Warning: North America’s other Vancouver could become one of your favorite Pacific Northwest destinations
Yes, there is a well-known Vancouver. Our focus today is where to stay in Vancouver Washington. It’s not as well-known as it deserves to be, and I’m even hesitant to talk about it.
Our family of four has visited Vancouver twice, and both times, we were not fond of leaving. When Jodie and I talk about someday moving back to the Pacific Northwest, Vancouver is high on our list of places we’d consider.
The small city is minutes from Portland, Oregon, and less than three hours’ drive from Seattle. Around town, we’ve relished local parks and attractions. Above all, we’ve enjoyed hanging out in the riverfront downtown. Well-lit, accessible paved paths have transformed the riverfront into a public plaza full of dining, families, and people simply enjoying the good life in a region full of unparalleled beauty.
Plan your trip
Quick note: We’ve visited Vancouver, WA, in part for projects with the area’s Visit Vancouver Washington tourism board. However, this guide isn’t part of those projects. As always, our opinions are our own.
Consistently top-rated stays for families in Vancouver
Where to stay in Vancouver Washington starts with one of the places we’ve enjoyed. From there, we’ll share other consistently well-rated, family-friendly stays, both in the central Vancouver area, and a little outside of the downtown core. That way, you can choose your Vancouver accommodation based on the best fit for your trip, including
- Exploring and enjoying Vancouver itself
- Visiting Portland for dining and shopping free of sales tax (Oregon has zero sales tax)
- Traveling to or from the northern Oregon Coast or southern Washington Coast (including the Long Beach Peninsula area)
- Traveling to or from eastern Oregon or eastern Washington (such as Union Gap or the Tri-Cities area)
- Visiting Seattle
- Flying via Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) or Portland International Airport (PDX)
Where we stayed in Vancouver
Heathman Lodge
7801 NE Greenwood Dr, Vancouver, WA 98662
Airy yet woodsy, the Heathman Lodge evokes a log cabin, embodies low-key yet sumptuous luxury, and feels as cozy as it does special.
During your stay at Heathman Lodge, you might start thinking you’re in the middle of the woods. Yet the lodge is less than 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver’s riverfront.
While the Northwest offers an all-year climate for outdoor recreation, sometimes you might prefer to be inside. Besides house bars and restaurants, families can help kids burn off energy with a dip in the indoor pool.
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Other Vancouver accommodation recommendations
If these stays aren’t available or aren’t the right fit, here are consistently well-rated options in the same area. We’ll share recommendations both more central for downtown Vancouver access, plus a few picks outside the urban core for when you are prioritizing access to other areas or highways.
Hotel Indigo Vancouver Dwtn – Portland Area by IHG
Mountain, city, or river views, plus family-friendly restaurant.
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Candlewood Suites Vancouver/Camas by IHG
Fully equipped kitchens in each room, plus laundry service and barbecue facilities.
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Sonesta ES Suites Portland Vancouver 41st Street
Kitchenettes, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, garden, hot tub, lounge, and outdoor seating area.
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Find your place to stay in Vancouver
Understanding the Vancouver area
Vancouver can be an amazing sweet spot for travels in town and throughout the Pacific Northwest. For example, the city itself is full of historical, cultural, and family friendly activities, such as Fort Vancouver, Esther Short Park, and the Waterfront. The city is also a gateway to exploring the Columbia River Gorge, plus Portland is about 10 miles away.
The compact city is easy to get around, offers bus routes via the C-TRAN transit network, and offers a range of neighborhoods, such as:
- Downtown: Includes the waterfront area, and a combo of historic, traditional town center with modern developments that bring in new options for dining, shopping, and enjoying the riverside promenade.
- Uptown Village: Food truck pods, eclectic shopping, breweries.
- East Vancouver: Many lodging options cluster around this area, and it’s the easiest access point for the Vancouver Farmers Market and the Harmony Sports Complex.
Here’s a full breakdown of Vancouver’s main areas and neighborhoods.
Vancouver has great stays near the amenities you need and the activities you came for
Our family of four has visited Vancouver twice so far, and we talk regularly about visiting again. The city keeps its history alive while building for tomorrow, from rejuvenating former industrial areas to keeping its downtown walkable and fun. Where to stay in Vancouver Washington means you and your family have excellent options to choose from, and you can be close to the amenities and attractions you want as part of your Vancouver family trip.
