Best Things to do in Vancouver | Must-see attractions 2025

Esther Short Park

Open 24 hours

Park

605 Esther St

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Esther Short Park is a 5-acre public park in downtown Vancouver, Washington, featuring a gazebo, picnic area, playground, rose garden, and seasonal water feature.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Officers' Row

Open all day, specific tours may vary

Sights

One street north of East Evergreen Boulevard

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Officers' Row features 21 restored Victorian homes built for U.S. military officers in Vancouver, WA, showcasing unique architecture and historical significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some tours may have additional fees.

Vancouver Land Bridge

Open 24 Hours

Bridge

Highway 14

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Vancouver Land Bridge in Vancouver, USA, connects key parks and communities, integrating urban life with natural beauty, and promotes biodiversity.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Vancouver Lake Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

501 N Columbia River Hwy

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Vancouver Lake Park, located in Vancouver, WA, features scenic views, picnic areas, walking trails, and diverse wildlife habitats, perfect for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No charges for entry or parking.

Clark County Historical Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1511 Main St (btwn 15th & 16th St)

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Clark County Historical Museum in Vancouver, WA, focuses on preserving and interpreting the region's cultural history, featuring changing exhibits and educational programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Leverich Park

Open 24 hours

Park

4209 NE Leverich Park Way

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Leverich Park in Vancouver, Washington, features 16 acres of wooded landscape along Burnt Bridge Creek with amenities like a playground and disc golf area.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Salmon Creek Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

1117 NE 117th St

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Salmon Creek Park in Vancouver, WA features walking trails, wetlands, and a scenic creek, ideal for nature walks and family outings.

Duration: 1-3 hours.

Free. Some educational programs or special events may require a fee.

Interstate Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Connects Portland and Vancouver via Interstate 5

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The Interstate Bridge spans the Columbia River, connecting Vancouver, WA and Portland, OR. Commissioned in 1910, it is a vital transportation link in the Pacific Northwest.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour for a walk or drive.

Free. No ticket required to walk or drive across the bridge.

Poison Prevention Control Garden

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

14406 NE 20th Ave

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Poison Prevention Control Garden in Vancouver educates visitors on poisonous plants and prevention techniques through free half-hour tours year-round.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free.

Glenn Jackson Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Connects Portland

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Glenn Jackson Bridge connects Vancouver, WA, and Portland, OR. Completed in 1982, it spans the Columbia River, featuring a unique design and four lanes for traffic.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes for a quick drive or walk.

Free for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Marine park

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

4500 SE Columbia Way

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Marine Park in Vancouver, USA, offers scenic views, wildlife habitats, and outdoor recreational activities, making it a prime location for nature lovers and families.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. No admission fee required.

Vancouver Mall

Mo-Sa 10:00-21:00; Su 11:00-18:00

Mall

8700 Northeast Vancouver Mall Drive

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Vancouver Mall is Southwest Washington's largest shopping center, featuring 142+ shops, dining options, and a 23-screen Cinetopia theater.

Duration: Over 2 hours.

Free. Individual stores may have their own pricing for merchandise.

Wintler Community Park

Open year-round

Park

6400 Beach Drive

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Wintler Community Park in Vancouver, WA offers a 12.5-acre beach area with picnic facilities, trails, and views of the Columbia River and Mt. Hood.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

$5 per vehicle, $3 per motorcycle from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Free access outside of this period.

Magenta Theater

11:00 AM–8:00 PM

Theater

1108 Main St

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Magenta Theater in Vancouver, WA, offers diverse performing arts, programming for families, and a culturally rich experience in a renovated historic venue.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adults: $15, Seniors/Students: $10, Children under 12: $5. Special events may vary in pricing.

Vancouver Waterfront Park

Open 24 hours

Park

695 Waterfront Way

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Vancouver Waterfront Park in downtown Vancouver, WA, features scenic promenades, public art, and views of the Columbia River, offering a serene escape for visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Clark County Event Center at the Fairgrounds

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Event hall

17402 NE Delfel Rd

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Clark County Event Center at the Fairgrounds hosts a variety of events including trade shows, festivals, and concerts in Vancouver, WA, offering versatile space for large gatherings.

