be a 1st time visitor, 18+ and live or work in Whatcom County. Winner of Best of NW Best Gym
Best Trainers
Several years in a row.
Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy
Providing comprehensive digestive healthcare
What We Do
At Northwest Gastroenterology and Endoscopy, we provide cutting edge, expert care in screening, prevention and management of diseases of the digestive tract. Some of the most common illnesses we treat are irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and chronic liver disease.
The Vital Role of Colonoscopy in Colorectal Cancer Screening
When detected early, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers. The cornerstone of early detection is colonoscopy. Screening guidelines recommend that individuals at average risk should begin colonoscopy screenings at the age of 45. Earlier screening is suggested if there are risk factors. Your gastroenterologist will help determine the appropriate timing for your screenings based on your personal and family history.
What About Stool-based Tests for Colon Cancer Screening?
Generally, we do not recommend them, as we do not feel they are an adequate means of PREVENTING colon cancer. They are significantly less effective at detecting high-risk colon polyps, less cost effective, and have a high false positive rate which can lead to unwarranted anxiety as patients await further evaluation. Despite these advancements in stool and blood screening modalities, Colonoscopy remains the gold standard (best test) for colon cancer detection and prevention.
Why Choose Us?
Northwest Gastroenterology was founded in 1979 and is the largest gastroenterology group in Whatcom County, with 10 physicians and 3 advanced practitioners (ARNP, PA-C). We offer in-person clinic visits, telehealth appointments, a physician managed infusion suite and an efficient private endoscopy center, all located at our new state-of-the-art facility in Barkley Village. Our staff of over 100 people are fully dedicated to ensuring your digestive health.
1730 N. State Street
Bellingham, WA 98225
360.733.1600 bellinghamfitness.com
Northwest Gastroenterology & Endoscopy
New address: 3111 Woburn St., Bellingham 360.734.1420, nwgastroendo.com
Fit Evo Bellingham
Fit Evo is not your typical fitness center. Owner Steve Avila and general manager Jerad Crawford have worked hard to create a community that provides their members with all of the tools they need to achieve their fitness goals. That is why they have been voted “Best Fitness Center” and “Best Personal Trainer” in the Best of the Northwest voting two years in a row.
Here are some of the amenities you can find at Fit Evo.
• Weights & Equipment - Enjoy all of the equipment on our spacious, well-organized gym floor. From Squat Racks and Bench Presses to isolation machines to hit all of the muscle groups. We also have plenty of room for stretching and functional training. All of your fitness wants and needs can be met with what we have to offer.
• Fit Evo App - All of your fitness needs in an easy to use app on your phone. Track your steps and heart-rate during your workout, find and create meal plans, book a class, or work with a personal trainer, all from the app! The app even helps you build your own custom workout plan.
• Group X Classes - Fit Evo offers a variety of fitness classes with our certified instructors. Classes include:
- Group Power
- HIIT (Hight Intensity Interval Training)
- TRX
- Gentle Flow Yoga
- Pop Pilates
- Zumba
- Booty, Core, and MORE
• Cardio Deck and Cinema - Fit Evo offers two cardio sections, the cardio deck and Cinema. Yes, we have a movie theater in the GYM, with new movies and series streaming daily. Choose between exercise bikes, treadmills, ellipticals, stair machines and more.
• Kids Club - In house childcare! Safe, professional, highly-trained childcare staff who love working with children. We offer accommodations for all age groups from 3 months to 12 year olds. Strict deep cleaning and sanitization procedures 3 times a day to ensure the health and safety of all children. Open 8am - 1pm daily and 4pm to 7:30
Monday through Friday.
• Smoothie Bar - Need a boost? Fit Evo’s Smoothie Bar has the performance enhancing snacks and smoothies you need. Chocolate Peanut Butter, Tropical Sunrise, Cookies and Creme, or build your own protein package smoothie. Great for gym goers on the move. We also have a variety of energy and hydration drinks.
• Midtown Barbershop - Stay fresh and looking sharp with our own in house barber Midtown Barbershop. Aminah Ladybarber (@ aminahladybarber) back to back “Best of the NW” winner, offers classic cuts with a modern twist. Book online at midtownbarber.booksy.com
• Personal Trainers - Craft a customized program to fit Your needs with a Fit Evo Personal Trainer! No matter your fitness level, one of our personal trainers can build a workout plan that fits your lifestyle, and guide you to your fitness goals!
• Sauna and Tanning Beds - Both locker rooms are equipped with a dry sauna. Fit Evo offers stand up and lay down tanning beds to keep you bronzed and glowing year round.
The only way to truly appreciate all of what Fit Evo has to offer is to see it in person. We would love to have you come by Fit Evo and try our facilities. Stop in and speak to our staff or visit bellinghamevo.com to learn all about our award winning facility.
1504 Iowa St Bellingham WA 98229 360.617.4653 bellinghamevo.com
Hours: Mon–Thur 4:00am–12:00am Friday: 4:00am–11:00pm Sat–Sun: 6:00am–11:00pm
Restore Hyper Wellness
The nation’s leading wellness brand that offers a range of innovative, science-backed therapies designed to help people feel better, perform better, and live healthier lives.
With locations across the U.S., Restore provides accessible and affordable services for recovery, performance optimization, and proactive health management. While you don’t have to be a member of Restore, members do get better pricing and access to over 200+ studios nationwide.
Our Clients
Restore’s customizable services can meet the needs of various lifestyles and health goals, making it a versatile solution for overall well-being.
• Athletes
• Seniors
• Skin Health
• Wellness Seekers
• Chronic Pain
• Immunity Issues
• Busy Parents
• Injury Recovery
• Proactive Health
Our Services
Whole Body Cryotherapy
sub-zero temperatures can help the body reduce inflammation, boost circulation, and accelerate recovery. Unlike other machines, step into the WHOLE body chamber. Tip to tail: it’s going to get cold. Like a cold plunge without the wet! Bring a friend to freeze in the two-person chamber.
Local Cryotherapy
Targeted cold treatment, using sub-zero air to “freeze” a specific area of pain. Like an ice pack on steroids!
IV Drip Therapy
Help the body replenish essential vitamins, minerals, and hydration for energy, immunity, and mental clarity. Ask about NAD+ IV Therapy!
IM (Intramuscular) Shots
These time-saving injections deliver similar benefits to our IV Drips in a fraction of the time.
Red Light Therapy
Harnessing the power of red and nearinfrared light can help maintain the appearance of skin clarity, relieve minor pain, and promote healing.
Infrared Sauna
Relax in a warm, restorative environment that can improve cardiovascular health and detoxify the body.
Compression
Controlled pressure applied to the extremities can help improve lymphatic circulation and blood flow. Like a massage!
Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Increased oxygen levels can help optimize sleep, speed up athletic recovery, repair
Across the street from Trader Joe’s with our own parking lot!
2411 James St, Bellingham, WA 360.393.6399, restore.com
Mount Baker Vision Clinic
We live in a world that is visually vibrant, dynamic, and demanding. Safeguarding the health of our eyes and the quality of our vision is essential as we experience the wonders of life. Mount Baker Vision Clinic is dedicated to helping our patients maintain a lifetime of good vision in a professional, comfortable, and caring environment. It has been our honor to serve the people of Whatcom County since 1951. With our three convenient locations in Bellingham, Lynden, and now Ferndale, we are ready to provide you with top-of-the-line eye care.
The health care providers at Mount Baker Vision Clinic utilize cutting edge technology and diagnostic techniques to provide fullscope eye care for the entire family. We offer a wide variety of services:
Comprehensive Eye Care
• Pediatric Eye Care
• Family Eye Care
• Senior Eye Care
Emergency Eye Care:
• Eye Injuries
• Acute Eye Infection or Inflammation
• Ocular Foreign Body Removal
• Sudden Vision Change or Vision Loss
Medical Eye Services:
• Diabetic Eye Examinations
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration
• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Corneal Eye Disease and Dry Eye
• Pre- and Post-Surgical Eye Care
Specialty Contact Lens Services:
• Soft Contacts
• Rigid Gas Permeable Contacts
• Scleral Contacts
• Orthokeratology
• Hybrid Contacts
• MBVC is now Northwest Washington’s exclusive fitting center for the new posEYEdon scleral contact lens. If you find yourself struggling with contacts or seek to enhance your viewing experience, ask us about how this completely customized and innovative lens can optimize your vision.
As a locally owned clinic, we understand the importance of community and are so proud to call Whatcom County home. We love taking care of our neighbors and friends. Our friendly front desk staff members, prompt medical technicians, and savvy opticians are here to make you feel at ease every step of the way. Thank you for letting us serve you.
Dr. Hannah Joyner
Passionate, empathetic, and detail-oriented, optometrist Dr. Hannah Joyner is devoted to providing quality patient care with clear communication.
Dr. Brian Koning
Positive, open, and full of enthusiasm, optometrist Dr. Brian Koning has a zest for adventure and an easygoing manner that is a joy to his patients.
Dr. Jeff Ness
Enthusiastic, caring, and dedicated, optometrist
Dr. Jeff Ness has a passion for learning and has taken an active role in mentoring the next generation of eyecare professionals.
Dr. Steven Koning
Kind, thoughtful, and even-mannered, optometrist Dr. Steven Koning is considerate, helpful, and shows a warm concern for others.
Dr. Sepideh Sabet
Calm, compassionate, and deeply caring, Dr. Sabet is passionate about ensuring every patient feels heard, valued, and well-cared for.
Flow Motion
Care Medical Group
Primary Care
Understand your unique health goals and establish a thorough treatment plan while accessing complete care, such as routine checkups, health-risk assessments, immunizations, and screening tests.
Urgent Care
We are here to fulfill your urgent care needs as they arise. Most medical care is available on a walk-in basis, with the convenience of having x-rays and labs on site
Voted Best Spa & Yoga Studio of the Northwest, Flow Motion is unlike any other. Their co-ed healing sanctuary combines ancient practices with modern therapies to address today’s challenges.
The spa offers unparalleled rejuvenation in spaces like the infrared salt sauna known for reducing inflammation, the Himalayan salt cave for improving skin and respiratory health, and the amethyst crystal cave - all designed to boost immunity and support your nervous system. For deeper relief, explore their therapeutic services, including hypnosis, sound healing journeys, and massage therapy.
Their yoga sanctuary offers a variety of classes tailored to your needs, whether you’re seeking gentle stretches to improve mobility or energizing flows to strengthen your body. Their yoga, infrared hot yoga, and aerial yoga supports your wellness journey.
Whether you’re managing chronic pain, battling burnout, or simply need time to recharge, Flow Motion provides tools for healing and balance. Explore their Spa Pass and packages to discover how small moments can create lasting transformation.
1920 Main St #19, Ferndale www.MoveInFlowMotion.com 360.393.8829
Physical Therapy
We will work with you to understand your unique circumstances, perform a comprehensive exam, and design a personalized treatment program that meets your goals.
Occupational Medicine
Proudly meeting the needs of over 200 employers in Whatcom County with workplace injury care, physical exams, and fit testing.
4043 Northwest Ave
Bellingham, WA 98226
360.743.4300
caremg.com
Mon-Fri: 8am - 7pm Sat: 9am - 4pm
Beauty, energy efficiency and style are all reflected in your home’s window coverings. If you’re ready to update your window treatments, Russell’s offers you a wide array of options with a huge range of color, design and textiles that will meet your individual needs. From timeless plantation shutters, to classic horizontal blinds and motorized shades, you are sure to find the look and design you desire. Specializing in Hunter Douglas, we are known for quality, customization and top notch service.
David Hamstra has over 40 years of experience in the construction industry. His expertise will ensure that you will receive the window treatments and service you and your home deserve. Call today to schedule a complimentary consultation and to view our product line in our showroom.
WHETHER YOU’RE HERE for a year or forever, there’s plenty to love about life in Whatcom County. Our arts scene, remote work friendliness, and access to the great outdoors are all reasons to love living here! Especially notable are our small breweries, vibrant downtowns, and passionate small businesses.
In other words, there are tons of perks to life in Bellingham and Whatcom County as a whole. Our quality of life is high, plus it’s virtually impossible to run out of things to see and do. From annual events to unique local businesses and endless miles of trails to traverse, there’s always something new and exciting to add to your agenda.
From January through December, Whatcom County has something to offer residents of all ages, interests, and activity levels. Don’t know where to start? We have a few suggestions for how to experience the very best of this Pacific Northwestern haven. Welcome to your new home—we’re happy to have you here.
Life
15 Ways to Fall in Love With Where You Live
Photo by Dani Winters Photography
15 Ways
to Fall in Love With Where You
Live
WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM AND KRISTEN BOEHM
LOVE IS A verb! You’ve gotta do it every day, or the feeling can be subsumed by the daily distractions of life. And that’s true not just of relationships, but also of the great love of so many of our lives: Whatcom County. It’s all too easy to take this wonderful region for granted, especially when we forget to make the most of everything that Whatcom has to offer. That’s what we’re here for, to remind you of your true love and give you some ideas of ways to revitalize your relationship with where we live!
