Our Favorite Parks
Bellingham has over 44 stunning parks, each with unique features that make them special for every family member. To give you a glimpse of what makes these parks truly amazing, we collaborated with talented local photographer Aaron Allen (@lenstolocket) to capture their essence through breathtaking photos. Our team has also shared their favorite parks and the reasons behind their choices, offering you personal insights to help plan your next outdoor adventure. Discover the diverse and captivating parks in Bellingham and Whatcom County, perfect for families, kids, and playground enthusiasts alike!
Located @ 4510 Cordata Parkway, Bellingham, WA
Cordata Park
Teacher Samantha and Nicole pick this park as their favorite park in town.
Samantha, “Cordata because it’s pretty safe for the kids, it’s big, it’s beautiful, and it’s close to my house.”
Nicole, “I also agree with Cordata park! And it has a splash park too. So many different things to do.”
The park features the state’s first outdoor parkour course, a paved bike pump track, a spray park, and a full playground with great features. There are over 25 acres to play in and a covered picnic area.
Find out more
Squalicum Creek Park
Squalicum Park is Teacher Kate’s favorite park and her son’s favorite.
Kate, “All the kids call this park ‘The Zip-line Park.’ I like the park’s layout.”
The zip-line park obviously has a zip-line, a big play structure, a small playground for the littles, a paved bike and skateboard area, paved walkways, a basketball court, a baseball field, a large undercover picnic area, and nice bathrooms. All of this is nestled in over 35 acres of fields and trails.
Find out more.
Located @ 1001 Squalicum Parkway, Bellingham Wa
Boulevard Park
Owner Jonathan and Teacher Karen’s favorite is Boulevard Park.
Jonathan, “My second office at my favorite coffee shop in the park. I love that it is on the bay and the boardwalk over the water.”
This park is set up on the water with a boat-like playground to match the theme. The kids love throwing rocks in the bay just as much as the unique playground. The train comes through the park, and there is lots of room to play in the field.
So many pictures of Bellingham feature this beautiful park because of the jaw-dropping sunsets over the boardwalk.
Find out more
Elizabeth Park
This is teacher Mandy’s favorite park.
Mandy, “I just like being outside, and Elizabeth Park is pretty nice.”
Elizabeth Park is set in a beautiful neighborhood with very large trees and beautiful flowers everywhere. It features a large playground, tennis and pickleball courts, gazebo, and a fountain.
Located @ 2205 Elizabeth St, Bellingham, WA
Zuanich Point Park
Hiring and Design Manager Danie’s favorite park is Zuanich Park.
Danie, “We taught our two girls how to ride bikes and skateboard there, and I like flying kites there.”
This park is on the beautiful marina with views of Mt. Baker and Bellingham Bay. There is plenty to do here, with a playground, small playgrounds and workout equipment along the walkway, as well as all the incredible boats in the harbor. There is also a Marine Life Center, where kids can see and even touch some marine life. You can even grab a bite to eat at some great restaurants.
Find out more
Waypoint Park
Bellingham’s favorite park.
Come down to Waypoint Park and see what everyone is so excited about! Walking into the park from Central Avenue, you will enjoy Bellingham’s unique skyline with views of Whatcom Waterway, Lummi Island, and the cityscape. A quaint playground awaits just a few steps away, providing a natural play experience with a nod to the site’s history. Wander down to the beach to enjoy the waterfront. A large bike pump track is set up just outside the bear garden and ice cream shop. There is a lot for the entire family to enjoy and meet some locals.
Outside of Bellingham
Located @ Star Park, Ferndale Rd, Ferndale, WA
Ferndale Star Park
Head Of Facilities Erik likes Ferndale Star Park.
“I love bringing my girls there. There is a separate toddler area and lots of things for them to climb on.”
Designed by Ferndale Kids and built entirely by volunteers, Star Park is a large park with a variety of features that can keep children entertained for hours. From climbing structures to play areas, there’s something for every child’s interest.
The Star Park build involved over 300 organizations and 2,200 volunteers, making it the largest volunteer event in the history of Ferndale.
Find out more
Hovander Park
Hovander Homestead Park is Director Larissa, Kendra, and Teacher Taylor’s Favorite park.
Larissa, “There is absolutely no way I can choose just one park– BUT, Hovander is always a good one; river access, plenty of roaming room, lots to see, a beautiful scented full garden to walk through and a boardwalk, sometimes animals … lotttsss to do and a lot to see! Plus, it’s close to home.”
Taylor, “Hovander is my most favorite park. There is usually parking, it is open, there are lots to see, and there are good trails to walk on. :)”
Hovander Homestead Park encompasses nearly 350 acres, including over a mile of riverfrontage. Accessible sidewalks provide access to the historic Hovander House, playground, restrooms, Group Picnic Shelter, animals, and the Hovander River Trail.
Find out more
Other Park Guides
Here are some other links to more of the parks in Bellingham.
Located @ 5299 Nielsen Road, Ferndale, WA 98248