Duration: 2–4 hours depending on the event.

Entry to the center is generally free, but ticket prices apply for specific events.

Showboat Columbia

9:00 AM–4:00 AM

Casino

2300 E 2nd St

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Showboat Columbia in Vancouver, WA offers a diverse gaming experience with over 1,000 slot machines, table games, and live entertainment. Ideal for recreational gamblers and visitors.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours.

Free entry. Additional costs for gaming and events may apply.

Washington State University Vancouver

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

14204 Northeast Salmon Creek Avenue

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Washington State University Vancouver is a public research university in Vancouver, WA, offering four-year degrees with a focus on higher education and research.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Enrollment information can be provided upon inquiry.

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

1501 E Evergreen Blvd

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Fort Vancouver National Historic Site in Vancouver, WA, is an educational complex showcasing 19th-century fur trade and military history with interactive experiences.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may incur a fee.

Cascades Volcano Observatory

9:00 AM–4:30 PM

Public Building

Vancouver

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Cascades Volcano Observatory in Vancouver monitors volcanic activity in the Cascade Range, providing critical data and public education on volcanic hazards.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some educational events may require a small fee.

Felida Park

Sunrise–Sunset

Amusement Park

12506 NW 38th Ave

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Felida Park is a public park in Felida, Washington, offering recreational opportunities with trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas for families and nature enthusiasts.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free access to the park; some events may require registration.

Revival Baptist Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

SE Chkalov Dr

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Revival Baptist Church in Vancouver, WA, offers a welcoming community focused on faith and fellowship, emphasizing biblical teachings and outreach programs.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged for community programs.

Church of Christ at Hazel Dell

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Vancouver

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Church of Christ at Hazel Dell in Vancouver offers spiritual services and community events, emphasizing fellowship and support for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for services and events.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events.

Felida Baptist Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

3027 NW 119th St

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Felida Baptist Church in Vancouver, WA, offers a welcoming community with diverse services and a commitment to faith-based activities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours for services.

Free. Donations encouraged during services and events.

Philadelphia Romanian Church

7:00 PM–9:00 PM

Church

3301 E 29th St

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Philadelphia Romanian Church in Vancouver, USA, serves the local Romanian community, offering worship services and cultural events to promote faith and fellowship.

Duration: 1-2 hours for services.

Free. Donations encouraged during services and special events.

Vancouver Korean Presbyterian Church

7:00 PM–9:00 PM

Church

5045 E 18th St (Carlson Rd.)

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Vancouver Korean Presbyterian Church serves the Korean community in Vancouver, Washington, offering worship services, cultural activities, and community support.

Duration: 1-2 hours depending on service.

Free. Donations appreciated during services and events.

New Heights Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

7913 NE 58th Ave (NE 78th St.)

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New Heights Church in Vancouver, WA, focuses on community outreach, spiritual growth, and diverse worship services. Suitable for visitors of all backgrounds and faiths.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

East Vancouver Community Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Vancouver

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East Vancouver Community Church serves as a spiritual hub for individuals and families, offering various activities and outreach programs for the local community.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for services and events.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required for participation in services and events.

Grace and Glory Community Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

10407 NW 21st Ave

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Grace and Glory Community Church in Vancouver, WA, offers a welcoming environment for worship, community service, and spiritual growth.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for specific community programs.

First Presbyterian Church- Vancouver

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

4300 Main St (39th Street)

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First Presbyterian Church in Vancouver, WA, founded in 1888, is a historic church known for its architectural beauty and significant role in the community.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Salmon Creek United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

12217 NE Highway 99

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Salmon Creek United Methodist Church in Vancouver, WA, serves the community with vibrant worship services, outreach programs, and a welcoming spirit.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have fees.

Hillcrest Church of the Nazarene

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

NW 21st (NW Bliss Rd)

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Hillcrest Church of the Nazarene, located in Vancouver, WA, offers a welcoming community and diverse worship services for all ages and backgrounds.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for community programs.

