Explore Vancouver Washington

Explore Vancouver, Washington (Second Edition): A Local’s Guide to the Best of Southwest Washington invites readers to discover one of the Pacific Northwest’s most historically rich and unexpectedly diverse destinations. Written by local author Patty Grasher, this updated and expanded guidebook blends travel inspiration, regional history, scenic exploration, hidden gems, and practical visitor information into a unique companion for both visitors and longtime residents.Unlike a typical travel guide focused only on restaurants and attractions, this book explores the deeper story of Vancouver, Washington and the surrounding Southwest Washington region. Readers will discover how the area evolved from thousands of years of Indigenous history along the Columbia River, to the influential Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading era, and later into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most important U.S. Army posts. Throughout the guidebook, modern destinations are connected to the people, places, and stories that shaped the region.The second edition includes updated visitor information, expanded lodging and shopping sections, new photography, and an index to help readers easily explore the area. Featured locations include the Vancouver Waterfront, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Officers Row, Esther Short Park, the Columbia River, local museums, scenic viewpoints, public art, hiking areas, historic districts, family-friendly destinations, and day trip opportunities throughout Southwest Washington.Readers will also discover local restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, parks, trails, cultural attractions, and lesser-known places often overlooked by traditional tourism guides. The book encourages travelers to slow down, explore more deeply, and experience Vancouver as both a modern community and a place layered with history and cultural significance.Beautifully illustrated with regional photography, Explore Vancouver, Washington serves as both a practical travel companion and a keepsake celebrating the spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Whether planning a weekend getaway, relocating to the area, exploring local history, or searching for new adventures close to Portland and the Columbia Gorge, readers will find inspiration, ideas, and meaningful connections throughout the guide.Ideal for travelers, history enthusiasts, newcomers, local residents, road trippers, and Pacific Northwest explorers, this guidebook highlights why Vancouver, Washington continues to emerge as one of the Northwest’s most engaging and historically important destinations.