Best Things To Do in Vancouver, Washington
Visit Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and Esther Short Park for a blend of history and relaxation in Vancouver, Washington. Nestled in the Pacific Northwest, Vancouver, Washington offers an array of activities for all interests.
The city boasts rich historical sites, scenic parks, and vibrant cultural experiences. Fort Vancouver National Historic Site provides insights into the area’s past with its reconstructed fort and charming gardens. Esther Short Park, the oldest public square in Washington, serves as a community hub with its beautiful landscaping and lively events.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Vancouver Waterfront offers stunning views and walking trails. With its unique blend of history, nature, and culture, Vancouver, Washington is a must-visit destination.
Credit: www.emeraldpalate.com
Top Places to Stay in Vancouver, WA
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| Heart Of Downtown Vancouver!portland Across River 309 West 16th Street, Vancouver, 98660, United States of America | 167 |
| Town Delight, close to Portland 3100 Northeast 49th Street, Vancouver, WA 98663, United States of America | 107 |
| A relaxing home in SE Vancouver WA 908 Southeast 119th Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98683, United States of America | 95 |
| Beautifully Designed, King Beds, 2 Living Rooms 4401 Northwest Columbia Street, Vancouver, 98660, United States of America | 173 |
| Cozy home, park VIEW. Minutes from PDX! AC 721 West 23rd Street, Vancouver, WA 98660, United States of America | 80 |
| Open & Spacious Resort W Hottub Basketball Court 12010 Southeast Riveridge Drive, Vancouver, 98683, United States of America | 130 |
| Briar Rose Inn Vancouver WA USA 314 West 11th Street, Vancouver, WA 98660, United States of America | 106 |
| #StayInMyDIstrict Vancouver Near Clark College 2208 East 25th Street, Vancouver, 98661, United States of America | 123 |
| Clean & Comfy Family Stay Close To Everything! 11708 NW 15th Ave. , Vancouver, 98685, United States of America | 25 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites Portland/Vancouver 315 Southeast Olympia Drive, Vancouver, WA 98684, United States of America | 90 |
| Casa Zen Yeye! Amazing Outdoor Space & Mins to DTN 2210 West 28th Street, Vancouver, WA 98660, United States of America | 25 |
| My Place Hotel-Vancouver, WA 8300 Northeast Vancouver Mall Loop, Vancouver, WA 98662, United States of America | 353 |
| Sonesta ES Suites Portland Vancouver 41st Street 7301 Northeast 41st Street, Vancouver, WA 98662, United States of America | 225 |
| Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Vancouver 411 SE 123rd Avenue, Vancouver, 98683, United States of America | 69 |
| Northwest Craftsman Lodge 5805 Montana Lane, Vancouver, WA 98661, United States of America | 15 |
| AC Hotel by Marriott Vancouver Waterfront 333 West Columbia Way, Vancouver, 98660, United States of America | 68 |
| Homewood Suites by Hilton Vancouver / Portland 701 Southeast Columbia Shores Boulevard, Vancouver, WA 98661, United States of America | 101 |
| The Riverfront Retreat-woods Landing 3507 Riverwood Ln, Vancouver, 98683, United States of America | 19 |
| Heathman Lodge 7801 Northeast Greenwood, Vancouver, WA 98662, United States of America | 728 |
| Hilton Vancouver Washington 301 West 6th Street, Vancouver, WA 98660, United States of America | 140 |
| Hotel Indigo - Vancouver Dwtn - Portland Area, an IHG Hotel 550 Waterfront Way, Vancouver, 98660, United States of America | 39 |
| Travelers Getaway Vancouver, 98664, United States of America | 14 |
| Cheery Townhome about 18 Mi to Dtwn Portland! Vancouver, 98684-4303, United States of America | 11 |
| Best Western Premier Hotel at Fisher's Landing 1500 Se 167Th Ave , Vancouver, 98683, United States of America | 643 |
| Kozy Hideaway - Near PDX - Long Stay Discounts - FastWiFi 15119 Northeast 9th Street, Vancouver, WA 98684, United States of America | 8 |
| Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Vancouver Mall-Portland Area, an IHG Hotel 7205 Northeast 41ST Street, Vancouver, WA 98662, United States of America | 296 |
| Candlewood Suites Vancouver/Camas, an IHG Hotel 2010 Southeast 192nd Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98683, United States of America | 81 |
| Couples Retreat With Jacuzzi Tub 610 West Fourth Plain Boulevard, Vancouver, 98660, United States of America | 11 |
| Garrett Retreat Vancouver, 98660, United States of America | 12 |
| Cute and Cozy 2-BR Bungalow near everything! 3808 T Street, Vancouver, WA 98663, United States of America | 7 |
| Kozy Condo-Near PDX-EZFwyAccess-Fast Wi-Fi 11608 Northeast 32nd Street, Vancouver, WA 98682, United States of America | 5 |
| Lovely Vancouver Home Less Than 18 Mi to Portland! Vancouver, 98662-3229, United States of America | 5 |
| Riveridge Retreat Vancouver, 98683, United States of America | 8 |
| Inviting Studio with Patio, 15 Mi to Portland! Vancouver, 98665, United States of America | 4 |
| Lovely Vancouver Retreat with Home Gym! Vancouver, 98684, United States of America | 5 |
| Cozy and Quiet Family Home in Park Setting Near PDX 13100 Northeast 5th Street, Vancouver, WA 98684, United States of America | 3 |
| Relaxing & Cozy Tiny House 15206 Northeast 96th Street, Vancouver, WA 98682, United States of America | 3 |
| Vancouver Vacation Rental 16 Mi to Portland! Vancouver, 98662, United States of America | 4 |
| Chic Vancouver Cottage 1 Mile to Main Street Vancouver, 98660-1739, United States of America | 3 |
| SpringHill Suites by Marriott Portland Vancouver 1421 Southeast Tech Center Drive, Vancouver, WA 98683, United States of America | 201 |
| Downtown Couv' Corner Suite, Close To Pdx 615 Main Street, Vancouver, 98660, United States of America | 2 |
| Adorable Cottage Among Trees Close To Everything 3331 Southeast Riverwood Lane, Vancouver, 98683, United States of America | 2 |
| Modern Vancouver Townhome - Right on Main St! Vancouver, 98660, United States of America | 2 |
| Cheerful one level home with Hot Tub and Beautiful Yard 1104 Northeast 143rd Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98684, United States of America | 2 |
| Mill Plain Retreat Vancouver, 98684, United States of America | 6 |
| Yellow Door Ranch- Welcome Home! 9008 Northeast 11th Street, Vancouver, WA 98664, United States of America | 2 |
| Walkable, Heart Of Vancouver Apt, Close To Pdx 615 Main Street, Vancouver, 98660, United States of America | 2 |
| Quiet & Cozy Family Home W Game Room & Home Gym 14408 NE 73rd St, Vancouver, 98682, United States of America | 3 |
| Relax & Enjoy This Spacious Gem In Easy Location 10618 Northwest 26th Avenue, Vancouver, 98685, United States of America | 3 |
| VNC BNB King beds, pool table, fire pit, arcade, xbox 10310 Northeast 116th Avenue, Vancouver, WA 98662, United States of America | 1 |
Explore Vancouver Waterfront
The Vancouver Waterfront is a gem in Vancouver, Washington. This area offers a perfect blend of nature, dining, and relaxation. Enjoy picturesque views and a range of activities for all ages.
Stroll Along The Promenade
Take a leisurely walk along the promenade. The walkway stretches along the Columbia River. Enjoy the fresh air and scenic views. Benches are available for resting and people-watching. Don’t forget to bring your camera for some stunning shots.
The promenade is also great for biking. Kids will love the open space to run and play. You might even see some local wildlife along the way.
Dine At Waterfront Restaurants
After a stroll, enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants. Options range from casual cafes to fine dining. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with river views. Taste delicious local seafood and other fresh dishes.
Here are some popular choices:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| WildFin American Grill | American | Seafood |
| Twigs Bistro and Martini Bar | American | Martinis |
| Stack 571 Burger and Whiskey Bar | American | Burgers and Whiskey |
These restaurants offer a perfect end to a day at the waterfront. Enjoy the views, the food, and the atmosphere.