Enjoy our Agri-“Culture” Washington state has over 13 million acres of farmland, according to the Washington State Department of Commerce. We’re among the top berry producers in the country, and almost 90% of our 30,000-plus farms are classified as small. Connect with your friends and neighbors and learn to appreciate our natural resources via our agricultural core!
• The Whatcom Farm Expo is an annual info fair, free to attend and chock-full of resources for everybody. It’s perfect, whether you’re interested in backyard chickens or want to network about tractors—or just want to learn more about our farming culture.
• Our land provides food, medicine, crafting materials, and more. Washington Food and Farm Finder from Eat Local First is a fantastic tool for finding all sorts of fresh and locally grown products. Cloud Mountain Farm Center is an educational farm that offers various workshops and events.
• Every summer, Northwest Washington is bursting with juicy berries and festivals celebrating them! Lynden’s Northwest Raspberry Festival and tons of local u-pick farms are eager to share the bounty with you.
Photo by Dean Davidson
‘Try on’ Something Different
The local style starts at PNW-practical, then expands outward in all sorts of directions. Influences range from cool college kids, alternative artistic expression, outdoor enthusiasts, farm-ready threads, island life, indigenous culture, and more.
• There’s so much shopping in Bellingham! Downtown, check out Third Planet Boutique for colorful and comfy picks, or Brazen Shop + Studio for artisan goods and an eclectic vintage clothing selection. Fairhaven’s T hree French Hens and Quinn + Foster are excellent destinations for elevated classics.
• We’d be remiss not to boast about our astounding local jewelry artisans. Copper Canoe Woman is a contemporary Indigenous jewelry brand, founded by Vina Brown and based out of Lummi. PHIA Handmade is the home of Heimy Gonzalez’s intricately handmade beadwork jewelry, plus a selection of seasonal fashions and Colombian Wayuu bags.
Commune With Nature
Now this one’s a no-brainer! Washington state is known around the globe for its connection to and appreciation of the nature around us. We have three national parks (Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and North Cascades National Park), thousands of mountains, the famous San Juan Islands archipelago, miles and miles of valley, river, and coastline, not to mention forests, wetlands, ocean, and our very own inland Salish Sea. Our climate ranges from hot and dry to cold and wet, and our surroundings support a dense and diverse range of flora and fauna. There’s so much to learn, see, explore, and experience, how could you not fall in love?
• You know Washington summers are all about those lake days! Lake Whatcom is big enough for all of us, so we’ll see you at Bloedel Donovan Park. Lake Padden Park is the perfect place for a picnic, an easy trail walk, or some pick-up games on its sports courts. For a slightly more secluded lake, head up to Fragrance Lake off Chuckanut Drive.
• A local pastime for all ages and activity levels, foraging for wildgrown foods and herbs is one of the most nature-connected hobbies you can have—if you’re doing it well. Start by learning how to be a good
Photo by Sara Welch
Photo by Dani Winters Photography
steward of the land! Local outdoor educators like Northwest Natura and Firecraft Northwest can teach you the dos and don’ts, and how to identify something tasty from less savory imposters. Once you’ve got that under your belt, get started by hunting for mushrooms and blackberries from spring to fall. The mushrooms in particular are popular. We grow all sorts of tasty fungi, from common turkey tails to coveted morels (just be super careful to identify them correctly before ingesting!).
• If you can learn about our salmon, orcas, and our interconnected waterways without falling in love, we’d be really surprised. Find salmon runs and learn all about their ecology through the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association, clean up some litter with Salish Sea Conservation, and get involved with the Sacred Lands Conservancy, a.k.a. Sacred Sea, to fight for the rights of our resident orcas.
Pamper Yourself
Where you live can play a big role in loving yourself and feeling good in your body. Our area is big on holistic and sustainable beauty, often with a focus on local ingredients and an integrated mind-body approach.
• You don’t have to book a treatment to treat yourself right! Visit MW Soapworks in downtown Bellingham to shop handcrafted soaps and selfcare. Skin Rhythm Spa deals in deeply nourishing and moisturizing products, and Fern & Fog Apothecary will help you feel good inside and out with skincare, teas, and tinctures.
• When you do feel like being taken care of, there’s no shortage of luxurious experiences waiting for you. Kara’s Beauty Barn offers a wide variety of spa and beauty treatments in a rustic, peaceful setting (with some treatments even taking place in the open air). Still Life Massage and Float offers classic spa treatments and sensory-resetting floats. Little Oasis Wellness Spa focuses on bodywork and facials to improve your physical and mental health. And Zazen Salon Spa and Salon Bellissima can help you look your best with hair salon services.
• We’re lucky to live in an area that’s conscious of the environmental impact of selfcare. To find good-for-you products in bulk and sustainable packaging, all you have to do is visit the Community Food Co-op or a refill store like Living Pantry has locations in Blaine and Bellingham).
Have a Foodie-Worthy Restaurant Experience
Some of the best food in Whatcom is a love letter to the county’s bounty: fresh produce from our farms, oysters and salmon from our fresh- and saltwater resources, grass-fed cattle from the green fields of Everson…we are truly blessed, and our local chefs know it. If it’s been a while since you’ve eaten out or tried a new restaurant, let this be a reminder to get out there!
• One of the best ways to experience a range of dishes at a time is with a food tour. While we may not have as many official tour companies as a bigger area like Seattle, it’s easier than you might think to do your own self-guided tour! Eat Local Month partners with great area restaurants to put on a Restaurant Week in September, where chefs create special menu items to celebrate our local resources.
• Is there anywhere more classic for a date night than a great restaurant? There are way too many awesome spots to list them all here, but some of our recent date night go-tos in Bellingham are Bar Cicotti, Rock and Rye Oyster House, and The Admiralty Lounge. Farther north, we love Smokestack Diner in Everson and Drayton Harbor Oyster Company in Blaine.
• Going beyond a date night to celebrate something special? We tend to specialize in ‘delicious casual’ around here, but when we do fancy, you can bet it’s done right.
Leader Block Trattoria & Bar is the go-to spot for excellent Italian food, and Bellingham’s Bantam Kitchen & Bar makes fried chicken so good you might actually weep.
Photo by Bella Coronado
Photo by Dani Winters Photography
Go Wine Tasting
No need to go all the way to the Willamette Valley to taste great PNW wines—we have some wonderful wineries and tasting rooms right here in Whatcom County!
• While our area may not have a high saturation of vineyards and tasting rooms, there are more than you might think—and what we lack in quantity we make up for with quality. Whatcom County boasts some wonderful wineries that use grapes grown on their own land (the results are known as ‘estate wines’).
• Samson Estates Winery in Everson offers tastings onsite at their vineyard, either indoors or out on the patio overlooking the grounds. Vartanyan Estate Winery’s lovely blue-siding-clad tasting room in Bellingham offers pours of their boutique wines, produced according to Margarita Vartanyan’s family secrets of the trade. And while new kid on the block Lagom Vineyards is still working on getting their onsite tasting room up and running, you can order their wines for local pickup or rent out the property for events on a limited basis.
Drink in the View
What’s better than a delicious cocktail (or mocktail) after a long day of work or play? A delicious drink with a stunning water view! Here in northwest Washington, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to views, but nothing beats watching the water lap at the shore while you sip.
• In Fairhaven, you can get sweeping bay views at The Black Cat, which serves up classic food and drinks with a twist. Or stop by Evolve Chocolate + Cafe, on the top floor of Village Books, for a London Fog with a clear-sky view. In downtown Bellingham, the best panoramic view is undoubtedly to be found at Chuckanut Bay Distillery’s new rooftop bar, but Bellingham Cider Co. also has a lovely back patio with stunning sightlines.
PhotobyCocoaLaney
Be a Fiend for the Beans
If there’s one thing we in the Pacific Northwest love drinking as much as beer, it’s coffee. We can be extremely picky about everything from the beans and the roasting process to which alternative milk we prefer in it. Luckily for us, we have an almost infinite number of options, from hip, remote-work-friendly coffee shops to cute drivethrough huts.
• Bellinghamsters are absolutely spoiled for choice when it comes to coffee shops: Camber Coffee, Makeworth Coffee Roasters, and Narrative Coffee serve up delicious coffee with a side of serious style, while cafes like Lettered Streets Coffeehouse and 11th Hour Tea and Coffee Bar bring the cozy vibes. And that’s just to name a few!
• Headed somewhere and need your coffee quickly? Pull on through to the window at Brewed Awakening or Zoom Zoom in Bellingham, both of which serve great bites with their brews.
• If you like your coffee like we like our cocktails, with a view, check out The Railway Cafe in Blaine. It’s right by the harbor and the coffee and food have been earning rave reviews since it opened.
Learn Something New
It’s never too late to learn something new, and our region has a ton of options for those of us who are passionate about lifelong learning. Whether you’re interested in speaking Japanese, crafting something beautiful, or making your own cheese, there’s a class for that!
• Our local higher education institutions, including Whatcom Community College and Western Washington University, offer a range of continuing education classes in everything from art to social media marketing, and there are a number of private instruction centers to check out too.
• If you’ve ever wanted to kindle (or rekindle) your connection to visual art, Whatcom is a fantastic place to do so. We’re big on art here, likely inspired by all the natural beauty that surrounds us. Check out the rotating classes at Jansen Art Center in Lynden and Make.Shift Art Space in downtown Bellingham.
• For burgeoning chefs, the Community Food Co-op in Bellingham offers a wonderful selection of cooking classes— some are even taught by the head chefs of local restaurants.
Move Your Body
We’re an active bunch up here in the top left corner of the U.S.—whether it’s gym time or social hikes, we’re usually finding joyful ways to move our bodies, especially if it involves being outside or connecting with ourselves.
• Of course we love yoga! There are fantastic classes of all intensities and forms at studios in our area. For something mellow like Yin, Iyengar, Hatha, or even chair yoga, try Inspire Studio in Bellingham or Whatcom Lotus Yoga in Ferndale. Bellingham has the highest concentration of yoga studios in the county, many of which offer hot and/or Vinyasa flow yoga classes; check out Flux Power Yoga, Elements Hot Yoga, and Bellingham Yoga Collective—there’s also a Lynden Yoga Collective
• Is there any movement more naturally joyful than dance? Whether you want to tap out a ditty or learn to twerk, options abound. Bellinghamsters can get a rhythm at Unique Technique Dance Studio , Opus Performing Arts , or The Dance Studio . There’s also Dancing for Joy , with campuses in both Bellingham and Lynden, and Dayto-Day Dance up in Blaine.
• The area is full of friendly hiking and biking groups for people of all ages and abilities—check out Facebook and MeetUp for ad hoc or smaller groups. If you’ve always wanted to try mountain biking but haven’t felt comfortable striking out on your own, Bellingham-based instructional organizations March Northwest, Intrinsic Flow, and Radical Roots MTB will teach you everything you need to know to ride the mountain safely and skillfully.
Photo courtesy of Camber Coffee
Take a Day or Weekend Trip
Traveling is one of the surefire ways to make you realize how much you love home. Beyond our backyards, but still just hours away, are thriving metropolitan destinations like Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver, and because where we live is so beautiful, the journey is part of the joy!
• The Amtrak Cascades train runs between Vancouver, BC and Eugene, OR, stopping at Seattle, Portland, and a handful of smaller cities along the way. The train seats are comfortable, the conductors are friendly, and the views as it trundles along the water are unparalleled— it’s a wonderful way to travel, especially with kids.
• Speaking of views, the ferry is a wonderful way to get around and the views are almost unmatched—we say ‘almost’ because seaplanes and other small aircraft are also an option. Bellingham’s own San Juan Airlines flies regularly between Bellingham and the San Juan Islands and Point Roberts. Plus, they offer scenic tours of the islands from the air!
• Driving isn’t always the most comfortable option, but it affords you a lot of flexibility. You can pull off the freeway here and there, try a new coffee place or stop at a silly roadside attraction (world’s largest prairie dog, anyone?), and when you get where you’re going you’ve already got your transportation sorted. 11 12 13
Get Out on the Water
While looking at the water from the land is always a treat, looking at the land from the water can give you a whole new perspective on things! Here are some of our favorite ways to take advantage of Whatcom County’s stunning waters.
• There’s nothing like being right up on—or even in— the water, chilly as it may be much of the year. From Birch Bay’s annual New Years Polar Bear Plunge to wetsuit-enabled stand-up paddleboarding, many of our neighbors get out there year-round, but summer is definitely the most inviting time. Why not get out on a kayak with Dragonfly Kayak
Tours, or rent a pedal boat or stand-up paddle board from Bloedel Boat Rentals (open seasonally) at Lake Whatcom.
