One of my favourite places in Bellingham is Historic Fairhaven. In 1889, the railroad was coming, and Fairhaven grew rapidly, hoping to become the west coast terminus. The railroad connection never worked out, so the new town turned to the sea and fishing for its economic base. In its heyday, Fairhaven was a bustling town of hotels, shops, saloons and brothels. Today, the brothels are gone, but the rich heritage of hotels, shops, restaurants and nightlife remains. And Fairhaven has achieved its original goal of becoming a tranportation center with its Alaska Ferry, Amtrak and bus terminal. 
I have some favourite stops when I go to Fairhaven. One is the Eclipse Bookstore at 1104 11th Street. The Eclipse Bookstore is amazing with its vast variety of books covering the two floors of the establishment.
Another great bookstore is Village Books at 1200 11th Street. They have mostly new books, but you will also find good used books among the collection. 
Picking a spot to eat is hard. Avenue Bread at 1135 11th Street is across the street and within easy walking distance. In addition to their wonderful fresh breads (I chose the sourdough with rosemary - YUM), they have a small cafe.
Skylark's Hidden Cafe at 1308 11th Street was my choice. I just love the interior with a classic bar. They have great food and happy hour specials from 3-6 pm and 10 pm through closing on Sunday through Thursday. Get the grilled cheese sandwich. It's the best I've ever eaten!Going to Fairhaven in the off season means it's quite and quaint. In the summer, it's a bustling tourist destination. Either way, it's my favourite spot in town. -- Margy
I love to visit historic towns like this one. Your photos are gorgeous. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteOne of our favorite spots in our town too. And Eclipse Books is almost our hangout. We like to go down to the Alaska Ferry Terminal on Friday nights around 6 to watch the Alaska Ferry depart. We wave at the people on deck - take pictures of the ferry, the weather, the birds in the bay and have a car picnic. Either we pick up something from one of our favorite cafes or bring a picnic from home - either way it is a fun Friday night. After the ferry departs and is out of sight we drive down the few blocks to Marine Park and watch as the ferry goes up the channel - of course with more photos of every season in the park - or seagulls - or herons - or kayaks on the bay.
ReplyDeleteI haven't been to Marine Park yet. I'll have to give it a try. Boulevard Park is fun too, with the Starbucks for a hot coffee on a cold day. - Margy
DeleteGreat light in your first photo. I like it.
ReplyDeleteHi Margy, pleased to meet you. I love your meanderings: very exciting to wander through your part of the world, especially the bookstores! I've joined your site as a follower. Thanks for visiting my blog. It's greatly appreciated. Greetings Jo (South Africa)
ReplyDeleteHi Jo - Thanks for the follow. I have joined your site as well. I don't know much about South Africa except my doctor worked there before coming to Powell River. Seems like lots of our rural doctors do that. - Margy
DeleteThanks everyone for stopping by and visiting My World post this week. - Margy
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