Bellingham, Washington is located in the northwestern corner of the United States, just south of the border of British Columbia, Canada. It is a city of roughly 85,000 people, and is known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and its vibrant art and music scene. Bellingham is also home to Western Washington University, as well as a number of other colleges, universities, and technical schools. The city is surrounded by several rivers, lakes, and forests, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bellingham is located on the Salish Sea, just north of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It is situated at the northern tip of the Olympic Peninsula, roughly halfway between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia. Bellingham is the closest major city to the San Juan Islands, and is just a few hours away from Mount Baker and North Cascades National Park. The city is also close to the Canadian cities of Abbotsford and Vancouver.
Geography and Climate
Bellingham is situated at the northern end of the Puget Sound, and is surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, the Olympic Mountains, and the Salish Sea. The city's climate is considered to be a mild maritime climate, with mild winter temperatures and cool summers. Rain is common year-round, and snow is not unheard of during the winter months. Bellingham has a total area of 23.8 square miles, with a population density of 3,345 people per square mile.
History of Bellingham, Washington
The area now known as Bellingham was first home to the indigenous Coast Salish people, who lived in the area for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The city was founded in 1858 by settlers from New England, who named it after Bellingham Bay. The city quickly grew in the late 19th century, due to its ideal location on the Puget Sound and its access to the rest of the Pacific Northwest. By the early 20th century, Bellingham had become an important commercial center and hub for shipping in the region.
Things to Do in Bellingham, Washington
Bellingham is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The city is surrounded by rivers, lakes, and forests, making it an ideal spot for fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. The area is also home to a number of ski resorts, including Mount Baker Ski Area, just a short drive from downtown Bellingham. Other popular attractions in the city include art galleries, museums, and the famous Whatcom Falls Park.
Transportation
Bellingham is served by Bellingham International Airport, which offers scheduled flights to several major cities in the United States and Canada. The city is also served by Amtrak, which operates daily service on its Cascade line between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia. There are also a number of public transportation options in the city, including buses, streetcars, and ferries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham, Washington is located in the northwestern corner of the United States, just south of the border of British Columbia, Canada.
What is the climate in Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham has a mild maritime climate, with mild winter temperatures and cool summers. Rain is common year-round, and snow is not unheard of during the winter months.
What is the history of Bellingham, Washington?
The area now known as Bellingham was first home to the indigenous Coast Salish people, who lived in the area for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The city was founded in 1858 by settlers from New England, who named it after Bellingham Bay.
What are some popular attractions in Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, and is also home to a number of art galleries, museums, and the famous Whatcom Falls Park. The city is also served by Bellingham International Airport, which offers scheduled flights to several major cities in the United States and Canada.
What transportation options are available in Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham is served by Bellingham International Airport, Amtrak, and a number of public transportation options, including buses, streetcars, and ferries.
What is the population of Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham has a population of roughly 85,000 people.
What is the total area of Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham has a total area of 23.8 square miles.
What is the population density of Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham has a population density of 3,345 people per square mile.
What is the closest major city to Bellingham, Washington?
The closest major city to Bellingham is Seattle, Washington, which is approximately two hours away.
What is the closest Canadian city to Bellingham, Washington?
The closest Canadian city to Bellingham is Vancouver, British Columbia, which is approximately two hours away.
What ski resorts are nearby Bellingham, Washington?
The closest ski resort to Bellingham is Mount Baker Ski Area, which is located a short drive away.
What rivers and lakes are near Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham is surrounded by several rivers, lakes, and forests, including the Nooksack River, the Samish River, Lake Whatcom, Lake Samish, and Lake Padden.
What national parks are near Bellingham, Washington?
Bellingham is located just a few hours away from North Cascades National Park and Olympic National Park.