Do you love carnies? Who doesn't?! The annual Northwest Washington Fair is held every August in Whatcom County (Lynden, more precisely). It features all the fabulous trappings of circus life, from musical acts to rickety rides, plus a selection of handmade goodies from locals, including quilts, canned goods, and flowers.
Sitting on the 'Murican side of the border between British Columbia and the U.S., the wee community of Lynden, with its population of about 12,000 folks, has a surprising plethora of amenities available for residents and visitors on both sides of the border. Of course, if that information isn't motivation enough to pack your things immediately, consider the fact that Lynden is only 95 miles from Seattle? Weekend road trip, anyone? But you don't have to leave the village limits to explore the awe-inspiring Nooksack Indian Village, amazing dairies (and the resulting super creamy ice cream -- yum!) and exceptional local restaurants (steakhouses, Mexican platters and wineries). If you need to work off the extra pounds resulting from such indulgence, simply take a hike -- literally. Washington is known for its stunning vistas. Grab a kayak, hiking boots, or bird watching book, and head in any direction for fun!
Moving to Lynden
So you've made that bold decision to look for places to rent in Lynden, Washington, have you? Good choice. Lynden has a number of duplexes for rent, townhouses for rent, city apartments and rental homes that will no doubt satisfy even the pickiest of pickers.
Lynden is a well-regarded community, so rental properties here can appear and disappear quickly. Give yourself enough time -- at least a month or two -- to truly discover the home or apartment of your dreams. Come to a lease-signing prepared with all the information many landlords require today, including your ID, credit report, and bank statements. Be open-minded and consider viewing a few different properties before deciding on just one.
Either way, discovering all that Lynden has to offer can take time, but it's probably going to an enjoyable search. Did we mention all the lush green happiness here? Find an excuse to explore in person, if you can.
Neighborhoods
Lynden is certainly a relaxing and unique place to settle down and find a home or apartment. How many other towns have an Indian casino, an international border AND a sweet ice cream joint, eh? You really can't go wrong with whatever area you choose to live in here, though admittedly, there aren't traditional neighborhoods.
West Badger Road / Guide Meridian Road: Located on the west side of Lynden, this quiet neighborhood is a great place to find a mix of apartments, condos, and single-family homes for rent. Residents love easy access to attractions such as Berthusen Memorial Park, Drayton Harbor, Birch Bay and the popular Grandview Golf Course just off of Portal Way.
City Center: The ideal spot for those who like to be right in the middle of the action, this neighborhood is located, not surprisingly, in the center of downtown Lynden. Here you can choose from a number of single-family homes as well as apartments and duplexes and enjoy close proximity to Lynden's many Dutch shops and restaurants.
Greenwood: This neighborhood can be found at the southern end of Lynden and is a great place to find a number of homes for rent. Residents love having easy access to the Nooksack River, Wiser Lake, and Tennant Lake Park.
Living in Lynden
Outdoor Activities
What's a lady, gent, or adult child supposed to do in a place like Lynden? How about just about anything they set their minds to! Fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, and other cardiovascular stimulating adventures are a dime a dozen. Just pick your woodsy poison and enjoy.
Prefer the company of dinging bells and ka-chinging slot machines? Lynden has not one, but two casinos where you can try your luck. While away a fortune for a good cause, or win big and spread the love around -- whatever sets your heart free.
If you're into eating, you're in luck. There are farmers markets, dairy farms, and fruit orchards aplenty for those who favor the healthy life, along with casual diners, fine restaurants, and everything in between for regular folks with hunger pangs.
Close to Seattle
Want to massage the old noodle for a bit? Add some wrinkles to your brain by heading to Seattle and exploring the myriad museums, or contemplate the Dutch architecture (windmills and all) that pepper the town. The point is if you can't find something good to do here, the blame is squarely on your lack of imagination.
Climate
Say what you will about how nice a summer stroll around town can be, this isn't a place where you'll typically be getting from point A to point B on foot. The WalkScore is a modest 60 in Lynden. It's a slight bummer, but don't let that get you too down. Bikes are popular, and you can always grab a coffee or a Snickers on a whim. But for work, play, and errands, plan to use four wheels and an axle. That said, there are some buses if you need to get to a few places and would prefer an alternative form of transportation. The WTA hits hotspots like Main Street, Pine Street, Bradley Road and Grover Street, plus it heads to Bellingham and eventually Seattle (though that's a long haul on a bus). Just keep your options open and have a fallback, if necessary.
Let's not beat around the bush: The trees in Lynden are green and bushy because they get plenty of rain. That rain comes down most months of the year, and the grey days can be overwhelming to some. Seattle is famous for its cloudy skies, but north of the city isn't much better. Pack a sun lamp and a sunny disposition, or you may need a break from the monotonous climate. It's not all storm clouds and damp dreams, though. Summer brings sunny days and lovely weather ideal for trekking through the wilderness. People take serious advantage of these fab days, and you should too. But if you have seasonal depression, this may not be the ideal climate for you.
Lynden is gorgeous, outdoorsy, and fun, with singular attractions and a distinctive personality. People are friendly and healthful, and they tend to bring out the best in others. If you're ready for an adventure just south of the (Canadian) border, there's no place like Lynden for home!