Help! Driving from Vancouver BC to Anaheim and back

[JESA]

I'm driving from vancouver to anaheim at the end of february with my boyfriend and my 18 month old daughter. I have no idea what highway to take where to stop where to stay and i can't seem to find any info. We've heard all kinds of stories of people being mugged or not to stay in or around portland because there's been lot's of violence. If anyone has any advice or tips we have roughly 3 days to travel each way. If anyone knows of any hotels gas stations exits or stops that should be avoided it would be great to know. We have never driven in the US before and because of the stories i'm worried. Roadtrips are supposed to be fun. We have to go and would like to make it fun.