Bellingham is a quaint and picturesque city situated in the northwest corner of Washington state, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Cascade Mountains and the glistening waters of the Puget Sound. With a vibrant and unique local culture, Bellingham has something for everyone to explore and enjoy, making it a great option for planning a first date.
1. Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Bellingham is home to a variety of peaceful and scenic parks and places to go on a walk with your date. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands with a stroll along the Kulshan trail, or take a leisurely walk through Whatcom Falls Park and admire the 20-foot waterfall. Larrabee State Park offers stunning views of the Samish Bay and offers the opportunity to explore the rocky shoreline, with plenty of picnic spots to rest and take in the views.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Bellingham
Bellingham has a thriving coffee shop culture, which provides plenty of wonderful and intimate places for a coffee date. For a cozy cafe atmosphere, try The Black Drop Coffee, with its warm and inviting atmosphere and a great selection of pastries and coffee drinks. For a unique experience, head over to The Neverending Bookshop, where you can explore the stacks of used books and enjoy a cup of coffee from their in-house cafe. Or, for a modern espresso bar experience, why not visit Cafe Rumba, where you can sample the variety of coffee drinks and artisanal teas.
3. Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Bellingham is home to a number of art galleries, museums and exhibitions that are perfect for exploring on a date. Make your way to the Whatcom Museum to explore the permanent and temporary collections, or head to Allied Arts of Whatcom County to browse the works of local artists. The Spark Museum of Electrical Invention is an interesting and interactive museum showcasing the history of electricity and its role in modern life. At the Allied Arts Gallery, take the time to appreciate the rotating exhibitions of local and international art.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date To
Bellingham is a great city for live music and entertainment, with a wide variety of venues to choose from. The Wild Buffalo House of Music is one of the most popular spots, offering a wide range of musical acts from around the world, as well as local DJs and performers. The Green Frog Acoustic Tavern is a great option for an intimate performance, while the Firefly Lounge has a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of live music options.
5. Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Bellingham has a wide selection of pubs, bars and restaurants for your first date drink or food. The Boulevard Park Pub is a great spot for a drink and a bite to eat, with a laid-back atmosphere and a variety of craft beers on tap. For something a little more lively, try the Boundary Bay Brewery, which is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. If you're looking for a more upscale experience, The Kombu Kitchen offers a great selection of craft cocktails and delicious sushi.
6. Other Date Ideas To Try in Bellingham
If you’re looking for something a little different for your first date, Bellingham has plenty to offer. Why not take your date to explore the vast expanse of the Chuckanut Mountains or take a kayak tour along the shore of the Puget Sound. For a more romantic evening, sample the local wines at the Kulshan Winery or spend an evening star-gazing at the Fairhaven Park Observatory. And don’t forget to take a stroll along the scenic Bellingham waterfront, where you can admire the sweeping views of the San Juan Islands.
