Whatcom Museum – The Lightcatcher

What an awesome resource to have around in Bellingham. Big focus on local native culture with dedicated room upstairs that houses Lummi and Nooksak cultural materials. The traveling exhibit was African American artists and another small Impressionist period displays with authentic masterworks by Renoir etc. there is a huge childrens exploration area and a small research library also.

— Gary Schmidt

Lovely museum! But be careful - the calendar on their website does not accurately reflect open hours. We planned breakfast at a cafe and then to visit the FIG this morning. When I was coming up with our plans I researched by checking the website - no banners or other information about being closed today. I double checked by looking at their calendar and it listed two events happening at the FIG today so they must be open! But when we arrived after breakfast they were closed - no sign on the door or message on the website or anything. About a dozen other kids were milling in front of the closed doors with the same story - they’d checked the website but the museum closed without updating the website or removing the days activities. Honestly kind of lazy. We were so bummed since it was now too late to do our alternate plans (go to the aquarium in Stanley Park). They need to hire someone who can keep the website up to date! Or at least someone with a piece of paper and sharpie to put on the door so we’re not all waiting outside like idiots.

— Maia Bittner

My 2nd stop with my single purchase Whatcom Museum ticket. I just finished a wonderful 2 hrs in the Courthouse, and now after a quick stroll, I'm here. This building is one of a kind. Just as it says, the light penetrates through the various rooms, the glass, and courtyard in unique ways and lasts throughout your visit...and beyond. You'll find yourself remembering certain images and the feeling you had within each area of the building. The images take on a life of their own and their message is almost piercing. Just like the light...a wonderful and lasting experience. Much respect for the local indigenous and their history. Good to see the support and exposure here! Nice job Bellingham.

— Richard Ward

This is a great community art museum. The core of the art is of indigenous Pacific Northwest peoples. Yet there are other great displays as well. Over the past few months three impressionistic artists have been on loan. The first Friday of each month no admission is charged and immersion events are planned to engage attendees.

— Wendell Hendershott

Lovely little museum. I caught the National Geographic photography exhibit and it was wonderful. Great little gift shop. Free on 1st Friday of every month

— Will Langston