• Prefer to stay dry and eat something delicious while observing the beauty of the water? Why not take a lunch or dinner cruise with San Juan Cruises? Dine on cracked crab while the coastline slips by, or eat lasagne while watching the whales play in the waves.
Engage With the Literary Community
From local libraries to independent bookstores, we love to read! You can catch us listening to audiobooks while we kayak around Lake Padden or reading a paperback in Marine Park—but our region is also home to a ton of local authors and aspiring writers, and our literary community is thriving.
• There are so many opportunities here to discover your new favorite author. Everyone’s favorite literary hub, Village Books and Paper Dreams , not only sells published work and promotes local writers at their Fairhaven and Lynden locations, but they also host readings and open mic nights and partner with Whatcom Community College to run the Chuckanut Writers workshop series. And then there’s the organic, universe-guided way to find new faves: wandering the aisles of a great used bookstore like Henderson Books .
• For the writers among us, you can deepen your connection to your craft and meet like-minded peers at local conferences and writing retreats. The Chuckanut Writers Conference is held every June and brings authors and writing experts from all over the country to Bellingham for attendees to learn and connect.
• Local publications, publishers and other literary organizations like Chanticleer Book Reviews , Bellingham Review , Igneus Press , and Whatcom Writers and Publishers are open to local engagement! These are great ways to stay tapped into the local scene, to attend events and workshops, and to connect with other literature lovers.
Photo courtesy of Dragonfly Kayak Tours
Express, Create, and Appreciate With our Arts Scene
Live music, theater, dance, 2D and 3D creations—the arts are how people express and communicate their passions. We’re absolutely steeped in creativity here! Whether you’d prefer to work in your own studio or create a group project, there’s no way you won’t feel a bit more in love after exploring your artistic side.
• Bellingham loves the performing arts! Be amazed by our talented circus folks from the Bellingham Circus Guild and troupe Cirque Cadia. Take in some live shows, or act in them yourself, with the Bellingham Theatre Guild or one of our other many performing arts groups.
• Get into our strong grunge and alternative music scenes at The Wild Buffalo, The Shakedown, and Make.Shift Art Space.
• Maybe you’d like to get your hands dirty? We have a little romance going on with ceramics—find classes and studio memberships at Burnish Clay Studio, MUD Ceramics Studio, or Baker Creek Ceramic Studio (or paint some prefab pottery at CreativiTea).
• Get all the craft and arts supplies you need at Dakota Art Store or Art & Happiness in Bellingham.
• Artist collectives like Allied Arts of Whatcom County bring our artists together! They run galleries, art shows, markets, and events like the Holiday Festival of the Arts and NW Art Beat Studio Tour
• The Noisy Waters Mural Festival, run by local arts organization Paper Whale, is a community-uniting event that everyone can join in on, and we adore visiting the Jansen Art Center for their galleries, classes, talks, and performances.
Nourish our Cultural Roots
To truly appreciate living where we do, we have to know our past, cherish our ways of life, and build our future together.
• Whatcom County is the ancestral home of the Coast Salish peoples, including Lummi, Nooksack, Samish, and Semiahmoo groups. If you don’t already, get to know our Indigenous culture and living history! Children of the Setting Sun Productions is a local organization that creates documentaries, podcasts, and other projects telling Indigenous stories. In Bellingham, everyone can attend the Coast Salish Day celebration in May. It comes at the end of the annual Gathering of the Eagles mini canoe paddle through the Salish Sea, organized by local Sul ka dub Freddie Lane.
• For those that love to learn through observation, the Whatcom Museum aims to serve as “a regional destination for cultural experiences rooted in art, nature, and northwest history.”
• We have a few culture-focused festivals and events. It’s always good to check with Western Washington University to see if they’ve got any events planned! The Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival encourages folks to share food, art, and stories from their cultures. Annual celebrations and commemorative dates like Pride, Juneteenth, and Indigenous Peoples’ Day have events throughout the counties, so there’s probably one near you!
Photo by Dani Winters Photography
WHATCOM COUNTY WELCOMES people from all walks of life, and this inclusivity also applies to religion. According to data from Sperling’s BestPlaces, nearly 30% of Whatcom residents describe themselves as religious. While a majority identify as Christian, there are a wide variety of communities under that umbrella: 7% of residents are Catholic, 4% are Presbyterian, and 2% are Lutheran. There are also small communities of Baptists, Episcopalians, Methodists, Pentecostals, and other denominations.
Bellingham
Bellingham Bible Chapel
4160 Northwest Dr., 360.647.5801
Bellingham Chinese Christian Church
2200 F St., 360.734.6707
Bellingham Covenant Church
1530 E. Bakerview Rd., 360.733.5920
Bellingham Gospel Center
2818 McLeod Rd., 360.676.1357
Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship
1207 Ellsworth St., 360.733.3837
Christ The King Community Church
4173 Meridian St., 360.733.1337
Church of the Assumption
2116 Cornwall Ave., 360.733.1380
Places of Worship
Roughly 1% of Whatcom County residents practice Judaism, Islam, and Eastern religions, and the county also offers resources and services for these faiths. Jewish residents can attend services at the Congregation Beth Israel or get involved at Rohr Center for Jewish Life. Muslim residents can find their community at the Islamic Society of Whatcom County, and Bellingham’s Sikh temple, Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash, also serves an active congregation. Whatever your faith or background, there are communities and places of worship in Whatcom County that are ready to welcome you.
Faith Lutheran Church
2750 McLeod Rd., 360.733.3970
First Christian Church
495 E. Bakerview Rd., 360.734.6820
First Congregational Church of Bellingham
2401 Cornwall Ave., 360.734.3720
Garden Street United
Methodist Church
2401 Cornwall Ave., 360.733.7440
Good Shepherd Bible Church
1254 W. Smith Rd., 360.384.5403
Life Church
747 Marine Dr., 360.733.8980
Living Water Fellowship
4767 Guide Meridian Rd., 360.398.9838
My Church
3218 Fielding Ave., 360.306.3687
North Bellingham Church of Christ
1063 W. Bakerview Rd., 360.389.3428
Northwest Baptist Church
3545 Northwest Ave., 360.733.3620
Spring Creek Bible Church
567 E. Kellogg Rd., 360.734.5228
St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church
510 E. Sunset Dr., 360.734.8745
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
2117 Walnut St., 360.733.2890
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
1110 14th St., 360.734.2850
JUDAISM
Congregation Beth Israel
751 San Juan Blvd., 360.733.8890
Rohr Center for Jewish Life
102 Highland Dr., 360.393.3845
ISLAM
Islamic Society of Whatcom County 1244 Nevada St., 360.752.9399
SIKHISM
Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash 777 W. Smith Rd., 360.312.1190
Singh Sabha
Gurdwara Bellingham 591 Telegraph Rd., 360.306-8719
UNSPECIFIED
Unity Spiritual Center 1095 Telegraph Rd., 360.733.2270
Bellingham Shambhala Center 1207 Ellsworth St., 360.483.4526
Lynden
Bethel Christian Reformed Church
1105 Liberty St., 360.354.2361
Faith Community Church 586 Birch Bay Lynden Rd., 360.354.0536
Victory Christian Fellowship 300 7th St., 360.354.8055
First Christian Reformed Church 1010 Front St., 360.354.4560
Freedom Church 405 Front St., 360.325.2015
Grace Baptist Fellowship 338 N. Park St., 360.354.4321
Hope Lutheran Church 900 E. Grover St., 360.354.4211
Lynden Community Church 680 Grover St., 360.354.2226
Netherlands Reformed Church 8581 Depot Rd., 360.354.6645
Thank you to our wonderful supporters that voted us into the Best
SHADE CONCEPTS ~ Window Fashions Your Way ~ 360-733-7956 shade-concepts.com
North County Christ the King 1816 18th St., 360.318.9446
Protestant Reformed Church 317 N. Park St., 360.354.0496
Second Christian Reformed Church
710 Front St., 360.354.3961
Sonlight Community Church
8800 Bender Rd., 360.354.3434
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church
205 12th St., 360.354.2334
Third Christian Reformed Church
514 Liberty St., 360.354.1448
United Methodist ChurchLynden
500 14th St., 360.354.4169
Lynden URC (United Reformed Church)
8650 Benson Rd., 360.656.6140
Ferndale
Church of Christ
6300 Portal Way, 360.384.6741
Christ Lutheran Church
5904 Vista Dr., 360.384.1422
Christ the King Community Church, Pioneer Center
5627 3rd Ave., 360.733.1337
Cornerstone Community Church 5732 Olson Rd., 360.384.3661
Evergreen Community Church 6899 N. Enterprise Rd., 360.384.6310
Faith Bible Community Church
5702 3rd Ave., 360.393.3761
Ferndale Alliance Church
6100 Church Rd., 360.384.4279
Ferndale Seventh-Day Adventist Church
2488 Main St., 360.384.1526
First Baptist Church
5759 Vista Dr., 360.384.3111
Good News Fellowship
1252 W. Axton Rd., 360.384.1515
St. Joseph Catholic Church
5781 Hendrickson Ave., 360.384.3651
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
5800 Northwest Dr. , 360.734.2841
Triumph Lutheran Church
5719 Church Rd., 360.384.1129
United Church of Ferndale
2034 Washington St., 360.384.3302
Whatcom New Life Assembly
2290 Main St., 360.384.4101
Blaine
Birch Bay Bible Community Church
4460 Bay Rd., 360.371.2300
Christ Episcopal Church
382 Boblett St., 360.332.4113
Freedom Community Church
508 G St., 360.332.7506
Grace Lutheran Church
702 G St., 360.332.6589
Lighthouse Baptist Church
8373 Harborview Rd. , 360.371.7740
Northwood Chapel
580 C St., 360.332.8610
Photo by Cocoa Laney
St. Anne Catholic Church
604 H St., 360.332.8048
Unitarian Free Church
1218 Harrison Ave., 360.332.4781
United Church of Christ
885 4th St., 360.332.6906
Acme, Deming, Everson, Maple Falls, Nooksack
Acme Presbyterian Church
2054 Valley Hwy., Deming, 360.595.2898
Bethany Chapel
3744 Mt. Baker Hwy., Everson, 360.927.4773
Christ Fellowship
1208 E. Main St., Everson, 360.966.3223
Immanuel Lutheran Church
5782 Lawrence Rd., Everson, 360.592.5876
North County Christ the King
Kendall Campus
8794 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls, 360.318.9446
Nooksack Valley Reformed Church
602 E. 2nd St., Nooksack, 360.966.7903
Nooksack Christian Fellowship
201 Jackson St., Nooksack, 360.393.4138
Paradise Gospel Church
8629 Kendall Rd., Maple Falls
360.599.9267
River of Life Community Church
4037 Valley Hwy., Deming, 360.592.2279
Silver Lake Community Church
7836 Silver Lake Rd., Maple Falls
360.599.2680
St. Innocent Antiochian Orthodox Church
7461 Goodwin Rd., Everson, 425.754.7726
St. Peter Catholic Church
6210 Mt. Baker Hwy., Deming, 360.599.2867
Valley Church
904 Nooksack Rd., Nooksack, 360.966.7631
What Makes a Community Church?
Community is Christ the King’s Middle Name
CHRIST THE KING Community Church began in 1988 with 54 people who committed to love God, love each other, and love the community around them. Today, as a network of five campuses across Whatcom County, the same values permeate every gathering, whether inside or outside a church building. Based on a deep conviction that God’s love is meant for everyone, serving our community has become a hallmark of Christ the King (CTK) Church.
So, what does it mean to be a community church?
For CTK, it starts by bringing people together to worship, find community, and make a difference—right where they live. Christ the King has campuses in Bellingham, Downtown Bellingham, Blaine, Ferndale, and Sudden Valley. Each location has its own pastor and own unique flavor, tailored to its unique community.
Being a community church also means caring for neighbors who are struggling. CTK partners with 15 local nonprofits—some faith-based, some not—to meet a range of human needs. In focus areas of homelessness, people with disabilities, kids and families, food insecurity, and survivor support, staff and volunteers from CTK actively serve alongside and learn from community partners who care about the same things God cares about.
In 1996, Christ the King started a food bank to address Whatcom County’s growing food insecurity. Today, that ministry has become the CTK Food Share & Farm. On just a few acres of donated land, the CTK Farm yields more than 50 tons of fresh produce per season and gathers nonperishables—all distributed to families through 22 local food share partners. Learn more about CTK’s community partners and the CTK Food Share & Farm at ctkserves.org
Being a community church also means showing up when the community needs help. To help the Lighthouse Mission open their new facility, CTK Response Teams showed up to clean up after construction (pictured below). CTK offers its facilities and staff at no cost to host memorial services for fallen first responders or when a death touches a large segment of the community. Christ the King Church invites you to find out for yourself what it’s like to be part of their community. Learn more at ctk.church.
