Clark County has had a taste of sunshine here and there over the past few weeks, but there have still been more cold and rainy days in the forecast than warm and sunny ones. Punxsutawney Phil tells us we don’t have much longer to wait until the season changes, but until then, many of us may be feeling a little cooped up.
If you can relate, you’re in luck; there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy in Clark County that are accessible by transit. Whether you’re looking for your next date night activity or a place for your little ones to burn off excess energy, we’ve got you covered.
Movies
For a big box theater experience with a small-town feel, visit Battle Ground Cinema. This theater shows first-run films and offers reclining seats, concessions, and quality projection and audio.
Movies aren’t the only reason to visit Kiggins Theater, an icon on Vancouver’s Main Street since 1936––you can also stop by for live events like Comedy on Tap, History on Tap, and Science on Tap. For mature movie-goers seeking an interactive experience, Kiggins is home to regular screenings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show featuring the Denton Delinquents.
Originally named the Granada Theater, the Liberty Theater opened in downtown Camas way back in 1927. Nowadays, it shows everything from current films to classics to National Theatre Live screenings from the National Theatre in London.
Shopping and crafts
Kindred Homestead Supply has been a welcome addition to Vancouver’s shopping scene, offering a wide range of products focusing on sustainability and low-waste. They’re not just a store; they also function as a community space, hosting events such as monthly flea markets, craft & mend sessions, item swaps, DIY classes, and more!
While you’re at Kindred Homestead Supply, head down to the basement to visit Ronald Records. They have a great collection of new and used vinyl and other increasingly hard-to-find physical media like CDs, DVDs, and cassette tapes. The space also hosts live music events weekly to enjoy while you’re there searching for gems to add to your music collection.
This family-friendly pottery studio offers a variety of classes for everyone, including toddler “clay” dates, family clay, date night classes, and multi-week courses. You can even book pottery painting parties for larger groups and special occasions.
Activities
If you enjoy activities that get your blood pumping, check out The Source Climbing Center. New to climbing? No worries; they offer an orientation to all first-time visitors to make sure that folks feel safe and supported.
Kids Club is a safe bet if you’re looking for something to entertain your little ones. In addition to an indoor jungle that features six slides, a suspension bridge, roller tubes, and a giant ball pit, they offer swimming, gymnastics, and dance lessons.
Axe-throwing is certainly having its moment, and now Vancouver is home to its very own axe-throwing bar and restaurant. While axe-throwing may sound intimidating, people ages ten and up can join the fun. Safety is also top of mind here; all staff are trained by certified professionals.
An escape room is a fun option for groups interested in a mentally stimulating activity. The family-owned NW Escape Experience is home to four uniquely themed rooms. Each room is also rated from G to R, allowing families to choose a room best suited to their group.
History
Slow down and take a step back in time at the Clark County Historical Museum. Housed in Vancouver’s old Carnegie Library, the museum offers visitors a chance to explore artifacts dating as far back as the mid-1200s to the present. Current exhibits include Homegrown Historians, (Her)Story, and History A-Brewin’. Sidenote: If you missed it, check out the exhibit we partnered with the museum on a few years ago to celebrate our 40th anniversary.
Aviation aficionado or not, Pearson Air Museum is a unique spot to stop by for a dose of Clark County history. Pearson Field is one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating airfields and houses four aircraft from Fort Vancouver National Historic Site’s museum collection. While you’re there checking out the planes, take a stroll through the museum’s exhibit panels that detail local aviation events.
Sports
The Vancouver Volcanoes is a professional basketball team that competes in The Basketball League (TBL). Their season kicks off on March 1 in Eugene, with their first home game on March 8. You can cheer them on at Clark College’s O’Connell Sports Center. Better yet, take C-TRAN to the game for discounted tickets. Go Volcanoes!
