Vancouver’s rainy reputation is well earned, but locals know the secret to thriving during the grey season is to dive headfirst into the city’s rich cultural tapestry. From indigenous history to contemporary visual arts, the museum scene here offers a deep well of inspiration. Rather than letting the drizzle dampen your plans, you can use it as the perfect excuse to explore some of the Pacific Northwest’s most compelling indoor spaces.
This city is a unique blend of glass towers, ancient forests, and a diverse population that shapes its artistic identity. The museums here do not just display artifacts; they tell stories of the land, the sea, and the people who have called this place home. Whether you are a history buff, a science geek, or an art lover, Vancouver has a space designed to spark your curiosity.
Visiting these institutions is also one of the best ways to support the local community and gain a deeper understanding of the region. Many of the top venues are conveniently located near public transit, making them easily accessible even when the weather is less than ideal. You can plan an entire day around a single neighborhood or hop between spots with ease.
The diversity of collections is staggering, ranging from microscopic organisms to massive totem poles and cutting-edge digital installations. Families will find interactive exhibits that keep kids engaged, while solo travelers can enjoy quiet galleries perfect for reflection. No matter your travel style, these cultural hubs offer a meaningful way to connect with the city.
To help you navigate the best options, we have curated a list of the most significant and visitor-friendly institutions currently operating. This guide focuses on quality, historical significance, and the overall visitor experience to ensure your time is well spent. You will find a mix of world-renowned landmarks and hidden gems that locals adore.
Whether you are visiting for a weekend or you have lived here for years, there is always something new to discover behind these doors. Prepare to be amazed by the depth of knowledge and the beauty housed within these walls. Here are the top museums you should add to your itinerary.
Devil-ish Little Things Museum
| Address | 3409 L St, Vancouver, WA 98663 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (503) 841-4232 |
We had a great time. Surprised my lady with this trip for her bday. The owner is: 1) opening her home to you. Be super considerate 2) Passionate about her Collections and setup. 3) Has a fun resume that is outstanding to hear about. Treat her with kindness because she is sharing something vulnerable about herself. I hope you love this little museum like we did. I have so many years friends to send here...
This place is fantastical, literally. A genuinely entertaining take on the folkloric and fairy tails surrounding Such things as The Devil, Old Scratch, Krampus etc. I loved the "Magic Room" featuring a lot of advertising artwork from the late 1800s to early 1900s, from famous stage magicians of the time. The proprietor and owner of the museum is an artist in her own right, making unique ceramics and beadwork art pieces. I highly recommend. Don't visit looking for Satan, but keep your mind open to the whimsical.
A wonderful collection and museum. This is going to be one of the MUST DO things for us when we have friends and family visit. You might wonder how the tour will take 2 hours when you first walk in, but dont worry because there is more to see than you will be able to view in 2 hours. The collection is wonderful, full of truly rare antiques and handcrafted art from across the globe. Keep in mind you are entering someones home and prepare to act respectfully.
Such a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. The hostess (Marion) was a delight. Great stories and a history lesson that was a devilishly good time!!
Will go back again because there is no way to see it all at once.
I came here with a girlfriend, and our tour was combined with another small group of 3 people, which ended up being a really fun addition to our experience. Our host was a lot of fun, the collection was amazing, and Max (the papillon) was our additional tour guide. We had the “Death in the afternoon” absinthe tour, which was great! I don’t want to give too much away, but the first drink was absolutely fabulous.
There are a couple of things I think it would be helpful for you to know when you go there. The tour is in her private home so be respectful and mindful of that fact. Show up on time for your appointment, but not too early or you could run into the tail end of the last tour. We showed up about 15 minutes early, I recommend just being on time.
Again, we had a wonderful time and highly recommend this tour if you can make it especially when the Krampus tree is on display!
Clark County Historical Museum and Vancouver Visitor Center
| Address | 1511 Main St, Vancouver, WA 98660 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (360) 993-5679 |
I can't believe I never visited here before, despite catching the bus from in front of the building for years! A lot of wonderful displays and information for those interested in local history. The Lucky Beer display alone is worth it.
Local history in an iconic setting. The former Carnegie library makes a fitting home for this local history museum.
The museum presents exhibits context of native people and people of color. That gives a richer and more complete telling of the past.
They have a small gift shop with great Vancouver post cards, books and other items.
There is a research library on the lower level.
Well worth the visit.
This is a delightful display of local history that focuses on (at the time of this review) Brewing, Maritime history, the history of the Indigenous people, and the timeline of the settlement of Ft. Vancouver onward. Lots of fun to visit. Recommended!
