Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Vancouver, Washington. #Top Attractions

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Where should you go for the holidays? Try Vancouver, Washington. For the best travel experience in Vancouver, Washington, check out our curated list of things to do in Vancouver, Washington, and the best places to visit in Vancouver, Washington, below. Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world.

Say the word Vancouver, and most people would immediately picture the wet and snowy destination in western Canada’s interior.

However, it’s worth noting that there is a second, less well-known Vancouver, located in Washington State’s Pacific Northwest and also on the coast of the Pacific Ocean.

Not yet well-known, it offers everything you’d expect from a place in this part of the country without being overrun with tourists like Seattle or its northern neighbor of the same name. This is the place for you.

Vancouver, Washington, is one of the state’s oldest communities, with a rich history that stretches back to the early 1800s and a wealth of things to see and do.

Those interested in the city’s rich history can visit Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Pearson Air Museum, and the oldest operating airfield in the Western United States.

Tourists will find enough things to do in this charming town in Washington since interest in this city is sparked by its allure and natural beauty.

A new destination in this part of the United States has been discovered — it’s not yet known by the masses, but it has everything you might desire for a city without being swamped by the northern neighbor.

Burnt Bridge Creek

 Burnt Bridge Creek, Vancouver, Washington
Burnt Bridge Creek is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

Another magnificent Washington spring is on the way, and it can’t come soon enough. If you’ve spent most of this long, miserable winter cooped up inside, you’ll appreciate the longer days and nicer weather ahead.

If you live in the Vancouver area, hop on your bike and ride to the Burnt Bridge Creek Trail. This hiking and biking path is particularly lovely at this time of year.

The Burnt Bridge Creek Trail, located in a peaceful, wooded section of Vancouver, is a stunning nature walk for both novices and experienced hikers to enjoy.

This long trail has a lot to offer.

Burnt Bridge Creek was called after a short, crude bridge built across the creek in 1889.

The hard-surfaced track is not only fantastic for walkers of all abilities, but it’s also ideal for biking.

The route begins at NW Fruit Valley Road and NW Bernie Drive, at the mouth of Burnt Bridge Creek.

The 15.5 miles will go by quickly if you’re riding a bike.

The sight of beautiful green trees and grass makes you eager for the coming seasons. So plan your visit and be sure not to miss it!

Esther Short Park and Playground

Esther Short Park and Playground, Vancouver, Washington
Esther Short Park and Playground is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

This is the state’s oldest public square and is at the heart of much of the city’s charm.

Esther Short Park is a favorite gathering spot for community activities and concerts. Still, it’s also a terrific place to relax and enjoy the weather.

The historic Esther Short Park serves as a focal point for events and entertainment in downtown Vancouver, USA. The five-acre square, which dates from 1853, is Northwest’s oldest public park.

The park has since been transformed into an urban plaza featuring a covered performance pavilion, a Victorian rose garden, an interactive fountain, and a children’s playground.

The 69-foot Salmon Run Bell Tower, which incorporates a glockenspiel diorama that constantly emerges to narrate the narrative of the Chinook Indians, is perhaps the park’s most spectacular feature.

Other public artworks, such as a nearly century-old sculpture of the “Pioneer Mother” herself, Esther Short, provide a friendly atmosphere throughout the park.

On weekends, street performers, live music, and the on-site Salmon Run Bell Tower chimes can be heard from every corner of this five-acre park.

Shade trees and a water feature that operates throughout the summer are more popular reasons to visit.

The Vancouver Farmers Market is held in Esther Short Park every Saturday and Sunday between March and October.

The yearly Recycled Arts Festival, which highlights eco-conscious artwork plucked straight from the dump, is another popular community event at Esther Short Park.

Address: 605 Esther St, Vancouver, WA 98660, United States

Grant House

Grant House, Vancouver, Washington
Grant House is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

An officers’ residence from the late 1800s has been converted into an elegant restaurant in Washington, DC.

Once upon a time, the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Columbia Department had its headquarters at 19th-century fur trade outpost Fort Vancouver, now a National Historic Landmark.

The Hudson’s Bay Company established this settlement in 1825 on the Columbia River’s northern banks.

Fort Vancouver became Vancouver Barracks in 1879, making it the oldest military installation on the West Coast.

Historic homes dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s line Officers Row in Fort Vancouver. In fact, the Ulysses S. Grant House, which is now a restaurant, is one of these historic residences.

1850 saw the completion of the Grant House. The oldest building on the street is here.

Having been run by one family for the past ten years, the restaurant is well-known in the neighborhood.

Every day of the week, both lunch and dinner are served here for guests. Several gluten-free options are included on the menu.

With its “At Ease” happy-hour menu, this lovely tavern is a terrific place to meet friends for drinks.

The Ulysses Club is located on the upper level of the Grant House.

