Bellingham: A Last-Minute Summer Escape for Seattle-Area Families

As summer nears its end, my family is itching for more adventures — but not for a long road trip. A nearby solution is Bellingham, which boasts a fabulous array of parks and other attractions for adventurous Northwest families.

Its natural areas feel refreshingly wild, while the city — encompassing both downtown and the historic Fairhaven neighborhood — offers a dynamic small-town vibe with plenty to see and do. The relatively short 90-minute drive from Seattle means it’s far enough away to feel like an escape, but close enough to use less than a tank of gas.

Check out these top Bellingham adventures!

First stop: Larrabee State Park