It only gets 4 stars because while staff was very friendly, it is the second smallest museum I've ever been to. One of the interactive exhibits is cool enough to give it the 4th star because otherwise I would have been disappointed to pay admission (if it hadn't been a free day) just with the size of it. The geocache in there is neat though.
This is a small, compact historical museum with four areas. The signage and descriptions are well done. The desk volunteers are congenial, approachable.
Pearson Air Museum
| Address | 1115 E 5th St, Vancouver, WA 98661 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (360) 816-6232 |
A great little museum. With a lot to share. Worth the stop and really enjoyed it all, but especially the Spruce Railroad Division matetials!
Such a neat little museum. Great opportunity to get the family out on a walk and learn a little bit about the history of vancouver. The planes are really neat to read about and the museum offers more information than just the airport. Worth checking out.. plus its free!
A quiet nice little museum, which show the history of the american aviation history. It's realy interessting so see, how the US Flying Corps preperared for the war and how they managed to build so much airplanes in a short time.
This place is a blast from the past and also a prerequisite for all Subaru owners. YKIYK
The volunteers are quite knowledgeable and if you have a wee bit of patience, you can learn a thing or three as well as hearing a first or second direct experience. I particularly loved also the detail to the mural that graces the back wall. Amazing to see that so little regarding safety was the norm back then.
Nice family outing. Do note the museum is not open during the Veteran's Day open house - that is primarily to get resources all in one place.
I do believe they rent out the hangar for events. The museum itself has free admission days to see all the old planes and learn about aviation history. Will have to come back for that.
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
| Address | 1001 E 5th St #1501, Vancouver, WA 98661 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (360) 816-6230 |
An interesting trip in the Time Machine! The Fort itself is small but the grounds are reasonably large. I only had time to visit the fort where we are whisked back to the past. Robert was the volunteer in the kitchen and he was charming and a wealth of knowledge. My America the beautiful pass waived the nominal fee for this historic site.
Fort Vancouver is a historic site that the Hudson Bay Trading Company worked out of in the 1800s. This site is especially good to visit on special events when they have most of the stations filled by in-costume people. They usually have one of these events around the Christmas season. It does cost $10 per adult to visit, unless you have a pass that covers the cost (i.e. America The Beautiful pass). This is not the kind of place that I would pay to go back to frequently, but was interesting for a one time visit. Definitely more worthwhile at one of their special events. On a typical Friday afternoon, they had two people in costumes in two of the different buildings. One was doing some blacksmithing and the other was in the shop. Both seemed knowledgeable and engaging.
This venue, which Google Maps calls the "Fort Vancouver National Historic Site," is one of several historic sites under the Fort Vancouver umbrella. It is a reconstruction of the British fur trading post (circa 1830) that the Hudson Bay Company used as headquarters for its operations in the Pacific Northwest. It consists of several buildings within a stockade where costumed interpreters explain and demonstrate life in the fort. For us, it was the interpreters that really made the visit worthwhile. We learned the operation of the fur trade, the diversity of people involved and their social hierarchies. Admission is by fee or a National Park Service pass. There is a large flower and vegetable garden outside the fort walls that you can peruse for free.
We love visiting this 191 acre site! There's so much to see...Officer's Row, barracks, gazebo, the Fort, gardens, land bridge trail, and the Pearson Air Museum.
We've been to almost everything this historical site has to offer. Our favorite part is just walking around any time of year and seeing what's in bloom.
In the spring they have gorgeous cherry blossoms and tulip trees. In summer there's tons of hydrangeas around the historic buildings along Officer's Row. The Fort Vancouver gardens are gorgeous in summer with a wide variety of plants and flowers. There's a lot of vegetables too!
Overall a great place to explore. I feel so lucky to have such a gem so close to home! Would highly recommend.
An excellent outdoor reconstruction museum. The fort and all the buildings look very authentic. Most of them are open to visitors. There is a bakery, workshop, fur storehouse, barracks, jail, main house, and even a tower with cannons.
There are plenty of free parking spaces around the museum.
Wendel Museum of Animal Conservation
| Address | 8203 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98664 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (564) 236-9299 |
September 2025 - Margaret was to meet us at the door, but did not show, we had reservations. After several attempts, we finally went to her father's house and he not only let us in, but gave us a nearly 2 hour first-hand tour (He was the hunter that killed the majority of the animals shown).
Now one has to understand that 'dead' animals is not exactly conservation to many people, but to those that do understand, the showing of these magnificent creatures to people can help him or her understand the beauty of nature and why it needs protection for those that kill only for the sport of it, and not for food, clothing, or other survival.
