Rumor has it that there are more dogs than children in Bellingham and more cats than dogs. Whether or not this is true, it is indeed the case that Bellingham loves cats and dogs. Even if you don’t have your own four-legged furry friend, the Cats & Dogs ride is a fun one for learning about all the cat- and dog-themed places in town.

The route begins at Waypoint Park. You hardly leave the park before your first stop at Yacht Dogs, where you can experience a Chicago-style dog. Then cycle over to NEKO Cat Cafe and Are You My Human? After mingling with rescue cats and dogs, head on down to Beach Cat Brewing South Paw to check out the fun vibes and the cat-themed ales, and then meet two shop kitties at Bellingham Wind Works. From there, enjoy a ride along the trails to the Whatcom Humane Society, where cats and dogs are on their best behavior waiting to be adopted. Next up is Alleycat Bike Shop, followed by a vacant building featuring a number of Pet Murals. Then pedal over to Petstop, a locally owned pet store with bins full of mouth-watering treats, before making your way to historic Fairhaven’s Mason Block, where you’ll swing by The Black Cat. Pause your ride for a brew at Paws for a Beer, and then stop in at Fairhaven Bicycles to pick up some merch that supports the community’s canine and feline friends. From there, pedal along the waterfront and back into downtown, where you’ll see the four-legged pooches in the colorful Bellingham Community mural. Finally, enjoy a glizzy at Dog Days before returning to Waypoint Park.

Note: Cats & Dogs Lite does not visit the Whatcom Humane Society.