Getting Around Bellingham: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Bellingham is a very walkable city, especially in the downtown and Fairhaven areas. A lot of daily errands can be accomplished on foot. It has compact neighborhoods with a good mix of cafes, shops, and restaurants. The presence of parks and trails also enhances walkability for recreation. While some areas outside the city center might require a car, digital nomads can easily find walkable neighborhoods.

Bellingham offers a good public transit system with services provided by the Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA). The city features multiple bus routes, including frequent "GO Lines," aiding movement across the county. Moreover, it affords connections to larger cities like Seattle and Vancouver through services such as Amtrak and FlixBus. However, while useful for intra- and inter-city travel, the transit frequency and coverage may not be as comprehensive in less central areas.

Bellingham is exceptionally bike-friendly, supported by a strong cycling community and a wealth of bike infrastructure. The city’s cycling network is enhanced by the Bicycle Master Plan, which aims to ensure a high-comfort riding experience for all. Ongoing improvements such as added bike lanes and safer street crossings enrich these conditions further. Additionally, Bellingham's terrain is generally supportive of biking, offering travelers a practical and pleasant alternative to cars for getting around.