Visit Fort Vancouver
Fort Vancouver is a historic site in Vancouver, Washington. It is perfect for history lovers and families. The site offers a glimpse into the 19th-century life. It includes reconstructed buildings, gardens, and interactive exhibits. This makes it an exciting place to explore.
Tour The Historic Site
A tour of the historic site is a must. You can walk through the fort and see authentic structures. The fort includes a blacksmith shop, a fur warehouse, and living quarters. Each building tells a unique story. Guides provide detailed information about the fort’s history. The tour is both fun and educational.
Attend Living History Events
Living history events bring the past to life. Actors in period costumes perform daily tasks from the 1800s. These events include cooking demonstrations, blacksmithing, and storytelling. You can even participate in some activities. This makes history interactive and enjoyable.
| Event | Description | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Blacksmithing | Watch blacksmiths make tools and artifacts. | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Cooking Demonstrations | Learn about 19th-century cooking methods. | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM |
| Storytelling | Hear stories from the fort’s past. | 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM |
Fort Vancouver is a treasure trove of history. It offers engaging tours and events. Visit Fort Vancouver for an unforgettable experience.
Discover Esther Short Park
Esther Short Park is the oldest public square in Washington. This park is a vibrant hub in Vancouver. It offers something for everyone. The lush green space is perfect for relaxing. Families, couples, and solo travelers love visiting. Its central location makes it easy to access. Let’s dive into some of the best things to do here.
Enjoy The Rose Garden
The Rose Garden is a highlight of Esther Short Park. It’s filled with beautiful blooms. These roses come in many colors. The garden is a favorite spot for photos. The scent is captivating, especially in spring. Benches are placed for visitors to sit and enjoy. Kids and adults alike will find joy here. This garden is a must-see for all flower lovers.
Attend Local Festivals
Esther Short Park hosts numerous local festivals. These events are fun for all ages. Music, food, and crafts fill the park. Summer months are especially lively. The Vancouver Wine & Jazz Festival is popular. Don’t miss the Farmers Market too. It’s open on weekends and offers fresh produce. These festivals bring the community together. They make the park a buzzing place to be.
Hike In Vancouver Lake Park
Exploring Vancouver Lake Park is a must-do activity in Vancouver, Washington. The park offers scenic trails, stunning lake views, and diverse wildlife. It’s an ideal spot for a serene hike. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the park has something for everyone.
Bird Watching
Vancouver Lake Park is a paradise for bird watchers. You can spot various bird species here. The park is home to eagles, herons, and many waterfowl. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the avian show.
Bird watching is best in the early morning. The birds are most active then. You’ll hear their songs and see them flying around.
Picnic By The Lake
A picnic by Vancouver Lake is a delightful experience. The park has designated picnic areas with tables and benches. Pack a lunch and enjoy the natural beauty.
There are many shaded spots for a relaxing meal. The lake’s gentle waves provide a soothing background sound. It’s a perfect way to spend the day with family or friends.
Remember to bring a blanket for extra comfort. The grassy areas are ideal for laying down and unwinding.
Shop At Vancouver Farmers Market
The Vancouver Farmers Market is a must-visit spot in Vancouver, Washington. It offers a vibrant experience with a variety of stalls and vendors. The market is open on weekends and provides a perfect way to spend a sunny day.
Browse Local Produce
At the Vancouver Farmers Market, you can browse an array of local produce. Farmers from the region bring fresh fruits and vegetables. You will find apples, berries, leafy greens, and more. The market ensures you get the freshest products available.
| Produce | Season |
|---|---|
| Apples | Fall |
| Strawberries | Summer |
| Carrots | All Year |
Enjoy Artisan Goods
The market also features a variety of artisan goods. You can find handmade crafts, unique jewelry, and home decor. Local artisans showcase their skills, making it a perfect place to find special gifts.
- Handmade soaps
- Unique pottery
- Custom jewelry
These items are crafted with care and are one-of-a-kind. Shopping here supports local artists and the community.
Explore Pearson Field And Air Museum
Discover the fascinating world of aviation at Pearson Field and Air Museum. Located in Vancouver, Washington, this museum offers a deep dive into aviation history.
