Things To Do
in Vancouver
Vancouver is a city located in the state of Washington in the United States. It is situated along the northern bank of the Columbia River and is part of the Portland metropolitan area. Vancouver is known for its beautiful parks, including Esther Short Park and Wintler Community Park, as well as its historic Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
The city offers a mix of outdoor recreation opportunities, cultural attractions, and a vibrant dining and shopping scene.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $400
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $60
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Waterfront Park, enjoying the fresh air and scenic views. Grab a coffee at a local cafe to fuel your adventures.
Visit the Vancouver Farmers Market to sample local produce and artisanal foods. Spend some time exploring the charming local shops and eateries.
Head to Granville Island for a dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants. Enjoy a beautiful sunset over the marina to cap off your day.
Kick off your day with a hike in the Columbia River Gorge. The trails offer stunning views and various levels of difficulty to suit your preferences.
Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic by the river. Afterward, try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding on the water.
Wind down by visiting a local brewery for some craft beer. Enjoy live music or a cozy atmosphere to end your adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
- A family-friendly atmosphere with good schools and parks.
- A diverse community with various cultural events and festivals.
- Proximity to Portland, Oregon, offering additional urban amenities.
- Higher cost of living compared to other regions in Washington.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Rainy weather and gray skies for much of the year.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- Potential for wildfires and air quality issues during summer months.
Best Activities in Vancouver
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy stunning views of Vancouver while exploring numerous hiking trails in the North Shore Mountains.
Explore the scenic Stanley Park by biking along its designated trails and waterfront paths.
Experience the beauty of Vancouver's waterfront by kayaking in the False Creek area.
Enjoy a leisurely time at the bustling Granville Island Public Market, with its diverse array of food, artisanal products, and entertainment options.
Tours
Uncover the best of Vancouver with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Vancouver
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Capilano River and lush rainforest, with opportunities for unique and scenic photos
Features picturesque seawall paths, beaches, and viewpoints that provide panoramic city and mountain views
Provides 360-degree views of the city, mountains, and ocean from an elevated observation deck
Food in Vancouver
Vancouver Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Indigenous dish of candied salmon, offering a perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors. It can be savored at Salmon n' Bannock Bistro.
Must-Try!
A comforting Canadian dish of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and drenched in savory gravy. La Belle Patate is famous for its authentic poutine.
Fresh lingcod coated in crispy batter, served with golden fries, and a side of tangy tartar sauce. Sitka Seafoods is the go-to spot for this local favorite.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Vancouver better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of local produce, gourmet foods, and artisanal goods. Visitors can sample diverse street food options, from fresh seafood to international cuisine.
An Asian-inspired market with a vibrant atmosphere, featuring numerous stalls serving up delectable street food such as dim sum, bubble tea, and skewered meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Vancouver, it is important to show respect for the indigenous culture of the First Nations people, who have a significant presence in the region. This includes being mindful of sacred sites, understanding traditional protocols, and supporting indigenous businesses and initiatives.
Vancouver values environmental sustainability, and it is important to align with local attitudes by practicing responsible waste disposal, supporting eco-friendly initiatives, and respecting natural spaces such as parks and conservation areas.
Vancouver is a diverse city with a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. Show respect for cultural diversity by being open-minded, embracing differences, and celebrating the contributions of various ethnic communities.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Vancouver with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Vancouver
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Vancouver, United States, especially in restaurants, bars, and for services like hairdressing. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill as gratuity for good service.
Payment in Vancouver, United States, is mainly done using credit or debit cards. Contactless payment methods are also widely accepted. Cash is less frequently used, especially for larger transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Vancouver.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Vancouver, with blooming cherry blossoms and mild temperatures. It's also the start of the outdoor festival season.
Summer brings warm and dry weather to Vancouver, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and beach trips. The city also hosts a variety of cultural events and music festivals during this season.
Fall in Vancouver is characterized by vibrant fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and the start of the whale watching season. It's also a great time to explore the city's culinary scene and attend food and wine festivals.
Winter in Vancouver is mild compared to other parts of Canada, with occasional snowfall in the city and prime conditions for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains. The city also hosts festive holiday markets and events during this season.
Vancouver at Night
Hiking in Vancouver
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination with stunning views, offering trails that vary in difficulty, including the iconic hike to the summit.
Home to the historic Beacon Rock, this park offers a challenging hike with panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge.
Featuring a variety of trails, Silver Star Mountain offers hikers beautiful wildflower displays and sweeping views of the surrounding area.
A family-friendly park with several miles of trails around the lake, ideal for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
This urban forest offers peaceful hiking trails through lush woods, making it a great escape from city life.
A unique hiking experience where visitors can explore various wetlands and view wildlife, particularly during migration seasons.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Vancouver through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Vancouver by plane.
The largest airport in Oregon, located about 170 miles south of Vancouver, WA. It serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 140 miles north of Vancouver, WA, it is the primary airport serving Seattle and the surrounding areas, offering extensive domestic and international connections.
Situated about 280 miles east of Vancouver, WA, it is the second largest airport in Washington state, handling both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Seattle, WA, roughly 145 miles north of Vancouver, it mostly handles general aviation and cargo, but some limited commercial flights may be available.
Though located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, it is just across the border from Vancouver, WA, and serves as a major international gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Vancouver, accounting for a significant portion of the population.
A growing demographic in Vancouver, reflecting the increasing diversity of the area.
Includes various ethnicities such as Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Indian, representing a notable minority.
An important demographic group that contributes to the cultural diversity of the city.
Individuals identifying with more than one racial background, illustrating the multicultural nature of Vancouver.
A smaller demographic group with historical ties to the region.
Includes individuals who identify with other ethnicities not specifically categorized.
The Soul of Vancouver
Discover the essence of Vancouver through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Vancouver has a strong youth football program and is home to several high school teams that compete at a high level.
Soccer is widely played in Vancouver, with various youth clubs and recreational leagues, as well as adult soccer competitions.
Basketball is popular in schools and community centers, with many local leagues for all age groups.
Ice hockey has a significant following, with local teams and youth leagues active in the community.
Baseball is played at multiple levels, including youth leagues and high school teams, contributing to its popularity.
Beach and indoor volleyball are enjoyed by many in Vancouver, with local leagues and events organized throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vancouver.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vancouver boasts numerous eateries offering robust vegetarian and vegan menus. Notable establishments include The Acorn, known for its creative plant-based fare.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore dedicated gluten-free venues like Nuba, which specializes in Lebanese cuisine and offers an extensive selection of gluten-free dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Vancouver with these cultural adventures.