Outdoor, Sports, and Recreation
WHATCOM COUNTY IS a dream destination for outdoor adventurers. No matter the season, its location allows for a variety of activities that would be hard to match anywhere else. Residents and visitors have access to a national park, several state parks, and many county parks within the county’s limits.
Mountain bikers from all over the country seek out Bellingham for its world-class trails on Galbraith Mountain . With more than 70 miles of single-track trails spread throughout 3,000 acres of forest, the mountain offers endless opportunities for adventure, exploration, and fun.
Thanks to the county’s proximity to Mount Baker and the North Cascades , runners, hikers, and backpackers have a goldmine of trails to traverse during the summertime. Avid runners also have a variety of
races to choose from throughout the year, from the Bellingham Bay Marathon to the legendary Ski to Sea Race . In the winter months, you can ditch those hiking boots for skis or a snowboard and hit the slopes at the Mount Baker Ski Area
Whether it’s July or December, the Chuckanut Mountains are easily accessible from Fairhaven and offer yearround activities such as hiking, camping, biking, fishing, and rock climbing.
Lastly, given our abundant lakes, rivers, and the Bellingham Bay, we can’t neglect to mention the recreational activities available on the water. You can set sail from Squalicum Harbor, jump in a sea kayak from Marine Park, catch fish, or watch the tide roll in at Larrabee State Park. If it’s a clear day, don’t forget to look inland for stunning views of Bellingham’s cityscape and the snow-capped peaks that lie behind it.
Golf Courses
Bald Eagle Golf Club 1350 Pelican Pl., Point Roberts, 866.460.0368
Bellingham Golf and Country Club
3729 Meridian St., Bellingham, 360.733.3450
Birch
Dakota
Homestead Golf Course 115 E. Homestead Blvd., Lynden, 360.354.1196, Ext. 2
Lake Padden Golf Course
4882 Samish Way, Bellingham. 360.738.7400
Loomis Trail Golf
4342 Loomis Trail Rd., Blaine, 360.332.1725
North Bellingham Golf Course
205 W. Smith Rd., Bellingham, 360.398.8300
Raspberry Ridge Golf Course 6827 Hannegan Rd., Everson, 360.354.3029
Sandy Point Golf Course
4460 Decatur Dr., Ferndale, 360.384.3921
Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club
8720
Photo by Brandee Simons
Sports Teams
Bellingham Bells (Baseball) bellinghambells.com
Bellingham Blazers (Youth Hockey) whatcomsportsandrec.com/blazers
Bellingham Roller Betties (Roller Derby) bellinghamrollerbetties.com
Chuckanut Bay Geoducks (Rugby) chuckanutrugby.com
Chuckanut Bay Mussels (Rugby) chuckanutrugby.com
Whatcom FC Rangers (Soccer) whatcomfcrangers.org
Major Athletic Events
Bellingham Bay Marathon bellinghambaymarathon.org
Bellingham Traverse bellinghamtraverse.com
Chuckanut 50k chuckanut50krace.com
Chuckanut Classic chuckanutclassic.org
Lake Whatcom Triathlon lakewhatcomtriathlon.com
Ski to Sea skitosea.com
Special Olympics Washington specialolympicswashington.org Tour de Whatcom tourdewhatcom.com
Sports & Outdoor Clubs
Bellingham Mountaineers bellinghammountaineers.com
Bellingham Triathlon Club bellinghamtri.org
Bellingham Yacht Club byc.org
Bellingham Pickleball Club bellinghampickleball.org
Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club chuckanutrugby.com
El Suenito Run Club elsuenitobrewing.com
Fairhaven Runners & Walkers
Home - Fairhaven Runners - Bellingham, WA
Greater Bellingham Running Club gbrc.net
Master Swim Program at Whatcom Family YMCA whatcomymca.org
Mount Baker Club mountbakerclubsite.wordpress.com
Mount Baker Bicycle Club mtbakerbikeclub.org
Nooksack Nordic Ski Club nooksacknordicskiclub.org
Queer Run Bellingham instagram.com/queerrunbellingham/ Recreation Northwest recreationnorthwest.org
Shifting Gears letsshiftgears.org
Wild Whatcom wildwhatcom.org
Whatcom Association of Kayak Enthusiasts wakekayak.org
Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition (WMBC) wmbcmtb.org
WMBC JoyRiders (Women's Bike Club) wmbcmtb.org/joyriders
Major Hiking & Walking Areas
Arroyo Park
Chuckanut Mountain Park
Hovander Homestead Park
Interurban Trail
Galbraith Mountain
Larrabee State Park
Mount Baker National Recreation Area
Sehome Hill Arboretum
Semiahmoo Park
Silver Lake Park
Whatcom Falls Park
Major Biking Areas
Bay to Baker Trail
Chuckanut Mountain Park
Civic Field Dirt Jump Park
Galbraith Mountain
Interurban Trail
Lake Padden Park
Railroad Trail
Semiahmoo Park
Silver Lake Park
Whatcom Falls Park
Photo by Judd M. Greenwood
Photo courtesy of Bellingham Roller Betties
Pets
WHATCOM COUNTY IS a haven for pet owners, and if your four-legged friends like to explore the great outdoors, they’re sure to fit in fast. Our numerous dogfriendly parks offer stunning scenery and ample space for pups (and their humans) to get some exercise in.
If you’re out on the town, know that many of our breweries and bars are happy to accommodate canine companions. Most ask patrons to keep their pets on a leash, but Paws for a Beer allows well-behaved pups with memberships to roam free.
The area is also home to a plethora of doggie daycares, trainers, and groomers. Additionally, Whatcom County’s veterinarians can help your
Veterinary Hospitals
BELLINGHAM
Animal Emergency Care
4176 Meridian St., 360.505.0924
Banfield Pet Hospital 4379 Guide Meridian St., 360.734.9459
Bellingham Veterinary 720 Virginia St., 360.734.0720
Boundary Bay Veterinary Specialty Hospital
4176 Meridian St., 360.982.0166
Fairhaven Veterinary Hospital 2330 Old Fairhaven Pkwy., 360.671.3903
Fountain Veterinary Hospital 2430 Meridian St., Ste. 2., 360.733.2660
Larrabee Animal Medicine PLLC 1110 Larrabee Ave., 360.527.9533
Maplewood Animal Hospital 2869 W. Maplewood Ave., 360.715.1430
pet stay healthy and happy. Some vets are welcoming towards all species, while others, such as the Chuckanut Feline Center, are more specialized.
In the market for a furry friend? Whatcom Humane Society will help match you with the forever companion that’s right for you and your family. Alternatively, if you prefer reptiles to mammals, Kementari’s Creatures is the place to go for more exotic new additions to the family.
For animal lovers who aren’t looking for commitment, a visit to NEKO Cat Cafe or Are You My Human? Dog Rescue & Lounge might be in order. Be warned, though: Their animals are adoptable, so if you find yourself falling in love, you might not be going home empty-handed.
Mountain Veterinary Hospital
3413 Mt. Baker Hwy., 360.592.5113
Northshore Veterinary Hospital 1486 Electric Ave., 360.738.6916
The Chuckanut Valley Feline Center
1214 Dupont St., 360.671.7707
Village Veterinary Hospital 236 36th St., 360.495.8635
BLAINE
Northwest Veterinary Clinic
8115 Birch Bay Square St., Ste.135, 360.366.5434
FERNDALE
Ferndale Veterinary Hospital
2069 Main St., 360.389.5989
Kulshan Veterinary Hospital
6220 Portal Way, 360.354.5095
Whatcom Veterinary Hospital 5610 Barrett Rd., 360.384.0212
LYNDEN
Lynden Veterinary Hospital 1919 Front St., 360.354.7988
Kulshan Veterinary Hospital 8880 Benson Rd., 360.354.5095
NOOKSACK/SUMAS
Nooksack Animal Hospital PC Inc.
302 W. Columbia St., 360.966.3207
Dog Friendly Parks
Arroyo Park
1700 Old Samish Rd., Bellingham
Bender Fields
8770 Bender Rd., Lynden
Bloedel Donovan Park
2114 Electric Ave., Bellingham
Fairhaven Park
107 Chuckanut Dr. N., Bellingham
Hovander Homestead Park
5299 Nielsen Ave., Ferndale
Lake Padden Dog Park
4882 S. Samish Way, Bellingham
Lincoln Park
1800 H St., Blaine
Little Squalicum Park
640 Marine Dr., Bellingham
Lynden City Park
8460 Depot Rd., Lynden
Sehome Hill Arboretum
600 25th St., Bellingham
Semiahmoo Park
9261 Semiahmoo Pkwy., Blaine
Skallman Park
1190 Yew Ave., Blaine
Squires Lake Park
2510 Nulle Rd., Bellingham
Squalicum Creek Park
1001 Squalicum Way, Bellingham
Sudden Valley Dog Park
22 Marina Dr., Bellingham
Sunset Pond Park
3424-3462 James St, Bellingham
VanderYacht Park
1945 Washington St., Ferndale
Whatcom Falls Park
1401 Electric Ave., Bellingham Dog-friendly Breweries & Bars
Beach Cat Brewing
7876 Birch Bay Dr., Ste. 101, Blaine, 360.366.8065
Elizabeth Station
1400 W. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.733.8982
El Suenito Brewing Company
1926 Humboldt St., Bellingham, 360.543.6809
FrinGe Brewing
5640 3rd Ave., Ferndale, 360.398.6071
Goods Local Brews
2620 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.671.3085
GRUFF Brewing Co.
104 E. Maple St., Ste. 101, Bellingham
Kulshan Brewing Co.
2238 James St., Bellingham, 360.389.5348
North Fork Brewery
6186 Mt. Baker Highway, 360.599.2337
Otherlands Beer
2121 Humboldt St., Bellingham, 360.746.8118
Paws for a Beer
501 Harris Ave., Bellingham, 360.733.7297
Schweinhaus Biergarten
1330 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.671.0206
Stemma Brewing Co.
2039 Moore St., Bellingham, 360.746.8385
Stones Throw Brewing Co.
1009 Larrabee Ave., Bellingham 360.362.5058
Alternative Humane Society 360.671.7445
Are You My Human? Dog Rescue & Lounge
1307 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham areyoumyhumandogrescue.com
NEKO: A Cat Cafe
1130 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham, 360.656.6217
Kementari’s Creatures
207 E. Chestnut St., Bellingham, 509.607.6971
Sardis Raptor Center
7472 Valley View Rd., Ferndale, 360.366.3863
Whatcom Humane Society (WHS) 2172 Division St., Bellingham, 360.733.2080
WHS Northwest Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
5602 Mission Rd., Bellingham, 360.966.8845
Red’s Aquarium and Pet Supply 1701 N. State St., Bellingham, 360.393.6121
Bow Wow & Woofs
8115 Birch Bay Square St., Blaine, 360.332.3647
Bailey’s Neighborhood Pet 1633 Birchwood Ave., Ste. 104, Bellingham, 360.733.9274
Wild Bird Chalet
108 Ohio St., Bellingham, 360.734.0969
Photo courtesy of NEKO Cat Cafe
Retail
FROM SUMMER SANDALS to cozy winter jackets, Whatcom County has you covered when it comes to clothing. Bellis Fair Mall is the spot for familiar brand names and big box stores, but if you’d prefer to shop local, look no further than downtown Bellingham and Historic downtown Fairhaven. You’ll find boutiques and shops offering curated selections of everything from clothing to shoes, jewelry, and more. Keep your eyes peeled for our many pop-up markets with hyper-local, artisan offerings! Venturing just outside of Bellingham, Birch Bay Square in Blaine and downtown Lynden are also must-visit hubs for shopping, dining, and fun. No matter the weather, our local businesses have everything you need for year-round fashion. (Pro tip: Just remember that layering is key!)
Asymmetric Zip Puffer Vest
Betty Be Good, $45
Photo courtesy of Betty Be Good
Dressed by the Best
Some of Our Favorite Pieces
From 2024’s Best of the Northwest Fashion Retailers
WRITTEN BY ANNE GODENHAM
Please note: these specific items were gathered in October 2024 and may no longer be available, but the retailers are certain to have something just as stunning for you!
LOOK YOUR BEST from head to toe with these fabulous pieces from our readers’ local favorites! We’ve put together three outfits with items from our 2024 Best of the Northwest Gold, Silver, and Bronze winners in the following categories: Best Men’s Clothing, Best Women’s Clothing, Best Boutique, Best Jewelry Shop, and Best Shoe Store. Whether you’re looking to keep it casual, fight the PNW chill, or dress the part for a special occasion, these winners have what you need!
