Explore Bellingham with your student

Wondering what to do with your student in Bellingham? University Communications interns Cristina Roock and Olena Rypich offer five of their favorite family activities:

Theatres

Enjoy a selection to choose from, ranging from indie flicks to comedy acts. Mount Baker Theatre, built in 1927, offers live performances and concerts for all ages. The Upfront Theatre, established by well known comedian and local Ryan Stiles, hosts live improve comedy nights which include shows from Stiles. Independent cinema The Pickford Film Center recently opened its new location in downtown Bellingham and offers a selection of independent, foreign and documentary films.

Sportsplex

Go indoor ice-skating or participate in indoor hockey or soccer. Located by Civic Field Way, Sportsplex offers a variety of indoor sports at a reasonable price.

Local ice cream

Popular at any time of the year Mallard Ice Cream offers fresh and locally made frozen desserts. If someone is in the mood for dessert or snack, the shop is open seven days a week and offers flavors such as Rose and Coconut Chocolate Chunk with almonds. Be prepared to pay only with cash or check.

Other yummy local ice cream options include Sirena Gelato, Chocolate Necessities & Gelato, and Red Berry frozen yogurt.

Downtown Art Walk

Held on the first Friday of every month from 6 to 10 p.m., Bellingham's Downtown Art Walk is a self-guided evening tour around downtown Bellingham. Galleries, shops, restaurants, studios and other city businesses keep their doors open to showcase artwork by local and visiting artists. Maps for the walk are available at the Downtown Bellingham Partnership and at participating businesses.

Larrabee State Park

Larrabee State Park, arguably one of the most scenic parks in the area, is located only 5 miles south of Fairhaven. With a 2,683-acre camping area and 8,100 feet of saltwater shoreline on Samish Bay, Larrabee offers countless forms of recreation, including hiking, camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, water skiing and scuba diving. Other day-use amenities include an amphitheater and large fields, not to mention an incredible view of gorgeous Bellingham sunsets. Note that a Discover Pass is required to park at Larrabee or any state parks or recreation lands.