Vancouver Outdoors August 17, 2020

Parks We Love

By Erin, Christina & Sarah

The Pacific Northwest is one of the most amazing places in the world! One of the ways we like to enjoy our neck of the woods is by visiting local parks. We curated a list of our favorites and hope that you take the time to discover or rediscover a park you love. 

  • Fairgrounds Park: I put Fairgrounds Park on my list because it is pretty close to my house but also usually not very busy. My kids love the play structure, there is a nice big area for walking and the bathrooms are usually pretty clean! – Christina
  • Paradise Point State Park: Great park to spend the day on a walk, playing disc golf, or kayaking/paddling boarding – Erin
  • Felida Park: One of my kids’ favorites because of the play structure as well as the paved path that is great for bikes and scooters. There is a nice covered area which is perfect for picnics or gatherings. This is usually a busy park, especially on Saturdays when the park hosts soccer games. – Christina
  • Whipple Creek Regional Park: This is my favorite go to park on a hot day. There are miles of trails in the shade to enjoy a cool stroll. -Erin
  • Vancouver Waterfront Park: This is usually where we pick to go when we want to skateboard or walk and take in the a nice river view, but also want easy access to food and drinks. Our household debates if the fish and chips at Wildfin’s walk up-window are the best we’ve ever had. The other new restaurants are all fabulous, although we haven’t tried them all yet. – Christina
  • Hockinson Meadows Community Park: My favorite dog park in Clark County with a cute family park and great walking trails. – Erin
  • Lacamas Park: I love nature in the middle of the city. I go here to hike and enjoy the peaceful trails. Lots of variety in landscape, with waterfalls. Picnic tables & a play structure make it a must destination for the whole family. – Sarah
  • Captain William Clark Park on the Columbia River: My favorite Columbia River Beach for a walk or to play with my dogs! – Erin

 

We’d love to hear which ones are your favorites! It’s the perfect time of year to be outdoors. Enjoy!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vancouver Restaurants June 19, 2020

Summer Restaurant Picks

By Erin Wright and Christina Waterhouse

The weather is heating up and Clark County is starting to open up. Vancouver has a robust food scene and with many of the restaurants re-opening, it can be hard to know where to start. We wanted to take a moment to highlight a few of our favorite places to go and eat or get a sweet treat.  All have excellent options for those with dietary restrictions!

In addition to Sushi and other Japanese foods, Sushi Mo serves cuisine from their native Korea.

 

  1. Sushi Mo – Fresh sushi is a perfect meal on a hot day! Sushi Mo is our favorite sushi spot and it is located right in downtown Vancouver. They offer the tried and true traditional rolls, along with some with creative flair. I often get a glass of white wine, an order of edamame, and 2 rolls to enjoy. They also offer an excellent presentation and there is a good chance one of the two owners will be there to greet you. It is my first choice for a meal out on a hot summer day.

Sushi Mo:  1012 Washington St Vancouver, WA 98660  360 – 953 – 8860

 

 

  1. Margarita Factory – I almost jumped for joy when Margarita Factory re-opened in the middle of May. They make the best margaritas and guacamole. When you are looking for a more filling meal, they have excellent enchiladas and burritos. If you want something on the lighter side, their Live Fit Taco Salad is a great choice! Either way, try pairing your meal with their fresh, chunky guac and their Jorgita Margarita! Yum!

Margarita Factory:  8902 NE 5th Ave. Suite 101 Vancouver, WA  98665  360 – 433 – 2557

 

 

“All of our pies are made with local ingredients- we’re regularly whipping up full-size and hand-size pecan, Apple, Pumpkin, Marionberry and Cherry pies. “

 

Simply Sweets – For that sweet tooth, there is nothing quite as satisfying as a fresh baked cookie or cupcake. Simply Sweets tops the charts for both. Their sugar cookie with butter cream frosting is a favorite among our families and clients. If you are looking for something a little different and fun, I highly recommend their hand pies. Pair that with one of their barista made coffee drinks and you are in for a sweet treat in deed.

Simply Sweets: 3100 Columbia St Vancouver, WA 98660 360 – 896 – 7321

 

 

 

 

Let us know if you go & enjoy any of these restaurants or if you have others you would like us to highlight. Enjoy!