City Harvest Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

8100 NW 9th Ave

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City Harvest Church in Vancouver, USA, offers a vibrant community for worship, featuring modern architecture and various cultural activities for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Compass Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1812 Main St (at 19th St.)

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Compass Church in Vancouver, WA, emphasizes community connection and spiritual growth, featuring contemporary worship and a welcoming atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

North Creek Coffee Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Vancouver

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North Creek Coffee Church in Vancouver, USA offers a unique blend of faith and community with coffee, comfort, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted; some special events may have fees.

Crosspointe Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Vancouver

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Crosspointe Baptist Church in Vancouver, WA, serves as a hub for community faith and outreach, fostering spiritual growth and fellowship.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required for attendance.

Northcrest Community Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

5602 E Mill Plain Blvd

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Northcrest Community Church in Vancouver, WA, is an active community hub featuring modern architecture and diverse programs for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed but not required.

Orchards United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Orchards

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Orchards United Methodist Church in Vancouver, WA, has been a community hub since 1975, offering worship, fellowship, and support for local outreach programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations welcomed during services and events.

Cascade Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

9503 NE 86th St

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Cascade Presbyterian Church in Vancouver, WA, founded in 1907, is notable for its community outreach and distinctive Gothic Revival architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome, and some events may have associated costs.

Minnehaha Church of Christ

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Walnut Grove

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Minnehaha Church of Christ in Vancouver, USA, focuses on community, teaching, and worship, featuring a welcoming environment for all visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee for general visits.

Seventh-day Adventist Community Church of Vancouver

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

9711 NE St Johns Rd (99th)

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The Seventh-day Adventist Community Church of Vancouver focuses on spiritual development and community service within the United States. It offers various activities and programs for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours is typical for attendance.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events and programs.

Esther Short Park and Playground

Open 24 hours

Park

605 Esther Street

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Esther Short Park and Playground in Vancouver, WA, offers 5.5 acres of green space, a children's playground, open spaces, and hosts local events throughout the year.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have tickets for sale.

Sleep Country Amphitheater

12:00 PM–10:00 PM

Amphitheater

17200 NE Delfel Rd

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Sleep Country Amphitheater, located in Vancouver, USA, is a prominent outdoor concert venue with a capacity of around 18,000, hosting various music events and festivals.

Duration: 4 hours.

Varies by event. General admission tickets typically range from $30 to $150.

Burnt Bridge Creek Trail

Open 24 hours

Park

1617 N Devine Rd

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Burnt Bridge Creek Trail in Vancouver, WA spans 4.5 miles. Ideal for biking, walking, and enjoying local wildlife along the scenic Creek.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fees are required.

Mill Plain United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

15804 SE Mill Plain Blvd

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Mill Plain United Methodist Church in Vancouver offers a welcoming environment with community outreach and engaging programs for all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations welcome for special programs.

Salmon Creek American Legion

2:00 PM–11:00 PM

Public Building

Vancouver

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Salmon Creek American Legion in Vancouver, USA offers community events, veteran support, and a gathering place for locals, emphasizing service and camaraderie.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some specific events may have a nominal fee.

Living hope

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

8601-8805 NE Vancouver Mall Loop

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Living Hope in Vancouver, WA offers spiritual support and community services, emphasizing hope, healing, and connectivity through various programs and outreach initiatives.

Duration: Approximately 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted for special programs.

Rise & Stars Community Centet

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Public Building

500 Omaha Way

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Rise & Stars Community Center in Vancouver, WA, promotes arts, education, and wellness through diverse programs, workshops, and activities for all ages.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special workshops may have a nominal fee.

Orchards Seventh Day Adventist

7:00 PM–9:00 PM

Church

Washington

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Orchards Seventh Day Adventist is a vibrant church in Vancouver, WA, known for its welcoming community and various outreach programs. Engage with spiritual activities and local events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Vancouver Heights United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

5701 MacArthur Blvd (at Devine Rd.)

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Vancouver Heights United Methodist Church in Vancouver, WA, offers community support and spiritual services with a rich history and welcoming architecture.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations accepted but not required for attendance.