Fort Vancouver National Historic Site Tours

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site showing interior views
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site which includes signage


Stride around a 19th-century fort, watch live craft demonstrations and learn about Washington’s trading and military history.

Fort Vancouver National Historic site is one of the most important historical landmarks in Washington. Get a glimpse into the lives of 19th-century pioneers who lived in the area. Walk around the fortifications of the trading post and barracks, which are over 150 years old.

The whole city of Vancouver, Washington, was built around this fort, which was established in 1825. Explore buildings that hark back to the site’s days as a trading post owned by the Hudson Bay Company. Discover the stories of the African-American soldiers who were posted at the fort.

Start your explorations in the visitor center. Interactive exhibits, American Indian artwork and short films help to bring the story of Vancouver to life.

Wander around the reconstructed fort, studying the information panels and displays peppered throughout the site. Watch demonstrations of historic crafts such as blacksmithing and carpentry. Lovingly recreated workshops help give an impression of what life was like for tradespeople living in the fort.

Cover your ears as howitzers and muskets are fired in loud and thrilling arms displays. Historic weapons are rolled out for these exciting demonstrations and are operated by the fort’s knowledgeable and trained staff. Some of these weapons were used in defense of the fort while others were merely ornamental and designed to impress visitors.

Attend events in the grounds of Fort Vancouver. Guided walks, commemorative services and artistic exhibitions all take place in this historic venue. Follow the shaded paths that weave throughout the site, passing traditionally designed farms.

Fort Vancouver is located in the Vancouver National Historic Reserve, which also has several other attractions. Examine vintage plane models in the Pearson Air Museum and see historic homes of Officers’ Row.

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is open from Tuesday to Saturday throughout the year. Admission is free for children aged 15 and under. Walk east from Esther Short Park for 20 minutes to reach the fort, which is located in central Vancouver. Tours of the attraction can be booked in advance.

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Best Lodging Options Near Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

Comfort Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown City Center

Comfort Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown City Center

2.5 out of 5
401 E 13th Street, Vancouver, WA
Comfort Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown City Center
Studio 6 Suites Vancouver, Wa - Waterfront

Studio 6 Suites Vancouver, Wa - Waterfront

2 out of 5
601 Broadway Street, Vancouver, WA
Studio 6 Suites Vancouver, Wa - Waterfront
Oxford Suites Portland - Jantzen Beach

Oxford Suites Portland - Jantzen Beach

3 out of 5
12226 N JANTZEN DRIVE, Portland, OR
Oxford Suites Portland - Jantzen Beach
Hilton Vancouver Washington

Hilton Vancouver Washington

3.5 out of 5
301 W. 6th Street, Vancouver, WA
Hilton Vancouver Washington
Homewood Suites by Hilton Vancouver-Portland

Homewood Suites by Hilton Vancouver-Portland

3 out of 5
701 Southeast Columbia Shores Blvd, Vancouver, WA
Homewood Suites by Hilton Vancouver-Portland
AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront

AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront

3.5 out of 5
333 W COLUMBIA WAY, Vancouver, WA
AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront
Prime Downtown Location - Family Friendly

Prime Downtown Location - Family Friendly

Vancouver
Prime Downtown Location - Family Friendly
Hotel Indigo Vancouver Dwtn – Portland Area by IHG

Hotel Indigo Vancouver Dwtn – Portland Area by IHG

3.5 out of 5
550 Waterfront Way, Vancouver, WA
Hotel Indigo Vancouver Dwtn – Portland Area by IHG
#StayInMyDistrict Downtown Loft

#StayInMyDistrict Downtown Loft

Vancouver
#StayInMyDistrict Downtown Loft
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

At Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, visitors can enjoy biking along scenic trails, exploring unique shopping options, and appreciating local art. The site offers worthwhile stops with picturesque photo spots and beautiful flower gardens, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Stroll through well-maintained walking trails to immerse yourself in the historic ambiance and natural beauty of the area, ensuring a memorable visit.

Shopping

The Vancouver Farmers Market, located 1 mile away, offers a vibrant selection of local goods. Jantzen Beach Center is 2 miles away and features entertainment and shopping. If you're up for a drive, Alberta Street, 5 miles away, boasts unique shops and a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Moda Center, a sports facility where you can catch exciting events. For a peaceful day outdoors, visit Columbia Edgewater Country Club for a round of golf, or unwind at Delta Park West, a recreational park perfect for relaxation and wellness activities.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Portland International Raceway, located 3 miles from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, where adrenaline and speed await. For a more serene adventure, explore the Waterfront Renaissance Trail, 0.8 mile away, offering stunning outdoor scenery perfect for hiking.

Challenge yourself at The Source Climbing Center, located 0.8 mile from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. This climbing venue provides an exciting environment for both beginners and experienced climbers, surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere of sports and outdoor adventure.

Nightlife

Catch a film at the Hollywood Theater for a cozy date night vibe only 5 miles away. For a family-friendly outing, check out the Mission Theater, 7 miles distant, offering a cultural experience. For some adventure, head to Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade, also 7 miles away, for nostalgic fun.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

Whether you're seeking history, family fun, or outdoor adventures, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site and its surroundings offer a variety of attractions. Explore the historic fort, engage with the cultural exhibits, and enjoy the urban parks nearby. With options for urban experiences, family activities, and educational visits to local colleges, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained while discovering the rich heritage of Vancouver, Washington.

  • Oregon Convention Center: Located 7 miles from Fort Vancouver, this impressive venue hosts a variety of events, from conferences to trade shows. Its spacious halls and modern amenities make it a hub for business activities, offering a professional atmosphere that caters to both attendees and exhibitors.
  • University of Portland: Just 5 miles away, this charming university combines beautiful architecture with a vibrant campus life. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views, explore the gardens, and soak in the lively city vibes that come from a diverse student body and engaging events.
  • Waterfront Park: Only 0.8 miles from Fort Vancouver, this picturesque urban park offers stunning views of the Columbia River. Perfect for families, it features walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities and relaxation in a vibrant city setting.

Best time to go to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

The best time to visit Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June62.4°F (16.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July69.1°F (20.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August70.3°F (21.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November45.5°F (7.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December39.9°F (4.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

To save money during your visit to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, consider traveling between December and February when hotel prices drop. Monday is the least expensive day to stay, while Saturday tends to be pricier. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations by sorting prices and filtering for eco-friendly options. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package can also lead to savings. Lastly, join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Fort Vancouver National Historic Site are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can organize your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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