Family-Friendly Activities
Big Al’s Bowling: A modern entertainment center with bowling, arcade games, and food.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park: An indoor trampoline park great for kids and adults alike.
Oaks Amusement Park (in nearby Portland): Rides and mini-golf, just a short drive away.
Multnomah Falls: Located within a short drive, this iconic waterfall is a family favorite.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Fourth of July Fireworks at Fort Vancouver: One of the largest fireworks displays in the region.
Christmas Tree Lighting in Esther Short Park: Holiday festivities and community gatherings.
Vancouver’s Wine & Jazz Festival: Held each summer with live music, food, and wine tastings.
Summer Concerts at Esther Short Park: Free outdoor concerts featuring local and national artists.
Day Trips and Excursions
Mount St. Helens: A famous volcano offering hiking trails and scenic views.
Cannon Beach and Oregon Coast: A scenic two-hour drive for beachcombing and coastal sights.
Portland, Oregon: Just across the river, enjoy Portland’s larger city attractions, shopping, and food scene.
Shopping and Dining
Vancouver Farmers Market: Open seasonally, with fresh produce, artisan goods, and local crafts.
Uptown Village: Discover unique boutiques, coffee shops, and specialty stores.
Downtown Vancouver Dining: Try the variety of eateries, from farm-to-table restaurants to popular food trucks and breweries.
Vancouver Mall: A large shopping center with major retailers, dining options, and a cinema.
Outdoor and Nature Activities
Vancouver Waterfront Park: Stroll along the scenic riverwalk, enjoy public art, and grab a bite at nearby restaurants.
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site: Explore the reconstructed fort, Pearson Air Museum, and historic gardens.
Esther Short Park: Vancouver’s oldest public square, with playgrounds, water features, and an amphitheater hosting events.
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area: Take short trips to hike or sightsee the famous waterfalls and trails.
Lacamas Lake Regional Park: Go hiking, paddleboarding, or picnicking by the lakeside.
Salmon Creek Regional Park: Enjoy trails, a sandy beach area, and paddleboarding on Klineline Pond.
Hikes:
The Pacific Northwest is renowned for its breathtaking hikes and stunning scenic views. Here are the top 10 most popular hikes that showcase the region’s natural beauty:
Cape Horn Lookout – Offers sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Multnomah Falls – A classic hike with spectacular waterfalls and lush greenery.
Angel’s Rest – A rewarding climb with panoramic views of the Gorge.
Silver Falls State Park – Known for its “Trail of Ten Falls,” a loop featuring multiple waterfalls.
Wahclella Falls Trail – A short, family-friendly hike with a beautiful double waterfall.
Mount Si Trail – A challenging ascent with stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Cascades.
Skyline Trail – Located at Mount Rainier, this trail boasts alpine meadows and glaciers.
Colchuck Lake – A demanding hike with incredible views of a turquoise alpine lake.
Trail of Ten Falls – Another gem in Silver Falls State Park, this trail weaves through old-growth forest.
Eagle Creek to Punchbowl Falls – A lush, forested trail with waterfalls, bridges, and steep canyon views.