Visit the Grant House if you’re ever in Vancouver again!

Address: Vancouver, WA USA

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Hula Boy Charbroil

Hula Boy Charbroil, Vancouver, Washington
Hula Boy Charbroil is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

You deserve to experience a fun dinner night or a romantic date with your loved ones.

Hula Boy has been located on NE Fourth Plain Boulevard in Vancouver since its inception in 2006.

Herb Pacheco, the chef and proprietor, offers traditional Hawaiian cuisine to the Pacific Northwest.

The charming ambiance and the tropical cocktails will transport you to Maui.

Traditional Hawaiian cuisine such as Bentos, teriyaki, Yakisoba noodles, and Mahi Mahi are served here.

Like the majority of the other components, the beef served at Hula Boy is fresh and local.

If you haven’t tried Hula Boy Charbroil’s delicious food yet, check out their menu and pay them a visit as soon as possible.

Address: 11820 NE Fourth Plain Blvd Ste G, Vancouver, WA 98682, USA

Ice Cream Renaissance

Ice Cream Renaissance, Vancouver, Washington
Ice Cream Renaissance is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

It’s not always better to go bigger. But when it comes to ice cream, you can’t deny it! A trip to Ice Cream Renaissance won’t disappoint if you feel the same way.

At this dessert shop, you’ll find ice cream concoctions that are both enormous and inventive. 

Since its launch in Vancouver in 2001, the Ice Cream Renaissance has made people’s lives a little sweeter.

When it first opened, its main selling point was the fact that it was the only place in town to get handcrafted ice cream in small batches.

However, things have changed a little through the years. Today, it’s best recognized for its desserts, including traditional and innovative flavors.

Being inventive is an understatement, too. Incredibly delicious ice cream delicacies await you at Ice Cream Renaissance!

The diversity of toppings, such as cookies, candies, sprinkles, almonds, and more, only enhances the desserts’ unusual shapes.

Of course, there’s more to the dessert menu than giant ice cream molds.

So, are you all set for a trip to this sweet shop?

Now is the time for you to tour around the Ice Cream Renaissance.

Address: 1925 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660, USA

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Kiggins Theatre

Kiggins Theatre, Vancouver, Washington
Kiggins Theatre is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

What do you do during the winter months in Washington state? Some people prefer to stay indoors, especially if they aren’t into snow sports or can’t tolerate the cold. 

Venues like this are great for movies and theater performances, so don’t hesitate to check them out.

As soon as it first opened to the public in 1937, the Kiggins Theatre quickly rose to the status of one of the region’s most opulent cinemas.

To earn its spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012, Kiggins had to endure unexpected closures, near-disastrous fires, and boisterous crowds.

Independent and vintage films are among the options available to theatergoers these days. Additionally, the room is used for community events and concerts.

The theater’s concessions include locally renowned popcorn, pizza, and a wide range of alcoholic beverages.

If you’re in Vancouver with someone special or your family, a play at Kiggins is doubly exciting because of the reimagined atmospheric theater’s enchanting surroundings.

Address: 1011 Main Street, Vancouver, Washington

La Bottega

La Bottega, Vancouver, Washington
La Bottega is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

Italian food and fine wine go together like bread and butter, and at La Bottega, you can savor and shop for them both in one setting. 

It was only recently that the family who runs this Vancouver cafe, wine shop, and deli renovated their delightful facility, and there is now an even greater range to choose from (and more room to enjoy it all).

Try their culinary haven if you’ve never heard of it before.

Located on Main Street in the center of downtown Vancouver, La Bottega Cafe, Deli, and Wine Shop has been a local favorite for years.

This is a gathering spot for foodies and home cooks alike; in other words, it’s a place for everyone.

You can choose from a wide range of domestically produced and imported wines, all of the varying quality (but not in quality).

In addition to being a shop, La Bottega also functions as a restaurant.

On Tuesdays, you may get half-price wine, and on Wednesdays, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., there are free wine tastings.

If you’re in Vancouver, make sure to swing by La Bottega.

Address: 1905 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660, USA

Maryhill Winery

Maryhill Winery Washington Vancouver
Maryhill Winery, Washington, Vancouver / Jenny Cestnik / Flickr

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to sip a glass of wine while overlooking the beautiful countryside? What about a spectacular view of the lake while you drink? If this sounds good to you, then the Maryhill Winery on Vancouver’s waterfront is a great place for you to visit!

On a warm, sunny day, visit Maryhill Winery Vancouver if you enjoy wine, waterfront views, and excellent bites. Trust us.

Maryhill Winery Vancouver is located on the Columbia River’s west bank, at the bottom of the Goldendale tasting location.

Moreover, the winery has been part of the wine industry for almost 20 years and has won numerous awards and respect from other wineries,

Inside, you’ll find a big wine library where you may purchase wines by bottle, glass, or flight.

