The city of Bellingham has more than 16 breweries within its city limits — and for a place with nearly 90,000 people, that's a lot of beer! But the trend of craft breweries (and cider companies) in this waterside town, the opportunity for experimentation, conversation and community are endless.
From hidden breweries to expansive beer gardens and European-style lagers to hazy ales, there's something for everyone in this hoppy town. This microbrewery community has even become the subject of an upcoming film "Brewingham," that dives into the deep sense of camaraderie amongst Bellingham brewers.
Want to be a part of this special beer-lovin' community? We've compiled a list of all of the best breweries in the city, so you can discover your favorite place(s) to chill with friends new and old.
website / 1322 North State St. Bellingham, WA / (360) 393-4106 / Brewery
A local favorite, Aslan offers all USDA Certified Organic beer and delicious eats at their brewpub in downtown Bellingham. Even with a bar, restaurant seating and big patio, their taproom is always full! But it's definitely worth the wait.
Bellingham Cider Company
website / 205 Prospect St. Bellingham, WA / (360) 510-8494 / Cider
Nothing can beat the view from Bellingham Cider Company’s PNW-inspired restaurant & bar! Enjoy a meal or appetizer with your choice of 20 taps of local cider and beer, wine and craft cocktails as you watch the sunset over Bellingham Bay.
Boundary Bay Brewery
website / 1107 Railroad Avenue Bellingham, WA / (360) 647-5593 / Brewery
The oldest brewery in Bellingham, Boundary Bay brings the community together with a diverse menu and an expansive selection of indoor & outdoor seating in the heart of downtown.
Chuckanut Brewery
website / 601 West Holly Street Bellingham, WA / (360) 752-3377 / Brewery & Beer Garden
An award-winning brewery with a brewing legend at the helm, Chuckanut has become nationally recognized since its founding in 2008. Known for European-style ales and lagers, Chuckanut also offers great pizzas, calzones, pasta, salads and starters.
Gruff Brewing Co
website / 104 E Maple Street Bellingham, WA / Beer Garden
Though known for its expansive, pup-friendly beer garden patio, this nano-brewery has some exceptional small-batch brews. Don’t miss the visiting food trucks and sunset at this community hang.
website / 2238 James Street Bellingham, WA / (360) 389-5348 / Brewery
K2: 1538 Kentucky Street Bellingham, WA
If there was ever a neighborhood brewery, Kulshan is it! This family-owned, independent craft brewery has two unique Bellingham locations. With all the best food trucks coming in on a rotating schedule and more than 20 beers on tap - either location is worth the trip!
Menace Brewing
website / 1200 Meador Ave Bellingham, WA / (360) 306-3457 / Brewery
Located in the Fountain District, Menace has new brews weekly as well as rotating food trucks. Its counterpart, Local Public House is located downtown and offers a food menu as well as 35 beers.
Otherlands Beer
website / 2121 Humboldt Street Bellingham, WA / (360) 746-8118 / Brewery
One of the newest spots in Bellingham, Otherlands is a small brewery and cafe nestled in a guesthouse-style tavern. Along with a thoughtful seasonal menu and fresh draft beer, the brewery offers a uniquely warm, hospitable environment we love!
Schweinhaus Biergarten
website / 1330 North State Street Bellingham, WA / (360) 647-3600 / Beer Garden
Beer + German sausages and pretzels + yard games = a recipe for fun. Scheweinhaus is a gathering place for young locals and offers a distinctly casual and friendly environment.
Stemma Brewing Co
website / 2039 Moore Street Bellingham, WA / (360) 746-8385 / Brewery
Opened in June of 2019, Stemma is relatively new on the Bellingham beer scene but has quickly become a big name in the area. The family-run business has created its taproom to cater to families with a cozy kids corner with couches and games.
Stones Throw Brewery
website / 1009 Larrabee Ave Bellingham, WA / (360) 362-5058 / Brewery
With a three-pronged mission of sustainability, adventure and community, Stones Throw is a quintessentially Bellingham brewery. The brewery has become known around town for its trivia nights and community events — and a diverse line of brews.
Structures Brewing
website / 1420 North State Street Bellingham, WA / (360) 582-7475 / Brewery
Structures Brewing is housed in an old jet-black downtown building with a big garage-style door so even when you’re inside — you’re not. Their brews are just as creative, with “mixed fermentations and fresh offerings” that will keep you on your toes.
Thousand Acre Cider House
website / 109 Grand Ave, Suite 101 Bellingham, WA / (360) 795-5400 / Cider & Mead, Taphouse
Thousand Acre is on a mission to bring cider to the masses, with 25+ ciders and beers on tap and more than 200+ bottles on-site. And with a great offering of epic cider drinks, even the most cider-averse visitor can find something to love.
Twin Sisters Brewing
website / 500 Carolina Street Bellingham, WA / (360) 922-6700 / Brewery
For beer lovers who are looking for an experience — and guaranteed seating — this neighborhood spot is the place to beat. Twin Sisters’ restaurant and brewery is located in a giant warehouse with a large beer garden and features a menu of delicious dishes and cocktails.
Photo by David M Walker
Photo by David M Walker
website / 1807 Dean Avenue Bellingham, WA / (360) 647-6152 / Brewery
Wander Brewing is tucked away in a small warehouse brewery on the outskirts of Bellingham — but it’s not one to miss. The owners of Wander are devoted to community, and their line of traditional beers is complemented by their experimental brews, which are released whenever “the beer tells [them] when it is ready.”
