Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham, WA

Mount Baker Theatre is a crown jewel of downtown Bellingham and one of the Pacific Northwest’s most treasured historic landmarks. Since opening in 1927, the theatre has been a central gathering place for live performances, films, and community events. With its grand architecture and deep roots in local culture, the Mount Baker Theatre is both a functioning arts venue and a living piece of Bellingham’s history.

Designed by architect Robert Reamer, the theatre is a striking example of 1920s exotic revival architecture. Its design draws on Moorish, Spanish, and Byzantine influences, resulting in ornate details, vibrant colors, and a majestic tower that has become an iconic part of Bellingham’s skyline. Inside, visitors are greeted by a lavish auditorium with intricate plasterwork, dramatic lighting, and a sense of old-world grandeur that immediately transports guests back in time.

The theatre originally opened as a venue for vaudeville acts and silent films, complete with a Wurlitzer organ that still exists today. Over the decades, it has evolved to host a wide range of events, from classic movie screenings to Broadway touring productions, world-renowned musicians, dance performances, comedians, and community theater. Its main auditorium seats over 1,500 people, making it the largest performing arts facility between Seattle and Vancouver, BC.

In addition to the main stage, the Mount Baker Theatre complex includes smaller, flexible spaces like the Walton Theatre and the Encore Room. These are often used for intimate performances, lectures, workshops, and private events. This diversity in venue space allows the theatre to accommodate both large-scale productions and smaller, more personal gatherings.

The building was saved from demolition in the 1980s by a passionate group of citizens who recognized its cultural and architectural importance. It has since undergone multiple renovations that have updated its systems while preserving the historical integrity of the space. Today, the theatre is operated by a nonprofit organization that works to keep the arts accessible to the community and supports local youth and educational programming.

The Mount Baker Theatre is more than just a performance venue—it’s a place where memories are made. Generations of families have passed through its doors, whether for a child’s first live show, a school field trip, or a date night to see a favorite musician. The sense of nostalgia is palpable, and many locals take pride in supporting a space that so richly reflects the spirit and history of their city.

There are even ghost stories tied to the theatre, adding to its mystique. Staff and visitors have long reported unexplained noises, flickering lights, and other eerie phenomena. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, the stories are part of what gives the theatre its charm and character.

As it nears 100 years in operation, Mount Baker Theatre remains a beacon for the arts in Bellingham. It represents a successful blend of historic preservation, community engagement, and world-class entertainment. It’s not just a theatre—it’s the heart of Bellingham’s cultural identity.