Outside, you’ll be sitting directly on the Columbia River.

While you’re here, try a range of wines so you may pick your favorite bottle to take home and enjoy later.

While you’re tasting, you should definitely get a charcuterie board and taste other nibbles.

After all, there’s no better compliment to cheese than wine.

Although there are many excellent restaurants in this region, dining here feels exceptionally sumptuous.

So, what do you have to lose? It’s time to fill your tummy while admiring the splendor of the waterfront scenery.

Address: Maryhill Winery Vancouver Tasting Room, 801 Waterfront Wy Suite 105, Vancouver, WA 98660, USA

Old Ivy Brewery and Taproom

Old Ivy Brewery and Taproom, Vancouver, Washington
Old Ivy Brewery and Taproom is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

Whatever your feelings about beer, breweries in Washington may be fun locations to visit, especially those that provide food.

Prepare to be enchanted if you spend any time at The Old Ivy Brewery and Taproom in Vancouver.

The ivy that climbs the outdoor patio walls will transport you to another universe.

The Old Ivy Brewery and Taproom can be found at 108 W Evergreen Blvd. in Vancouver.

The venerable climbing vine outside inspired the name of the brewery.

The vine came all the way from Germantown, Pennsylvania, believe it or not.

It moved west to Hilltop Farm near Forest Grove in 1848, then to Vancouver in the late 1800s, and eventually to this location in 1947 when the Patio Building was built.

There’s a nice range of rotating microbrews on tap inside.

Bring your appetite to Old Ivy. You’re welcome to come to Old Ivy whenever you want.

However, it is recommended to visit on a warm spring day to take advantage of the outdoor terrace.

It doesn’t get much better than eating tacos and drinking beer outside in the sun. The century-old ivy just adds to the atmosphere.

The Camas Boutique Hotel

The Camas Boutique Hotel, Vancouver, Washington
The Camas Boutique Hotel is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

Camas is a peaceful, picturesque little city near the Columbia River in Clark County.

While it is consistently listed as one of the greatest locations to live in Washington, it tends to go under the tourist radar.

On the other hand, Camas is a fantastic weekend destination, especially if you book a stay at the Camas Hotel.

When you check into the Camas Hotel, you’ll be in for a wonderful treat if you like sushi.

The Camas Boutique Hotel lies in the city’s charming downtown neighborhood, on NE 4th Avenue.

You will not be disappointed with this boutique hotel, which is one of the best in the county.

Boutiques, galleries, breweries, restaurants, spas, and much adjacent wildlife can be found in Camas’ historic downtown.

Choose between unsuited rooms with private bathrooms and European-style accommodations with common toilets that are substantially less expensive.

If you’re staying at the Camas Hotel, don’t miss out on Tommy O’s, the hotel’s luxury sushi and Asian fusion restaurant.

There’s something for everyone here, and it’s the ideal location to unwind and recharge after a day of sightseeing.

Address: Camas Boutique Hotel, 405 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA 98607, USA

Pearson Field

Pearson Field Washington Vancouver
Pearson Field, Washington, Vancouver / ryan harvey / Flickr

Air travel is irresistible, and you can’t deny it. Regardless of whether it’s for personal or military goals, there is something mystical about the power of people to fly.

Take a trip to one of Vancouver’s most underappreciated museums for a day filled with excitement, adventure, and knowledge about this fascinating topic.

Pearson Field and the neighboring air museum are located within the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, which serves as a reminder of Vancouver’s rich aviation history.

Some Russian pilots took off and landed at Pearson Field for the first-ever round-the-world flight, and Pearson Field was their final destination.

A short time ago, Pearson Field served as an important manufacturing facility for the production of lumber used in the manufacture of airplanes.

Pearson Field is now a municipal airfield, and visitors can learn about its history and more at the Pearson Air Museum, which is attached.

When entering the surrounding area’s National Historic Site, you don’t have to pay to enter!

Address: 1115 East Fifth Street, Vancouver, Washington

Salmon Creek Park

Salmon Creek Park, Vancouver, Washington
Salmon Creek Park is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

Salmon Creek Park is one of the best places to visit in Washington.

When you’re feeling adventurous, all you have to do is get in the car and drive through some of Vancouver’s breathtaking scenery.

There are many wonderful parks to visit in our state, but Salmon Creek Park will provide you with an unforgettable vacation experience.

Salmon Creek Park, also known as Klineline Pond, is one of the most delightful places to take your children if you’re in town.

There’s a splash pad at the park where they can run about, get wet, and have a great time.

A bathhouse, a roped swimming area, and an observation platform with views of the surroundings are also available.

Although access to the seaside park is free, there is a small parking fee. There are also picnic shelters accessible at this Vancouver destination.

While you’re here, be sure to check out Salmon Creek Trail if you enjoy hiking.