The museum features three large rooms and the variety of animals you will see are from all regions of our earth. Each is well represented, excellently displayed, and very lifelike.
Plan on a minimum of one hour. Parking is at the front door of the house just below the house with the curved driveway. You must have reservations. And you pay in cash at the time of the visit.
3 rooms set up displaying taxidermy animals. very cool to see the size of these creatures up close. reservation needed. 20$ per person and all to urself. took us 40-50 minutes.
My family and friends love this place so much. By far one of the best animal conservation museums.. Margret the owner is just the sweetest. We have visited this place over 3-4 times and planning on going soon again..
Amazing venue. Must see.
What a beautiful place to visit! I had never been to this type of museum, so I didn't know what to expect. The displays were so gorgeous. The animals seemed to come to life before my eyes. To see such marvelous animals up close was awesome. I could have sat and stared all day.
Museum of Vancouver
| Address | 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3J9, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (604) 736-4431 |
Interesting museum displaying Canadian History as well as a variety of other important exhibits related to the nation.
Went there on a Friday and the museum was not crowded, with plenty of space to walk around.
The exhibit was interesting and the suitcase project was shocking to see. Overall, a great museum within walking distance from other touristy spots.
My family love our experience in this museum perfect for photography if planning for wedding this museum is perfect nice view and close to the beach where you can see the sunset and the yacht and boat very amazing and relaxing.
Museum of Vancouver is a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning about the city’s history, culture & how Vancouver has evolved over time. The exhibit was thoughtful, informative, & did a good job of highlighting the Indigenous history & the Chinese influence.
As someone visiting from Washington, it was really interesting to see Vancouver’s perspective & how it compares to cities back home. The museum is easy to walk through, well laid out, & not overwhelming, which makes it enjoyable.
Overall, it’s a solid stop if you want a deeper understanding of Vancouver beyond the typical tourist spots.
The Museum of Vancouver is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating look into the city's history, culture, and evolution. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, covering everything from Indigenous history and local communities to urban development, design, and Vancouver's changing identity.
What stood out most was the balance between historical artifacts and interactive displays, making the experience engaging rather than overwhelming. The exhibitions are well organized, easy to follow, and provide plenty of interesting stories that help you understand how Vancouver has grown over the years.
The museum is clean, well maintained, and the staff are friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable. It's located in a beautiful waterfront area, making it easy to combine your visit with a walk around the nearby parks and shoreline.
Whether you're a local wanting to learn more about your city or a visitor interested in Vancouver's rich history, this museum is well worth your time. Plan to spend 1.5–2 hours exploring the exhibits, and don't forget to check for any special or temporary exhibitions during your visit.
Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys history, culture, and discovering the stories behind one of Canada's most beautiful cities.
Great place to learn about the city and it's history. Very easy to follow, i treating information and visually appealing. each sections atmosphere transport you in time!
Hopscotch Portland
| Address | 1020 SE 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97214 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (833) 477-9229 |
Hopscotch wasn't our first immersive art experience, but it was definitely one of our favorites! Almost everything in the facility is interactive, and the quantum trampoline is one of the most unique and most fun exhibits we've ever come across in any of these installations. The experience is enjoyable at any age, but Hopscotch also offers adults-only nights if you'd prefer to visit when the facility is a little quieter. There is a bar that serves custom snacks and drinks, too!
Went here for the first time today for my daughters birthday. This is absolutely one of the coolest places I've ever experienced! This is amazing for both kids and adults! Interactive art is one of the coolest things I've seen and we need more of this! There also food and drinks that you can take with you through the exhibit. Highly recommend you check it out!
Okay this was SO fun. I went during adults-only hours which was great. The staff was friendly. The exhibits were fun. You rediscover your inner child. You can be goofy and laugh. The ball pit was legit the Pinnacle of the experience. I went twice. You can walk through the light bulb strings. Mirrors enhance the experience. This was really one of the best things we could do with my friend. I am so happy we did this.
Hopscotch Portland is a fun and unique experience that's unlike anything else in the city. Every room is filled with interactive art installations that encourage you to explore, play, and take in all the creative details. It's immersive without feeling crowded, and there's something new to discover around every corner. The staff was welcoming and helped make the visit even more enjoyable. Whether you're visiting with friends, family, or on a date, Hopscotch is a memorable experience that's well worth checking out while you're in Portland.
We had gone to another immersive art experience in Seattle that was enjoyable but not nearly as engaging as Hopscotch Portland. We had a blast. This is truly a place for young and old alike to get lost in color, light and sound.
