Solo Traveling to Bellingham? Here’s what to do!

So, you’re thinking about going to Bellingham for a little getaway. Maybe a day trip from Seattle? A weekend?

Lately I’ve been trying to take the time to get away every weekend. Even if it’s just a day trip or a few hours away. I was able to make my way out to Bellingham, after planning a full day. So, let’s get into this post on: Solo Traveling to Bellingham? Here’s what to do!

If you don’t already know, Bellingham is a darling little town which is about an hour and 45 minutes North of Seattle. It’s also, roughly, 25 minutes to the Canada/US boarder patrol. It’s known as a good stopping point while road tripping up or down from Vancouver B.C.

You can get there by driving, via train, greyhound and airplane.

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Solo Traveling to Bellingham? Here’s what to do!

Before we get into this post, you know I always keep it real on here. Though I had an amazing time on this trip, I got sick and left early. So sick, in fact, that I put my mask on before I even finished my drink and paid my server. I felt nauseated and started sweated profusely (😬 sorry). Then had an overwhelming rush of sudden exhaustion.

I took this trip solo to get away from city life and the stress that can come with it. I hadn’t hit my REM cycle all week. The night before, well… sigh, let’s just say, I was running on nothing that day. So Bellingham relieved a lot of stress! So much so, my body caught up with my mind and made me go home earlier than I had planned.

I was really bummed.

Yet, during this time… we really can’t be too careful. Yes, I’m talking about the C word (and right now, the D-strain of it)… but “good gravy” my day great otherwise.

With that context out of the way, now we can begin!

Coffee/Tea and Everything in Between

No one be shocked when I say: Support Local!

If you’re coming from Seattle, it’s an hour and a half drive to Bellingham. I don’t know about you but my intentions are always to get up early and sneak-in an iced americano order in the AM. It never happens. I normally bring a hot tea from home.

That said, if you’re the kind of person who can drive in the mornings without caffeine… I don’t know what planet you’re from but kudos. If you like to support local when you get to your destination, I definitely recommend a few Bellingham coffee shops in the downtown Fairhaven area:

Fairhaven Historic District

Just do it. Start there and be overwhelmed by the darlingness of the small downtown vibe. Oh Fairhaven, you’re just charming! There’s not a whole lot to do out in this small area but they have great dining, a beautiful pier you can watch people crabbing on and coffeeeeee. I’m a sucker for a bookstore and Fairhaven’s Village Books and Paper Dreams is huge and 100% worth exploring.

It’s also the closest town in Bellingham to the Cruise & Ferry terminal.

Mark Twain Village Books — Mark Twain in front of the Village Bookstore

Bellingham Cider Co Sign — Blackberry Ginger Cider at Bellingham Cider Company

Brewery & Cider Tour

Surprised I didn’t say wine or vineyard, aren’t you? Haha! Well, Bellingham is a lot further north and there aren’t as many vineyards as brewhouses in their city. They do have some amazing and very well known brews and ciders through. All of which, to my understanding, have outdoor patios right now.

Obviously don’t go crazy and keep your eyes and ears open when traveling alone. Honestly, you can park about anywhere in Bellingham and walk it. You can get from one side of town to the next in about an hour and a half, so about 4.8 miles. Just food for thought!

Some of these have super unique flavors, anything from Blackberry Ginger to Cider Slushies. Not them mention each one is local.

A list of their brewery’s and cider houses!

Enough said!

Drive Past or Walk Through Lairmont Manor

Lairmont Manor is a stunning wedding venue and estate. I called to see if I could walk around but they had a wedding the day of it. Always call a place like this, before just showing up! I don’t even know what I would do if I crashed a wedding!

The gardens are beautiful and the so is the main hall. Next time I go out there, I’m definitely going.

Mini Golf

Listen, I love chatting with strangers. I love doing new things and trying it in a new place. Mini golf is one of those things that:

Doesn’t get old
Is always a good time!

Flatstick Pub has mini golf inside. If you’re looking for outside, the next town over has a course at Station 49.

Whatcom Museum Front — The Whatcom Museum!

Take a Leisurely Walk or Hike

Since you’ll be doing a lot of walking as is, keep it simple with either a 2 to 4 mile walk. I’ve included three below. Two at a park and one closer to a lake!

Museums

I mean, obviously. The two museums are very small but had a fantastic collection of glass art (including a few Chuhuly’s) and a great exhibit on the Native American land Bellingham is on. There’s also a collection on clothing through the years, which I particularly enjoyed.

$10 with get you into both museums. Which is a steal. Just keep your receipt!

Picnic in the Park

There’s always a book I’m reading and it’s always with me on my day trips. If not, I bring my journal. Bellingham has some beautiful parks right off the pier and on the pier! I recommend bringing a turkish towel and camping out if you’re taking your time.

You can also grab lunch and dinner to go from any of the restaurants.

Want to know what I did on my solo trip to Bellingham?

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