Cozy, Casual, and Chic
Dressing in the North Sound is always about layering—with the right pieces in your wardrobe, you can stay cute while also staying warm, dry, ventilated, and comfortable, whatever the weather.
Hunter Cable Knit Top
Betty Be Good, $40 1758 Front St., Ste. 103, Lynden
360.685.6552
or
8125 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 201, Blaine 360.441.7691, shopbettybegood.com
Asymmetric Zip Puffer Vest
Betty Be Good, $45 1758 Front St., Ste. 103, Lynden 360.685.6552
or 8125 Birch Bay Square St., Ste. 201, Blaine 360.441.7691, shopbettybegood.com
Wrangler Wanderer High Rise Flare Jean in Ski Patrol
Cheeks Jeans, $109
420 Front St., Lynden 360.778.1849, cheeksjeans.com
14K Yellow Carabiner
Charm 16” Necklace
Borthwick Jewelry, $2,050 1730 La Bounty Dr., Ste. 5, Ferndale, 360.384.2803 borthwickjewelry.com
JaxKelly Clear Quartz Point Ring
Fringe Boutique, $60 201 W Holly St., Bellingham 360.312.4067, wearfringe.com
Large Classic Tote in Honey
Adored Boutique, $195 913 Harris Ave., Bellingham shopadoredboutique.com
Nike Women’s Pegasus
Fairhaven Runners & Walkers, $140 1209 11th St., Bellingham 360.676.4955 shop.fairhavenrunners.com
Tasteful and Toasty
Just because the temperatures might take a dive, that doesn’t mean your sense of style has to go into hibernation! A well-cut pair of jeans and a great leather jacket will get you everywhere, warmly, while a beautiful watch is appropriate in any season.
Jimmy Slim Straight Jeans Quinn + Foster, $220 1402 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2000 quinnandfoster.com
Kuhl Kastaway Sweater
Yeager’s Sporting Goods, $139 3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080 yeagerssportinggoods.com
Kuhl Kastaway Sweater Yeager’s Sporting Goods
Photo courtesy of Yeager’s Sporting Goods
Milestone Lance Leather Jacket
Quinn + Foster, $675 1402 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2000 quinnandfoster.com
Good Man Tartan Plaid Scarf
Quinn + Foster, $198 1402 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2000, quinnandfoster.com
IWC Schaffhausen IWC
Big Pilot Watch
Neeter House of Luxury, price upon request 21 Bellwether Way, Ste. 107, Bellingham, 360.778.1613
Blundstone Original Chelsea Boot
Yeager’s Sporting Goods, $190 3101 Northwest Ave., Bellingham 360.733.1080 yeagerssportinggoods.com
Stylish Special Occasion
Whether it’s a work event, a date night, or a friend’s wedding, this outfit is fancy enough to make you feel like a million bucks while still being casual enough to fit in with the eternally laidback vibe here in the PNW.
Vilagallo Navy Blue Suzany Dress
Quinn+Foster, $180 1402 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2000, quinnandfoster.com
HYFVE Suedette Zip Jacket in Black Fringe Boutique, $58 201 W Holly St., Bellingham 360.312.4067, wearfringe.com
Quality Gold 14K White Gold
Lab Grown Diamond VS/SI FGH Earrings
Neeter House of Luxury, $601 21 Bellwether Way, Ste. 107, Bellingham, 360.778.1613
ORSYN Rome Crossbody
Quinn+Foster, $435 1402 11th St., Bellingham 360.671.2000, quinnandfoster.com
Bueno Ida 12th Street Shoes, $130 1204 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.733.2066, 12thstreetshoes.com
Vilagallo Navy Blue Suzany Dress
Quinn+Foster, $180
Photo courtesy of Quinn + Foster
Good Man Tartan Plaid Scarf Quinn + Foster, $198
Photo courtesy of Quinn + Foster
BELLINGHAM
12TH STREET SHOES
1204 Harris Ave., Bellingham
360.733.2066, 12thstreetshoes.com
12th Street Shoes prides themselves on carrying fashionable, yet comfortable shoes for women! Yes, you can have both. We have been providing amazing footwear to the women of Bellingham since 1999. We also carry an array of handbags, accessories and hosiery.
A LOT OF FLOWERS
1011 Harris Ave., Bellingham
360.647.0728, alotofflowersfairhaven.com alotofflowersbham@gmail.com
For over 35 years we have been providing a unique mix of plants, gifts, and floral arrangements for the Bellingham community and it’s visitors. With an emphasis on locally made, Northwest grown and fairly traded items, our selection provides a feast for the senses with an evolving mix of plants and home décor.
ADORED BOUTIQUE
913 Harris Ave., Bellingham shopadoredboutique.com
A lovely boutique located in Historic Fairhaven offering women’s clothing, bath and body, and unique gifts as well as locally handmade jewelry and handbags. You are sure to find something special for yourself and your loved ones!
APPLE YARNS
1405 Fraser St., Ste. F104, Bellingham
A fiber lovers’ paradise, Apple Yarns recently celebrated 15 years with a new bigger and better location. The new shop is filled with and yarns from around the world and locally dyed Apple Fiber Studio. Come for the beautiful yarns and the locally-made gifts.
BINYON VISION
411 E. Magnolia St., Bellingham 360.647.2020, binyonvision.com
Binyon Vision Center is passionate about helping Whatcom County residents see and look their best. From thorough eye exams and personalized eyewear selection, the experience at Binyon is memorable. We are proud to be an independent, woman-owned business in Downtown Bellingham.
FAIRHAVEN RUNNERS & WALKERS
1209 11th St., Bellingham
360.676.4955, fairhavenrunners.com
Fairhaven Runners is a super-friendly store for walkers, runners, travelers and people who just want their feet to feel happier. We carry shoes, socks, watches, clothing, packs, sport nutrition, sunglasses, headlamps, and more!
FLOWER FEATHER FARM
flowerfeatherfarm.com
Bellingham, WA, Open by appointment only Flower Feather Farm is your source for locally hatched chicks; we hatch year-round, so you always have an alternative to shipped chicks.
Swedish Flower Hens, Jubilee Orpingtons, Wheaten Olive Eggers, Wheaten Ameraucanas, Wheaten Marans. We also offer farm-fresh table eggs, hatching eggs, dahlia tubers, hemp bedding, and animal feed. Woman-owned.
GARDEN SPOT
2945 Newmarket St., Bellingham 360.734.9595, statement-apparel.com
Nestled behind Trader Joe’s, our small business offers a big variety! Explore unique outdoor plants, stunning garden art, high-quality houseplants, and thoughtful gifts. Many of our pieces are created by talented local artists. From tools to soils, we have all your gardening needs covered. Join our fun, informative weekly classes and connect with our passionate, knowledgeable team. Proud stewards of nature and community, we’re here to help your garden thrive. We grow better together!
GOOD EARTH POTTERY
1000 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.671.3998, goodearthpots.com
Good Earth Pottery is a contemporary ceramics gallery located in the historic Fairhaven District of Bellingham since 1969. The gallery offers a carefully curated collection of handmade pottery and ceramic art by artists from the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
NORTHWEST YARNS & MERCANTILE
1401 Commercial St., Bellingham 360.738.0167, nwyarns.com
One of the best fiber arts shops in the Northwest! Located in historic downtown Bellingham, we offer a wide variety of fiber arts supplies including yarn, fabric, fiber, spinning wheels, embroidery kits, classes, events, and so, so much more. Pop in to see everything we have to offer.
PEAK HYDRATION
peakhydrationlounge.com
1216 Bay St., Bellingham, WA 98225 360.526.2125
Rejuvenate, rehydrate, and refuel at Bellingham’s premier IV Therapy and Wellness Lounge, offering Nutrient IV bags, Wellness Shots, Medicinal and Cosmetic Botox, Dietician Services, and a Weight Loss Program all by an experienced, professional staff, using hospital-grade supplies, and the highestquality nutrients. #wehaveabagforthat
THE CLOTHES RACK
2426 Yew St., Bellingham 360.738.7759
The Clothes Rack Women’s Consignment Store specializes in selling quality gently-used clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories.
Our clothing features brand names in modern, classic, and timeless styles. We have a wide variety of sizes, including plus sizes. By recycling current fashions we are creating a sustainable lifestyle.
THIRD PLANET BOUTIQUE
200 W Holly St., Bellingham 360.778.3765, thirdplanetboutique.com
Third Planet Boutique is a queer, womanowned small business in the heart of downtown Bellingham, WA. Our mission is to create a safe, inclusive, welcoming shopping experience for our community where there is something for everyone, while supporting small and ethical artisans. We offer something for everyone. Crystals, Jewelry, Clothing, Decor, Gifts, Candles, Incense, Accessories, Body Jewelry, and more.
THREE FRENCH HENS
1100 Harris Ave., Bellingham 360.756.1047, threefrenchens.com
Located in the heart of Historic Fairhaven, we carry sophisticated, elegant clothing that elevates your everyday style. Many of our brands are made in the USA, and crafted with organic fabrics and leathers that are built to last forever. Major brands include Joseph Ribkoff, Eileen Fisher, AG Jeans, Paige, and Nic & Zoe. We love finding the perfect look for your everyday style, or any occasion.
QUINN AND FOSTER
128 W. Holly St., Bellingham 360.671.2000, quinnandfoster.com
Quinn and Foster is a contemporary clothing boutique for women and men situated in the heart of downtown Bellingham. We are founded on a passion for style, design, and building strong relationships with our community. Chris has had a long career in the fashion industry. She has worked for years helping women find their own style. She created Quinn and Foster on the belief that style does not have to wait for anything. We want you to love how you look and feel and to find the best pieces to bring out the best in you.
BIRCH BAY | BLAINE
BOW WOW & WOOFS
bowwowandwoofs.com
8115 Birch Bay Square Ste 111 Blaine, WA 98230
360.332.3647
Bow Wow & Woofs is a family-owned pet store and have been serving the local community since 2005. The shop features an extensive selection of natural foods and treats for both dogs and cats. We offer a variety of raw foods, dehydrated foods, and a number of kibbles, as well as a selection of gently cooked and canned foods. 24/7 online ordering and self-pickup.
THE C SHOP
4825 Alderson Rd., Blaine 360.371.2070, thecshop.com
The C Shop is a must-see candy store, bakery, café, and pizzeria for summertime visits to picturesque Birch Bay. Housed in a charming yellow storefront, The C Shop is the stuff of beachside family memories, specializing in goods that start with “C” or rhyme with “sea.”
FERNDALE
MARIES BEES mariesbees.com
Award-Winning Raw local honey for our family to yours. Try our famous Zinger Creamed Honey, Savory Honey and our Honey Oxymel. Try them all in cocktails, on cheese, or on toast. Hive tours in the summer. 100% Woman-owned.
LYNDEN
BETTY BE GOOD
Birch Bay Square 8125 Birch Bay Square St, #201, Blaine Fairway Center 1758 Front Street, #103, Lynden shopbetttybegood.com
Betty Be Good offers hand-picked, boutique styles for the frugal fashionista. Everything in their curated collection is under $75 so you’ll find a stylish new look without breaking the bank! Plus, the boutique gives back 2% of sales to clothe survivors of human trafficking.
SURROUNDINGS HOME & GIFTS
1758 Front St. #104, Lynden 360.354.3101, surroundingslynden.com
Surroundings offers a unique collection of home décor and gifts. Refresh yourself in the beauty, faith, joy and fragrance of this wonderful collection for you and your home. We celebrate each season with colorful florals and accent pieces that will inspire you. Located in Lynden’s Fairway Center, across from the fairgrounds.
CHEEKS JEANS
420 Front St., Lynden 360.778.1849, cheeksjeans.com
We are a Women’s Clothing Store, located in historic downtown Lynden. We’re classic, effortless, comfortable, yet put-together, a mix of vintage, street, and pretty, all with a Northwest twist. We are known for our beautiful selection of designer jeans. We’d love to see you! Mon–Sat: 10 am–6pm, Thur: 10 am–8pm, Sun: Closed.
420 Front St., Lynden 360.778.1849, cheeksjeans.com
Taste
Unexpected Ingredients
Unexpected Ingredients
WRITTEN BY COCOA LANEY AND KRISTEN BOEHM
WHEN YOU THINK of cocktails, does your mind conjure up images of tumblers full of amber liquid, an olive speared in a frosted martini glass, maybe even some lightly muddled greenery? Cocktails as we know them only really entered the drinker’s zeitgeist around the year 1800, and classic mixed drinks remain popular to this day. But after 200 years of spirits, water, sugar, and bitters, it’s time for a renaissance! Inventive bartenders from all over are reaching out for excitingly unexpected ingredients. In 2023, we rounded
up some curious examples from local establishments, and went into detail about a few fun ways to expand your drink horizons at home.
