Area Code 360
Where Is Area Code 360?
Updated: November 27th 2024
Area code 360 is the area code for western Washington excluding the Seattle metropolitan area. Area code 360 was put into use on January 15, 1995, and was created from a split of area code 206. In 2017, area code 360 was overlaid with area code 564.
Situated on the north bank of the Columbia River in the southwest corner of Washington, Vancouver is the fourth most populous city in the state and the county seat of Clark County. Vancouver is located on the Washington–Oregon border directly across from Portland. Stratovolcanoes such as Mount Jefferson, Mount Adams, and Mount Hood are all visible from Vancouver. Going back in history, the area was occupied by the Chinook and Klickitat nations before the arrival of the first Europeans in 1775. The Lewis and Clark expedition camped in the area in 1806 but the first permanent European settlement did not occur until 1824, when Fort Vancouver was established. In 1845, Henry Williamson laid out a large claim west of Fort Vancouver, which he called Vancouver City; when Williamson left for California in 1850, Amos Short traced over his claim and named the town Columbia City. Columbia City was renamed Vancouver in 1855, which became incorporated in 1857.
While Washington does not impose individual or corporate income taxes, it does impose a sales tax above the national medium; Oregon has no sales tax but one of the highest state income taxes. As a result, many Vancouver residents will drive 15 minutes to Portland to do their shopping due to no sales tax; unfortunately this depresses the retail sector of Vancouver's economy. Much of Vancouver’s economy is centered on high technology and service while the largest employer is PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center. With many residents commuting to Portland for work, there is always significant rush hour traffic congestion on the Interstate Bridge and the Glenn Jackson Bridge. Every August, the city hosts the Vancouver Wine and Jazz Festival. The festival is considered the largest jazz festival in the Pacific Northwest and features Grammy-winning and internationally acclaimed jazz and blues bands, Pacific Northwest food and wine, and fine art. Since the mid 1960s, Vancouver hosted a Fourth of July fireworks display that many considered to be the biggest fireworks display west of the Mississippi River. Beginning in 2010, the fireworks display was shortened and redesigned, however it still remains a popular event that attracts close to 40,000 people. When it comes to recreation, the Waterfront Renaissance Trail is a paved five-mile long riverfront trail perfect for walking and biking while enjoying picturesque views. The biggest point of interest in the city is Esther Short Park. Esther Short Park is the oldest public park in Washington and features a children's playground, a rose garden, a large fountain, and the historic Slocum House.
Major Cities In Area Code 360
Bellingham is the thirteenth most populous city in Washington and the county seat of Whatcom County. Bellingham is situated on Bellingham Bay and is roughly 17 miles south of the Canada–United States border. Bellingham has mild, pleasant summers with an average annual rainfall that is similar to Seattle. Bellingham has a population of 80,885 and the racial makeup of the city is 84.9% White, 7.0% Hispanic, 5.1% Asian, and 1.3% African American (2010 Census). Unfortunately Bellingham is a dangerous city to reside in. The biggest point of interest in the city is Whatcom Falls Park. Whatcom Falls Park is a 241-acre park that features four sets of waterfalls and four miles of walking trails. Another popular spot in the city is the Fairhaven Historic District. The Fairhaven Historic District is renowned for its vivid 19th-century architecture and features a seasonal farmer's market as well as numerous restaurants and shops. One of the most popular national historic landmarks in the city is the Mount Baker Theatre, which is also the largest theatrical venue of its kind north of Seattle. The theater occupies half a city block and features the Main Theater, Encore Room, and Walton Theater.