When the weekend rolls around and Washingtonians need a quick getaway, there’s never a shortage of options. Some prefer our charming tourist towns, like Leavenworth, Poulsbo or Port Townsend. Others head to a more metropolitan area like Seattle or Spokane.

But we’ve also got plenty of places perfect for spending a weekend away from home that often get overlooked. Vancouver is one of them.

Located on the north bank of the Columbia River, Vancouver is often overlooked due to its close proximity to Portland.

Visit Vancouver USA Facebook But this city definitely has its own character, and it’s pretty charming.

First, the location really can’t be beat.

Visit Vancouver USA Facebook The Columbia River is the gem of the Pacific Northwest, and we’re lucky to share it with Oregon. You can enjoy the views from the waterfront walking trail or a few local businesses like McMenamins On The Columbia (pictured here).

If you enjoy a good brewery, Vancouver will delight you.

Visit Vancouver USA Facebook So many new breweries have popped up in the city in recent years, it’s hard to keep up.

If you love nature, you’ll be pleased by the abundance of nearby parks and sanctuaries, like the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge…

Visit Vancouver USA Facebook

… and the nearby Cedar Creek Grist Mill is absolutely stunning this time of year.

Visit Vancouver USA Facebook The grist mill is on the National Register of Historic Places, and the surrounding scenery alone make it worth visiting.

If you’re a history buff, spending some time at Fort Vancouver is a must.

Wayne Hsieh / Flickr This former 19th century fur trading post has been well preserved, its history perfectly documented. You can even enjoy a fine dining experience at the Eatery at the Grant House.

Speaking of dining, you certainly won’t go hungry during a weekend in Vancouver. The city of full of fantastic restaurants, both old and new.

Visit Vancouver This is the charming Hudson’s Bar & Grill, a local icon.

The next time you find yourself with a free weekend, consider spending it in the Couve.

Visit Vancouver USA Facebook This charming city will leave you feeling refreshed and recharged.

Vancouver is an underrated gem that’s definitely worth exploring. Here are some other great weekend destinations in the Evergreen State.

Visit Vancouver USA Facebook

But this city definitely has its own character, and it’s pretty charming.

The Columbia River is the gem of the Pacific Northwest, and we’re lucky to share it with Oregon. You can enjoy the views from the waterfront walking trail or a few local businesses like McMenamins On The Columbia (pictured here).

So many new breweries have popped up in the city in recent years, it’s hard to keep up.

The grist mill is on the National Register of Historic Places, and the surrounding scenery alone make it worth visiting.

Wayne Hsieh / Flickr

This former 19th century fur trading post has been well preserved, its history perfectly documented. You can even enjoy a fine dining experience at the Eatery at the Grant House.

Visit Vancouver

This is the charming Hudson’s Bar & Grill, a local icon.

This charming city will leave you feeling refreshed and recharged.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.