Discover Vancouver: Parks, History and Museums

Vancouver offers a range of options to consider when choosing where to stay: waterfront parks and trails along the Columbia River sit alongside historic sites, museums and exhibits. The attractions focus on different themes—from the design of public spaces to the history of the region.

Waterfront Park and Trails Along the Columbia River

Vancouver Waterfront Park covers 7.3 acres and is a community park. Its distinctive Grant Street Pier, with its cable-stayed design, offers views of the Columbia River. In the park, an artistic water feature depicts the river with cascades and fountains. Shallow water areas are intended for wading, with benches nearby. The park combines a landscaped waterfront with places to relax.

The Columbia River Renaissance Trail is a paved, five-mile path for walking, jogging, cycling and roller skating. It begins at Esther Short Park and eventually reaches Wintler Park. Its length and the activities listed give you different ways to incorporate exercise into your stay—whether on foot, jogging or on wheels.

Historic Sites and Public Parks

Esther Short Community Park is the oldest public square in Washington State. It is also home to the city’s first fully inclusive playground. Another historic Vancouver landmark is the Salmon Run Bell Tower and Carillon: built in 2002, it features 25 cast-bronze bells and four tower clocks, each six feet tall. A rotating diorama depicts the history of Chinook salmon.

The reconstructed Fort Vancouver stands on the archaeological footprint 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. Numerous reconstructed buildings stand within the palisade wall, connected by paths.

Individual homes and historic districts also tell the story of the region’s architectural history. Officers Row consists of 21 houses in a long line facing the Fort Vancouver Parade Grounds. The Grant House was built in 1846. It is the oldest house and one of the most significant historic buildings in Old Oregon Country. These varied sites offer different ways to explore the topic, from the layout of an earlier fort and reconstructed buildings to historic homes.

Museums 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 features exhibits, hosts talks and offers events about local stories from all areas of Clark County history. Regular hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; on the first Friday of each month, the museum is open from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Since opening hours may change, check them before your visit.

The monthly First Friday Art Walk adds a recurring cultural event in Vancouver to the museums and historic sites. If you would like to plan your stay around it, check the dates for your visit.

Wetlands and Water

The Water Resources Education Center is surrounded by nearly 50 acres of wetlands. Its self-guided exhibits cover the water cycle, watersheds, the importance of trees and waste management. This brings nature and environmental topics alongside the city’s historical and cultural highlights.

Swimming is permitted at Vancouver Lake Regional Park. However, there are no lifeguards, and swimming is at your own risk. Keep this condition in mind when planning to swim at the park.

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