When considering the diverse range of neighborhoods that Bellingham has to offer, the most appeal, and most unique, must surely be none other than city’s historic Fairhaven District. Located just south of downtown Bellingham, and neighboring Western Washington University to the northeast, this neighborhood boasts a European elegance that you would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the area. The beautiful Bellingham Bay and Marine Park are located at its west-most border, boasting beautiful views, perfect for a summer stroll. Every May, this park is the sight of the exciting conclusion of the Bellingham Ski-to Sea Festival. Find a spot along the bay, (show up early, otherwise you might miss out on one of the prime spots!), and cheer on the racers as they kayak through the water. Be sure to take part in the festivities: food, crafts, music, and an all-around exciting atmosphere.
But there’s much more to this lovely neighborhood than simply a once-a-year festival. A favorite stop for Fairhaven locals is the Village Books bookstore. With three floors of books, cozy chairs to linger in, and an adorable coffee and sandwich shop on the top floor, it’s easy to find yourself getting ‘lost’ for hours. Just next door, with a helpful connected entryway, is Paper Dreams, an eclectic shop filled with unique gifts for friends and family members. Sample some of their daily-made Mount Baker Fudge, or get some to go! Village Books and Paper Dreams, along with a number of other small shops, border on the Village Green, which boasts a seasonal market, and outdoor films during the summer.
Want to sample fine dining in Fairhaven? You’re going to have a lot to choose from. For the elegant diner, a dinner at Flats Tapas Bar is a must. With their small, exotic plates and a wine list of over 100 choices, this restaurant truly personifies the sophistication of the neighborhood. Just up the street, the historic Sycamore Square contains such excellent restaurants as Mambo Italiano, On Rice, and Le Chat Noir. Le Chat Noir, or ‘the Black Cat’, is located on the top floor of the square, with a French Cabaret-themed atmosphere that is especially intriguing if you dine there in the evening.
Speaking of evening activities, Fairhaven nightlife is perfect for those who want a calmer, more refined alternative to the hectic atmosphere of downtown Bellingham. The Archer, an Irish Bar located bellow street-level just across from the Village Green, perfectly exemplifies this ambiance. With a full menu, live Irish fiddle music several nights per week, and an excellent assortment of beers on-tap, the Archer is definitely the place to be on a Friday night. Just two blocks away is Skylark’s Hidden Café, a historic hotel-turned restaurant possessing many of the original hotel attributes. With live Jazz music and dim lighting, Skylark’s is the perfect place for an intimate date night.
With all this to offer and more, Fairhaven is the place to be for true Bellingham sophistication. With a safe, family-friendly atmosphere, and excellent shopping, dining, and recreational choices, you can’t find Fairhaven amenities in any other area.
This article was produced by Eric Badgley; specializing in Bellingham Real Estate and Fairhaven Real Estate. For more details please visit us at http://www.bellingham-realestate.net
