Having lived in Vancouver for 6 amazing years, I’ve discovered some incredible spots to eat, play, and shop. From hidden gems to popular favorites, this list is filled with my go-to places.
Map
Sections
4
Food
Parks
Things to Do
Shopping
Food
These are my go-to spots for grabbing delicious food, whether I’m in the mood for a quick bite, a sit down dinner, or just a snack!
There are various locations in the Portland area. The burgers are small and thick, and so delicous. The fries are made with truffle oil… so yummy! My entire family loved their food, which is a win for me!
Little Big Burger
This cute little house turned restaurant serves amazing Chinese hand-pulled noodle dishes. I'm not the only one who thinks it's amazing, Guy Fieri does too!
Frank's Noodle House
Our favorite place to get donuts!
Angels Donuts and Ice Cream - Donut Shop, Food, Donuts
Another favorite donut place of ours!
Mr. Maple Donuts
Amazing food and pastries! My go-to is the Monte Cristo sandwich.
Best French Bistro Bakery | La Provence and Petite Provence ...
It's a grocery store but they have an amazing deli with juicy hamburgers!
Chuck's Produce & Street Market
Delicious hamburgers that my entire family enjoys!
Burgerville
Had several work events here, the food and drinks are amazing. And it's a family friendly spot.
Food is so good. They make it fast and they're friendly. There are different Inchi Teriyaki's around the metropolitan area.
Ichi 18 Teriyaki
My favorite pizza ever! They use bagel dough for their crust!
Blind Onion Pizza and Pub in Vancouver, Washington
Extravagent milkshakes, sign me up! A must if you're looking for an Instagram photo opporutnity!
The Yard Milkshake Bar - As seen on Shark Tank
The food and the people are so amazing! This is a buffet. My kids enjoy the naan.
Abhiruchi Indian Cuisine South & North
Great affordable and fast Mexican food!
Muchas Gracias Mexican Food
Parks
Whether you’re up for a picnic or just want a peaceful stroll, these parks are the perfect little escapes right in the middle of the city!
Orchards Park is one of my favorite spots. Nestled close to everything, this park offers short, scenic trails that make you feel like you’re deep in the woods. It’s a fantastic place for a picnic, and the large open area is perfect for playing volley...
Orchards Community Park
This park is in downtown Vancouver, so it's close to everything, including the Farmer's Market. It's also been newly renovated.
Esther Short Park and Playground
We've gone on date nights and family walks along the waterfront. It's newly renovated and a must-see whether you're local or visiting! It's especially lively in the evenings.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these are some must-do activities in the area. From browsing farmers markets to hitting the bowling alley, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Nice calm water for a relaxing float on the Clackamas River. I've seen kids, adults, and dogs floating here.
Itinerary Barton Park to Carver Park | clackamaswatertrail.org
They run Thursday at 6. 3 miles along the Vancouver Waterfront. Here's my son and I. They also have fun events like a prom run.
Vancouver Run, Grub and Chug Club | Facebook
An ideal place for barbecues, volleyball, and sun bathing. People also paddleboard here.
Vancouver Lake
Such good pizza, great arcade games for both toddlers and big kids, and bowling. They also have a bar area with tons of TVs for watching various sports. This is where we went for birthdays.
Big Al's Vancouver
Shopping
These are my absolute favorite places to shop! Whether I'm on the hunt for unique finds or just indulging in some retail therapy, these spots never disappoint.
While it's an employee store, you can get access with the Adidas app. Simply join their Adiclub membership and make an appt. Most of the store is 50% off.
Adidas Employee Store Portland
This mall is described as, “Washington Square is Oregon's premier shopping destination” and it does certainly feel “premier”. My daughter and I love it! They also have a Nespresso boutique.
Jantzen Beach is right across the bridge from Vancouver, on the I5 side. I go for Target, Ross, TJ Max, Michaels, and Home Goods mostly. They used to have Toys R Us :(
Jantzen Beach Center
Cascade Station has it all. This is the Best Buy we go to and also IKEA. You'll also find Target, Marshalls, and Ulta. There's also plenty of restaurants and a Starbucks to fuel you up during your hauls.
Cascade Station ::: Portland ::: OR
Great food, great products, and a great place for design inspiration, especially for small spaces.
