Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is a significant historical landmark located in Vancouver, Washington, just across the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon. It encompasses approximately 366 acres and preserves the remains of Fort Vancouver, which played a crucial role in the history of the Pacific Northwest.

Originally established as a fur trading post by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1825, Fort Vancouver quickly became a vibrant center of trade and commerce. Located strategically along the Columbia River, it became the headquarters of the company's Columbia Department, which operated as a vital hub for fur trade in the region. The fort also served as a residence for company employees and indigenous people who worked there.

The original fort was built with two main structures, the stockade and the trading post. The stockade featured bastions, or fortified towers, while the trading post housed a variety of supplies essential for the fur trade industry. Over time, the fort expanded, boasting gardens, orchards, workshops, and residential buildings.

Visitors to Fort Vancouver National Historic Site can explore the reconstructed fort, which showcases what life was like in the 19th century. They can wander through the fort's exhibits, including the Counting House, where furs were assessed and traded, and the Chief Factor's House, the residence of the fort's commanding officer.

In addition to the fort, the historic site also includes the Pearson Air Museum, which highlights the history of aviation in the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can discover vintage aircraft, explore exhibits, and learn about the pioneering aviators who made a significant impact in the region.

Nearby attractions include Officers Row, a charming collection of preserved houses where officers of the U.S. Army lived during the early 20th century. Each house has its own story to tell, and some are even open for public tours. The Columbia River, with its beautiful views and recreational opportunities, is also a popular destination for visitors to enjoy fishing, boating, and walking along the waterfront.

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site offers a captivating glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the rich history of the region. Whether exploring the reconstructed fort, learning about aviation pioneers, or discovering the surrounding attractions, a visit to this historic site is sure to be both educational and memorable.

Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is located in the southwestern part of the state of Washington, USA. Situated on the northern bank of the Columbia River, it lies approximately ten miles north of downtown Portland, Oregon. The historic site encompasses a vast area of over 160 acres, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, the location showcases the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Moreover, its proximity to the river provides a stunning backdrop for the fort, which served as an important trading post during the 19th century.

Address & Contact

1501 E Evergreen Blvd.
Vancouver, WA 98661
Driving Directions
Phone: 3608166230
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Vancouver National Historic Site would be during the months of June, July, and August. During this time, the average maximum temperature ranges from 73°F to 82°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is significantly lower, ranging from 0.4 in to 1.7 in, ensuring minimal disruption to your visit. Moreover, these months attract a high number of visitors, indicating a lively atmosphere and offering ample opportunities for social interactions and engaging with other visitors.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Fort Vancouver National Historic Site are: Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Arts and Culture Biking Living History Reenactments Historic Weapons Demonstration Cultural Demonstrations Craft Demonstrations Playground

Topics

Learn about these topics at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site: Animals Architecture and Building Archeology Native American Heritage Colonization and Settlement Military US Army African American Heritage Asian American Heritage Women's History Forts Aviation Pacific Islander Heritage Commerce Trade LGB American Heritage

Visitor Centers

Fort Vancouver Visitor Center

Begin your visit by learning about all the park's venues through new exhibits and activities. Watch a short film about the site's history, peruse the park's bookstore, and enjoy a display of artwork by American Indian artists.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Fort Vancouver Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

Motel 6 Vancouver, WA

Located in Vancouver, Motel 6 Vancouver, WA is in the business district, a 4-minute drive from Columbia River and 6 minutes from Vancouver Mall. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 221 Northeast Chkalov Drive, Vancouver, Washington 98684
Web: Link

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portland Airport

Located in Portland, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Portland Airport is in the suburbs, within a 10-minute drive of Cascade Station and Providence Portland Medical Center. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8247 Ne Sandy Blvd, Portland, Oregon 97220
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express Vancouver North - Salmon Creek, an IHG Hotel

With a stay at Holiday Inn Express Vancouver North - Salmon Creek, an IHG Hotel in Vancouver (Pleasant Valley), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital and Washington State University Vancouver. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 13101 NE 27th Ave, Vancouver, Washington 98686
Web: Link

Hilton Vancouver Washington

A stay at Hilton Vancouver Washington places you in the heart of Vancouver, within a 5-minute walk of Esther Short Park and Vancouver Farmers Market. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Vancouver? This hotel has facilities measuring 30000 square feet (2787 square meters), including a conference center. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 301 W. 6th Street, Vancouver, Washington 98660
Web: Link

The Inn At Salmon Creek

With a stay at The Inn At Salmon Creek in Vancouver (Pleasant Valley), you'll be a 2-minute drive from Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital and 5 minutes from Clark County Fairgrounds. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and a vending machine. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 11901 NE Hwy 99, Vancouver, Washington 98686
Web: Link

On the Columbia Vacation Apartments

With a stay at On the Columbia Vacation Apartments in Portland, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Delta Park East and Portland Expo Center. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1100 North Anchor Way, Portland, Oregon 97217
Web: Link

Lilyspring PDX Vacation Apartments

With a stay at Lilyspring PDX Vacation Apartments in Vancouver (Ellsworth), you'll be a 4-minute drive from Columbia River and 6 minutes from Vancouver Mall. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and laundry facilities. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours).
Address: 108 SE 103rd Ave, Vancouver, Washington 98664
Web: Link

2402 KAUFFMAN AVE

With a stay at this vacation home in Vancouver (Hough), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Columbia River and Vancouver Farmers Market. Featured amenities include multilingual staff and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2402 Kauffman Ave, Vancouver, Washington 98660
Web: Link

The Kenton

Located in Portland, The Kenton is within a 5-minute drive of Columbia River and Delta Park East. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and coffee/tea in a common area.
Address: 8355 N Interstate Ave, Portland, Oregon 97217
Web: Link

My Place Hotel-Vancouver, WA

Located in Vancouver, My Place Hotel-Vancouver, WA is in a shopping district, a 1-minute drive from Vancouver Mall and 9 minutes from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8300 Northeast Vancouver Mall Loop, Vancouver, Washington 98607
Web: Link