What to Do and See in Bellingham, Washington

The area that would one day become the City of Bellingham was first explored in 1792 by Captain George Vancouver. It was not until 1904 that the city was incorporated. Bellingham was named after British Navy provisioner Sir William Bellingham.

This 28 square mile city holds the unique honor of being the last major city on the Washington Coastline before crossing the Canadian border. It lies just 90 miles North of Seattle and serves as the county seat for Whatcom County.

Bellingham is comprised of 23 distinct neighborhoods whose leaders all serve together to shape the entire city.

The Mount Baker region of Bellingham is home to several interesting tourist attractions including:

The American Museum of Radio and Electricity: Houses a rare collection of over 1,000 radios from various points in history.

The Whatcom Old Settlers Association: A non-profit organization made up of all volunteers who are responsible for organizing and running the annual Old Settlers Picnic and Grand Parade which takes place the last weekend in July of every year from Thursday to Sunday.

The Bellingham Festival of Music: Approximately two weeks of some of the best vocal and instrumental musical talent.

The Bellingham Railway Museum: Founded by railroad modelers and rail history enthusiasts, the museum's mission is to provide residents of and visitors to the Bellingham community with a link to the history of the railroad system. This museum actually started as an exhibit in the American Museum of Radio and Electricity.

The Peace Arch International Park: Dedicated to the idea that the world benefits when people of all backgrounds seek to learn and understand each other and each other's differences. The arch is a physical arch that rests on the border of Blaine, Washington, USA (right outside of Bellingham) and Douglas, British Columbia, Canada. It is the only international gateway that has ever been erected in the name of peace between nations.

The City of Bellingham has much to offer the curious tourist. Besides the various events that are hosted in the city and the multiple museums which seek to preserve important memories in history, Bellingham also offers outstanding views of the North Puget Sound, the mountains in the east, and the San Juan Islands. No matter which road you drive on in Bellingham, you're always taking "the scenic route."