Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Vancouver, WA
Year Listed: 2003
For years, Vancouver has suffered from confusion with the bigger -- and younger -- Canadian city that shares its name. But there's no doubt about "our" Vancouver's claim to fame. Located just across the Columbia River from Portland, Ore., this beautiful place has been captivating visitors for almost two centuries.
Gorge in Vancouver, Washington.
Credit: Richard Hovey
In 1806, the area enthralled Lewis and Clark, who camped here on the return leg of their famed western expedition. In 1825, the Hudson's Bay Company established its headquarters here, making the little settlement the fur-trading center of the Pacific Northwest. In 1849, the U.S. Army established the Columbia (later Vancouver) Barracks here, and today the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site - boasting a reconstructed fort, working blacksmith shop, bakery, woodshop and officer housing - is the city's premier historic attraction. Visitors can tour the 1885 Marshall House, named for General George C. Marshall, just one of many celebrated soldiers who were stationed at the barracks, and kids will enjoy the vivid re-enactments of the fort's legendary days. A Water Resources Education Center, a salmon hatchery, the spectacular Columbia River Gorge, Mount St. Helens and miles of walking/biking trails round out the opportunities for family fun in the Vancouver area.
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