Vancouver is one of the largest cities in Washington. It is the southwestern-most city in the state and boasts mild winters, warm summers and less rain than other areas of the state, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can get fit while hiking, fishing or windsurfing. You can also keep active while shopping or taking part of an event or festival, as the city is home to a variety of attractions and activities.
Hiking/Walking Trails
Hike through picturesque Gifford Pinchot National Forest; trails range from easy, beginner trails to challenging terrain for more experienced hikers. Travel slightly north to the Mount St. Helens area to hike the Monitor Ridge trail; the trail takes you to the volcano's summit. Walkers have a variety of trails from which to choose including the 2.3-mile Discovery Loop Trail that takes you through downtown and Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. The 4-mile Waterfront Renaissance Trail winds through downtown's shopping district and along the shores of the Columbia River.
Water Activities
Bring your rod and reel to Vancouver Lake, where you can catch bass, carp, channel catfish or yellow perch. Or fish in the Columbia River to catch sturgeon. The Columbia River Gorge is often visited by windsurfers; the gorge has gained the reputation as the "windsurfing capital of the world" thanks to its 8-foot swells and 50 sites approved for the activity.
Golf
Vancouver, and the surrounding area, features 10 different public golf courses; all of which feature picturesque surroundings. Green Mountain Golf Course is an 18-hole, par 72 course with a driving range, pro shop and golf lessons. Pine Crest Golf Course is an inexpensive 9-hole golf course that features discounts for seniors and a Bavarian-style clubhouse with a restaurant.
Experience the Arts
Vancouver has a vibrant artistic scene with galleries located throughout the city. Stroll through Art on the Boulevard to view the work of more than 50 different local artists or watch local artists transform molten glass into works of art at Firehouse Glass. Catch a show at Vancouver's oldest nonprofit community theater, the Old Slocum House Theatre Company or listen to one of the region's most renowned choral groups---the Bravo! Concert Series.
Events
Visit Vancouver in late August and stop by the annual Wine and Jazz Festival in the heart of downtown, at Esther Short Park. Spend the day sampling mouthwatering cuisine from local restaurants, browsing through fine art and jewelry, tasting wine from local wineries and watching live jazz performances. Bring the whole family, including your dog, to stroll through Vancouver's farmer's market. Browse through locally grown produce, pet treats, prepared food items and artisan-crafted accessories.
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