Things To Do
in Vancouver
Vancouver, Washington sits just across the Columbia River from Portland, offering a blend of historic riverfront charm and modern city life. The downtown core centers on Esther Short Park and the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, with a growing lineup of breweries, eateries, and shops. Outdoorsy vibes come from easy access to the Columbia River Gorge, Lacamas Lake, and nearby Mount St. Helens.
The city makes a convenient base for exploring both urban culture and rugged Pacific Northwest scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café in the historic downtown area, where you can savor freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, admiring the preserved 19th-century buildings that tell the story of Vancouver's rich history. Don't forget to stop by the Vancouver Historic Museum to gain deeper insights into the area’s past.
For lunch, head to a quaint bistro that offers farm-to-table selections, showcasing the region's fresh produce. Post-lunch, visit the Columbia River Gorge, where you can hike scenic trails and enjoy breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains. Take a moment to relax by the riverside, soaking in the tranquility of nature.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to a waterfront restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in delicious seafood while watching the river's shimmering reflections. After dinner, explore the local nightlife by visiting a cozy pub that features live music, showcasing local artists. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, taking in the stunning views of the illuminated city skyline.
Begin your day with breakfast at a café that specializes in organic and local ingredients, fueling up for an adventure in nature. Head to the nearby Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, where you can witness a variety of birds and wildlife in their natural habitat. Spend the morning hiking along the scenic trails that wind through wetlands and forests, keeping your camera ready for capturing stunning wildlife moments.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a packed picnic lunch at one of the designated areas in the refuge, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Continue your wildlife adventure with a guided tour to learn more about the ecosystems and conservation efforts in the region. Keep an eye out for herons, deer, and other fascinating creatures that call this refuge home.
As the day winds down, return to Vancouver and dine at a restaurant known for its farm-fresh dishes and warm ambiance. Post-dinner, consider taking a peaceful evening walk at Esther Short Park, where you can enjoy the beautifully lit gardens and perhaps catch a local event or performance. Conclude your day with dessert at a nearby ice cream shop, savoring a sweet treat under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-75 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room | $120-200 per night |
| 🚆Monthly transit pass | $65-110 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Portland and the Gorge
- Strong family-friendly attractions and parks
- Growing craft-beer and dining scene
- Relaxed, small-city vibe with river access
- Smaller nightlife scene than nearby Portland
- Weather can be rainy and grey in winter
- Limited high-end shopping compared to larger cities
- Some areas are car-dependent outside downtown
Places to Visit in Vancouver
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic riverside area with colonial-era buildings and reflections on the Columbia.
Central park with tree-lined promenades and river views.
Wide waterfront trail with sunsets over the river and bridges.
Rugged basalt cliffs and river panoramas along the Gorge.
Food in Vancouver
Vancouver Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chowder featuring locally sourced salmon, a staple at waterfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Pan-seared crab cakes with lemon aioli, a Pacific Northwest favorite.
A seasonal dessert highlighting local berries and hazelnuts.
Creamy risotto with locally foraged mushrooms from nearby forests.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls with farm-fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and prepared foods.
Rotating lineup of trucks along Main Street offering diverse street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be courteous, hold doors for others, and respect quiet hours near parks and public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Vancouver
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 15-20% at restaurants and bars; smaller tips for takeout; rounding up for casual service is common.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; cash accepted; contactless payments common; some places may add a service charge.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with frequent showers; best for blooming gardens and riverside walks.
Warm, dry days with long daylight hours; ideal for outdoor markets and water activities.
Comfortable temperatures with colorful fall foliage; wetter later in the season.
Cool and rainy with occasional snow near higher elevations; layering advised.
Vancouver at Night
Hiking in Vancouver
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic cliff-top trail with river views near the Gorge.
Short but steep hike with dramatic river panoramas.
Easy to moderate loop around Lacamas Lake in Camas.
Several trails offering volcanic landscapes and sweeping views.
Airports
How to reach Vancouver by plane.
Major regional airport about 10-15 miles southeast, connected by highways and transit.
Small general-aviation airport in Vancouver, convenient for private flights and lessons.
General aviation airport serving the metro area, located east of Portland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically the largest group with increasing diversity over time.
A substantial and growing community contributing to the cultural mix.
Active communities with diverse cuisines and businesses.
Smaller but present community with varied backgrounds.
Residents with mixed heritage and ties to regional tribes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local and regional leagues and youth programs; fielded play at city parks.
Community leagues, clubs, and youth activities across the area.
Courts and leagues at community centers; university and high school games nearby.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vancouver.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie-friendly options on menus; ask for meatless substitutions; many places offer veggie bowls or salads.