The summer cruise season in the Pacific Northwest involves most travelers boarding a massive ship bound for Alaska. But for those who prefer a more leisurely journey on the open water, there’s the Alaska Ferry, which departs from Bellingham, Washington, a two-hour drive from Seattle. One of the perks is the chance to explore the historic village of Fairhaven, where the ferry docks. Here are some places to explore on the way to or from your trip.
The Alaska ferry departs and returns to the Lower 48 from Fairhaven, a historic neighborhood in … (+) Bellingham, Washington
Leslie Kelly
Good morning
For passengers making the return trip south, the pre-dawn departure from Juneau can be a shock. But professionals know that you use those early morning hours to settle into a modest cabin or pitch a tent on the deck. Yes, it’s the preferred mode of transportation for many.
After a two-day journey on the spectacular Alaska Marine Highway, the ferry docks in the historic village of Fairhaven around 8 a.m. Most passengers disembark and head home or to their next destination, but this special place is definitely worth exploring. Let’s start with breakfast.
Café Blue, located in the historic village of Fairhaven near Bellingham, Washington, offers homemade pastries, delicious meals and homemade baked goods. … (+) coffee drinks and a sense of belonging to a welcoming community.
Leslie Kelly
Café Blue is one of those coffee shops that feels like home even if you’re a first-timer. The atmosphere is welcoming, the homemade pastries are beyond what you’d expect (yes, please, the cheddar and dill biscuit), the coffee drinks are served with style. The artwork and vintage clothing display, the friendly conversations between regulars and baristas add to the charm. It’s open daily.
Craving a fix of something healthy? Head to Big Love Juice for cold-pressed organic fruit and veggie combos (the detox is a classic, with celery, spinach and cucumber), as well as smoothies, plant-based bowls and premium espresso and matcha drinks. There’s outdoor seating that offers views of everyone strolling the path to the exceptional Taylor Dock, a walk worth making all the way to Boulevard Park.
Mount Bakery hits the mark with its exceptional pastries made with Cairnspring Mills flour from neighboring Skagit County. It also offers a wide range of breakfast favorites, including a magnificent Benedict featuring local hot-smoked salmon and Huevos Rancheros nestled in a delicate crepe. Espresso drinks are made with Hammerhead Coffee Roasters.
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The Turkish breakfast at Keenan’s on the Pier in Fairhaven Village near Bellingham, Washington, is a … (+) study in satisfying simplicity.
Leslie Kelly
Keenan’s at The Pier boasts one of the best waterfront views in the Northwest, making it a popular dining destination. Aside from traditional breakfast staples, the Turkish breakfast is distinguished by its beautiful simplicity: soft-boiled eggs, sautéed vegetables, whipped feta, and toasted bagels. If dining in this cozy space makes you want to puke, check with the front desk at the Chrysalis Inn and Spa, where the restaurant is located. There may be a spot available. It’s unlikely during the busy summer months, so if you want to go that route (and you should definitely consider staying there), make a reservation well in advance.
Stick around long enough for lunch to begin, then don’t miss the exceptional soups, sandwiches and treats at Evolve Chocolate and Cafe at Village Books (which features a wide selection of local authors and mouthwatering products in its Paper Dreams gift shop), the Hawaiian-style grinds at Fairhaven Poke or the crispy signature dish at Port Fairhaven Fish-n-Chips. Stones Throw Brewery’s tapas bar opens daily at noon and has a pretty cool happy hour that runs from opening to 3 p.m. There’s also a rotating line of food trucks that park on-site.
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Joe’s Gardens in Bellingham, Washington grows and sells incredible produce, including some of the best … (+) Butter lettuce. This is a must-try on a summer trip on the Alaska ferry.
Leslie Kelly
Before you leave town on I-5, stop by one of the best produce stands on the planet, Joe’s Gardens. The family-owned business has been selling sprouts and seedlings, as well as vegetables that have been grown on-site since the 1930s. The price for the ultra-tender, head-sized butter lettuce? Just $2.99! The owners also stock produce from other local farmers, including treasures from Barbie’s Berries and raw, unfiltered honey from BeeWorks Farm.
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