Bellingham on a Budget

Bellingham's stunning and diverse natural setting and lively arts scene gives travelers on a budget plenty of options to stay active and fully entertained. From the Downtown Arts District to Historic Fairhaven to the waterfront and the beautiful campus of Western Washington University, Bellingham has plenty to take in for free or for a nominal fee. It has some legendary cheap eats as well.

This clean and comfortable hotel is close to shopping, restaurants and many services and gets great ratings from guests. If you're traveling on a budget, you won't find a better value in Bellingham. The staff is friendly and responsive. Service is good and consistent.
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A 50's sci-fi theme and donuts. What a perfect combo! Add gluten-free and vegan choices, savory brunch items, a full espresso menu and more, and you have donut shop perfection. You can't miss the giant rocket next to the shop - right in the heart of downtown.
The staff is friendly and responsive.
The succulent taste of Hawaii in the Northwest - Hawaiian pizzas and sandwiches, that is. When I have a big appetite, I stop in Coconut Kenny's for Da King Mahalo, wisely acclaimed as one of the best sandwich creations in the county. If you're in the mood for pizza, get one with an island flair - Kanaka - Hawaiian BBQ pork in sauce wit... More >
The succulent taste of Hawaii in the Northwest - Hawaiian pizzas and sandwiches, that is. When I have a big appetite, I stop in Coconut Kenny's for Da King Mahalo, wisely acclaimed as one of the best sandwich creations in the county. If you're in the mood for pizza, get one with an island flair - Kanaka - Hawaiian BBQ pork in sauce with green onions. The prices won't bust your wallet.
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The Whatcom Museum of Hisotry and Art actually consists of two buildings: the old 1892 City Hall, which is a Victorian architectural showpiece, and the new architecturally innovative Lightcatcher Building. Bellingham is serious about its rich heritage and the arts, and Whatcom Museum is testimony to both. Museums are great activities for travel on a budget. Lightcatcher focuses on art, and Old City Hall focuses on history.
The American Museum of Radio and Electricity will wow you even if you flunked science. The museum's collection of artifacts in the field of scientific discovery is known around the world as one of the best. And in Bellingham, Washington. Who knew? So while you're in town, release your inner geek and take it in. The entry fee is very bu... More >
The American Museum of Radio and Electricity will wow you even if you flunked science. The museum's collection of artifacts in the field of scientific discovery is known around the world as one of the best. And in Bellingham, Washington. Who knew? So while you're in town, release your inner geek and take it in. The entry fee is very budget friendly, so bring the whole family. The kids will actually thank you.
When I have a big appetite, I stop in Coconut Kenny's for Da King Mahalo, wisely acclaimed as one of the best sandwich creations in the county.
Village Books has earned a reputation as one of the best independent bookstores in the Northwest. It's well stocked, well organized and a great place to get lost for hours browsing your favorite section. A cafe and cozy coffee bar invite lingering over some titles you picked up. I never miss a visit to Village Books, located in the old fairhaven District, when I'm in Bellingham.  More
Village Books has earned a reputation as one of the best independent bookstores in the Northwest. It's well stocked, well organized and a great place to get lost for hours browsing your favorite section. A cafe and cozy coffee bar invite lingering over some titles you picked up. I never miss a visit to Village Books, located in the old fairhaven District, when I'm in Bellingham.
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About the Author

Allen Cox
Allen Cox
Writing and editing professional, Communications Consultant. Editor, Northwest Travel magazine. Contributing Editor, HARBORS magazine. Freelance travel & lifestyle writer. Author of Best Easy Day Hikes - Seattle, Best Easy Day Hikes - Tacoma. Board of Directors: IFWTWA Faculty, Pacific NW Travel Writers Conference website: www.allencox.org blog: www.localroads.wordpress.com

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