6 Hidden Gem Sites to Visit in Vancouver, Washington
Vancouver, Washington, a city of 191,000 residents, is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and thriving city life. There is simply a lot to do here, from visiting parks and museums to heading down to the shopping areas. Today, we want to focus on the hidden gems not everyone is aware of, those places waiting for locals and tourists to discover them. Let’s step off the beaten path to explore some of Vancouver’s more quirky spots.
The Slocum House
The Slocum House is a beautifully restored Victorian-style mansion with a significant place in Vancouver history. Built in 1867, the Slocum House was the home of pioneer and businessman John Slocum. It’s now a museum open to the public, and it also serves as an event venue. Visitors can explore the elegant rooms and admire the architectural details of this historic house. The interior features period furnishings, intricate woodwork, and charming decor, offering a glimpse into the Victorian era.
The outdoor spaces here provide a picturesque backdrop for weddings, receptions, parties, and other gatherings. Various cultural and educational programs are held here, and the Slocum House serves as a hub for art exhibits, workshops, lectures, and performances.
The Murals of Vancouver
The local Vancouver murals are a vibrant aspect of the city’s cultural scene. These large-scale paintings adorn the walls of buildings and public spaces, giving the city added color, beauty, and a sense of community pride. Over the years, talented local and international artists have come together to create stunning pieces of public art.
Some murals celebrate the city’s natural beauty, with images of landscapes, wildlife, and local flora. Others honor Vancouver’s history and cultural heritage, showcasing important figures, events, and landmarks. We hope you’ll check them out for yourself!
Clark County Historical Museum
If you want to learn more about Vancouver, Washington, you can’t beat a visit to the Clark County Historical Museum. This institution helps to preserve local heritage, showcasing the stories, artifacts, and cultural heritage of Clark County.
The various exhibits provide insights into the region’s Native American heritage, early exploration and settlement, and the development of industries and transportation. Museum visitors gain a deeper understanding of the people and events that have shaped Clark County’s history.
One must-see is the collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents, from personal items belonging to early settlers to historic photographs capturing significant historical moments.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, Clark County Historical Museum hosts rotating special exhibitions. All the exhibits can give you a fresh perspective on the county’s rich history.
Pearson Field and Pearson Air Museum
Pearson Field in Vancouver Washington is one of the oldest continually operating airfields in the United States and is home thePearson Air Museum. The museum itself is a fantastic place to learn about aviation history with its collection of aircraft artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of air travel. Here, you and your family can explore exhibits and learn about pioneering aviators military aircraft and technological advancements in aviation.
The museum features interactive displays, hands-on activities, informative exhibits, vintage airplanes, helicopters, and flight simulators. Get a close look at historic aircraft, learn about their significance, and even climb aboard some of them to experience the cockpit firsthand.
Cedar Creek Grist Mill
Near Vancouver in Woodland is The Cedar Creek Grist Mill, one of the few remaining working water-powered grist mills in the state. This site provides visitors with a glimpse into the area’s milling history.
Built along the banks of Cedar Creek in 1876, the mill generates power from the flowing water of the creek to grind wheat and corn into flour and meal. In years past, it played a vital role in the local community. Farmers relied on the mill to process their grains, which were then sold and used in cooking. Over the years, the mill underwent several renovations, modernizing its operations.
Today, visitors can learn about milling here, and enjoy the beauty and rustic charm of the surrounding area. This is a lovely place to take photographs or just soak in the peaceful environment.
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
The Fort Vancouver National Historic Site includes multiple attractions including the reconstructed fort the previously-mentioned Pearson Air Museum and the McLoughlin House. The purpose of this site is to preserve the history of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s fur trading post which was big business here in the Pacific Northwest in the 19th century.
Fort Vancouver, primarily an open-air museum, is the centerpiece of the site. Established in 1825, the original fort was the headquarters of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Columbia Department, which oversaw the region’s fur trade. Here, you can explore the reconstructed fort and get a sense of what life was like during the fur trading era. The fort features historic buildings, including the Chief Factor’s House, the Fur Store, and the Blacksmith Shop, all of which have been restored to their original appearance.
Nearby, visitors can explore the McLoughlin House, which once belonged to Dr. John McLoughlin, a prominent historical figure. Dr. McLoughlin served as the Chief Factor of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s Fort Vancouver and later as a political and business leader in the Oregon Territory. The house offers a glimpse into his life.
Throughout the year, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site also hosts events and programs to educate visitors about local history. These often include living history demonstrations, cultural celebrations, lectures, and special exhibits.
The site even serves as a valuable educational resource, providing visitors with a better understanding of the diverse history and cultures that shaped the Pacific Northwest. Whether you have an interest in fur trade history, aviation, or early settlement, a visit to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site offers a fascinating journey through time and a chance to connect with the past.
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