Keep in mind that craft cocktail menus change constantly with the seasons and ingredient availability. Although some of the drinks we loved while writing this are no longer with us, the ingredients still deserve to be recognized! We’ve added alternative suggestions to help you get out there and find your next unique drink experience.
Aquafaba
The Beetnik at Banter
THE NEXT TIME you make hummus from canned chickpeas, don’t drain away the water: That sticky yellow liquid is called aquafaba, and it makes the perfect vegan substitute for egg white. It can be whipped with sugar for meringue, combined with cocoa for a fluffy mousse, or even baked into egg-free macarons (yes, it’s possible!)—but our favorite way to use aquafaba is in a cocktail.
If you’re avoiding eggs, you don’t have to forgo fluffy cocktails. At the time of writing, we tried the Beetnik at Banter to get our whipped fix. Banter is known for their vegetarian- and vegan-friendly bites, so it should come as no surprise that their cocktails are also accessible to those who wish to avoid animal products. Moreover, Bartender Samuel Ross-Smith notes that aquafaba is easier to maintain on a day-to-day basis when compared with egg whites.
“Aquafaba is just a vegan alternative for egg whites, so it just helps the whole thing and gives a nice frothy texture,” says Ross-Smith. “[The Beetnik] is one of the
only cocktails, if not the only one, that’s been on the menu since we opened.”
This cleverly-named libation gets its signature foam from aquafaba, but that was far from the only notable ingredient in this cocktail. The flavor came from a combo of housemade beet and lavender shrubs, which are vinegar-based syrups. The shrubs were then balanced with lemon, Strega liqueur, and London Dry Gin for a drink that was earthy, herbal, and unexpectedly refreshing. It even came served with a ring of beet sugar for added pizzazz.
Although the Beetnik may have performed its last poem at Banter, you can find aquafaba at plenty of bars around Whatcom! If you’re interested in a drink with egg whites listed, ask if they have aquafaba as an alternative. Or, if you’re happy to cut the alcohol along with the eggs, try The Final Boss and The Sour Poet off of Bantam Kitchen & Bar’s zero proof menu, which already come with it! 114 Prospect St., Bellingham, banterhospitality.com
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Hazelnuts
Oro Hazelnut Dessert Wine at Samson Estates
ALLOW US TO state the obvious: Most wine is made from grapes. Certain wineries, such as Everson’s own Samson Estates, might use other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. But wine made from hazelnuts?! Such a concoction might sound unusual, but just trust us—hazelnut wine is nothing short of delicious, and you can try some for yourself at Samson Estates.
Samson Estates is the oldest operating winery in Whatcom County, and they’re well known for their award-winning fruit wines as well as traditional wines fermented from Eastern Washington grapes. But their most unusual offering is their award-winning Oro Hazelnut Dessert Wine, which is made with locally sourced nuts from Holmquist Hazelnut Orchards.
Unlike Samson’s other libations, hazelnut dessert wine isn’t fermented. According to Owner Rob Dhaliwal, it’s made similarly to a cordial, yet still fortified like typical dessert wines. As for the flavor profile? Unsurprisingly, the first descriptor that comes to mind is “nutty.”
“It does have a small smoking note to it because we use roasted hazelnuts,” Dhaliwal continues. “It’s very velvety. It’s not quite as intense as what you think of [with] Frangelico; it’s a lot more mellow and smooth.”
If you’re picking up Oro for a dinner party, Dhaliwal suggests pairing it with tiramisu, chocolate, eggnog, or a light-bodied pastry. Alternatively, stop by Samson Estates’ tasting room in Everson to pair your glass with artisanal wine truffles and picture-perfect pastoral views. 1861 Van Dyk Rd., Everson, 360.966.7787, samsonestates.com
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Ancho Chiles
IF YOU’RE AIMING to add some spice to your life—or, more specifically, your cocktails—then Ancho Reyes liqueur should be a staple at your bar cart. This one-of-a-kind liqueur originated in Puebla City, Mexico and is made from the city’s most famous crop: ancho chiles, which are dried poblano peppers. While a chile-based liqueur might be foreign to PNW palates, it’s actually a time-honored tradition. Ancho Reyes was first produced by Pueblas families in 1927, and today’s version is still based on this original recipe.
In an effort to bring the heat, The Smoke Signal at Redlight utilized not just Ancho Reyes but mezcal, house-made cinnamon/ nutmeg-infused bourbon, mole bitters, and a hint of sugar. We thought of it as a spiced-up Old Fashioned, Oaxacan style.
“[It’s] the warm fuzzies in a glass,” says Bartender Ocea Davis, who created the Smoke Signal. “During the pandemic, when we had to have our ‘bubbles,’ I would always get together with my friends and have bonfires. We would just sit there for
hours and talk about everything that was going on in the world. And so I wanted to come up with a drink that encapsulated the feeling of sitting around a bonfire commiserating with your best friends. I think that’s exactly what we got.”
But the Ancho Reyes wasn’t the only unusual thing about this libation. While mezcal and bourbon aren’t often used in the same drink, they complemented each other surprisingly well in the Smoke Signal, almost like “two different friends hanging out.” Between the rich bourbon, smoky mezcal, autumnal spices, and hint of heat, Smoke Signal was the perfect cocktail for early fall. Sadly, this cocktail is no longer available, but Redlight has an expansive seasonal drinks menu that’s sure to supply you with something unusually delicious. If you’re dead set on lighting a controlled burn, they have a couple of house cocktails for you to try: Black Mirror (blanco tequila, ghost pepper syrup, pineapple juice, blueberry preserves, fresh lime juice, chili salt rim, served on the rocks) and and Anti-Todo (mezcal, house-made sour mix, habanero-hibiscus syrup, egg white, served up). 109 Grand Ave., Ste. 101, Bellingham, redlightkitchenandbar.com
Smoke Signal at Redlight Kitchen & Bar
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Photo by Cocoa Laney
THE FOXHOLE OPENED in 2023 and is still the new kid on Holly Street’s bar scene. If you’re into the combo of old-world decor and cutting-edge cocktails, it’s sure to have become one of your favorite haunts. With a creative drink menu that features tea, coffee, and absinthe concoctions, the cocktails at The Foxhole are some of the most interesting in downtown Bellingham.
When we visited in September 2023, we were especially intrigued by the Coup de Grace milk punch, which is a take on an old-fashioned tiki drink called the Zombie. A Zombie uses three types of rum, grenadine, and three juices (grapefruit, lemon, and lime), and the Foxhole’s version also adds Falernum liqueur. There’s a few other key differences: Firstly, while a traditional Zombie is booze-forward, the Coup de Grace was much smoother thanks to a clarifying process using citric acid and milk.
The idea of whole milk in a tiki drink might sound unusual, but Bartender Jordan Jenson says you shouldn’t be able to taste it. You see, when a cocktail is clarified, the milk proteins bind to the molecules like polyphenols that are responsible for astringent, bitter tastes. These curds (and thus polyphenols) are then strained out to create a smooth, easydrinking cocktail. “It takes 24 hours to clarify, and it’s just titrating the entire time,” explains Jenson. “When that process happens, and because you add the milk to it, it takes away the intensity of the drink and makes it a lot more approachable.”
“It takes 24 hours to clarify, and it’s just titrating the entire time,” explains Jenson. “When that process happens, and because you add the milk to it, it takes away the intensity of the drink and makes it a lot more approachable.”
But the clarification isn’t the only interesting part about the Coup de Grace. This cocktail also includes a splash of absinthe, which is a wormwood-based liqueur often associated with dreamlike states and hallucinations (though these tales are myths, not reality). The Foxhole bills itself as an absinthe bar, which makes perfect sense when you consider its ethereal Victorian atmosphere. You can sample this anise-flavored spirit in other cocktails at The Foxhole, or even via an absinthe “drip,” which dilutes the high-proof spirit with a touch of water and sugar. 215 W. Holly St., Ste. 101, Bellingham, @thefoxholebham
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Stinging Nettles
Stinging Nettle Martini at Matthew’s Honest Cocktails
MATTHEW’S HONEST COCKTAILS is a mainstay among downtown Bellingham’s upscale-yetaccessible bars, and while their drinks cater to all palates, they also aren’t afraid to get creative. Case in point: the Stinging Nettle Martini. No one looks forward to run-ins with stinging nettles on a hike, but what about in a cocktail?
This unusual libation started off with a syrup that Owner Matthew Twining reduces from stinging nettle tea. It was shaken up alongside simple syrup, lemon, and Botanist Islay Dry Gin to create an herbal, surprisingly complex cocktail that hits all the right notes with very minimal ingredients.
Twining is no stranger to tea in cocktails, as earl gray reduction is frequently on his menu. But while earl gray is a familiar flavor, most people don’t know what stinging nettles taste like—especially when served in martini form. Twining says that nettles have an earthiness (“almost like a minty mushroom”) that tastes somewhat gamey on its own but works well when brightened with lemon and sugar.
“Where do you go with cocktails since everything’s been done? And I think the answer is not so much out, but more inward,” says Twining. “So, let’s get what we’ve got growing right here and see if we can make something delicious.”
“Where do you go with cocktails since everything’s been done? And I think the answer is not so much out, but more inward,” says Twining. “So, let’s get what we’ve got growing right here and see if we can make something delicious.”
As for how Twining procured those local nettles? The answer is simple: He foraged them himself. In the summer, he might be found scouring the old growth forests near Sudden Valley for young, tender nettles that can be brewed into tea. He leaves their roots intact but does include some of the “tiny needle-like hairs” that contain their venom. This venom is safe to consume and doesn’t sting or itch, but Twining says it added a certain “zing” to the final product.”
When stinging nettle drinks aren’t available, look for other curious herbaceous ingredients like pandan leaves, génépi liquor, and muddled arugula. 132 E. Holly St., Bellingham, 360.325.7802, matthewshonestcocktails.com
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Tayberries
Spontaneous Ferment: Tayberries & Plums at Garden Path Fermentation
HAVE YOU EVER heard of a tayberry before? This unusual fruit is a hybrid between a raspberry and a blackberry, and because they can’t be machineharvested, you’re not likely to spot them in grocery stores. You can occasionally pick up a punnet from the farmers market, but for a more adventurous experience, we recommend consuming them in the form of beer—particularly in the Spontaneous Ferment: Tayberries & Plums by Garden Path Fermentation. “[Tayberries are] really bright, really savory, and they’re really, really hard to work with,” says Garden Path Co-Owner Amber Watts. “So this beer is 100% spontaneously fermented using yeast from the air, aged for several years in oak, and then we re-fermented it with tayberries and locallyharvested plums.”
The result is a beer that lines up perfectly with Garden Path’s goal: to create unique, tasty brews that make full use of Skagit’s abundant agricultural resources. Garden Path’s beers are fermented with 100% native yeast, and they’re one of the few breweries in the world that makes beer, wine, cider, and mead with such hyper-local ingredients.
Watts says that creating spontaneous ferments is a years-long process, and in this case, the result is a beer that’s “a little bit tart, a little bit funky, but the
berries are gonna shine through.”
To sample some of these spontaneous and fascinating potions, you can stop in at Garden Path’s Burlington headquarters, or visit The Great Northern Bottle Shop & Lounge in downtown Bellingham. 11653 Higgins Airport Way, Burlington | 1319 Commercial St., Bellingham, 360.503.8956, gardenpathwa.com
Photo by Cocoa Laney
Wineries of Whatcom County
WRITTEN BY AMBERLEIGH BROWNSON
Van Vino Vineyards
Snuggled on the border of Lynden in the beautiful farmlands of Blaine is Van Vino Vineyards. Their awardwinning grower of estate Pinot Noir, Zach Deloof, also makes wine with various varietals from Washington’s esteemed Red Mountain AVA. Open to tastings by appointment (and hoping to open a public tasting room soon), this is an ideal trip to see the hillsides and sprawling growing region coupled with tasting some extremely well-made wine as a finale. Blaine, vanvinovineyard.com
GLM Wine Co.