Learn Aviation History
The museum houses a wealth of historical artifacts. Learn about the early days of flight and the development of aviation technology. Explore exhibits that detail the impact of aviation on world events.
The museum also covers local aviation history. Find out how Pearson Field played a role in the growth of Vancouver.
View Vintage Aircraft
See a stunning collection of vintage aircraft. The museum features planes from different eras.
Each aircraft has a story. Learn about the pilots who flew them and the missions they undertook.
- World War I planes
- World War II fighters
- Post-war civilian aircraft
Photography enthusiasts will love capturing these historic machines.
Plan your visit to Pearson Field and Air Museum. Enjoy a day of learning and exploration!
Tour Clark County Historical Museum
Visiting the Clark County Historical Museum is a top activity in Vancouver, Washington. This museum offers a rich dive into local history and culture. Here, you can explore fascinating exhibits and join informative walking tours. It is perfect for history buffs and curious minds alike.
Explore Exhibits
The museum showcases a variety of engaging exhibits that tell the story of Clark County. Each exhibit is carefully curated to highlight different aspects of the region’s past. You can see artifacts, photographs, and documents that bring history to life.
Some exhibits focus on the lives of Native American tribes. Others explore the impact of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The museum also features displays on the area’s early settlers and industries.
Interactive displays make learning fun for kids and adults. Touch screens and hands-on activities add an engaging element to the experience. Each visit can be a new discovery with rotating exhibits throughout the year.
Participate In Walking Tours
One of the best ways to experience Vancouver’s history is through the museum’s walking tours. These tours take you through historic sites around the city. Knowledgeable guides share interesting stories and facts along the way.
Several themed tours are available. For example, you can join the Architectural Tour to see historic buildings. Or, opt for the Downtown Tour to learn about the city’s development.
Walking tours are a fantastic way to get outside and explore. They offer a deeper understanding of the area’s history and culture. Tours are suitable for all ages and are a great family activity.
Visiting the Clark County Historical Museum is a must-do in Vancouver, Washington. Whether you’re exploring exhibits or joining a walking tour, you will leave with a greater appreciation for local history.
Credit: www.visitvancouverwa.com
Relax At Columbia Springs
Vancouver, Washington offers a serene escape at Columbia Springs. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature. The area boasts beautiful trails, an informative interpretive center, and scenic views.
Walk Nature Trails
At Columbia Springs, you can explore nature trails teeming with lush greenery. The paths are easy to navigate, making them suitable for all ages. You can spot various plants and wildlife along the way. Enjoy the fresh air and the calming sounds of nature. The trails are well-maintained and provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Learn At The Interpretive Center
The Interpretive Center at Columbia Springs offers educational exhibits. It’s a great place to learn about the local ecosystem and environmental conservation. The center features interactive displays and knowledgeable staff. You can engage with hands-on activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. The Interpretive Center provides valuable insights into the natural world around us.
Credit: www.scenicwa.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Top Attractions In Vancouver, Washington?
Vancouver, Washington offers numerous attractions. Highlights include Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Esther Short Park, and the Waterfront Renaissance Trail. These spots provide historical insights, scenic views, and recreational opportunities. Perfect for visitors of all ages.
Where Can I Enjoy Outdoor Activities In Vancouver?
Outdoor enthusiasts will love Vancouver’s parks and trails. Visit Salmon Creek Regional Park, Vancouver Lake Park, and Burnt Bridge Creek Trail. These locations offer hiking, biking, bird-watching, and picnicking options. Ideal for nature lovers.
What Are The Best Family-friendly Activities In Vancouver?
Families will enjoy the Vancouver Farmers Market, Pearson Field Education Center, and the Water Resources Education Center. These venues offer interactive exhibits, local produce, and educational programs. Great for kids and adults alike.
Are There Any Historical Sites To Visit In Vancouver?
Yes, Vancouver is rich in history. Don’t miss Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and Officers’ Row. These sites offer a glimpse into the area’s past. Perfect for history buffs.
Conclusion
Vancouver, Washington, offers a wealth of activities for everyone. From scenic parks to cultural landmarks, there’s something for all. Plan your visit to explore these hidden gems. Enjoy the vibrant community and stunning natural beauty. Vancouver, Washington, truly has it all for an unforgettable experience.