Top 10 Must‑Do Summer Activities in Bellingham, WA

Bellingham is a summer playground—with lush hikes, vibrant festivals, and abundant waterfront adventures. Here's your ultimate bucket list:

1. Explore Whatcom Falls Park

Wander scenic trails, chill by its multiple waterfalls, picnic in wooded clearings, and swim or cliff-jump at Whirlpool Falls. It's one of the area’s most iconic summer escapes reddit.com+10youtube.com+10getyourguide.com+10.

2. Hike Chuckanut & Nearby Trails

Drive the stunning Chuckanut Scenic Byway and trek unforgettable trails like Fragrance Lake, Lost Lake, and Oyster Dome—all offering panoramic views of the Salish Sea skookumkids.org.

3. Bike or Hike Galbraith Mountain

With over 65 miles of trails, this is a mountain biker’s paradise—and a rewarding summer trek. Trails range from flowing singletrack to challenging climbs above lake-and-bay vistas .

4. Swim at Lake Whatcom or Little Squalicum Park Pier

Cool off with a dip in Lake Whatcom or stroll out on the newly revamped Little Squalicum Pier—the longest public pier in Washington State bellingham.org+15en.wikipedia.org+15en.wikipedia.org+15.

5. Enjoy Bellingham Farmers Market

Saturdays downtown and Thursdays in Lynden/Ferndale flood the streets with fresh produce, artisan goods, live music, and community energy. Don’t miss it .

6. Catch Outdoor Music & Movies

Look out for free summer concerts like Downtown Sounds and Fairhaven outdoor movies. It’s a perfect way to enjoy warm evenings with local flavor skookumkids.org+1whatcomtalk.com+1.

7. Visit Whatcom Museum & Mount Baker Theatre

Browse fascinating local history and art at the Whatcom Museum (Old City Hall + Lightcatcher) whatcommuseum.org+2en.wikipedia.org+2whatcomtalk.com+2, then catch a summer show at the historic Mount Baker Theatre, a Moorish‑Spanish architectural gem en.wikipedia.org.

8. Tour Bellingham Bay by Kayak or Boat

Self‑guided or book a group kayak or cruise: summer is peak salmon, seabirds, and sunset scenery! Whale watching tours also depart nearby .

9. Berry Picking & Farm Fun

From foraging blackberries along trails to visiting u‑pick farms, berry season is in full swing. Lindy farms like Bellewood offer activities, cider donuts, and tractor rides too skookumkids.org.

10. Family & Kid Adventures

Hit spray parks, Free Marine Life Center visits, summer camps, and youth days run by parks & recreation—perfect for families whatcomkidinsider.com+1whatcomkidinsider.com+1.

💡 Insider Tips

Tip	Details
Best hikes	Oyster Dome & Chuckanut for views; Galbraith boasts top-tier biking
Family favorites	Whatcom Falls, splash parks, Marine Life touch tanks
Culture nights	Mount Baker shows and outdoor concerts under starry skies

Whether you're a nature seeker, foodie, family, or adventurer, Bellingham’s got everything you need for an epic summer. Let me know if you want details on trail maps, market hours, or kayak rentals—I’ve got you covered!