Bellingham
local area
Fairhaven
Fairhaven was founded in the late 1880s and is now part of the City of Bellingham. On the south side of Bellingham, it borders Puget Sound on the west and Western Washington University on the northeast. Its center is the Fairhaven Historical District, which features a seasonal farmers market as well as numerous restaurants and shops.
Things to try:
- Check out the local artists’ boutiques such as Good Earth Pottery
- Have a glass of wine at Le Chat Noir (The Black Cat) and take in the view
Lynden
Lynden is many different things to many different people. Guests of the Lynden area find the local merchants customer oriented and Lynden’s location to be unbeatable for outings to ski, golf, boat, sightsee or visit Canada. The Dutch-influenced architecture reminds visitors of strolling the canals of Holland while enjoying food from around the world in their many restaurants.
Things to try:
- Check out the Northwest Washington Fair
- Visit the Lynden Pioneer Museum
- Take the “Touch of Dutch” tour
La Conner
La Conner is known for its friendly people, diverse community, cultural attractions including three museums and outdoor sculpture exhibits, locally owned boutiques and galleries, and an environment of mountain, farms, rivers, island, and the North Puget Sound.
Things to try:
- U-pick apples, strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries from Skagit Valley’s local farms
- Visit Padilla Bay’s Interpretive Center to discover what marine life lives in La Conner’s waters
- Take a hike in La Conner to enjoy its ample hills and beautiful views
Mt. Vernon
Mt. Vernon is a city characterized by a “hometown” atmosphere and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. This bountiful countryside features an abundance of action, adventure, relaxation, and culture. Mt. Vernon is known for the annual Tulip Festival.
Things to try:
- Golf at Eaglemont, which was voted one of the top 10 courses in the state
- Go eagle-watching
San Juan Islands
The paradise known as the San Juan Islands consists of 172 islands. Three major islands are Lopez, Orcas and San Juan Island. You can reach them by the Washington State ferry, seaplane or boat. Wonderful accommodations and amenities await you in the islands.
Things to try:
- Take a whale-watching cruise around the islands
- Visit the Whale Museum
- Celebrate summer at Pelindaba Farm’s annual Lavender Festival
