A proper trip to Vancouver starts with a visit to its namesake fort for a dive into the area’s history. Wander through the fort itself at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, which is full of restored buildings packed with relics from the fur-trading days, then past Officers Row, 21 stately houses from the late 1800s. From there, head to the Pearson Air Museum. Once a mill producing aviation-grade lumber, it’s now home to a collection of small planes and stories from World Wars I and II.
Walk south from the fort to the Vancouver Land Bridge, part of the Confluence Project, a statewide artistic undertaking inspired by explorers Lewis and Clark’s journey west and the rich Native history of the region. Fully immersed in the city’s lore, head downtown for a taste of modern-day Vancouver. Weekends bring a lively farmers market, with everything from flowers to savory waffles topped with whipped goat cheese. After browsing, head off to explore more.
First up: A latte at Compass Coffee, then perusing downtown’s mix of galleries and shops. The Waterfront Renaissance Trail, which ambles along the banks of the Columbia, is another great way to explore. The five miles of pathways feature World War II–era shipyards, restaurants, and views of the glittering river. As evening approaches, raise a glass to the city’s craft beer scene. Trusty Brewing, one of the many breweries here, is a fine place to start with classically hoppy IPAs and seasonal brews. Pick up a Brewcouver Passport for a map of the nearly dozen breweries in downtown’s two-mile area. Cheers!
By Anne Larkin
Photo by: Junelle Lawry
