But many larger, newer homes have been built in the neighborhood in recent years. Upland real estate gives many homes attractive views of the lake and the forested hills on its southern shores. A few areas are zoned for apartments, most noticeably in the area just south of the park. Parks Bloedel-Donovan Park is one of the city's gathering places during winter and summer alike. During warm weather, the park bustles with swimmers, and motor boats line up at the boat ramps to take a fishing, sightseeing or water-skiing spin around Lake Whatcom.
Children cavort on a playground.
Throughout the year, community events are staged in the Bloedel-Donovan Community Building. Big Rock Garden Park, an open-air showcase of art, is a comparatively new city park located in the Silver Beach neighborhood. Another prize city park to the southwest of the Silver Beach neighborhood is Whatcom Falls Park, which features creek swimming, playing fields, trout fishing and picnic areas. Shopping The new Barkley Village shopping center, with a Haggen supermarket, puts groceries within much closer reach for neighborhood residents. It also features small shops and restaurants.