Bellingham is definitely one of those cities that thrive the best when the weather is at its prime. There are so many things to do around town, with friends, or even on your own. Spring is the perfect time to go out and enjoy.

Here is a list of things you can do this quarter to take advantage of this great city and the wonderful weather:

1. Hiking

Literally, there are SO many places to go hiking in Bellingham, and most of them are only 15 minutes away from downtown. If you go to Western Washington University, you literally have the arboretum on campus with miles of trails for you to explore. Hiking has been something I’ve loved doing ever since I was in high school. It is so great now that in college I’m able to just go hop on a trail whenever I want.

Some of my favorite ones include the classic Oyster Dome hike, Alger Alps, and hiking around Larrabee State Park to one of their hidden beaches. If you’re in Bellingham this spring, definitely make it a huge priority to go out and explore.

2. Water Activities

We are around so many lakes and bays, there is no way you wouldn’t take advantage of the water around us. You can go kayaking to the San Juan Islands or canoe to a beach! Knock off your friends while you’re paddleboarding. The options are endless. If you want, you can even go for a swim! (ok that might be cold but you do you.)

3. Picnics

Nothing is better than spending hours sitting and eating food. Get a couple of your friends, family, significant others, whoever, and pack a lunch up for the day. Bring your hammock so you can take a little nap. Frisbees are always great to throw around with friends. Maybe bring out the spike ball net and have some fun.

My favorite places to have picnics are at Boulevard Park, Larrabee State Park, or at Padilla Bay. The sun is finally out, so catch as much Vitamin D you can before it’s gone again!

4. Farmers Markets

Who doesn’t love fresh produce from local farmers, fancy pottery, food trucks, and jewelry? The Farmers Market is such a great way for you to find that perfect decoration for the apartment or a present for Mom on Mother’s Day. This is also the best way for you to get good food from local chefs. You can finally get a sugar high from eating too many honey sticks when the Farmers Market rolls into town.

5. Watch the sunset

There’s just something about parking a car at the park and being able to watch the sunsets. Bellingham sunsets are probably some of the best I’ve ever seen. Especially when you watch it over the bay and see the waves move with it. Everyone knows that the view of the sunset with the HERALD building is probably the most iconic Bellingham thing. It literally looks like the Patagonia logo. No one can fight me on this.