Discover Vancouver

Vancouver combines experiences along the Columbia River with impressive history and diverse museums. Those looking for a vacation rental or another type of accommodation can therefore plan their trip around different interests: between the water, paved paths, historic sites, exhibitions, and cultural events. The following places show what makes Vancouver special without limiting your stay to just one type of experience.

Water and paths along the Columbia River

Vancouver Waterfront Park is a 7.3-acre community park. It includes the distinctive Grant Street Pier with a cable-stayed design, which offers views of the Columbia River. Another special feature is the Columbia River water feature: the artistic representation of the river includes cascades, fountains, and shallow wading areas. Nearby benches complement this area and make it a place where a break can be incorporated into your travel plans.

For exercise, the Columbia River Renaissance Trail is a good option. The paved trail is five miles long and is suitable for walking, jogging, cycling, and roller skating. It begins at Esther Short Park and ultimately leads to Wintler Park.

Historic sites rich in detail

Esther Short Community Park is the oldest public square in the state of Washington. The park is also home to the Salmon Run Bell Tower and Glockenspiel, which was built in 2002. Its 25 cast-bronze bells, four tower clocks measuring six feet in height each, and a rotating diorama depicting the history of Chinook salmon provide several specific points of interest for a cultural tour.

The reconstructed Fort Vancouver stands on the archaeological foundations of a Hudson’s Bay Company fort that existed there from 1829 through the 1860s. Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is partially reconstructed and includes a palisade, a bakery, and the Chief Factor’s residence. Within the palisade walls, numerous reconstructed buildings are connected by paths. In addition, Officers Row consists of 21 houses arranged in a long line opposite the Fort Vancouver Parade Grounds. The Grant House was built in 1846 and is considered the oldest house and one of the most significant historic buildings in the Old Oregon Country.

Museums, nature, and cultural events

Pearson Air Museum presents aviation history through hand-painted murals, exhibit panels, and five aircraft from the early 20th century. It is open year-round Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Clark County Historical Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; on the first Friday of each month, it also has opening hours from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. It features exhibitions, lectures, and events about local stories from all areas of Clark County history.

The Water Resources Education Center offers self-guided exhibits on the water cycle, watersheds, the importance of trees, and waste management. The center is surrounded by nearly 50 acres of wetlands. The monthly First Friday Art Walk in Vancouver provides cultural variety. Swimming is permitted at Vancouver Lake Regional Park; however, there are no lifeguards, and use is at your own risk.

Which accommodation suits your travel plans?

When searching for a vacation rental in Vancouver, you can first decide which themes should shape your stay. Those who primarily want to explore historic sites and museums will plan differently from someone who wants to use the five-mile Renaissance Trail or spend time by the water. A stay with children can also be organized around different priorities: the city’s first fully inclusive playground is located in Esther Short Park, while museums and reconstructed historic sites offer additional opportunities for shared discoveries.

More destinations for orientation

If you would like to explore other places in addition to Vancouver, you can find Salmon Creek, Camas, Washougal, Battle Ground, La Center, and Ridgefield here.

For the higher-level travel overview: Clark.