Beacon Rock is a striking volcanic monolith located on the north side of the Columbia River in Beacon Rock State Park, near Vancouver, Washington. It rises about 848 feet (258 meters) above the river and is a prominent landmark in the Columbia River Gorge. The rock itself is an ancient volcanic plug, meaning it was formed from magma that hardened inside a volcano and was later exposed as the surrounding rock eroded.

Hiking: There’s a paved but steep Beacon Rock Trail that leads to the summit. The hike is roughly 1.8 miles one way and includes switchbacks with handrails in steeper sections. The effort is rewarded with panoramic views of the Columbia River, surrounding forests, and mountains — it’s one of the best lookout points in the area.

The Vancouver Waterfront stretches along the north bank of the Columbia River, offering scenic views, walking paths, and plenty of spots to relax or grab a bite. The area has been revitalized with shops, restaurants, and benches, making it a great place to stroll, enjoy the sunset, or just soak in the riverfront atmosphere.

One highlight along the Waterfront is Salt & Straw, where you can treat yourself to rich, inventive ice cream flavors. From classic favorites to seasonal creations like honey lavender or brown butter almond brittle, each scoop is bold, delicious, and made with high-quality ingredients.

Nearby, McMenamins on the Waterfront is a relaxed spot to grab a drink or a meal. Known for its local beers, pub fare, and unique historic atmosphere, it’s a great place to unwind after exploring the boardwalk or watching the river.

With the marina, parks, trails, and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the views, the Waterfront makes for a fun and scenic stop for guests of all ages.

The coffee scene in Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, is vibrant and full of character. Portland is known for its independent roasters and neighborhood spots, each with its own style and approach. You’ll find minimalist spaces like Futura Coffee Roasters, airy filter-focused spots like Coava Coffee Roasters, and cozy, creative places like Abba Coffee Roasters or downtown’s Less & More Coffee, where you can try inventive drinks like tiramisu lattes or espresso tonics. Sterling Coffee Roasters offers approachable, balanced roasts in a relaxed setting, making it easy to grab a great cup almost anywhere you go.

Vancouver, across the river, has a smaller but equally enjoyable coffee scene. Relevant Coffee is a standout, with consistently well-prepared espresso and pour-over options in a welcoming, neighborhood-focused space. While the city is more laid-back than Portland, the quality and variety make it worth exploring. Between the two cities, guests can enjoy a mix of dependable classics and inventive, memorable coffee experiences.

14 Acres Vineyard & Winery is a family‑owned winery nestled in the rolling hills of Ridgefield, Washington, just a short drive from Ridgefield’s wedding venues. The estate produces a range of wines that reflect both the character of their locally grown grapes and premium fruit sourced from other vineyards — from crisp whites to rich reds. Their tasting room and outdoor space make it a relaxed and picturesque place to spend an afternoon enjoying wine, taking in vineyard views, and chatting with friendly staff.

The wines from 14 Acres have earned recognition in respected regional and national competitions. At the Los Angeles International Wine Awards, they’ve taken home medals in multiple categories, including a Best of Class, Gold Medal (95 points) for their 2023 Washington Chardonnay and a Gold Medal for their 2024 Rosé/White Pinot Noir, along with Silver medals for their 2023 Marquette and 2024 Gewürztraminer, and Bronze medals for other varietals. In the 2026 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, one of North America’s largest wine contests, their 2024 White Pinot Noir earned a Gold Medal, helping highlight the quality of Washington wines on a broader stage.

Whether you’re interested in sampling local wines or simply enjoying a scenic break during your weekend, 14 Acres offers award‑winning bottles and a welcoming setting that many visitors enjoy including tastings and vineyard strolls.