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Looking for cheap eats & activities in Bellingham? We’ll find local deals for you

A glass of Beach Cat Brewing’s Smash Cat India pale ale sits on a table at the bewery, with the downtown Bellingham waterfront in the background.
A glass of Beach Cat Brewing’s Smash Cat India pale ale sits on a table at the bewery, with the downtown Bellingham waterfront in the background.

Whether you’re looking for dinner and drinks or a weekend activity, budget constraints can limit your options in Bellingham.

In May, The Bellingham Herald launched its On a Budget series to help readers find cheap eats and low-cost activities around town.

Once a month I head to a different local hotspot with a $25 budget and report back to readers how I spent my money and time.

Beach Cat Brewing opened its second location on May 29, 2025, in Bellingham, Washing.
Beach Cat Brewing opened its second location on May 29, 2025, in Bellingham, Washing. Rachel Showalter The Bellingham Herald

So far, I’ve tried the food truck offerings at Trackside Beer Garden, enjoyed the waterfont views at Beach Cat Brewing and sipped craft beer at Otherlands Beer, named one of the best brewpubs in the nation by USA Today.

I’ve also sampled the fare at Bordertown Mexican Grill and Next Chapter Cafe inside Village Books.

Bordertown Mexican Grill is located at 1055 North State Street in downtown Bellingham.
Bordertown Mexican Grill is located at 1055 North State Street in downtown Bellingham. Daniel Schrager

What can I do in Bellingham for $25 and under?

Now I’m looking for new places to visit on a $25 budget.

Do you have a favorite budget-friendly restaurant? What about free events or affordable activities?

Let me know about the best ways to explore Whatcom County for less.

I’ll look at your suggestions and share what I’ve found, offering tips and tricks to get the most for your money.

Fill out the form below or email me, Daniel, at dschrager@bellinghamherald.com.

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Daniel Schrager
The Bellingham Herald
Daniel Schrager is the service journalism reporter at the Bellingham Herald. He joined the Herald in February of 2024 after graduating from Rice University in 2023. Support my work with a digital subscription
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