Making wine as GLM Wine Co. since 2002, Tom Davis and Tracey DeGraff have a quaint and trendy garage winery in Blaine, just before you cross into Canada. With a vine growing along the entrance and a large garage door that invites the outdoors in, the winery creates the perfect atmosphere to taste their Eastern Washingtonsourced wine and learn about the terroir that makes Washington special. Specializing in “enrobed” wine (think opposite of rosé), and Double Gold iterations of less commonly known varietals, GLM Wine Co. is sure to please every palate. 1678 Boblett St., Blaine, 360.332.2097, glmwine.com
Lagom Vineyards
This family-owned and -operated winery spans six acres in the lush Nooksack Valley. With the goal of producing high-quality wines starting with the highest-quality grapes, Lagom implements sustainable and regenerative farming practices and handharvests their estate fruit. While their farm is not usually open to the public, their wines are available on their website for shipping and local pickup. Try the Siegerrebe, a fruity and floral variety of white wine made from grapes grown almost exclusively in Germany, England, Vancouver Island, and Washington state! 4298 Mt. Baker Hwy., Everson, 360.393.3247, lagomvineyards.com
Barmann Cellars
Not only can you find sustainably-made wine with minimalistic simplicity, you will also find ciders and piquette to delight your senses and push the “normal” of wine-making to its outer-edges. Embracing pet-nat and natural fermentation, owners Stephanie Barmann and Jesse Nickerson employ techniques to showcase the flavors nature intended. 7802 Silver Lake Rd., Maple Falls, 360.319.0847, barmancellars.com
Dynasty Cellars
Multi-award-winners for too long to count, winemakers Peter and Olga Osvaldik harness their love for Walla Walla fruit into the glass with Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and their 100%-forcharity 400 STRONG red blend. Their tasting room in Bellingham is the perfect spot to pause between shopping and visiting Puget Sound to sip, sample, chat, and mingle with locals. 2169 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham, 360.220.4111, dynastycellars.com
Samson Estates Winery
With fruit wine being Rob Dhaliwal’s strength and mainstay, including all the berry options, Samson Estates has branched out to feature other offerings such as Syrah, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Riesling. If you venture to Everson though, be sure to try their Oro hazelnut wine—it really is liquid gold. 1861 Van Dyk Rd., Everson, 360.966.7787, samsonestates.com
Welcome Road Winery
Owners Leigh McMillan and Kristen Dorrity source their certifiedsustainable grapes from top growers in Yakima Valley and have tasting rooms in Seattle and Bellingham. With a cozy, laid-back feel, their downtown Bellingham location offers samples of their humble award-winning wines, and is replete with a coffee shop and retail offerings. 300 W. Champion St., Bellingham, 206.486.0788, welcomeroadwinery.com
Vartanyan Estate Winery
Owner and Winemaker Margarita Vartanyan welcomes visitors from near and far in her cottage-like tasting room with beautiful views of Mount Baker and a plethora of varietals to choose from including Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Gruner Veltliner, Merlot, Pinot Gris, and Syrah, to name a few. 1628 Huntley Rd., Bellingham, 360.756.6770, vewinery.com
Photo by Brandee Simons
GUEST SOMMELIER
Amberleigh Brownson
Amberleigh Brownson has been a local sommelier and international wine judge in Whatcom county for eight years. She is a four-time award winner from Wine Spectator for her wine program and wine pairing dinners, and has become an opinion leader in the Washington wine world, particularly in Whatcom County.
DINING KEY
under $20
$20–34
$35–49
$50 or greater Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Family-Friendly Takeout
Outdoor Seating
Reservations
. Happy Hour Vegan New Review
Menu items and prices are subject to change, so check before you go. See all our restaurant reviews on our Taste tab at bellinghamalive.com
* Review provided by restaurant.
AMBO ETHIOPIAN CUISINE Ethiopian
902 N. State St., Bellingham 360.756.1627, amboethiopian.com
If you’ve never had Ethiopian food before, get ready—you’re in for a treat. Ambo has something to offer meat eaters and vegans alike, and it’s the best kind of comfort food: Hearty, healthy, and warming on a soul-deep level.
BIG LOVE JUICE American
1144 10th St., Bellingham 360.383.5336, biglovejuice.com
Cold press juices make up the bulk of the menu at Big Love Juice. However, these aren’t your average juices. Big Love Juice uses a hydraulic press, rather than the traditional high-heat methods that eliminate much of the vitamins and nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. Customers looking for something a little heartier can also pick from a multitude of smoothies, soups, salads, bowls, and loaded toasts.
B-TOWN KITCHEN AND RAW BAR
Seafood, American 714 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham 360.392.6520, btownkitchen.com
If fresh shellfish is your gastronomic highlight, you’re in the right place at B-Town Kitchen and Raw Bar. Items from the Small Plates menu make terrific appetizers or adult-beverageworthy snacks. The heated patio provides an urban vibe suited for parties or gatherings.
THE BLACK CAT American
1200 Harris Ave., Ste. 310, Bellingham 360.733.6136, blackcatbellingham.com
Tucked away in the heart of Fairhaven, this iconic Bellingham eatery serves up craft cocktails and American fusion eats on the third floor of the Sycamore Square building. Come for happy hour and stay for the delicious food and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
CAFE VELO Coffeehouse, Deli
120 Prospect St., Bellingham 360.392.0930, cafe-velo.cc
Cafe Velo is a European-inspired cafe with a twist— in addition to serving fresh espresso, the cafe also doubles as a bike shop. With plenty of outdoor seating—and bike racks—customers can bask in the fresh air while enjoying a beverage or sandwich named after one of the owner’s favorite climbs from bicycle racing. This is more than just a place to quickly grab a bite; it’s a place to build community.
COA MEXICAN EATERY Mexican
1065 E Sunset Dr., Bellingham, 360.526.2108 1810 Riverside Dr, Mount
One bite of a taco or one sip of a margarita and you’re hooked. This eatery offers frequent customer appreciation days, offering 50 percent off food if you pay in cash. Deals and good food what more could you want? Even on a different night, with the choice of fajitas, burritos, chimichangas, or flan, you won’t be disappointed.
FAT SHACK American
414 W. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham 360.366.8752, fatshack.com
Fat Shack offers a variety of burgers, wings, and their specialty: densely packed sandwiches. The typical “fat” sandwich is some combination of grilled steak and fried chicken, along with cheese and a host of sides, all pressed inside a fresh hoagie roll. It is not for the meek, or for someone looking for a salad bar. Along with its unapologetic embrace of deep-fried food, Fat Shack serves up some surprises. Its hamburgers are hand-pressed, hand-seasoned, and never frozen.
KEENAN’S AT THE PIER
Northwest, American & Seafood 804 10th St., Bellingham 360.392.5510, keenansatthepier.com
Located inside the Chrysalis Inn & Spa in Fairhaven, Keenan’s at the Pier features fresh, local cuisine and a full bar. Keenan’s highlights the beauty and style of the Pacific Northwest with fresh ingredients that are seasonal and regionally sourced. Enjoy Bellingham Bay views from every table. Reservations are highly recommended.
Skagit’s Own Fish Market
Skagit’s Own Fish Market offers the kind of high-quality fresh and local seafood expected from a best of the northwest winner, coupled with personal and knowledgeable service.
We also have a range of delicious freshly-prepared dishes including fish tacos, prawn tacos, crab sandwich, lobster roll, oyster hoagie, pan fried oysters, shrimp cocktail, and crab cocktail. Come to Skagit’s Own Fish Market, where you’re assured a warm welcome, and where you’re guaranteed to see the very best local seafood..
18042 WA-20, Burlington 360.707.2722, skagitfish.com
The Bagelry
Since 1984, The Bagelry has been a landmark in Bellingham, the place to meet for breakfast, lunch, coffee, or snacks and to enjoy one of our fabulous bagels. You can find a great cross section of local people at any time of day enjoying these traditional bagels. There is nothing like a good bagel, and at The Bagelry, we proudly produce the best bagels in the Northwest. The bagels at The Bagelry are made in the time-honored tradition that is hard to find today even in New York. With no preservatives or additives, The Bagelry’s bagels taste like the bagels that our grandparents loved!
1319 Railroad Ave.
360.676.5288
bagelrybellingham.com
Fat Shack
Get all your late night cravings in one spot. Enjoy our mouthwatering burgers made of 100% Angus beef on a toasted brioche bun, our delicious deep fried desserts, or one of our classic late night munchie foods like cheese fries or mozzarella sticks. Our Iconic Fat Sandwiches are what keep customers coming back time and again. Jam-packed with your favorite late-night food, these sandwiches are a craving you won’t be able to resist.
414 W Bakerview Rd. Suite 112 Bellingham, Delivery available @ fatshack.com 360.366.8752
The North Fork Brewery
The North Fork is a rustic roadhouse at MP 20 on Mt. Baker Highway. Enjoy hand tossed pizzas, grinders, appetizers, salads and craft beer. All of our beer is made on-site and includes an assortment of freshly brewed, small batch ales, lagers, and barrel-aged sours. Relax in our Beer Shrine dining room that is family friendly. Come for weekly food specials and daily Happy Hour. Wines, ciders and house-made root beer are also available. We are open year-round.
6186 Mt. Baker Highway, Deming 360.599.BEER northforkbrewery.com
KURUKURU SUSHI Japanese, Sushi
11 Bellwether Way, Bellingham 360.392.8224, kurukurubellingham.com
KuruKuru Sushi, which translates to “go around Sushi,” offers not only a good meal, but a good experience as well. Along with the more traditional sushi, delicious lightly tempura-fried sushi also makes its way around the conveyor belt. If you don’t see something you like, the chefs behind the counter will gladly make something for you.
LEADER BLOCK TRATTORIA & BAR Italian
2026 Main St., Ferndale 360.306.8998, leaderblock.com
Leader Block pairs their extensive wine list with an Italian, from-scratch menu that emphasizes flavors of the region. This upscale menu makes it a perfect spot for a date or special occasion, while the friendly Ferndale atmosphere and kids’ menu keep it appropriate for family dinners as well.
LITTLE CHEERFUL American
133 E. Holly St., Bellingham 360.738.8824
Little Cheerful is a bustling breakfast spot, ideal for customers looking to enjoy a mouthwatering meal over conversation or a newspaper. The cafe has maintained its popularity through the growth of breakfast cafes in the area. Their menu includes something for everyone, whether you are gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or an omnivore—and if you are craving eggs benedict, Little Cheerful is definitely for you.
THE MILL AT SEVENTH French
655 Front St., Lynden
360.778.2760
The Mill is the type of place where one could spend a full afternoon grazing on cheeses, sipping cocktails, and enjoying a good book. The bistro-like atmosphere gives the restaurant a European vibe without losing the welcoming small-town service of Lynden. The menu is full of bistro plates like fresh salads, paninis, soups, and, of course, meats and cheeses.
NEW
WHATCOM PASTRIES American
No storefront, pre-order required 360.223.0613
newwhatcompastries.square.site
Order today for warm, fruit filled, flaky danish, bear claws, homemade “hearty” buttermilk scones, strudel, and more for tomorrow morning. Choose between convenient, no-contact porch pickup or delivery in the greater Bellingham area. Enjoy 5% off your next order with coupon code NWPALIVE2025*
McKay’s Tap House & Pizzeria
McKay’s has been a family owned, family friendly tap house & pizzeria since 2003. We offer 54 different craft beers and ciders on tap, pizza, hot subs, & wings. We also offer gluten free and vegans options. We host several weekly events and nightly shenanigans. If you’re not able to visit us in the tap house we have our own inhouse drivers that will deliver your order right to your door, including select beers for those 21 and over.
1118 E Maple St., Bellingham 360.647.3600 | McKaysTaphouse.com
The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive
Perched on a cliff overlooking the San Juan Islands, we deliver an elevated dining experience as unforgettable as the view. Indulge in fresh seafood, premium steaks, and vegetarian options, all thoughtfully paired with our extensive, award-winning wine list. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, sharing a romantic evening, or simply treating yourself, we invite you to discover a true gem of fine dining in the Pacific Northwest.
2578 Chuckanut Dr, Bow, WA 360.766.6185 theoysterbar.net
• Dinner Monday-Thursdays 4PM-9PM
• Dinner Friday & Saturday 4PM-10PM
• Closed Sundays; Opening Sundays Winter/Spring 2025
• Free perimeter parking and adjacent lots
• Special Occasion Specialists...All events including most Holidays
• Happy Hour Monday-Thursday 4PM to 6PM
• Wine Dinners in effect now & held every 2nd or 4th Sunday of the month
• Weekend Brunches resuming this Winter of 2025
• Casual attire, kid friendly. Dietary restrictions sensitive
• On-Premise/Off-Premise catering. Restaurant Rental, Bottle wine to go
Leader Block Trattoria & Bar
Bellingham Cider Company
Bellingham Cider Company is a local craft cider producer and restaurant with a full bar overlooking Bellingham Bay and the Waterfront District of downtown. We practice sustainability through our net-zero fully solar-powered facilities while sourcing from local farms and businesses. We make smallbatch ciders from 100% Washington apples with no added sulfites, colors or preservatives. Our award-winning lineup of ciders reflects the freshest ingredients. We are committed to being Fiercely Local.
205 Prospect St., Ste. A-105, Bellingham 360.510.8494, bellinghamcider.com
CHeBA Hut
CHeBA Hut Bellingham-Oldtown is located in the iconic “Rocket Donuts” building in Oldtown, beside the restored Rocket itself! The decor boasts murals from local artists highlighting PNW lure! Play a board game or attend weekly events like Video Game nights, Bingo, or Trivia nights! To top off our stellar vibe, we serve up the best dang “toasted” subs, salads, and munchies, AND have a FULL BAR! Fun for all ages in all stages!
