Beer lovers who are also parents can be hard-pressed to get away without the kids to give the newest brews in town a try. Fortunately, our breweries are part of the fabric of our community, and many are family-friendly.
Here is a list of local breweries and one cidery – another craft libation growing in popularity here in the ‘Ham – that are welcoming to all ages.
Boundary Bay is the granddaddy of brewpubs in Bellingham. It has been bringing visitors and locals together to sip on classics like the Scotch Ale and Inside Passage Ale for over 25 years.
A favorite gathering spot for families at Boundary Bay is the beer garden. Known as “Bellingham's back yard,” the beer garden here hosts bands of all genres. Hula hoops, giant Jenga, cornhole and a “tot lot” are all geared for the kiddos. The playground is always open, even if nothing is happening in the beer garden.
Music happens often in this space - check out their event calendar to see what's scheduled.
Aslan is a favorite local brewpub hangout for many families in the area. They feature an extensive “Cub’s Menu”, which includes kid favorites as well as twists on classics.
The whole family will enjoy the house-brewed root beer and ginger ale, while the grown-ups also have a vast choice of beers from lager to Pacific ale to stout, all certified organic.
Any night of the week you are likely to see families hanging out in front of the Kulshan on James Street. Located in the Sunnyland neighborhood, this brewery is within walking distance of many homes, making it a great destination for families. Food trucks provide the eats at this brewery or order in from one of the neighborhood restaurants.
For family fun with a water view, Kulshan's seasonal Trackside Beer Garden (open spring through early fall) features a large space with room for kids to run around and, when a live band is on stage, everyone can jump to their feet to dance together.
This operation is all about keeping it in the family – it’s even in the name. “Stemma” means “written family genealogy.” Started by Jason and Kim Harper, Jason’s parents also have a hand in running the business.
Jason and Kim have children of their own and the focus on family is evident in this welcoming space, including a kids’ corner with games. Leashed dogs are also welcome here, but they may have to share the limelight with the resident brew cat.
Food trucks are also available for dining options.
If Boundary Bay is Bellingham's back yard, then Stones Throw (located in Historic Fairhaven Village) is Bellingham's front porch.
Their space includes plenty of outdoor seating, plus covered seating in the tasting room, and a shady back porch. Covered by canvas sails, a fire pit makes the spot cozy any time of year.
Stones Throw also often features live music. It's fun to watch parents and toddlers dancing to bluegrass tunes from a live band. There is an intimate, homey feeling here, even more enhanced by the fact that Stones Throw is also dog-friendly.
This location hosts a variety of food trucks throughout the week, but guests can also bring their own food or call to get delivery from one of the area's local restaurants. While adults are sampling the brews, kids can enjoy the ginger ale.
Everyone will enjoy the rustic, funky vibe at the North Fork. The brewery/pizzeria/beer shrine has been an institution in Deming along Mt. Baker Highway for more than 20 years. It’s the perfect place to stop after a day in the snow at the Mount Baker Ski Area or hiking one of the many nearby trails in the warmer months.
Kids can indulge in the house-brewed root beer, and adults can choose from a long list of beer on tap. Options include North Fork’s own brews and collaborations, along with a selection of other craft beers.
Wander is an all-ages, family-friendly brew hall located just off of Ohio Street, tucked in at the back of an unassuming warehouse, which started out as a shipbuilding establishment in the 1920s.
With seating both indoors and out, including a fire pit, it’s a great place to cozy up with friends and family no matter the season. The brew list changes weekly, so there’s always reason to come back. Try a hazy IPA one week, a Belgian dubbel the next.
Located on a bike route, and next to the Bike Hub Community Bike Shop, Wander is bike-friendly too, including a large outdoor bike rack.
Bellingham Cider Co. has become a community gathering spot since its opening in 2018. In the summertime, the opportunity to dine and sip on the large patio overlooking Bellingham Bay is a big draw.
The locally sourced menu gets rave reviews from every corner, as does the Blackberry Ginger cider.
The simple kids menu is exactly what kids want: chicken tenders, a burger, grilled cheese and spaghetti, and side choices of fries or apple slices. And since everyone loves breakfast, brunch is offered both Saturday and Sunday.
