Best Things to Do in Vancouver, WA With Kids

Top Family-Friendly Activities in Vancouver, WA

Vancouver, Washington, is known for its beautiful outdoors and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re relocating or just visiting, you and your kids are sure to have a great time exploring the many activities that this city has to offer. From hiking near Mount St. Helens and enjoying a relaxing day at the beaches along the Pacific Coast to spending an afternoon shopping and dining in downtown Vancouver, there’s something for every family to enjoy. 

Ideally located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Vancouver is surrounded by natural beauty and countless weekend adventure spots just a short drive away. The city is filled with scenic walkways, kid-friendly bike routes, spacious parks, and a welcoming community that makes you feel right at home. 

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Vancouver, WA, with kids, this vibrant city offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure, local charm, and family fun all year round. 

If you’re considering a move to Vancouver, Washington, or looking to sell a property quickly, Sell With Isaac specializes in buying real estate throughout Vancouver and other cities across Washington. As a trusted cash-for-houses company in Vancouver, we offer homeowners a fast, convenient, and hassle-free way to sell—no repairs, no delays, and no complications. Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or simply need a quick sale, we’re here to help make the transition smooth and stress-free.

Kid-Friendly Activities in Vancouver, WA

Children of all ages can find numerous enjoyable activities in Vancouver, Washington, whether they prefer to play outdoors or relax indoors. On sunny days, families can soak up some good ol’ vitamin D and enjoy nature together while taking a break from the screens that often rule their daily lives. With over 90 parks, scenic trails, playgrounds, and nature centres, with activities ranging from picnicking and biking to hiking and wildlife spotting, there’s always something exciting waiting outdoors for everyone to enjoy. 

And when you’ve had enough fun in the sun or when the weather gets too hot, too cold, or too rainy, Vancouver has just as many indoor options to keep kids entertained. 

1. Take a Trip to Vancouver’s Beautiful Waterfalls

Waterfalls are one of nature’s most fascinating wonders, which is sure to bring a smile to any kid’s face. It’s a real-life adventure straight out of a movie that kids and adults alike will love. Many of the waterfalls near Vancouver, WA, feature scenic trails with flat to gently sloping terrain, making it easy for families to explore. Most hikes are just a few miles long, short enough to stay fun, but long enough to feel like an adventure. 

Some family-friendly waterfalls to explore:

• Moulton Falls: A 4-mile trail through a beautiful 387-acre park with stunning river views.
• Lucia Falls: A 1.1-mile loop trail in a 24-acre park along the East Fork Lewis River, perfect for little explorers. 
• Bridal Veil Falls: A short 0.5 km round-trip hike that rewards you with a breathtaking 60-meter waterfall. 

Bonus: Both Moulton and Lucia Falls are also fantastic picnic spots, making them excellent options for a full day of outdoor fun. 

Vancouver, WA, and its surrounding areas offer numerous waterfalls with varying difficulty levels, so be sure to double-check the trails before you go. Stick to the easier, flatter hikes for younger kids, and always bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey. 

2. Explore One of Vancouver’s Many Parks 

A core memory for many of us growing up is spending time at the park. It’s where we may have met our first friends, raced to the swings, and felt that simple but accelerating rush of swinging back and forth. Vancouver WA has a significant advantage over many cities, boasting around 90 parks, ensuring you’ll never run out of places to explore. Even better, many of these parks feel a bit more leveled-up from your standard playground. Most have designated picnic areas, great playgrounds, beautiful views of lakes or mountains, depending on where you go, and plenty of lush greenery that you can’t help but appreciate nature. 

Here are some great parks to check out:

• Vancouver Lake Park: Just a few miles downtown, this 190-acre regional park is a favorite among both residents and visitors. In addition to its stunning lake views, the property offers a range of amenities, including sand volleyball courts, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, bird-watching, and even windsurfing. Younger children and older children alike will find something enjoyable to do here. 
• Esther Short Park: This park offers the classic playground experience with swings and slides, but it’s also one of the oldest parks in the Northwest, making it a perfect spot with a bit of history. It also features a beautiful rose garden and an event space, so be sure to check for upcoming events. 
• Fruit Valley Park or Nikkei Park (Dinosaur Park): If you’re looking for something more modern and playful, Fruit Valley Park has a large, updated playground that kids love. Another great option is Nikkei Park, featuring a dinosaur theme. It even features a sandbox where children can uncover “fossils,” turning your little one into a junior archaeologist for the day. 

3. Head Over to the Vancouver Library 

Vancouver Library isn’t your typical quiet, dusty library where the only activity is borrowing a book (though you can definitely do that too). It’s a lively, welcoming space filled with free activities that bring the community together. Nothing beats spending a cozy day indoors with beautiful views of the Columbia River while exploring books, enjoying storytimes, and engaging in hands-on learning activities. There’s even a designated play area for kids, because let’s be honest, little ones have lots of energy, and a great book is even better when followed by some fun playtime. 

Some activities to check out:

• Baby or Family Storytime: These interactive sessions, featuring stories, songs, and rhymes, are held year-round. They help spark imagination and introduce children to the joy of books and literature at a young age. 
• Teen Videogame Tournaments: The library hosts friendly, brackets-style video game competitions that give kids and teens a fun way to connect and build community. 
• Crafts and Workshops: Teens can enjoy hands-on activities like learning to sew, creative writing workshops, art projects, and even building with Legos.  
• Author Events: The library regularly welcomes local authors for readings and workshops that inspire both teens and adults, and help strengthen the community’s love for storytelling. 

