From our Best Of the Northwest 2014 issue, this selection was one of three remarkable Libation Destinations in Washington state. To read more in-depth stories from print, subscribe here!
It might be the sparkling sheen of the Salish Sea from the edge of Bellingham Bay, the handcrafted “farm to spa” treatments or the casual, chic culinary offerings at Keenan’s at the Pier, but the Chrysalis Inn has draw written all over it. Opening in 2001 under the guidance of proprietor J. Michael Keenan, the Chrysalis is minutes outside of downtown Bellingham in one direction and the landmark Fairhaven District in the other. Close enough to the booming brewery population for the beer-inclined yet far enough for waterfront repose, the Chrysalis Inn is a true Northwest destination.
Although the surrounding outdoors are exceptionally appealing for the Chrysalis with paddle-boarding in the bay, biking the boardwalk, sail-boating and more, Northwest-driven amenities are abound indoors as well. The spa highlights local ingredients like honey from small batch beekeepers and wine by-products from nearby producers with their farm to spa treatments, while the a wide array of massage, body treatments, waxing, prenatal treatments and more are available to guests to indulge.
The resident restaurant, Keenan’s on the Pier, sports a sun-loving patio that overlooks the bay, while the dining room enjoys floor-to-ceiling windows to catch the same scenery. Serving breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner daily, executive chef Rob Holmes plates up picturesque Northwest sustenance, from steaming heaps of Penn Cove mussels found 60 miles south in Coupeville, Wash., to house-smoked and grilled pork chops from Ephrata, Wash.,’s Lan-Roc Farms, pairing with a proud Washingtonian beer and wine list.
Room with a view—each of the suites gaze out into the Puget Sound, with a bay window and day bed to recline in and gain perspective. A reminder that industry is booming, active train tracks run just feet away from the said window and earplugs for the night are recommended. This does not deter from the “respite for the body, mind and soul” that the Chrysalis pledges to bring their patrons, the deep-set rooms encase guests into their rest and relaxation quarters with comfort. If a little extra edge is needed for slumber, the restaurant allows guests to bring post-dinner bevvies up to the room.
The Chrysalis Inn || 804 10th Street, Bellingham || (888) 808-0005 || thechrysalisinn.com
