What to expect: Heathman Lodge feels like a rustic mountain lodge, yet is five miles from downtown Vancouver. A 24-foot cedar totem pole guards the lobby, which has slate floors, wood paneling, a huge stone fireplace, vintage Pendleton blankets, and much Northwest-inspired artwork. Business travelers fill the hotel on weekdays, and on weekends it’s popular with leisure travelers.

Amenity highlights: In addition to an indoor lap pool with spa tub and sauna, this hotel has a 24-hour fitness area with cardio and strength-training machines. Amenities also include complimentary wireless Internet access, three grand fireplaces, a large collection of specially commissioned artwork reflecting a Northwest theme, and a restaurant and lounge serving American comfort food and seasonal Northwest dishes.

Insider tip: A brochure offers details about the hotel’s Northwest-inspired paintings, carvings, textiles, and sculptures. But only eagle-eyed guests notice the anachronistic detail that Henk Pender painted into the 21-foot mural hanging above the dining area in Hudson’s Restaurant. (Hint: the settlers probably didn’t have electricity.)

What to expect: Custom architecture and a warm, modern design set the tone at this downtown Vancouver hotel. Signature touches in the lobby include a fireplace, a grand granite staircase, and original local art. The Hilton is across from Esther Short Park, the city's central square, with a bell tower, gardens, playground, and a water feature replicating the Columbia River, complete with waterfalls and mist.

Amenity highlights: An indoor lap pool is paired with a spa tub. The adjacent fitness center, open 24 hours, provides impressive views of the Columbia River.

Gray's at the Park, the Hilton's bistro-style restaurant, showcases Northwest cuisine and wines. Esther's Coffee & Espresso Bar brews premium coffees and specialty espresso drinks.

Wireless Internet access (surcharge) is available throughout the hotel. The Hilton Vancouver Washington is 100-percent non-smoking.

Insider tip: Vancouver's outdoor farmers market, one of the largest in the region, is held every weekend from April through October. You'll find a wide array of fresh local produce, gourmet goodies for people and pets, arts and crafts, flowers, and much more. The market is just a two-block stroll from the hotel.