Bellingham is a charming coastal city known for its natural beauty and its plethora of outdoor activities. With its stunning views of the San Juan Islands and the Cascade Mountains, it’s no wonder why Bellingham has become a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re a long-time local or you’ve just moved to the area, get to know this gorgeous city better with these quick fun facts about Bellingham, WA.
1. Bellingham has a hopping brewery scene
Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer connoisseur or just looking to try something new, Bellingham is a great place to explore the world of craft beer. The city is known for its dedication to high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients and its commitment to sustainability, which is reflected in the quality of the beer produced here. The local craft beer scene is also noted for its community-focused atmosphere, with many of the breweries hosting events and offering tastings to visitors. Some of the most popular local breweries in Bellingham include Boundary Bay Brewery, Aslan Brewing Company, and Chuckanut Brewery.
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Get prequalified2. Bellingham is closer to Vancouver, BC than it is Seattle
If you’re new to the area, it may surprise you that the closest major city is actually in another country.
3. It’s the “Raspberry Capital” of the U.S.
Whatcom County produces over 65% of the country’s red raspberries. As one of the top producers, there’s approximately 100 growers harvesting over 8,500 acres of red raspberries.
4. Bellingham finds itself on dozens of “Best Of” lists for outdoor recreation
With access to the beautiful Chuckanut Mountains and other nearby trails, Bellingham offers plenty of outdoor opportunities1 for hiking, mountain biking, and camping. The beaches of Bellingham, including Larrabee State Park, are popular spots for beachcombing and exploring the intertidal zone, as well as wildlife watching.
5. Bellingham was originally four separate towns
The four towns of Whatcom, Sehome, Bellingham, and Fairhaven that surrounded Bellingham Bay merged in 1903 to form the city of Bellingham that we know today.
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Get prequalified6. Bellingham has a prominent mining history
Substantial coal seams in the Chuckanut formation were discovered along Bellingham Bay in 1852, leading to the start of mining in the area. It ended in 1955 with the closing of the Bellingham Coal Mine.