306 W Holly St., Bellingham 360.684.3323
Galloway’s Cocktail Bar
Step into the timeless allure of Fairhaven’s deco-era cocktail bar. Indulge in award-winning signature cocktails crafted with precision and flair. Explore seasonal menus with our tasty small bites designed to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you prefer the ambiance of indoor dining or a heated outdoor space, we’ve got you covered. Looking to host a memorable event? Discover our private event spaces for an unparalleled party experience.
1200 10th St., Ste. 102, Bellingham 360.756.2795
gallowayscocktail.bar
The Score Sports Bar & Grill
The Score Sports Bar & Grill is proud to be Whatcom County’s best place to eat, drink and watch the game! Located at 2030 Main Street – in the heart of Ferndale – we have an incredible menu, a fully-stocked bar, TVs in sight of every seat, and walls covered in sports memorabilia to create the perfect elevated atmosphere. Come by to check out our food, our drinks, our atmosphere and our service: Come Check The Score!
2030 Main Street, Ferndale, WA 360.920.7891, thescoredowntown.com
NICKI’S BAR AND GRILL/ NICKI’S BELLA
MARINA American, Seafood
2615 S. Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham 360.332.2505, nickisbellamarina.com
Harborside visitors can grab a bite at Nicki’s Bar and Grill or rent out the floor above, Nicki’s Bella Marina, for private events with spectacular views of Bellingham Bay. Once you’ve had a chance to check out the water, take your first glance at the large menu. The burgers are big, juicy (there are even Wet-Naps on the table), and flavorful.
THE NORTH FORK BREWERY Eclectic, Bar
6186 Mount Baker Hwy., Deming
360.599.2337
Pizza and beer is a pairing that truly stands the test of time. At Deming’s long-running North Fork Brewery, which opened in December of 1997, the two remain as strong as ever. The North Fork’s brews are made in small batches by their longtime brewer and his custom draft system. The old-style pub feels homey and familiar, with quirky decorations like a glass wall encasing rows and rows of beer bottles. It’s a warm, inviting place to escape the biting temperatures outside.
NORTHWATER Regional NW
4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham
360.398.6191, northh2o.com
From breakfast to late night dinner, northwater’s 185-seat restaurant features a diverse menu of Pacific Northwest dishes made from locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. The restaurant’s waitstaff is personable and enthusiastic eager to answer our questions about ingredient sources and what desserts they’d recommend.
THE PENNY FARTHING BAR & RESTAURANT American
1309 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham
360.738.7179, chuckanutbaydistillery.com
Between craft cocktails and creative dishes designed for sharing, a night spent at the Penny Farthing will be one to remember. The bar and restaurant are operated by (and located within) Chuckanut Bay Distillery, and their house-made spirits are complemented by creative and locally-sourced dishes.
THE PURPLE FLAMINGO CAFE American
929 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham, mygardennursery.com
Longtime customers of My Garden Nursery are in for some exciting and delicious news: Your next visit to the nursery can include flowers, fruit trees, flamingos, and food. The menu features a selection of soups, sandwiches made from Avenue Bread bread, salads, and “flaminis,”
a.k.a. paninis. You can also find coffee from Bellingham Coffee Roasters and select desserts.
RED GINGER ASIAN CUISINE Asian
1208 E. Maple St. Bellingham, WA 98225 360.306.8629 redgingerbellingham.com
Newly opened this summer, Red Ginger offers traditional authentic asian cuisine at a great price point. Their take on mongolian beef, Seven Flavor Beef,isexceptional.Dine-inortake-out,givethematry.
SKYLARK’S HIDDEN CAFE Eclectic
1308 11th St., Bellingham 360.715.3642, skylarkshiddencafe.com
Skylark’s Hidden Cafe in Fairhaven is worth seeking out. From decadent breakfast items and house specialties to hearty dinner entrees, the menu at Skylark’s is varied and every bite delicious. Come for the food and stay for the jazz on select evenings.
SLO-PITCH SPORTS GRILL AND CASINO
3720 Meridian St., Bellingham
360.733.2255, slopitchcasino.com
Conveniently located right on Meridian, SloPitch serves up a great burger and fries. With excellent happy hour specials in a casual, sports atmosphere, Slo-Pitch is a great place to watch the game or take a midday break.
STORIA CUCINA AND BAR CICOTTI
Italian
109 Grand Ave., Ste. 102, Bellingham 202 Grand Ave., Bellingham 360.734.1929 | 360.656.6802 storiacucina.com | barcicotti.com
Storia Cucina & Bar Cicotti are local Italian restaurants keeping the classics alive! Every dish, cocktail, and wine has a rich connection to Italy’s food and beverage history while adding Pacific Northwest flair. We have rotating daily specials and a daily happy hour.
THE STEAK HOUSE AT SILVER REEF
Steak, Seafood
4876 Haxton Way, Ferndale 360.383.0777, silverreefcasino.com
This award-winning restaurant offers elegant dining and an intimate atmosphere. Prime-grade steaks are broiled at 1,800 degrees to lock in the natural juices and finished with a special steak butter. They also have an extensive wine list. This dining experience rivals any of the big-town steakhouses in quality and service without the big-city price tag.
TASTE OF INDIA Indian
3930 Meridian St., Ste. 107, Bellingham 360.647.1589, tasteofindiabellingham.com
At Taste of India, all the dishes are rich, delicious, and authentic. Dishes come with your choice of pulao rice or the classic Indian bread naan. Taste of India offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, all with exquisite and well-developed flavors. For those unsure of what to order, or those who want to try multiple dishes at once, try the lunch buffet.
TERRAMAR BREWSTILLERY Bistro, Bar
5712 Gilkey Ave, Edison, WA 98232
360.399.6222, terramarcraft.com
Terramar Brewstillery and Pizza - A craft Brewery, Cidery, Distillery, Artisan Pizza in Edison, WA sourcing our ingredients from the fertile Skagit Valley. Multiple tasting rooms with a family and pet friendly taproom, 21+ speakeasy, and large outdoor space to enjoy views of Puget Sound, Skagit farmland, and Chuckanut Mountains.*
TEMPLE BAR Bistro, Bar
306 W. Champion St.,Bellingham 360.676.8660, templebarbellingham.com
Continually recognized for their craft cocktails and small plates, Temple Bar aims to please. In between delicious bites made from locally sourced ingredients, sip on a unique cocktail with house-made infusions and bitters.
WAKE ‘N BAKERY American
6903 Bourne St., Glacier 360.599.1658, getsconed.com
Wake ‘n Bakery is a staple rest stop along Mount Baker Highway. If you’re in need of a sweet treat and hot coffee to bring the feeling back to your numb fingers, this will fit the bill. Whether you’re traveling to or from the mountain, watch for its signs as you pass through Glacier the cafe is about a block off the highway.
WANIDA THAI CUISINE Thai
1213 Dupont St., Bellingham, 360.746.8642, wanidathai.com
3200 Northwest Ave., Bellingham, 360.393.3138, wanidathaibistro.com
Bellinghamsters who love Thai know the name Wanida! Now with two locations, Wanida Thai serves up authentic Thai food from appetizers, soups, noodles, curries, and stir-fry. Whether you’re satisfying a craving with Phad Thai or trying something fresh like their Papaya Salad, you won’t be disappointed by their menu.
Drayton Harbor Fresh Oysters
Experience tide-to-table comfort seafood and more at DHO. Enjoy our hyper-local oysters, farmed within view of the restaurant. Savor soups, salads, appetizers and hearty dishes all made in-house from scratch.
Enjoy alongside local taps and global wines in a cozy, familyfriendly atmosphere with delightful harbor views. Dine in, take away, or shop our farm store. Family-owned and community-oriented, we’re here for you!
685 Peace Portal Dr. Blaine, WA
360.656.5958
draytonharboroysters.com
Pros to Know
We are pleased to share with you these select professionals, from building to home improvement, who can assist you on all your projects—large and small. Whether you’re planning a minor update or a major build, start your project on a firm foundation!
The Pros
Whatcom Lawns p.108
Highline Construction p.109
Edwards Window Fashions p.109
Aqui Esta Tile p.110
Haven Design Workshop p.110
Jennifer Ryan Design p. 111
The Glass Guru p. 113
HIGHLINE CONSTRUCTION
Five-time gold winner for Best Builder, Highline Construction consistently ranks at the top for quality customer care and expert level design, building, and excavation services. Clients choose Highline for their endto-end service and their ability to deliver on their promises. Their respected design-build team has long been known for their large-scale residential remodels, additions, and new builds. In recent years, they added civil construction/ excavation services including: site prep, stormwater management, grading and yard expansion, gravel driveways, block walls, and more.
Continued growth places Highline as a business to lookout for in the commercial and multi-family construction arenas. With the same promise for high-quality, comprehensive, and timely service to commercial clients and multi-family housing developers, we expect to see an even broader portfolio from Highline in coming years.
Clients have deemed Highline a “first-class, five-star builder” who is “timely, pleasant, and responsive” resulting in a “fantastic experience from start to finish.”
360.746.5455 highlinewa.com
EDWARDS WINDOW FASHIONS
Introducing John and Sara DeBoer, the driving force behind Edwards Window Fashions. With a passion for design and years of industry experience, Sara specializes in creating solutions that marry functionality with aesthetic appeal. Her keen eye for detail ensures each window treatment complements and enhances any space. Supporting Sara’s creative vision is John DeBoer, known for his impeccable installation and project management skills combined with a dedication to customer satisfaction. Together, they are committed to delivering seamless experiences from initial consultation to final installation. Together they excel in personalized service, collaborating closely with clients to understand their needs and style preferences. Their portfolio spans residential and commercial projects, distinguished by innovative solutions and top-notch craftsmanship. Edwards Window Fashions is not just about beautiful window treatments; it’s about transforming spaces with professionalism and care. John and Sara DeBoer’s passion and proficiency make them trusted partners in the art of window coverings, turning visions into reality with precision and flair.
1002 Benson Ln, Lynden 360.966.4142 edwardswindowfashions.com
360.319.7092
jenniferryandesign.com
Jennifer is a multi-talented authority on all things beautiful, fashionable, and functional, with a passion for bringing style and personality to your home’s most important spaces. Jennifer Ryan Design offers it all —design, planning, production, and contractor services. A chameleon of sorts…starting in her “designer” heels and then transforming into her contractor wear. From start to finish, Jennifer will help you create the surroundings you’ll enjoy for a lifetime.
“Creating beautiful rooms that are well designed, comfortable, and reflective of the people who live there is my goal as a designer.”
“Creating rooms that are well built, with quality materials, attention to detail, while making sure my clients are well taken care of during the process is my goal as a contractor.”
“Home is what you take with you, not what you leave behind.”
N.K. JEMISIN
THE GLASS GURU
Welcome to The Glass Guru of Bellingham, where expertise meets excellence in glass services! Serving Whatcom and Skagit counties, our team takes pride in being your premier destination for all things glass. With a rich history of serving the local community, we have earned a reputation for delivering top-notch craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service. As your trusted neighborhood glass specialists, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your every need, from residential
® glass repairs and installations to commercial glazing projects.
At The Glass Guru of Bellingham, we understand that each client is unique, which is why we prioritize personalized attention and customized solutions. Our team of skilled professionals boasts years of collective experience and is committed to exceeding your expectations at every turn. Whether you’re looking to enhance the aesthetics of your home with a stunning new shower enclosure or seeking energy-efficient solutions for your commercial property, we have the knowledge and expertise to bring your vision to life.
We’re more than just your local glass experts – we’re your partners in transforming spaces and creating lasting impressions. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or contractor, we invite you to experience the unparalleled service and craftsmanship that have made us a staple in the Bellingham community. Get to know us, and discover why we’re the go-to destination for all your glass needs!
We Whatcom!
Come
Arne Arnesen
Sr. Director of Commercial Banking aarnesen@ourfirstfed.com 206-790-2742
Jorge V. Alvarez
Branch Manager
Ferndale Branch
NMLS# 720584
jalvarez@ourfirstfed.com
Jami Peterson Branch Manager
Bellingham Barkley Branch NMLS# 1688652 jpeterson@ourfirstfed.com
Julie Ranson Branch Manager
Bellingham Fairhaven Branch
NMLS# 422234 jranson@ourfirstfed.com
Joel Smith
Director of Mortgage Lending
NMLS# 1751983
jsmith@ourfirstfed.com
Tiffany Bergsma-Evans
Mortgage Loan Officer
NMLS# 487561
tbergsmaevans@ourfirstfed.com
360-303-9540
