Preserving History on Main Street
Community feedback helped shape the Main Street Promise Project, including a focus on preserving the history of downtown Vancouver. Historic features along Main Street were identified, restored and incorporated into the project so they can remain part of the streetscape. Here are 7 historic features you can find along Main Street: 1. Vancouver Commerce Centre Sign — SE corner of E 8th &
Main Street Promise Spotlight: Birdhouse Books
Located in downtown Vancouver, Washington, Birdhouse Books is a locally owned used bookstore offering a rotating selection of second-hand books for readers of all interests. Housed inside Ronald Records, Birdhouse Books features titles across a range of genres, making each visit an opportunity to discover something different. The shop also offers a zine swap and serves as a gathering place for local
Art Gallery Map – First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Vancouver
First Friday is when downtown Vancouver comes alive with art, music, and community. Each month, galleries, shops, and restaurants open their doors for an evening of art, connection, and discovery. At the heart of First Friday are downtown’s galleries—the backbone of our local art community. Many galleries celebrate new exhibitions with special receptions, giving visitors the chance to meet artists, view new
“A Dream Come True” Main Street Promise Highlight: Courtney’s Coffee House
For five years, Courtney’s Coffee has served Vancouver from its stand at Fourth Plain and Kauffman. Now, the locally owned business is continuing its growth with a brick-and-mortar location at 210 W Evergreen Blvd, in the former Java House space. Courtney’s path in the coffee industry began when she was 15. Over the years, that experience has shaped a business centered on
The Future Is Bright: Overhead Lights on Main
A major milestone in the Main Street Promise infrastructure project is now lighting up downtown Vancouver. Permanent overhead festival lights have been installed along Main Street from 5th Street to 15th Street, adding 30 strands and 600 bulbs across 10 blocks. The new lights are designed to stay up year-round, bringing warmth and energy to the corridor while creating a welcoming atmosphere
New Clock installed on Main St, Vancouver, WA
A historic-style post clock was installed at the southwest corner of East Evergreen Boulevard and Main Street, bringing a distinctive new feature to downtown Vancouver. Standing 13 feet tall and weighing approximately 600 pounds, the clock features four white dial faces framed in black and gold. The clock was crafted by The Verdin Company of Cincinnati, Ohio, one of America’s oldest clock
New Business on Main Street: Acme Rag
Welcome to Main Street, Acme Rag! Acme Rag brings a mix of vintage and modern clothing to downtown, offering shoppers a place to discover unique secondhand pieces, while also providing opportunities to buy, sell, and trade gently used apparel. The shop also features a collection of black light posters, adding another fun, vintage-inspired element to the space. Whether you're a longtime vintage shopper or
Meet Kismet: Main Street’s Newest Destination for Fine Dining
Downtown Vancouver's dining scene continues to grow, and one of its newest additions is already creating a memorable experience for guests looking for thoughtful, seasonal cuisine. Located at 909 Main Street, Kismet brings together exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a passion for local ingredients. At the heart of Kismet is Chef Eric Gallanter, whose culinary journey spans over 40 years. From beginning
Main Street Promise Spotlight: The Difference
The Difference is a clothing boutique dedicated to helping women feel good, confident, and powerful in what they wear. With a wide variety of premium brands at a range of price points and styles, The Difference offers a personalized shopping experience centered around each customer’s unique story and personal style. Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe, searching for the perfect look, or ready
Transforming Temporary Spaces into Lasting Impressions
A new mural has brought fresh energy to the boarded windows at the Webber Machine Works Building at 400 Columbia Street. We also refreshed the surrounding landscape with new mulch and power-washed the benches, helping to create a cleaner, more welcoming streetscape and further enhancing this downtown corridor. Together, these improvements transform an underutilized space into one that contributes to the character