There is only a bridge separating Portland, Oregon from Vancouver, WA, making it the perfect Explore destination! Despite Vancouver technically being in a different state, the vibe there is similar to Portland – friendly and eco-conscious with a great historic vibe. If you love Portland, give Vancouver a try – we think you’ll feel right at home!
Go: Any time of year
Approximate travel time: Vancouver is just across the bridge from Portland, so depending on where in Portland you live, anywhere from 10-20 minutes.
What to do: Make a stop at Kids Club for Fun & Fitness, which houses a huge indoor play area and climbing structure. There is even a special designated space for toddlers to play without being run over by bigger kids. Admission is about $6 per child (parents are free with a child’s admission). Parents, especially, love it here because the play structure is big enough for adults too, so when your little one gets stuck in the middle, you don’t have to break your back climbing in to help them out! 13914 Northwest Third Court / 360-546-5437
Where to shop: Kazoodles is a must visit when you’re in Vancouver. Their slogan is “Kid Powered Fun” and they are very dedicated to making sure that is a reality by offering a huge selection of classic and cutting-edge toys, plus a great environment to shop for them in! Kazoodles is locally owned and operated and it shows through their warm, inviting, knowledgeable staff. 13503 Southeast Mill Plain Boulevard / 360-823-0123
Possible lunch spots: For a lunch that will make the entire family happy, try The Blind Onion Pizza & Pub in Vancouver – the crust is suppose to be the best in Vancouver and they are known to be extremely family-friendly. But don’t expect a huge chain tourist trap – The Blind Onion is a local secret and it’s rumored that people even sneak up from Portland to eat here! 2900 East Mill Plain Boulevard / 360-750-7490
How to dress: As Northwest parents know, layers are generally best!
Need to know: Be sure to take a map or use a GPS when exploring Vancouver – it’s easy to get turned around in this spread-out city! And, keep in mind that traffic going out of Portland into Vancouver can be extremely heavy in the late afternoons when people are trying to get home from work.
Bonus: If you’re visiting Vancouver on a sunny day, add Fort Vancouver to your list! It is a National Historic Site where you can learn a little bit about what life was like 200 years ago in the Oregon Territory and do some exploring in the cool old buildings. Cost of admission is $5 per family. 612 East Reserve Street / 360-816-6230
Cost of trip: Depending on what you choose to do, cost could be low to moderate. Keep your eye on the Kids Club website for admissions specials for your visit!
Online: For general information about Vancouver and other possible activities and events, please visit the city’s website.
-- Katie Kavulla