You can create your own dance music videos, walk through strands of lights for a very trippy experience, dive into a ball pit --- yes, even the adults can do that, too --- experience yourself bathed in red, blue and green, and so much more. Even the lounge halfway through the gallery is fun and perfect for snagging a drink and just chilling on the comfy couches and taking in the lights and groovy sounds.
This was such a fun time. It really set the bar high for me for any upcoming immersive art experiences but I'm so thankful that we took a chance and tried something new. Oh, and did I mention? Everybody there was soooooo nice --- in the lounge, at the gift shop, at the entry, and even at some of the exhibits to offer tips (like how many steps deep into the ball pit --- that was invaluable for this 56-year-old kid). Thanks, Hopscotch Portland. We had a wonderful visit!
Play Street Museum - Vancouver
| Address | 14109 NE 10th Ave STE 713, Vancouver, WA 98685 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (564) 219-4505 |
This was our first time at Play Street Museum and it definitely will not be our last!
I have a 14 year old and a 3 year old, and we spend a lot of time at parks and kid activities.
When it started raining, I originally thought about going to the library, but my kids decided “today is not a library day” 😂 So I decided we should try someplace new. I made a reservation that morning at 10:30am for a 12:30–2:00 playtime, and honestly knowing my 3 year old, I expected we’d stay maybe an hour before heading home.
Man was I WRONG! 😂 When I say my
3 year old loved this place she LOVED it!
In our house we navigate ADHD, Autism, and Sensory Processing Disorder, and this ended up being such a positive experience for both of my daughters and for me as a parent.
It wasn’t super busy probably around 15–20 kids, but if you know indoor play places, you know even 20 kids can sometimes get overwhelmingly loud.
This place never felt that way at all. I did bring headphones for my kiddos just in case (which we usually do anywhere), and I probably still will in the future, but the environment felt calm and comfortable today.
MY 3YO DID SO MUCH INDEPENDENT PLAY! The table activities were so much fun, especially because my daughters LOVE anything involving magnets.
The bearded dragon was such a fun surprise, and there was even coloring at some of the tables
I also really appreciated that there are benches inside the play city so parents can stay close to their kiddos without having to hover constantly.
We saw the take-home activity kits and I already regret not buying one 😂 I will definitely be getting one next visit!
The staff was kind, helpful, and always nearby if needed, but never made you feel watched or uncomfortable. That balance is appreciated more than you know.
Super good place for littles, my 3-year-old especially appreciated that everything was her size 😆
It’s also really conveniently located near Three Creeks Library plus Starbucks Chipotle, and Trader Joe's which made the whole outing even easier.
Now I could go on forever yet I think you should go see yourself!
It honestly feels weird leaving a place with zero complaints 😂🤣
Our family genuinely loved Play Street Museum and we will absolutely be back soon! 🦋💕
We had the TuTu birthday party and my child had the best time ever!! We had the sit back & relax package and I truly sat back. We got everything we asked for and more. It was well organized and the host did an incredible job. Most importantly all the kids enjoyed it and kept talking about. I highly recommended Play Street for a birthday party and even as a causal play date. It’s so well maintained and clean.
My granddaughter has loved to come here to play. Lots of fun activities to stimulate fun play and creativity. Very clean, organized, and not overcrowded with limited reservations per time slot.
And Poppy the bearded dragon is a fun surprise.
We really love this Play Street location! The airplane is a huge draw. My kiddo had so much fun pretending to be a pilot, serving up pizzas in the pizzeria and ice cream scoops in the truck. We didn't even realize there's a huge dinosaur we could put together with big bones until right before closing; we will need to come back just to do that! Also, the lovely person working was very kind and cheerful. Thanks for making a smoky afternoon fun inside!
We love coming here! The staff is always friendly and welcoming. They go above and beyond to make sure everything is clean and prepared for play. Our only regret is not having our daughter’s birthday here. Highly recommend visiting!
Fort Vancouver Visitor Center
| Address | 1501 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98661 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (360) 816-6230 |
This park is well thought out. Interests for history seekers, interests for picnickers, places to walk for exercise, dog friendly, and photography friendly.
It was a nice place to walk around and check out, but you have to buy passes to get into different sections of the fort. It was nice but not the coolest fort i have been to. I really liked the museum with the planes but I would have enjoyed to see the buildings, but it was closed when I was there so keep an eye on timing because it closes early on the weekend.
I've got to adventure two weekends in a row. One with events and one with one. I think it's mainly ran with volunteers with the National Park. They work very hard to preserve historical artifacts and are all very educated! It's so fun to explore, talk and learn from them!
Easy parking and access. Restrooms. Has movie for intro to Fort and Hudson Bay Company. Nice art display; some Native American. Nice souvenir selection. Can walk or drive to separate parking lot for actual Fort stockade, barracks. Had the Fort to myself...a National Park to myself. Nice. Interesting buildings. Had a reenactor shop keeper in Indian Tradind Post. Very informative. Learned a lot. You could spend a couple of hours here if all buildings are open. Lots of open space to walk or run around in. Dog friendly.
September 2025 - This is a fort used by the Hudson Bay company for dealing with natives and others that brought animal pelts to it for processing and bailing, then shipping on the Columbia River to other locations.
The 'fort' is part of the National Park Service (NPS) and you can use your NPS pass for entry. The visitor center has very helpful employees and should be the first place you stop.
The fort itself is a goodly walk from the visitor center, and if you do not want to do the walk, there is parking at the fort itself. After parking there, you will find a path that leads through a garden area to the main entry where you purchase or show your entry tickets.
Once in, you can walk to several buildings and peek in, some are open, some not. The far wall area has the fur bailing area and someone may be there to show you how it was done.
Plan on about 2 hours to see each area, and then go to the air museum on the left side of the field, there is a path.
Chicky Play Museum
| Address | 8109 NE Vancouver Mall Dr Ste A, Vancouver, WA 98662 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 998-5555 |
We had my 3 year olds birthday party here over the weekend and it was wonderful! I had been to Chicky Play a few times before and loved the concept and their open layout. I knew it would be a great place to host a party and it definitely held up to my expectations. Everyone had a blast. The kids enjoyed all the play options and the parents also commented that it was a really neat place! Our helper was Maddy and she was great! They have done lots of parties so they helped with setup and making it look nice! Definitely recommend them for play time and parties!
We were invited as party of a private party today for a classmate of my daughter. After never hearing about this place it was such a fun experience! hiw I havent heard of it is crazy. not located in the mall like I originally thought based off the address its located across the street from the mall with ample party. we arrived at 1130am for the party to find it was completely rented out for the party guest only which was awesome.
it was SPOTLESS clean. I love that the floors were laminate and looked well clean. there was comfy, clean runs throughout the play area. schools were required to come off to play. sanitizer was available.
the place had two bathrooms available and a nice baby changing table in one. they even had extra baby wipes there on their shelf incase you ran out.
I loved how they had very cute birthday candles, napkins, plates and balloons available for your party all there already.
they had a coffee shop and drinks available to purchase. they ice cream and waffles bowels/cups you can purchase also.
the little cities were all so well kepted and not beat down. the workers who were there periodically cleaned areas to replenish the correct toys to the right spots so kids could continue playing. the rooms were so creative. all stocked with costumes, stuff animals, props and furniture.
the kids all had a blast and they played music for them while the party was going.
there was ample seating for parents and kids too
I cant recommend this place enough after today experience. I will be looking into a party package for my daughter next June for sure!
We visited Chicky Play for the first time today. Overall we had a very positive experience. My children had a great time exploring and playing and there was plenty to keep them entertained. My 1 year old didn't want to leave!
The employee, Maddie, was just awesome! She was incredibly kind, welcoming, and helpful throughout our visit. She eagerly answered my questions, checked in on us and was so sweet with my 1-year-old even taking a few moments to play with him. She definitely made it feels like a welcoming place!!!
The only area that I think could use improvement is cleanliness. The flooring, toys, play structures had visible spots, dust that a good wipe down would be beneficial. Some extra attention there would make the experience even better. I am comparing the cleanliness to some other indoor playgrounds and this unfortunately stood out to me 🙁
That said, we still had a very nice first visit and I appreciate the friendly staff, especially Maddie, for helping make it a positive experience for my family.
Definitely will return with the kids. Hopefully there will be improvements on the cleaning aspect. Overall, good visit!
The Best Birthday Experience Ever!
We had my 3-year-old’s birthday party at Chicky Play Museum, and it was absolutely amazing. The staff took care of everything, from the beautiful on-theme decorations to the setup and cleanup, which made the day totally stress free for us. The cupcakes they provided were adorable and delicious, perfectly matching our theme.
The kids had the time of their lives exploring, playing, and creating. Every area was clean, safe, and full of fun activities for little ones. The team was so kind, attentive, and clearly passionate about making the day special.
It was worth every penny, and I can’t recommend Chicky Play Museum enough for anyone planning a kid’s party. They made it effortless and unforgettable.
Our daughter's birthday party was fantastic and easy peasy! The owner Suki was very helpful and quick to respond to questions. When we arrived, the Chicky Play staff was welcoming and offered assistance with set up. We forgot a tablecloth and thankfully they had some for purchase. For decorations we just did a cupcake stand and a couple of centerpieces and it turned out so cute. The venue was clean and had lots of themed play areas to entertain littles. Their restrooms were clean and accommodating with toddler seats and also a changing table. This was 100% easier and better than hosting a toddler party in our home. I will say they seem to frequently book private parties on weekends, so if you are wanting to visit for an open play session, definitely check the website or call beforehand. We highly recommend Chicky Play and look forward to returning for open play soon!
Water Resources Education Center, City of Vancouver
| Address | 4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (360) 487-7111 |
Interactive exhibits, an educational scavenger hunt, and helpful staff all for free!? Nice AC activity and they have shaded picnic benches to enjoy, too. Clean restrooms and water fountain. Plenty of parking.
The educational exhibits are interesting. Learn about lamprey, see a upcycled art display of the life cycle of salmon, and learn all about recycling!
They also have a large room available for rental upstairs and you can take recycle batteries and cell phones there as well!
staff was friendly and very willing to educate and help with any exhibit. the bathrooms were very clean and smelled fresh. there was a nursing room available. after completing the free scavenger hunt they offered my daughter a few stickers. the Pacific Lamphry was on show in the large tank. I would of loved to seen the Sturgeon. Sad to see the beautiful fountain out front wasn't in service when we went. My daughter was looking forward to seeing it on. other then that we had a great time and it was a beautiful facility that offered free parking and free admission.
Front desk rep was very welcoming and helpful, plenty of stuff for the kids to see and do. My daughter really enjoyed the educational scavenger hunt. Well worth the stop.
We took our granddaughter here and she had a great time with the challenging scavenger hunt and with the interacting activities. It was also a learning experience.
my son's daycare was closed so I wanted to get him out of the house. I called up another Mom friend to see if she wanted to visit the center with me. we met at The water resource center at 9:30 thinking it opened at 9 per The website. they don't open till 10. staff let us in early because it was Cold and windy.
I remember coming to this place as a kid and it being huge. as an adult I feel like it's smaller than I remember. either way it's a great Free place in Vancouver for kids to have fun and learn about water. it's like a mini Free omsi.
Vancouver Art Gallery
| Address | 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (604) 662-4700 |
Limited collection and much of it focuses on the landscapes of Emily Carr which to my mind are pretty gloomy, though I'm guessing evocative of what she saw. The other exhibitions were a real mish mash of contemporary art and a few older pieces. Much of the contemporary art really was a struggle to appreciate for me! The bistro serves really good food and was probably the highlight of the visit!
The Good:Stunning architecture inside a grand, historic neoclassical courthouse.The world's largest collection of beautiful Emily Carr paintings.Fantastic focus on local Indigenous and modern Pacific Rim artists.Amazing rooftop patio cafe overlooking Robson Square for coffee or wine.Perfect downtown location, very easy to access.The Bad:High admission ticket price ($29–$35 CAD) for a relatively quick 90-minute visit.Hit-or-miss if you do not enjoy abstract contemporary or multimedia art.Sometimes entire floors are closed for setup, but they still charge full price.Tip: Check their website before going to make sure all floors are open!
Vancouver Art Gallery is a surprisingly modest building (and appears to have a surprisingly modest collection) for such a large, vibrant, multicultural Canadian city. The Emily Carr exhibit was interesting, but a bit too reminiscent of the Group of Seven collection at the McMichael collection Vaughan, Ontario, which I visited several times as a grad student in Toronto in the 1970s and 1980s. That is, Carr's work made me feel it was derivative of that group of Canadian painters and not unique to British Columbia, as I'd have hoped.
All in all, I didn't get the feel for art that's uniquely British Columbian from the time we spent walking through the interesting exhibit of Carr's work and another exhibit of premier pieces from this museum. And that's a pity, since the city is so culturally alive and the history of the area, especially its indigenous population, so rich.
The gallery is really nice and the exhibition map is to the point and easy to find. They have a nice store and photo-booth in the first floor and their current exhibition has some interactive activities for all ages which is fun.
The Vancouver Art Gallery continues to be a must-visit cultural hub, particularly with its current presentation of Emily Carr’s iconic works. The curation breathes new life into her forest landscapes and Indigenous-inspired themes, making the historical context feel both modern and accessible.
