Waypoint Park

Waypoint Park is a compact and modern waterfront oasis nestled along the Whatcom Waterway in Bellingham, USA. Spanning 1.5 acres, it harmoniously blends an industrial past with an ecological future. The park draws visitors with its panoramic views of Lummi Island and its masterful combination of natural landscaping and contemporary design.

The crown jewel of the park is the unique "Acid Ball" installation—a massive steel sphere coated in thousands of reflective glass beads. At night, this industrial artifact transforms into a magical object that shimmers and interactively reacts to light. Nearby stands the restored historic Granary building, now home to cozy cafes and local shops.

Created on the site of a former industrial giant, the park has become a symbol of environmental rebirth. A pebble beach was carefully restored here, and hundreds of native plants and trees were planted, turning a former industrial zone into a cozy spot for relaxation and birdwatching. In 2019, the park rightfully earned awards for its outstanding design and shoreline restoration.

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There is something for everyone in the park. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the smooth walking and biking paths, as well as the modern pump track, where cyclists and skaters of all skill levels can hone their craft. For children, there is an original nautical-themed playground with a soft safety surface and structures reminiscent of port facilities.

Be sure to try a little experiment at the famous "Acid Ball" sculpture: if you shine a smartphone flashlight on it after dark, the sphere's surface will ignite with myriads of colorful reflections. Afterward, you can head to the overwater pier, considered one of the best spots in the city for watching the sunset and observing life in the bay.

If you are looking for tranquility, head down to the cozy pebble beach. It is an ideal spot for a picnic right at the water's edge or simply to relax while listening to the lapping waves. And for a cup of aromatic coffee or fresh pastries, you can always step into the historic Granary building, located just a few steps from the park alleys.

The park is located at 1145 Granary Ave, making it easily accessible for those in the downtown area. If you are in the center of Bellingham, a walk down Central Avenue toward the waterfront will take just a few minutes. It is a great way to take in the local architecture on your way to the bay.

For those preferring public transport, services are provided by the Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA). Bus routes serve the streets closest to the waterfront, from which the park is a short walk away. You can also use a local taxi or rideshare service to be dropped off right by the historic Granary building.

If you are traveling by bike, Waypoint Park is an excellent destination. It features convenient bike racks, and the smooth waterfront trails are perfect for cycling. Please note that the park does not yet have its own dedicated parking lot, so it is recommended to park in the surrounding blocks or use alternative transportation.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the region's industrial development. In 1926, the city's first pulp mill was opened here in Bellingham, founded by Ossian Anderson. Later, in the 1960s, the facility came under the ownership of the giant Georgia-Pacific and operated until 2001. For a long time, this coastal area remained a closed industrial zone, inaccessible to the public.

The park's main attraction, the "Acid Ball," is an authentic artifact from 1938. This massive steel sphere, measuring 30 feet in diameter, was once part of the mill's technical system and was used to relieve pressure and gases from the enormous wood-cooking vats. Today, it has been transformed into an art installation, symbolizing respect for the city's industrial heritage. The sphere was preserved as part of the "One Percent for the Arts" program.

Modern-day Waypoint Park opened in 2019 after a massive environmental cleanup and renovation. During construction, thousands of feet of concrete and old wooden pilings were removed, replaced by more than 10,000 square feet of clean beach. For this innovative approach, the project received prestigious awards from the ASCE and ASBPA as a premier example of shoreline restoration in the USA.

To leisurely stroll through the area, explore the "Acid Ball," and enjoy the water views, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This allows enough time to take great photos and for children to play at the themed playground.

If you plan to have a small picnic on the pebble beach or stop for coffee in the adjacent Granary building, your stay could extend to half a day. The park is also a wonderful starting point for a longer walk along the Bellingham waterfront.

Waypoint Park is open to visitors daily. Official operating hours are from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This allows visitors to enjoy both the quiet morning hours and the beautiful evening illumination of the art installations.

Since the park may host city events or undergo maintenance, it is recommended to check the official Bellingham Parks and Recreation Department website for the most up-to-date information before your trip.

A visit to this waterfront park can easily be combined with exploring other interesting city locations. The Waterfront District is actively developing, and historic buildings as well as modern cultural centers are within walking distance.

Below are some notable sites located nearby: