Your border crossing doesn't have to be boring! Make it a vacation by checking out all the incredible restaurants, parks, and adventures available on the Washington State side of each crossing. Whether you're crossing the border in Blaine, Lynden, Sumas, or Point Roberts, there's something worthwhile to see. Here are our recommendations for what to do at each US/Canada border crossing:
If you're feeling peckish or need a big meal to break up your drive across the US/Canada border, head to Drayton Harbor Oysters in Blaine. Enjoy your ocean-fresh oysters raw, grill, or fried. Don't like oysters? No problem. The restaurant also offers small seafood plates like tacos, kebabs, and fry baskets. Pair your meal with beer and wine sourced locally and from around the world. Then sit back and enjoy the views.
Located on the border between Canada and the US, Peace Arch State Park is a great place to visit while crossing the border. The northern half of the park is owned by British Columbia Provincial Parks while the southern half is operated by Washington State Parks. Walk beneath the 67-foot concrete Peace Arch, which was built to honor the 100-year anniversary of the 1812 peace treaties. Enjoy gardens, a play area for kids, picnic tables, and views of the San Juan Islands, Port Roberts, and more.
If the weather abides, grab some takeout from a nearby restaurant and head to Blaine Marine Park for a seaside feast! In addition to a picnic area, the park has ADA accessible trails, a playground for kiddos, and restrooms. It's also an excellent place for beach-combing and birdwatching.
Located inside the Waples Building, Overflow Taps is a must-visit for anyone staying at the Inn at Lynden or visiting Downtown Lynden before crossing the border. The mission of Overflow Taps isn’t just to bring delicious beer to Lynden. For every pint sold, Overflow Taps donates 25 cents to charity: water, a nonprofit that provides water to underdeveloped countries.
Get out and stretch your legs! Lynden is home to some of Whatcom County's best parks. If you're looking for the best playground in Lynden, head to City Park, also known as Million Smiles. The park includes a playground, picnic tables, tennis, basketball, and pickleball court with a variety of trails to walk and explore.
Known for being the State of Washington's second-oldest bakery, in 2022 the Lynden Dutch Bakery celebrated their 115th anniversary! Having opened their doors in 1907, the Bakery is an icon of Downtown Lynden and a reflection of the town's rich history. Visitors will find a variety of pies for sale, along with one of their most popular menu items, traditional dutch donuts known as Oliebollens to enjoy before heading to the Canadian border!
Located on the US/Canadian border, Sumas, Washington is a popular crossing point between the two countries. The town is just 45 minutes from Mount Baker and Birch Bay, and only 35 minutes from Bellingham — making it the perfect location to cross the border after a Whatcom County adventure.
Start by exploring Cherry Street. Enjoy a variety of local businesses, including Bob's Burgers and Edaleen Dairy.
Located inside the Sumas Mountain Lodge, Bob's Burgers & Brew serves a variety of delicious burgers, steaks, and seafood.
Guests can also stay at the Sumas Mountain Lodge, located above the restaurant. Choose between a variety of themed rooms including the Kulshan Cabin, Mount Shuksan Room, and the Mount Baker Room.
Enjoy cow-to-cone flavors at a local favorite, Edaleen Dairy! Owned by the Brandsma Family, Edaleen Dairy is a combo of the names Ed and Aileen Brandsma, who started the small family business in Lynden in 1975. All their ice cream is made from the family farm's 2,500-plus milking Holstein cows.
After grabbing a bite at Bob's, head to Edaleen to enjoy dozens of flavors, including classics like cookies and cream, chocolate chip mint, and strawberry. Make it a sundae or enjoy in a fresh waffle cone.
Point Roberts has four free public beaches, each one perfect for different activities during all four seasons. Have a picnic, go beach-combing, or get out into the water for a fun-filled day.
147 species of birds come through Boundary Bay and Point Roberts as part of the Pacific Flyway. Serious and casual birdwatchers enjoy spotting and photographing a rainbow of wild birds.
Point Roberts is a favorite spot for triathletes doing some serious training, as well as road cyclists and casual, recreational beach cruisers.
