Bellingham is the northernmost city in Washington state and one of abundant natural beauty. Located on Bellingham Bay, it lies 21 miles south of the United States-Canada border between Vancouver and Seattle. In addition to being a popular tourist destination because of its easy access to the San Juan Islands and the Northern Cascade region, it is also a city full of friendly people, diverse neighborhoods, and much to see and do. If you’re thinking of finding your next home in Bellingham, chances are, you’ll find plenty about it to love.
A Look at Bellingham’s History
Like much of Washington state, the area that is now Bellingham was once inhabited by many Native American tribes. European explorers first arrived in the 1700s, and subsequently American pioneers and settlers in the mid-1850s. As more and more people arrived, the area became an important center for lumber and mining, and this growth was only encouraged by its ideal location near the water and the arrival of the railroad. Throughout the years, Bellingham has grown in diversity, and today is vibrant, and thriving city with plenty of opportunities and much to see and do for all who call it home.
A Few Fun Facts About Bellingham
Read more fun facts about Bellingham here.
Bellingham’s LGBTQ Community
Bellingham is a city with a thriving and diverse LGBTQ community that is supported by various resources, including:
PFLAG Bellingham-Whatcom County
PFLAG Bellingham-Whatcom County is Bellingham’s local chapter of PFLAG National, which is national support, education, and advocacy organization for LGBTQ people, as well as their families, friends, and allies. It is the largest grassroots-based family organization of its kind in the country. The stated mission of PFLAG is to help change attitudes and create an environment of understanding so that everyone can live in a world that is safe and inclusive, a mission that it tries to fulfill through support, education, and advocacy.
What's the Weather Like in Bellingham?
In Bellingham, residents can expect to experience all four distinct seasons each year. This means colder winters with moderate snowfall and pleasant, sunny summers, along with mild spring and fall seasons. Temperatures typically reach an average high of 72°F in July, and an average low of 34°F in January. Bellingham gets 39 inches of rain and 9 inches of snow, on average, per year.
Can’t-Miss Events in Bellingham
Downtown Bellingham Pride Parade and Festival
If you live in Bellingham, you won’t want to miss the Downtown Bellingham Pride Parade and Festival, which occurs each year, and is a county-wide celebration of all that the LGBTQ community adds to the city. This annual celebration of the area’s LGBTQ community is the perfect time to get together with friends and allies and have fun.
The Best Neighborhoods in Bellingham
If you're considering moving to Bellingham, you will find that the entire city is very welcoming. Unlike some cities that tend to have one specific “gayborhood,” the LGBTQ community in Bellingham is sprinkled throughout the city, so there are many neighborhoods that would make wonderful places to call home. This is why it’s always advised to contact a Bellingham gay realtor who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find the perfect home in the ideal neighborhood. The current median list price of homes for sale in Bellingham is around $598,000.
Arts and Entertainment
Bellingham has a lovely, walkable downtown district filled with unique boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a beautiful, relaxing place to spend the day strolling, shopping, and having fun.
Bellingham has a vibrant arts and culture scene, and those who love the arts won't want to miss the chance to see a show at the Mount Baker Theatre. This theatre has a long nearly one-hundred-year history, and offers great shows from local performers and entertainers from across the country, and even around the world.
Parks and Recreation
Bellingham is well-known for being one of the best spots in the state of Washington from which to set sail and observe some of nature's most majestic creatures. Depending upon the season, a variety of whales including Orcas, Gray Whales, Minke Whales, and more can be observed.
Whatcom Falls Park is a stunning 241-acre park featuring four waterfalls, vast woodlands, abundant wildlife, plenty of trails, and many spots to just relax and enjoy a beautiful day in Bellingham.
Bellingham Nightlife
Rumors Cabaret is one of the most popular LGBTQ nightspots in the Bellingham area and one you'll want to put on your list. It offers great music and dancing, strong drinks, and friendly crowds.
Bellingham is well known for its excellent craft beers – many of which are offered at a wide variety of excellent local breweries around town. Many offer great pub food and friendly crowds as well and are great places to stop for a bite and a pint during a night out on the town.
Contact a Bellingham Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Bellingham, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Bellingham, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Bellingham gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
