Discover Northwest Washington with Rick Steves
When travel expert and popular public television host Rick Steves couldn’t get on a plane, his adventurous spirit still found a way. He discovered that you don’t need to travel far to have a wide-ranging cultural experience.
Raised in Edmonds, Washington, the city he still calls home, Steves traveled a couple hours north to spend two days in Bellingham and Whatcom County. Located at the top northwest corner of Washington near the Canadian border, Rick visited farms, sampled the ever-growing amount of craft beverage brewers and distillers, explored historic Peace Arch State Park and, as seen in this new video, numerous arts and cultural attractions.
There are many wonderful qualities to discover about Bellingham and the surrounding area. Most notable is the natural beauty, but you will also find absorbing history and a supportive community that cares about shopping at local businesses and appreciating the arts.
Rick Steves learns about the arts and culture scene in Bellingham.
Exploring downtown Bellingham, heading to the Whatcom Museum.
It is now easier than ever to explore and take part in all Whatcom County has to offer. You can engage in authentic local arts and culture (without hours of research) when you follow along the new Visit Bellingham | Whatcom County Culture Crawl!
Let this curated collection of outings be your guide: wander galleries and museums, take part in historical tours, and participate in interactive experiences and culturally significant sites. Check in to map your progress and get insider discounts at certain locations, including independently run businesses that are local favorites, like the Pickford Film Center, Village Books, and Paper Dreams. If you act fast, you can also vie to be one of the first 200 folks to complete six stops and get a thank you present! The real gift, of course, is the unique experiences you’ll have along the way while connecting with the arts, heritage, and culture of this area
Sign up now for the Visit Bellingham | Whatcom County Culture Crawl at bellingham.org/quest.
The Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher Building hosts a rotating schedule of art exhibitions throughout the year and houses the Museum's Family Interactive Gallery (FIG).
People of the Sea and Cedar exhibit features artifacts from the Whatcom History Museum's collection, such as Coast Salish artwork and carvings, woven blankets, hand-made tools and much more.
Whether you are planning a visit in the future or are already on the go around downtown Bellingham, accessing this virtual guide of activities is quick and convenient. There are no apps to download. Once you sign up, the pass is instantly delivered to your e-mail and ready to use!
This adventure that guides you around Whatcom County was created in the same spirit Rick Steves has dedicated his life to - empowering people to take trips that are both fun and culturally broadening.
Live curiously like Rick Steves and explore Whatcom County! Join him as he visits Whatcom County and explores the rich and varied cultural scene. Here is a highlight reel of Rick's recent visit: bellingham.org/ricksteves
Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism
904 Potter Street, Bellingham, WA 98229
Phone: 360-671-3990