What to do:

The site invites visitors to learn about the rich history through a variety of activities and events year-round. Take a walk or have a picnic near the beautiful historic Fort Vancouver Garden, outside the fort's stockade. Head inside to tour the Fort Vancouver Village where you might catch ongoing archaeological explorations. Watch a demonstration of blacksmiths at work, just as they would have in the 1800s. Or enjoy a cooking demonstration from the 1840s in the fort's kitchen. Whatever you choose, Fort Vancouver is a must-see location when visiting Vancouver, WA! 

Where to eat: 

Find Willful Wine located in this historic Grant House on Officers Row for a glass on the veranda alongside charcuterie platters or a seasonal salad. For views of the Columbia River, walk or bike across the Vancouver Land Bridge and along the Waterfront Renaissance Trail to check out Beaches Restaurant & Bar for exquisite seafood and cocktails, or McMenamins for pub fare and freshly brewed ales. Both eateries offer outdoor seating, perfect for taking in the sunshine. Heading west from the Fort, Officers Row connects to downtown Vancouver, with Loowit Brewing, Grays Restaurant, and NOM NOM all serving up original cuisine and beer at the south end of downtown.

Where to stay: 

The Hilton is less than two miles away from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, and located by Esther Short Park, offering a contemporary downtown experience. Other nearby options include the Comfort Inn & Suites and Homewood Suites. Hotel Indigo and AC Hotel Marriott offer riverfront views in new luxurious spaces.

The entrance fee into the reconstructed fort is $10 for those 16 years and older, and visitors can take advantage of free National Park Service days on specific holidays and during National Park Week. The Pearson Air Museum is free of charge, and features rotating exhibits celebrating the area's military and aviation history. Both the reconstructed fort and Pearson Air Museum are open to the public Tuesday through Saturday.