Let's Talk Golf: Exploring Bellingham’s Golf Scene
If you're a golf enthusiast or just looking to hit the links on a sunny day, Bellingham has no shortage of great courses to check out. From the historic fairways of Bellingham Golf and Country Club to the stunning views at Shuksan, there's something here for every type of golfer. Whether you're up for a casual round or looking to improve your game, these local gems offer some of the best golfing experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Here’s a brief rundown of what each course has to offer! Bellingham Golf and Country ClubEstablished in 1912, the Bellingham Golf and Country Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious courses in the region. This private 18-hole course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience, with beautifully manicured greens, a lush tree-lined landscape, and a welcoming clubhouse. With a strong focus on community and camaraderie, the Club also provides dining, swimming, and social events for members. Semiahmoo Golf CourseLocated just north of Bellingham in Blaine, Semiahmoo Golf Course is a top-rated, award-winning course designed by Arnold Palmer. Offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside and Puget Sound, this 18-hole course is both challenging and rewarding for golfers of all skill levels. With excellent facilities and a professional staff, Semiahmoo is a premier destination for golf in the Pacific Northwest. Lake Padden Golf CourseNestled near the scenic Lake Padden Park, this 18-hole public golf course provides a serene and picturesque golfing experience. The course is known for its affordable green fees, friendly staff, and well-maintained greens, making it a favorite for local golfers. After your round, take a stroll around the lake or relax at the on-site restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding forest. Shuksan Golf CourseShuksan Golf Course offers a peaceful and scenic round of golf just minutes from downtown Bellingham. Known for its stunning views of Mount Shuksan and the surrounding Cascade Mountains, this 18-hole course features rolling fairways, well-protected greens, and a diverse layout that challenges players of all skill levels. The course’s natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. This course is also accompanied by a great restaurant, The Bistro at Shuksan, which is a modern fusion restaurant with beautiful views of the course. North Bellingham Golf CourseThis links-style course, located just off I-5, is known for its open fairways, challenging wind conditions, and panoramic views of Mount Baker. North Bellingham Golf Course offers a unique playing experience with its natural, undisturbed landscape and smooth, fast greens. With a commitment to sustainability and a friendly atmosphere, it’s a great option for golfers looking for a quality, affordable round. Raspberry Ridge Golf CourseRaspberry Ridge is a charming 9-hole course located just outside of Bellingham in Everson, offering a laid-back and casual golfing experience. The course is perfect for beginners or those looking for a quick and enjoyable round, with affordable rates and a friendly, welcoming environment. Surrounded by farmland and picturesque scenery, it’s a great spot to practice your game and enjoy the peaceful countryside.
Briddick's Top 6 Restaurants in Bellingham, WA
Who doesn't love eating? Bellingham has a robust scene for even the most discerning foodie. Here are my top 6 restaurants to check out when visiting from out of town. Carnal: This isn't your average American eatery. Nestled in downtown Bellingham, Carnal brings the heat with its live-fire cooking. The Slow Cooked Bone-In Beef Short Rib? It's like a meaty high-five to your taste buds. And the Marinated Avocado is so good, it's almost criminal. Rock and Rye Oyster House: Seafood lovers, rejoice! This family-owned joint in the historic Bellingham Herald Building serves up seafood so fresh, you'll want to slap it. Try the Beef Carpaccio and Poutine, and get ready to have your seafood dreams come true. D’Anna’s Cafe Italiano: Once a humble pasta business, now a go-to for Italian cravings. Their Butternut Squash Ravioli is so good, that it might just make you weep with joy. The Chicken Marsala? A culinary hug. And if you're into hearty dishes, the Sausage Manicoti is your jam. Bayou On Bay: This spot is where American meets Cajun & Creole, a fusion as bold as your ex texting you out of the blue. It's like Mardi Gras on a plate – vibrant, festive, and a little wild. Whether you're craving a taste of the bayou for dinner, breakfast, lunch, or even a late-night snack, they’ve got you covered with vegetarian and gluten-free options. It's the kind of place where every bite is a 'wow' moment. The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive: Picture this: you're perched on a cliff, overlooking the ocean, about to dive into some of the freshest seafood you can find. This joint isn't just about oysters; it's an experience. With a rating of 4.5 and a reputation for top-notch American cuisine, seafood, and soups, it's the kind of place that turns a meal into a memory. You might go for the view, but you'll stay for the flavors that make your taste buds do a happy dance. COA Mexican Eatery: This place is not just a restaurant; it's a social media sensation. With its roots in Washington, COA's third location in Bellingham is a hotspot for authentic Durango Mexico fusion flavors. It's like a flavor fiesta in your mouth with dishes like El Conquistador and Pollo En Mole. And let's not overlook the "Burrito Chiquito" - a little burrito that packs a big punch. They're also known for their creative drinks. Think Margaritas, Mojitos, and more. Basically, it's where your taste buds go to party. So there you have it, the top restaurants in Bellingham, WA. Each one is more than just a place to eat; it's a place to experience, to enjoy, and to remember. Bellingham isn't just a dot on the map; it's a culinary treasure trove waiting to be explored. Bon appétit, folks! 🍽️🎉
Spotlight on PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital: Bellingham's Premier Healthcare Facility
One of the most common questions, I receive from folks moving to Bellingham, and Whatcom County is - "how and where is the hospital?" Located in central Bellingham, PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital stands as a beacon of quality and innovation. In this post, we'll delve into the specialties, size, and future expansion plans of St. Joseph Hospital, offering a comprehensive look at what makes it a cornerstone of the Bellingham community. PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital is renowned for its diverse range of specialties, ensuring that residents have access to comprehensive healthcare services. Some of the key specialties include: Cardiology: Above all other specialties, the hospital boasts a state-of-the-art cardiology unit, offering everything from routine check-ups to complex heart surgeries. Orthopedics: With a focus on minimally invasive procedures, the orthopedic department is a leader in joint replacement and spinal surgeries. Oncology: The cancer care center provides advanced treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, in a compassionate setting. I personally feel it's not to the same standard as Seattle Cancer Care Alliance but this is a personal opinion. Maternity and Neonatal Care: The hospital is equipped with modern maternity wards and a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). For very pre-mature babies, they'll often take them to either Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett or UW Medical Center in Seattle, WA. Emergency Medicine: The 24/7 emergency department is one of the most advanced in the region, equipped to handle a wide range of medical emergencies. Size: Expansive and Growing PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital is one of the largest healthcare facilities in the region, with a capacity of over 250 beds with expansions coming. The hospital campus spans multiple buildings, housing various departments and specialty clinics. The facility also includes: Advanced imaging centers Outpatient surgery units Rehabilitation facilities A fully-equipped laboratory Future Expansion: A Vision for Tomorrow PeaceHealth St. Joseph Hospital has always been at the forefront of medical innovation, and its future expansion plans are no exception. Some of the key projects in the current $50,000,000 upgrade include: New 6 Level Pavilion: A state-of-the-art wing is in the planning stages, aiming to further enhance the hospital's capabilities. This will also feature a helicoptor pad on the roof to allow for faster patient transfer. Telemedicine: The hospital is investing in telemedicine infrastructure to provide remote consultations, especially beneficial for residents in rural areas. Sustainability Initiatives: Plans are underway to make the hospital more eco-friendly, including energy-efficient systems and waste management solutions. Updated HVAC: The heating, cooling and ventilation system is getting an upgrade St. Joseph Hospital is more than just a healthcare facility; it's a vital part of the Bellingham community. With its wide range of specialties, expansive size, and ambitious future expansion plans, the hospital continues to set the standard for medical excellence in the region.
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