Bellingham
Western Washington University's main campus in Bellingham, Washington offers a stunning Pacific Northwest academic experience. Nestled amid natural beauty and a creative city center, WWU stands out as an ideal destination for students seeking both natural charm and academic excellence.
A Small City with Big Charm
Discover Bellingham
Tucked in the northwest corner of the United States, Bellingham exudes an effortless cool that's hard to resist.
The city's magnetic charm is a blend of natural wonders and urban vibes, drawing adventure-seekers and creatives alike. With the majestic Bellingham Bay on one side and the rugged Chuckanut Mountains on the other, it's a playground for outdoor enthusiasts looking to conquer peaks, ride waves, or simply soak in the breathtaking views.
But that's not all - the downtown scene is teeming with eclectic eateries, artisanal shops, and an artsy undercurrent that keeps the city buzzing with creativity.
Bellingham's laid-back yet edgy atmosphere makes it a haven for the effortlessly cool, where you can watch the waves roll in, pursue your creative passions, and savor gourmet cuisine with equal flair.
Bellingham Facts and Figures
| Population | 95,960 |
| County | Whatcom |
| Latitude and Longitude | 48.769768, -122.485886 |
| Climate | Warm and Temperate |
| Average Annual Rainfall | 37 Inches |
| Average Sunny Days Per Year | 158 |
| Temperature | Typically varies from 34°F to 74°F, rarely below 23°F or above 82°F. |
| Miles from Seattle, WA | 90 |
| Miles from Vancouver, BC | 55 |
- Bellingham was once four separate towns: Whatcom, Sehome, Bellingham, and Fairhaven. The four merged in 1903 to form the city we know today
- Bellingham International Airport offers non-stop flights to and from a variety of locations.
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Canoe & Kayak magazine named Bellingham to its list of North America’s Best Paddling Towns, with the highest number of surfski paddlers per capita.
- 1889 Magazine named Bellingham to its Top 5 Multi-sport Destinations in Washington State for its abundance of snow sports, hiking, mountain biking and sea kayaking.
Visit Bellingham
Bellingham is conveniently located in northwest Washington state, with access to major transportation hubs. The city has its own regional airport, Bellingham International Airport (BLI), which connects to various destinations. Additionally, it's well-connected by road, being close to Interstate 5, making it accessible by car or bus from nearby cities like Seattle and Vancouver, Canada. Public transportation options, such as buses and rideshares, are also available within the city. Bellingham is easily reachable, making it a convenient destination for those looking to explore the Pacific Northwest.
WWU ♥ Bellingham
Western's Home Since 1893
Western Washington University, founded in 1893 as the New Whatcom Normal School, is an integral part of Bellingham's history. It has evolved from a teacher training school to a comprehensive university, shaping the city's growth. With a commitment to sustainability and community engagement, the university reflects Bellingham's values. Its scenic campus and cultural contributions make it a vital component of the city's identity, fostering a strong connection between higher education and community development.
Serving Our Communities
Tribal Relations
Western Washington University's main campus is situated on the ancestral homelands of the Coast Salish Peoples, who have lived in the Salish Sea basin, all throughout the San Juan Islands and the North Cascades watershed from time immemorial. We express our deepest respect and gratitude to our Indigenous neighbors, for their enduring care and protection of our shared lands and waterways.
Western acknowledges the significant role and contributions of Indigenous peoples in our past, present, and future, and we are committed to celebrating their legacy, nurturing a future of inclusivity, and engaging in meaningful partnership.
Visit the Office of Tribal Relations website to learn more about our coordination of the government-to-government relationship between tribes and Western Washington University.
Community Partnership
Western's Office of Community Relations fosters positive relationships with local governments, surrounding neighborhoods, civic and community-based organizations, and the local business community. With 16,000 students and hundreds of faculty experts, Western is a valuable community resource and has many programs that support our communities. We are eager to partner with the public and private sector seeking to improve the quality of life of our citizens while promoting economic and community development.
Small Business Development
The Western Washington Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is making a big impact on our local community.
The SBDC provides essential support to small business owners. empowering entrepreneurs to thrive, create jobs, and boost economic growth through personalized consulting, business planning, financing guidance, and workshops. Additionally, it fosters innovation and collaboration among all businesses, strengthening the community's economic resilience.
Outreach and Continuing Education
Outreach and Continuing Education (OCE) provides diverse professional and community learning opportunities through innovative partnerships and programming. OCE expands access to Western’s outstanding educational opportunities across the Western Washington region and beyond through a focus on creating community, serving learners and providing lifelong impact.
Visit the OCE website to learn more about our community-based programs.
Visit WWU
Book Your Tour
Take a tour of Western's beautiful campus! Let our student tour guides lead you and a small group on a 60-minute campus tour. They will give you the inside scoop on everything Western and answer your questions as you explore. There's also a 30-minute admission information session included in the tour.
