You can get around on foot within the Fairhaven district, downtown, and the University, but transportation between these areas is best by bicycle, car, or bus.
Parking is 75ยข per hour downtown, and notably more expensive at the University. On-street parking is available at most hours, except in resident parking areas, and there are some free lots. Downtown Bellingham, though small, is something of a maze, with many odd angles and one-way streets. It may be helpful to have a detailed map handy when navigating this area. Free maps are available at the Visitor Center just off I-5 at exit 253.
Because traffic is relatively light and parking is relatively easy, most locals get around by car. Many students, some ecologically-minded souls, and other people walk, ride a bicycle, or use the local buses operated by WTA (http://www.ridewta.com/). There is a network of bike and pedestrian paths, with a map available online (http://www.cob.org). Riding a bicycle upon a sidewalk in a business district is prohibited. Local taxi company Designated Taxi (http://wwww.designatedtaxi.com) caters to Bellingham's lifestyle by providing bike racks on all of their hybrid, smoke free, cabs. 360-201-0700
Some Whatcom County roads outside of Bellingham are referred to by locals with a preceding the. Guide Meridian is "The Guide," and so on.
Pacific Sea Taxi
Provides water taxi service between Bellingham and the San Juan Islands on a 30', 12-passenger motor boat. Price depends on number of people in boat, and distance of destination. Departs from the marina on Bellwether Way, to the north of downtown.
Powered wheelchairs can give some visitors better mobility, but are difficult to transport on airliners. They can be rented from some stores, and a few are available for a donation from the local Lion's Club charity.
Lion's Club Mobility Equipment Warehouse
An assortment of powered wheelchairs are available to visitors and residents alike. Also scooters, walkers, unpowered wheelchairs, commodes, crutches, and more. Donations accepted at the warehouse or by mail to Bellingham Central Lions, P.O. Box 602, Bellingham, WA 98227.