10 Things I Love About Vancouver, WA—And Why You Might, Too

Vancouver, WA has a way of pulling you in. At first, it might just seem like another city across the river, but the more time you spend here, the more you notice the details—the energy of the farmers market, the glow of the Waterfront at sunset, the way the community shows up for local businesses.

It’s a city with history, character, and plenty of surprises.

I’ve lived here since I was seven, and in that time, I’ve watched Vancouver evolve while still holding onto the charm that makes it feel like home. Some things change, some things stay the same, but through it all, there’s always something new to love.

So here are 10 things I love about Vancouver, WA, and why I think you might love them, too.

1. Vancouver, WA is Older Than Portland—By 25 years!

Before Portland was even a thing, Vancouver was the OG settlement in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 1825 as Fort Vancouver, it was the first European settlement in the region and served as the headquarters for the Hudson’s Bay Company. So yeah, we’ve got history.

To put it in perspective, Portland is 174 years old, and Vancouver is about 200 years old.

2. The Waterfront Is One of the Best Urban Redevelopments on the West Coast

If you haven’t checked out the Vancouver Waterfront, you’re seriously missing out. What was once an industrial wasteland is now home to trendy restaurants, wineries, and stunning riverfront views.

The Grant Street Pier—a massive, modernist structure jutting over the Columbia River—is the perfect spot for sunset-watching.

This is one of my favorite places to run—the sunset views can’t be beat!

3. It’s NOT Just a Suburb of Portland

Sure, we share a name with that other Vancouver up north, and yes, Portland is right across the river. But Vancouver has its own thing going on. It’s the fourth-largest city in Washington, offering its own culture, history, and an ever-growing food scene—without the big-city rush of Seattle.

And here’s a fun perk: no state income tax. We get all the benefits of being close to Portland—great restaurants, arts, and easy airport access—without the financial sting. Call it the best of both worlds.

And it’s only getting better. Major investments, like the Fourth Plain Corridor revitalization and downtown development projects, are reshaping the city.

We’re talking more public spaces, improved infrastructure, and new community hubs that will make Vancouver even more vibrant. It’s an exciting time to be here.

4. You Can Walk Through a World War I-Era Shipyard

Ever heard of Kaiser Shipyards? During WWII, this was one of the busiest shipbuilding sites in the country. Today, you can stroll through Waterfront Park, where remnants of the old shipyards still exist. And if you geek out over history, the Pearson Air Museum and Fort Vancouver are must-visits.

Here’s a post I wrote about our trip to Pearson Air Museum—it’s one of the best spots to visit with kids on a rainy day in the PNW.

5. The Vancouver Farmers Market is one of the biggest in SW Washington

From March to October, downtown Vancouver comes alive every weekend with the Vancouver Farmers Market, right next to Esther Short Park—one of the oldest public squares in the Pacific Northwest. With over 200 vendors, it’s a hub for local artisans, fresh produce, and small businesses looking to connect with the community.

More than just a place to shop, the market helps uplift independent vendors and keeps things local, fostering a strong sense of community.

Here’s a link to the interactive vendor map so you can scope out the stalls before you go!

And if you’re up for a short walk, Pop-Local—a retail space dedicated to showcasing products from local makers—is just a few blocks away.

6. We Have One of the Oldest Airfields in the U.S.

Pearson Field is one of the oldest continuously operating airfields in the country. The first planes landed here in 1911, and it’s still in operation today!

It even played a role in early aviation history when Soviet aviators made an emergency landing here in 1937 after completing the first non-stop flight from Moscow to the U.S.

7. Mount St. Helens Is Practically in Our Backyard

While Portlanders claim it too, Vancouver is actually the closest major city to Mount St. Helens—the volcano that dramatically erupted in 1980. If you’re up for an adventure, the Johnston Ridge Observatory (currently closed) is only about 90 minutes away and offers breathtaking views of the crater.

Check out Mount St. Helens Institute for guided tours and adventures.

8. The Columbia River is a Playground for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding—the Columbia River has it all. You can take a scenic walk along the Waterfront Renaissance Trail and stop by to grab a drink at Mcmenimin’s (sometimes their tator tots are all I get with a cider flight)

Bonus: There’s a strong chance you’ll spot bald eagles soaring overhead.

Also, another great spot to go is Lacamas Lake Park, which is about a 20-minute drive east of downtown Vancouver, WA. It’s one of my favorite spots to go to in the summer for paddleboarding—you’ll do a peaceful loop, find yourself surrounded by towering trees, and watch the sunset over the water. It’s priceless.

9. Our Coffee Scene is Low-Key Amazing

Seattle and Portland get all the coffee glory, but Vancouver has some seriously underrated coffee shops. Compass Coffee, Relevant Coffee, and Kafiex Roasters are just a few of the local gems brewing up some of the best beans in the PNW.

Here’s a post where I shared my favorite coffee spots.

10. A Growing Arts & Makers Community

Vancouver’s arts scene is thriving, with local galleries, murals, and events like the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival bringing creativity to the city. Spaces like Art at the CAVE, Angst Gallery, and Pop-Local give independent artists and makers a place to showcase their work.

One of my favorite places to soak in local culture is Kiggins Theatre, a downtown landmark since 1936. My daughter and I have made great memories there, like the time we saw the Wiggles & Giggles Show by Columbia Play Project, featuring the incredible Bubbleman—pure fun!

We also love First Friday, when downtown businesses stay open late, and the city comes alive with art walks, live music, and even glass-blowing demonstrations at Firehouse Glass. It’s the perfect way to explore and support local creativity.

Final Thoughts

Once you take the time to explore Vancouver, you start to feel its rhythm—its character, warmth, and sense of community.

Whether you’ve lived here for years or are just passing through, I hope this list helps you see Vancouver through the eyes of someone who loves it.

What’s one thing about this city that makes it special to you? I’d love to hear your thoughts!