Address: 1112 NE 117th St, Vancouver, WA 98685, United States

The Cascade Volcanic Arc

The Cascade Volcanic Arc Washington Vancouver
The Cascade Volcanic Arc, Washington, Vancouver / Larry Syverson / Flickr

The Cascade Volcanic Arc is one of the best things to do in Washington.

There is an active stratovolcano just north of Vancouver. The Cascade Volcanic Arc includes Mount Saint Helens, and the Pacific Ring of Fire encompasses it. The mountain was responsible for the worst volcanic natural disaster in American history.

So what’s the big deal about going? There is no doubt that Mount Saint Helens is a haven for thrill-seekers.

In contrast to other Cascade summits like the fabled Mount Rainier, Saint Helens offers a wide range of mountaineering opportunities that are ideal for first-timers.

There are a variety of pathways that take you to the 8,363-foot top and reward you with awe-inspiring views.

Next, take a walk on some of the most beautiful trails in the area. Mt St Helens’ hiking trails are among the most popular in the state.

Boundary Trail, Harry’s Ridge Trail, and Coldwater Lake Trails are the most popular.

All of them have at least a little portion of their trails hiked by travelers. It’s your decision how long you want to spend hiking here.

The base of the mountain is home to several easy-going trails. Climbing rocks is also a popular pastime in the late spring and early fall.

If you don’t visit soon, you’ll be in for a treat!

Address: Vancouver, Washington, United States

The Yard Milkshake Bar

The Yard Milkshake Bar, Vancouver, Washington
The Yard Milkshake Bar is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

The joys of milkshakes, how we love them. Is there anything that says “summer” more than this dish? While your childhood malt, chocolate, and strawberry shakes were excellent, today’s milkshake bars have stepped it up a notch or two.

Milkshakes aren’t exactly a dearth in Washington, but one Vancouver eatery may have taken things to a whole new level with its creamy, frosty concoctions.

Try one of The Yard Milkshake Bar’s crazy milkshakes and let go of your inner child!

In contrast to the majority of restaurants, The Yard Milkshake Bar makes its milkshakes the star of the show. However, be advised that the creations here are both addictive and impossible to reproduce.

The Yard Milkshake Bar, located on the waterfront of Vancouver, first opened its doors to the public in June.

Logan and Chelsea Green, a husband and wife pair, came up with the idea.

Chelsea Green felt that specialized milkshakes were the best way to make her dessert shop stand out from the rest.

Here, the only thing that matters is having a good time, not counting calories or sugar. So time to satisfy your sweet tooth and don’t forget to visit them!

Address: The Yard Milkshake Bar, 656 Waterfront Wy, Vancouver, WA 98660, USA

Vancouver Farmers Market

Vancouver Farmers Market, Vancouver, Washington
Vancouver Farmers Market is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

The Vancouver Farmers Market is a must-see for anyone who likes farmers’ markets or is seeking something different to do in Vancouver.

Going to the market and seeing the latest local favorites is one of the finest ways to indulge in local gastronomy in Vancouver, or anywhere else for that matter.

It’s brimming with delectable local foods that your entire family will enjoy. It’s like turning the grocery store into a celebration! Scroll down to view some of the incredible items available.

Check out the fresh items, creativity, and food at the Vancouver Farmers Market on Esther Street!

This is the place to go if you want sustainable, handcrafted products.

You will not only be supporting local business owners, but you will also have the opportunity to meet some of them.

Hear about the meticulous procedure that went into the creation of your favorite item.

Address: Vancouver, WA USA

Vancouver Land Bridge

Vancouver Land Bridge, Vancouver, Washington
Vancouver Land Bridge is one of the best places to go in Vancouver, Washington

The Vancouver Land Bridge is one of the top attractions in Washington.

The Vancouver Land Bridge is one of the city’s most unusual sights.

This park is basically a pedestrian bridge with plants and other lovely greenery covering it.

Indigenous plants and Native basket weavings are among the bridge’s highlights.

With two viewpoints standing over the highway and nearby farms, this is one of the coolest experiences.

The Vancouver Land Bridge is more than simply a cool city feature; it also serves as a link to well-known explorers such as Lewis and Clark and also the Klickitat Trail.

This earth-covered pedestrian bridge connects historic Fort Vancouver to the Columbia River.

It represents the first Pacific Northwest’s European trading station and the meeting of Native American and European civilizations.

Just on the land bridge, you could see the Columbia River and mountains, and also an artwork created by a Native American artist, the Welcome Gate, which has canoe screens and a beautiful Chinook woman’s face.

Although Vancouver has several parks if you’re seeking a similar destination that offers something different, head down to this picturesque bridge!

Traveling and having fun in the USA? You have to check out this page – the best states to visit in USA for the most fun and unusual travel ideas.

Address: WA-14, Vancouver, WA 98661, United States

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