Check out Bellingham with your student

Wondering what to do with your student in Bellingham? Bellingham native and University Communications intern Liz Hansen offers some of her favorite family activities.

Bellingham Farmers' Market: Enjoy fresh, local produce, foods and music every Saturday through Christmas from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Located at Depot Market Square at Railroad and Chestnut streets, the Bellingham Farmers' Market also offers locally made arts and crafts for sale. Learn more at www.bellinghamfarmers.org.

Whale watching: Go on a whale watching adventure as you cruise through the beautiful San Juan Islands or venture farther with daily trips to Victoria, British Columbia in Canada. Many local companies offer tours.

Boulevard Park: Located at South State Street and Bayview Drive, just minutes from Western's campus, this park offers million-dollar views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan islands. A favorite hang-out of college students and locals Boulevard Park is connected to the historic Fairhaven district by Taylor Dock, which stretches over the pristine water. A great place to catch the sunset.

Local museums: The American Museum of Radio and Electricity has a large and quirky collection of electrical and radio equipment. And the Whatcom Museum's new Lightcatcher Building offers intriguing art exhibits.

Wine Tasting: Whet your palette at one of the many wineries in Whatcom County, including Mount Baker Vineyards and Winery, Chuckanut Ridge Wine Co. and Dakota Creek Winery. There's a larger list, and information about guided tours, at whatcomwinetrail.com.