Fairhaven is ‘historic Bellingham’; charming, quaint and reminiscent of a centuries-old American town.

In the summers, on our monthly shopping trips into Bellingham, we’d usually take a detour and explore the assortment of lovely local shops, galleries and restaurants in Fairhaven.

Part of Bellingham since 1903, Fairhaven has retained its old city charm with beautiful brick-lined streets of well-kept, restored and newly designed historical architecture.

The Village Green, a park where events like the outdoor cinemas and farmers’ market are held is the life of downtown Fairhaven, and we normally start our afternoons in Bellingham here, before we wander around.

There’s the adorable boutique in the historic bank building, they have luxurious-feeling clothes made of bamboo. And then there’s Village Books, Bellingham’s version of Powell’s – it’s a booklover’s haven!

Then we’d pop into Paper Dreams for unique cards and gifts, knick-knacks and kitschy stuff and steal views of the goings–on on the Village Green.

I never leave without stopping at the olive oil and vinegar tasting place or a peek into the cookware store, or the double-decker bus converted into a fish and chips joint.

Fairhaven is also where the scenic and spectacular Chuckanut Drive starts (or ends…).