What truly sets this experience apart is the commitment to visitor engagement. Rather than just observing from a distance, guests are invited to participate through a dedicated creative space. They provide an impressive array of high-quality materials and unique tools—moving far beyond simple paper and crayons—to allow both kids and adults to experiment with techniques similar to Carr’s own signature style.
Highlights of the visit:
Immersive Curation: The layout for the Emily Carr exhibit is thoughtful and deeply atmospheric.
Interactive Stations: The hands-on drawing area is well-stocked and inspires genuine creativity.
Diverse Exhibits: Beyond the permanent collection, the gallery does a fantastic job showcasing a rotating selection of contemporary and international artists.
Welcoming Atmosphere: The staff and gallery attendants are notably friendly and helpful, adding to the overall positive experience.
Whether you are a long-time art lover or visiting with family, the gallery’s blend of world-class fine art and interactive learning makes for a brilliant afternoon.
Vancouver Waterfront
| Address | 695 Waterfront Wy, Vancouver, WA 98660 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
I haven't been down to the river front since it's been renovated...WOW! I didn't recognize the place!! Nice walking path with great views and plenty of places to stop in and check out.
We go here year round, especially on the nice weather months. When the Farmers market is open, it's a bonus. The splash pad is a great place for the kids to cool off, and there's ice-cream close by. Great scenic views of the Columbia River, with boats and airplanes adding to the panorama 😁
We needed a quick stop on our long drive to Seattle. What a wonderful place to stretch our legs. We walked around and had a snack. There are many different restaurants and shops. I need to come back and spend some more time.
Beautiful area. Quiet and not crowded. Lots of food right across the street. Paid street parking was very difficult but I did find a paid parking garage very close by and found it very easy to navigate.
Wonderful, relaxing area. Plenty of room to walk along the riverfront, have a picnic or dine at one of the riverfront restaurants. The nearby parking garage is conveniently located close to the area as street parking is limited
Art at the Cave
| Address | 108 E Evergreen Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98660 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (360) 314-6506 |
This is a beautiful art gallery in downtown Vancouver, WA that has different themes each month. Artists are welcome to submit their work that resonates with the theme, resulting in a range of new artwork. Art at the Cave also hosts many community events, including meditation sessions, and the Ghost Town Poetry Open Mic every second Thursday @ 7 pm. I highly recommend this art gallery!
Reviewed by Jacob D. Salzer, author of Sea Wind: Haiku (Lulu.com, 2025), A Lost Prophet (Brooks Books, 2024), and Unplugged (Lulu.com, 2022)
One of my favorite galleries in Vancouver.
Home of the ‘Ghost Town open mic’ reading series on 2nd Thursday nights. It’s a delight coming by every month to see a brand new art show. I’ve also attended a couple of artist talks, which are always wonderful and a great opportunity to connect with the community.
Love this place! 👻
Fun themed art gallery I discovered while walking around downtown. This month's theme is the environment so there were a lot of artwork around nature.
Good mix of art work ranging from sculptures, digital art, canvases, and experimental pieces.
It also has a smaller gallery upstairs.
The Wearable Art exhibit was so great! The gallery is beautiful and the staff is so welcoming!
What a fun place to find! Large, fabulous art studio in downtown Vancouver! We got to touch the art! I highly recommend going!
OMSI
| Address | 1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Phone | (503) 797-4000 |
We love OMSI. I enjoy the puzzles, chemistry lab experiments and physics lab. So much to do downstairs that I've barely had time for the rocks fossils and animals upstairs. As someone with a biology degree I enjoy all of these subjects that were part of my school curriculum. Attended the TITANIC display with intriguing items from 12500 feet below the sea. Have not attended anything in the theater yet will update. Went at 2pm not very busy for a Saturday at all. Be aware labs close at 5pm.
We enjoy every minute there!
We have a family membership- high recommended
We went to titanic museum, and there is also a VR for titanic - I did the VR with my kids, it is not far from the film, I don’t think it is work an extra payment for it.
The kids area upstairs is very good
There is a bistro also
Clean place
I recommend to bring some snacks specially if you have kids.
The SUBMARINE! It is a must! You have to do it one of the best experiences ever!!!
Don’t miss the submarine you need to reserve for it in advance!
I've been going to OMSI since I was a child, now I take my children here. They are updating the exhibits often and it is a really fun place to explore science. We have young kids so they enjoy the preschool area. It has water play, an area for non-walkers, pretend food play, giant block building, and an area for art and other cool things for young kids.
In other areas there are a lot of exhibits for adults and kids to explore, the science labs are really fun. The planetarium has really cool shows that explore different space themed content. It has been years since I've been on the submarine, but I remember thinking it was really cool.
For food, you can bring your own food, there are many places to sit down and eat. There is a café, where you can get coffee, premade samdwiches, and other snacks. There is also a cafeteria style restaurant where there are lots of different dishes you can order and an area where you can order pizza. The food prices are kind of high so I usually bring my own food. Overall a really fun place to spend the day with the family.
It was fun for the titanic experience. There was 5 people in our group and it was $30 we went with someone who had a membership so we did get a discount. There was a lot of people and kids there. The parents weren't supervising their own kids so if you feel like babysitting...... It was very interesting and worth a try.
I’ve been to OMSI a few times over the years and always end up spending way more time here than I expect. There’s a lot to explore, and I like that it doesn’t feel like you have to be a kid to enjoy it. Some of the exhibits are definitely geared toward families, but there’s still plenty that’s interesting as an adult, especially if you like science, technology, design, or just messing around with interactive exhibits.
The hands-on areas are probably my favorite part. It’s nice being somewhere you’re actually encouraged to touch things, experiment, and figure stuff out instead of just walking around looking at displays. The rotating exhibits also make it worth coming back because the experience can be pretty different depending on what’s currently showing.
The building is huge, so I’d recommend giving yourself at least a couple hours if you actually want to explore instead of rushing through. It can get pretty busy with families and school groups, especially during peak hours, but there are enough different areas that we were still able to wander around and enjoy ourselves.
I also really like OMSI’s location by the river. It’s easy to make a whole afternoon out of it and walk around the waterfront before or afterward. The planetarium and theater are worth checking out too, although those can be separate tickets depending on what you’re seeing.
Overall, OMSI is one of those classic Portland places that’s genuinely worth visiting at least once, and it’s especially good when you want something indoors on a rainy day. It’s educational without feeling like you’re being forced to learn, and there’s enough variety that everyone can find something interesting. I’d definitely come back, especially for a new rotating exhibit or one of their special events.
Tips for Visiting Vancouver Museums
To make the most of your cultural exploration, a little bit of planning goes a long way. Vancouver’s museum landscape is spread across several distinct neighborhoods, from the downtown peninsula to the university endowment lands. Knowing how to navigate the logistics, ticketing, and timing can save you money and help you avoid the largest crowds, ensuring a more relaxed and immersive experience.
Plan Around the Weather and Season
Summer is peak tourist season, meaning popular museums can get crowded, especially on weekends. Conversely, the rainy months of October through April see fewer out-of-town visitors but more school groups. Check the specific museum’s calendar for "free nights" or late openings, which often occur on the first Tuesday or Thursday of the month; these are great for budget travelers but tend to be the busiest times.
Utilize the Vancouver Attractions Pass
If you plan to visit three or more major paid attractions, look into a multi-attraction pass. These bundled tickets often include major hubs like the Vancouver Aquarium, Science World, and the Art Gallery. Purchasing a pass online before your trip can result in significant savings compared to buying individual tickets at the door, and it sometimes grants you priority entry.
Consider Transit and Parking Realities
Parking in downtown Vancouver can be expensive and difficult to find, particularly near Canada Place and Gastown. The SkyTrain and bus system are efficient ways to reach most major museums. If you are driving to the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus to see the Museum of Anthropology or the Beaty Biodiversity Museum, be aware that parking is strictly enforced; use the designated parkades rather than street parking.
Allocate More Time Than You Think
It is easy to underestimate how engaging a great exhibit can be. What looks like a small gallery on the map might hold your attention for hours. A common mistake is rushing through the Museum of Anthropology in an hour when it easily deserves three. To avoid "museum fatigue," pick two or three key exhibits you must see and allow yourself to wander freely between them without feeling rushed.
Look for Interactive and Family Zones
If traveling with children, check the daily schedule for hands-on demonstrations or live science shows upon arrival. Science World and the Maritime Museum often have scheduled activities that break up the passive walking. Bringing a small notebook and pencil for kids to sketch artifacts or take notes can also turn a standard visit into an engaging scavenger hunt.
Exploring Vancouver’s museums offers more than just a break from the weather; it provides a profound connection to the natural world and the human stories that define the West Coast. These institutions serve as guardians of history and incubators for future innovation, ensuring that every visit leaves you with a new perspective.
As you walk through the galleries, you are participating in a conversation that spans generations and cultures. Take your time, ask questions, and allow the city’s vibrant intellectual life to enrich your journey.
