Bellingham, a town known for its trees, trails and hippies. However, there is much more to this small town than views of the water and a couple of pine trees. Here is a list of hidden gems around Bellingham that will make you want to keep coming back.
1. Wild Buffalo House of Music
This music venue has a mix of every era of music. From Shaggy on '90s Night to getting funky with jazz bands and lively soul music on Free Funk Friday, there’s something for everyone at the Wild Buffalo. This house of music also holds concerts for big names like Sir Mix-a-lot and Macklemore to local bands. Whether you want to dance to some throwback Thursday tunes or rock out at a live concert, this is the place to be.
2. Taylor Shellfish Farms
Grab some friends, a few plates and drive down to the water for the freshest oysters you will ever eat. Located along Chuckanut Drive, Taylor Shellfish Farms is a hidden gem in the midst of the forest. If oysters don’t suit your taste, there is a huge selection of seafood such as live crab, clams and even geoduck. Buy a bucket of fresh oysters and borrow shucking knives from the Taylor Shellfish crew and enjoy the freshest oysters right on the water.
3. Pickford Film Center
This theater is much more than your typical trip to the movies. Pickford Film Center features films that you wouldn’t find at your normal movie theater; they feature independent, foreign, old films and documentaries. They even serve goodies, wines and beers from local companies to make this a unique theater experience.
4. Lakewood
Paddle boards. Sailboats. Kayaks. Oh my! Lakewood has everything and more for an outdoor adventure on Lake Whatcom. Run through Western Washington University, the prices are cheap and the people are awesome. There are BBQ's for summer hot-dogs, docks for soaking up the sun and even a ropes course for the adrenaline junkies.
5. Saturday Farmer’s Market
Music, food, art, FOOD and local produce. Before you run to the scent of Gusto’s Wood Fired Pizza, check out the local farms and sample their products. Taste unique foods such as Backyard Bee’s wildflower honey. Now that you’ve had your samples, grab a plate from local vendors showcasing their best dishes for the market. Grab a plate of Northern Indian cuisine from the India Grill or a fresh pretzel from Ralf's Bavarian Bakery inside Depot Market Square. As you walk through the market with curry in hand, don’t forget to check out the local artists of Bellingham. Located downtown on Railroad Avenue, the farmer’s market occurs every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
6. Historic Fairhaven
Many people often drive through Fairhaven, just a mile down the road from Western Washington University, but seldom do people stop. Take time to explore all the nooks and crannies that old Fairhaven has to offer. From antique shops to delicious gelato and happy hour nachos with Big Mamma margaritas, you will leave Fairhaven with a smile on your face.
7. Skylark’s Live Jazz Night
Take a trip back in time to Skylark’s Hidden Café in old town Fairhaven. When you walk in surrounded by warm woodwork and golden accents simulating the Victorian Era, you feel as if you have stepped into a charming tavern of the past. With a classic cocktail in hand, grab your dancing shoes for live jazz music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday starting at 8 p.m. at Skylark’s.
