Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

Things To Do Near Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

The Fort Vancouver National Historic Site is a collection of several different sites. Three — the reconstructed Fort Vancouver, the Vancouver Barracks, and Pearson Air Museum — are located close together in Vancouver, Washington. The McLoughlin House is in Oregon City, about 25 miles south. The beautiful Columbia River and the city of Portland are close by, ensuring that you're always close to outdoor adventure, fantastic food, and plenty of shopping.

Hiking Trails

• Spruce Mill Trail

  The Spruce Mill Trail runs between Fort Vancouver and the Pearson Air Museum. The wide, gravel-covered path travels through open green fields that once housed a spruce mill. As you walk, keep an eye out for the planes coming and going from Pearson Field. The park's self-guided walking tour is a great way to learn about the history of the Native Americans, fur traders, and soldiers that have used the land over the centuries.

  Location

  Fort Vancouver

  Length

  0.6 mile round-trip

  Intensity

  Easy

• Officers' Row Trail 

  Stroll past 22 different historic homes on the Officers' Row Trail at the Vancouver Barracks. During the height of the military's presence, these grand buildings housed the most important officers. The trail is paved and flat, so it's easy to navigate with kids, strollers, or wheelchairs.

  Location

  Vancouver Barracks

  Length

  0.8 miles round-trip

  Intensity

  Easy

Sightseeing

• Reconstructed Fort Vancouver 

  Experience life in a historic fur-trading fort at the Reconstructed Fort Vancouver. The fort was designed to mimic the layout and architecture of the original fort, which was built by the Hudson's Bay Company in 1825 and burned down in 1866. Today, you can explore the garden, walk along the protective palisade walls, and explore the jail and bakehouse. If you're interested in seeing how the fur traders' families lived, walk over to the Fort Vancouver Village. Interpretive exhibits throughout the fort provide fascinating stories about the exceptionally diverse community, daily tasks, and challenges for residents.

  Location

  1001 E. Fifth St., Vancouver, WA 98661

• Vancouver Barracks

  The Vancouver Barracks is a reconstructed version of the military installation that existed at Fort Vancouver starting in 1849. It was the first outpost for the United States Army in the region. During your visit, take time to explore the officers' houses, the infantry barracks, the parade grounds, the hospital, and more. Many of the buildings look as they did in the 1800s; for others, historic photos and drawings help you imagine the original layout.

  Location

  1001 E. Fifth St., Vancouver, WA 98661

• McLoughlin House

  The McLoughlin House was home to John McLoughlin, the "Father of Oregon", and his family in the mid-1800s. It's been preserved and restored to maintain its original style and grandeur — a tour of the house is a unique opportunity to see the colors, materials, and decorations that were in style at the time. While you're there, learn how McLoughlin established Fort Vancouver, worked with the Hudson's Bay Company, and played a key role in the development of Oregon City. Look out for the exhibits about the remarkable life of his wife, Marguerite McLoughlin.

  Location

  713 Center St., Oregon City, OR 97045

Museums

• Pearson Air Museum

  Located close to Fort Vancouver and the Vancouver Barracks, the Pearson Air Museum takes you back in time to the rise of aviation in the United States. This museum is dedicated to the history of adjacent Pearson Field, one of the oldest continuously operating airfields in the U.S. Check out vintage aircraft, learn about the brave pilots who worked there during the early days of flying, and discover the field's connection to some of the most important moments in airborne history.

  Location

  1115 E. Fifth St., Vancouver, WA 98661

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Fort Vancouver Gift Shop

  Located inside the park, the Fort Vancouver Gift Shop is a wonderful spot to find a memento from your trip. Choose from National Park-themed magnets and posters, or pick up a book to learn more about the history of the fort.

  Location

  1501 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661

• Wild Fern Boutique

  If you're in the market for a tasteful souvenir, head to the Wild Fern Boutique. With its wide selection of artistic PNW-themed clothing, jewelry, and small gifts, it's easy to find something for everyone in your family.

  Location

  901 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660

• Not Too Shabby

  Find everything from women's clothing to unique home goods at Not Too Shabby. This beautifully decorated store carries gifts, decorations, and other treasures.

  Location

  1515 Broadway St, Vancouver, WA 98660

• Slow Fox Chili

  As its name indicates, Slow Fox Chili is all about chili. Try the classic tomato and ground beef version, or go wild with variations including Cincinnati- and Hawaiian-style chili.

  Location

  108 E 7th St Suite B, Vancouver, WA 98660

• The Smokin' Oak Barbeque Restaurant

  Come hungry to The Smokin' Oak Barbeque Restaurant — you won't want to miss out on the pulled pork, brisket, collard greens, and mac and cheese. The full bar offers beer, wine, cocktails, and every spirit you can imagine.

  Location

  501 Columbia St, Vancouver, WA 98660

• Ingrid's GoodStreetFood & Paleo Grill

  You don't need to be on the paleo diet to appreciate the exceptional food at Ingrid's GoodStreetFood & Paleo Grill. Using fresh ingredients and flavorful combinations, this casual spot serves international dishes ranging from bulgogi beef to falafel wraps.

  Location

  1701 Broadway St, Vancouver, WA 98663

How To Get To Fort Vancouver National Historic Site

If you're coming from Portland or Seattle, get on I-5 toward Vancouver. Take exit 1-C and drive east on Mill Plain Boulevard. Almost immediately, you'll see signs for Fort Vancouver National Historic Site; follow them to the entrance on the south side of the road.

Address

1501 E Evergreen Blvd., Vancouver, WA 98661

Fee: Visitor Center entry fee $0

Fee: Fort Vancouver entry fee (per person 16+) $10.0

Fee: Fort Vancouver entry fee (per person age 15 and under) $0

With its many fascinating attractions, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site can keep you busy for a full day or two. The stunning natural landscapes of the Pacific Northwest are close by as well. That's why an RV offers the perfect way to enjoy the scenery and squeeze in a few outdoor adventures during your vacation.