4. Check out the Historic Fort Vancouver 

Vancouver, WA, is not only about the great outdoors and fun in the sun. The city is also steeped in history and culture, and Fort Vancouver is one of the best places to explore both. Built in 1824, the Fort served as an essential trading post and supply depot. Today, families can walk through the reconstructed fort walls, explore the site, and enjoy self-guided tours that offer a fascinating glimpse into life in the 1800s. Visitors can watch hands-on demonstrations, including blacksmithing, woodworking, and traditional cooking. 

Other Historic Sites to visit nearby: 

• Pearson Air Museum: Located adjacent to the Fort, it’s an excellent spot for families who enjoy aviation-related activities. The museum showcases the early days of aviation in the Pacific Northwest and offers a wealth of activities for kids to explore. Visitors can get an up-close look at historic aircraft, walk through interactive exhibits, and learn how early pilots navigated the skies long before the advent of modern technology. The museum frequently hosts kid-friendly programs, workshops, and events where children can try simple flight-related activities, view old cockpit instruments, and deepen their curiosity about aviation. Plane enthusiasts will love the restored aircraft, unique artifacts, and the stories that reveal why it is recognized as one of the nation’s oldest continually operating airfields. 

• U.S. Army Vancouver Barracks: This is another fascinating aspect of the Fort Vancouver site, offering families a glimpse into the military history of the Pacific Northwest. Visitors can stroll through the historic grounds, explore preserved buildings, and view exhibits that provide insight into the lives of soldiers who served there. The barracks once played a crucial role in regional development, and many of their original structures still stand today. Kids can follow easy walking paths, check out informational signs, and learn how the army supported early settlement and protected the area. Seasonal programs and occasional demonstrations also help bring the site’s long history to life in a fun and approachable way. 

Be prepared to spend the entire day in Fort Vancouver, as it offers an interactive, educational, and exciting experience all in one. 

5. Experience Old School Cinema at Kiggins Theatre 

Old-school movie theaters are becoming increasingly rare, making Kiggins Theater a special gem in Vancouver. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this fully operating single-screen cinema offers a nostalgic movie-going experience that families can enjoy together. First opened in 1936, the theater retains its original Art Deco style, giving visitors the feeling of stepping back in time the moment they enter. 

Kiggins Theatre shows a mix of classic films, family-friendly movies, local film events, and community screenings, making it a fun and affordable outing. The cozy atmosphere, vintage charm, and friendly staff all contribute to the experience, creating a memorable entertainment option that feels distinct from modern cinemas. 

6. Calendar their Annual Special Events 

Aside from everyday activities, Vancouver, WA hosts a variety of exciting annual events that you might be lucky enough to experience during your visit. Vancouver is a vibrant community that celebrates a wide range of cultural traditions and seasonal holidays. Events include Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, the Thursday Waterfront Concerts in the summer, the Clark County Father’s Day Car Show, the Vancouver Farmers Market, and many more. It’s always a good idea to check the city’s calendar before your trips so you don’t miss out on anything extraordinary happening that week. 

Can’t Miss Annual Events:

• First Friday Art Walks: Held on the first Friday of every month, this event showcases local galleries, live art demonstrations, and engaging hands-on activities. It is a great way to explore downtown while supporting local artists. 
• 4 Days of Aloha: This four-day Celebration takes place every July and honors Vancouver‘s historical connection to native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. Visitors can enjoy delicious food, traditional hula performances, fun workshops, live music, and activities that showcase the beauty and history of Hawaiian culture. 
• BirdFest & Bluegrass: This October event, hosted in partnership with local wildlife organizations, combines nature education with lively bluegrass music. Families can join guided nature walks, bird talks, and get up-close views of migratory and resident birds through spotting scopes, all while enjoying live bluegrass performances. 
• Christmas Ships Parade: A cherished tradition for over 65 years, this December parade adds a unique twist to the holiday season. Instead of only lighting a Christmas tree, beautifully Christmas-themed ships cruise along the Columbia River waterfront, creating a magical display as the colorful lights shimmer across the water. 

Closing Thoughts: Best Things to Do in Vancouver, WA with Kids

Vancouver, WA, is a wonderful place to visit with kids, offering a variety of activities throughout the year. Whether you prefer a peaceful day indoors, want to get some fresh air, or enjoy exploring cultural events, there’s always something for every family to enjoy. This list highlights only a handful of what Vancouver has to offer. Countless more activities await discovery, and finding them in person is part of the fun. (Hint: there’s even a free scavenger hunt featuring famous landmarks available on the city’s website). With safe neighborhoods, a warm community, and events happening every month, Vancouver is truly a family-friendly destination. 

Looking to Relocate?

If you’re considering a move, we at Sell With Isaac can help make the transition easier. We buy homes in Washington as-is, making the selling process quick and stress-free. There is no need for months of preparation, repairs, or negotiations. Our streamlined system eliminates the typical delays and additional costs. By buying homes as-is and paying in cash, we allow you to leave everything to us and receive your funds without hassle. 

Contact us by calling (360) 207-4133 or completing the brief form below. It only takes a minute! We’ll send you a competitive, no-obligation, cash offer within 24 hours. With us, you can be assured that everything remains transparent and straightforward from start to finish.