Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) is excited to announce that all bus trips within Whatcom County will be free from August 7 through August 16, 2025. Whether you’re looking for fair fun, a laid-back day by the water, or a quiet hike in the woods, Free Fare Days make it easy and affordable to get out and explore our community.
To help you get started, here are three day trips you can take by bus, all free and packed with local flavor.
Trip 1: Park and Ride to the Northwest Washington Fair
Bus: Route 26 Lynden from Cordata Station
Ride Duration: 30 minutes one way
Free Fare Days run for the duration of the Northwest Washington Fair, making it the perfect spot to ride the bus. Skip the parking fees and use the money you save for an extra Moo-wich or a ride on the Ferris wheel.
Start your adventure by catching Route 26 Lynden from Cordata Station in Bellingham, where free parking is available. The trip to Lynden takes about 30 minutes, and you can get off at Front Street at 18th Street, just steps from Gate One of the fairgrounds (1775 Front Street, Lynden).
Route 26 runs hourly between 6:30 a.m. and 8:40 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8:05 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. on Sundays. Catch a mid-morning bus to arrive by 11 a.m., when the gates open.
To return to Cordata Station, catch Route 26 Cordata at Front Street at Fairside Drive. During Free Fare Days, WTA offers a final weekday Route 26 trip departing at 8:47 p.m., so you can stay later and enjoy the fair!
Fair admission prices:
- General (13–61): $15
- Seniors (62+): $13
- Youth (6–12): $10
- Children (5 & under): FREE
To find out more about daily schedules and fair activities, visit here.
Trip 2: Waterfront Wandering and Local Events
Bus: Route 47 Harbor from Bellingham Station
Ride Duration: 10-20 minutes, depending on stop
Our new Route 47 Waterfront Trolley runs from Downtown Bellingham to the waterfront every 30 minutes. With stunning views, frequent service, and walkable access to parks, markets, and attractions, the Bellingham waterfront is the perfect place for a family outing, solo adventure, or date.
Start by catching the Route 47 Harbor at Gate 1 at Bellingham Station.
First Stop: Squalicum Harbor
Ride about 20 minutes to the end of the route, and hop off at Squalicum Harbor. Walk a few minutes to Zuanich Point Park to watch the kites fly and take in sweeping views of the bay.
Dockside Market – Saturday, August 16
Visit the Bellingham Dockside Market, open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. right at Squalicum Harbor. Buy seafood directly from local fishermen, along with treats, coffee, and art from local vendors.
Next Stop: Marine Life Center
Take a stroll along the harbor or hop back on the Waterfront Trolley to the Marine Life Center at 1801 Roeder Avenue. Check out the small aquariums, hands-on touch tanks, and learn about sea creatures that live in our local waters, all free of charge.
Final Stop: The Portal Container Village
Catch Route 47 Downtown and end your day at the Portal Container Village, home to food trucks, local shops, and recreation for all ages.
Highlights include:
- Mini golf at Portal Putt
- Bike and skate rentals from Sun-E-Land
- Rotating vendor shops
- Sweet and savory eats from Selkie Scoop, Zeeks Pizza, and four food trucks
- Drinks at Kulshan Trackside or Bin 13 Wine Bar
Noisy Waters Mural Festival – August 15-17
Visit during the Noisy Waters Mural Festival and watch live mural painting at the Portal Container Village! The festival includes music, yoga, bike rides, and tons of art. Check out the website for a full schedule.
When you’re ready to head home, walk down the block to catch the Route 47 Downtown from Laurel Street at Cornwall Avenue.
Trip 3: A Peaceful Hike at Stimpson Family Nature Reserve
Bus: Route 512 Sudden Valley from Downtown Bellingham Station
Ride Duration: 25 minutes
If you’re craving trees over traffic, this trip is for you. The Stimpson Family Nature Reserve offers over four miles of hiking trails through lush, old-growth forest, and it’s only a short bus ride from downtown.
Start with breakfast or a coffee near Bellingham Station (Caffe Adagio is a WTA staff favorite), then board Route 512 Sudden Valley at Gate 2.
Ride about 25 minutes and get off at the Stimpson Family Nature Reserve stop on Lake Louise Road; the trailhead is just across the street!
Trail Highlights:
- Towering Douglas Fir trees, some over 400 years old
- Two peaceful ponds and lush wetlands
- Frequent wildlife sightings, including deer, birds, and sometimes beavers
- Well-marked trails with loops for different hiking abilities
- Shaded paths, perfect for summer days
After your hike, return to the same stop at Lake Louise Road and catch Route 512 Sudden Valley back to Bellingham Station. The route loops around Sudden Valley and along Lake Whatcom Boulevard for a 40-minute return trip.
Ready to Ride?
Visit here for maps, schedules, and trip planning, and download the WTA Bus Tracker app to track your ride in real time.
Adventure is just a (free) ride away!
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