Picture yourself enjoying a cup of coffee under tall, green trees—welcome to Esther Short Park in Vancouver, WA. This park is more than just a lovely green space; it’s a vibrant community gathering spot with a rich history, loved by both locals and visitors.
I may be biased living in downtown Vancouver, but there’s something incredibly special about this park—the stunning maple and oak trees, inviting ambiance, and lively community gatherings. From hosting local running group meetups to heartwarming festivities such as the Christmas tree lighting, this park truly offers a little bit of everything.
This park continues to enhance its appeal with recent upgrades, featuring an accessible children’s play area and modern conveniences such as Portland Loo restrooms.
In this post, I’ll dive into the captivating highlights of Esther Short Park, explore its key features, and share reasons why this gem deserves a spot on your must-visit list—whether you’re looking for recreational fun, cultural experiences, or just a peaceful place to relax.
Overview of Esther Short Park
Nestled in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Washington, Esther Short Park is not just a lush, historical landmark but the oldest public park in the Pacific Northwest. This 5-acre gem, which spans between West Columbia and 8th Street, offers a serene escape with lush grass and a vibrant rose garden highlighting local history.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what this beloved public square offers:
- Children’s Playground: An inclusive play area with the latest addition of a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round.
- Fountain System: The large fountain system, sculpted from impressive columnar basalt, adds an aesthetic charm to the area.
- Slocum House: A historic piece of Vancouver’s architectural past.
- Salmon Run Bell Tower: With 25 cast bronze bells that chime every quarter hour, it’s a melody that tells the tale of the Chinook salmon.
Whether it’s to enjoy its rich history, playtime with kids, or attend one of the special events, Esther Short Park is undeniably Vancouver USA’s crown jewel.
Key Features of Esther Short Park
Esther Short Park, the lively center of Downtown Vancouver, features key attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages. The park’s children’s playground, created in partnership with Harper’s Playground was built with inclusivity in mind. It offers a play area accessible to kids of all abilities.
On weekends, the Vancouver Farmer’s Market is the place to explore fresh local produce, distinctive artisanal goods, and a delightful selection of quick bites from nearby vendors. Be sure to check out The Mighty Bowl and Sabor Mexicano, where their tamales are an absolute must-try!
The park’s versatility shines as it transforms into a popular venue for public and private events all year round. From summer concerts to cultural festivals, Esther Short Park is the hub for community events in Vancouver, USA.
Special Events at Esther Short Park
Filled with music, performances, and seasonal festivities, Esther Short Park entices locals and visitors from all walks of life. Looking for some festive holiday spirit or a summer vibe? This park accommodates nearly every type of gathering, – you can even secure a permit to organize your own event if you feel inspired to do so!
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Ah, the sparkling Christmas lights and the holiday music. – you’ll find it all at Esther Short Park come wintertime. The Rotary Tree Lighting is an annual event my daughter absolute says we can’t miss!
Imagine a parade of vehicles following Santa’s sleigh, making its way to the eager crowd at Esther Short Park. Shortly after arrival the switch is turned, and the Vancouver Community Tree sparkles to life, inviting all to enjoy the enchanting atmosphere of the holiday season
In that moment, surrounded by smiles and sipping on some steaming refreshments, there’s no place like the park.
Dia De Los Muertos Celebration
Colorful luminarias and vibrant traditional Mexican dances bring Día de Muertos to life at Esther Short Park. This celebration occurs across Mexico on November 1st and 2nd, and has become a highly anticipated event in Vancouver, WA thanks to Vancouver Ballet Folklórico and its founder, Ana Cruz.
In a uniquely profound way, death connects us all—regardless of our backgrounds. As a Mexican immigrant, this feeling of unity deepens my sense of pride.
Want to participate? Feel free to bring a photo of a loved one to add to the ofrenda. Don’t worry if it rains; we celebrate regardless of the weather. Just grab a chair, find a spot on the lawn, and get ready for a wonderful celebration.
Vancouver Arts & Music Festival
One of the most anticipated highlights at Esther Short Park is the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival. Celebrating the vibrant culture and artistic spirit of the community, this festival annually brings together a diverse array of local and national artists, musicians, and performers. Held over a weekend, it transforms the park into a dynamic playground of creativity and sound.
The Vancouver Arts & Music Festival showcases an impressive lineup of performances across multiple genres, including rock, jazz, folk, and world music. Attendees can enjoy live music while exploring various booths, featuring handmade crafts, visual art displays, and delicious food vendors. The festival is a true celebration of local talent and a welcoming space for everyone to experience the arts in a vibrant outdoor setting.
The Vancouver Arts & Music Festival is also a family-friendly event, with activities tailored to entertain visitors of all ages. Kids’ zones featuring games, crafts, and face painting ensure that families can enjoy a fun-filled day together. With a lively mixture of music, art, and community spirit, the festival perfectly encapsulates what makes Esther Short Park a beloved gathering place for all.
Mark your calendar for this celebration of art and music; who knows what hidden gems you might discover at the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival held at Esther Short Park
Movies in the Park
Enjoy family-friendly movies under the stars! Esther Short Park’s movie nights are the ticket to a perfect summer escape.
Pro tip: arrive early, snatch a good spot, and enjoy the shared movie-going experience. Just remember, to keep it all ages, the booze stays home for this one.
Mark your calendars for the enchanting summer movie nights at various parks in Vancouver, WA!
Here’s the lineup for summer 2024
- July 12: “Shrek” at Bagley Community Park
- July 19: “Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax” at Nikkei Neighborhood Park
- July 26: “School of Rock” at Marshall Community Park
- August 2: “West Side Story – 196” at Esther Short Community Park
- August 9: “Wish” at Fruit Valley Neighborhood Park
- August 16: “Migration” at David Douglas Community Park
- August 23: “Barbie” at Columbia Tech Center Park
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Vancouver, Esther Short Park really comes to life during the holiday season. The annual Rotary Tree Lighting ceremony, transforms this public square into a winter wonderland, glowing with festive lights and holiday cheer.
Here’s what you can expect at this year’s event:
- Santa’s Grand Arrival: A vibrant parade of lighted vehicles escorts Santa Claus into the park.
- Holiday Entertainment: Live music and performances to captivate audiences of all ages.
- Community Spirit: Join families and friends in the collective countdown as Santa lights up the Vancouver Community Tree, marking the start of the holiday season.
Date & Time:
- TBD
So, grab your holiday spirit and head down to the southeast corner of Esther Short Park – it’s time to light up the season!
Vancouver Farmer’s Market
Looking for something to do on the weekends? Hit up the Vancouver Farmer’s Market right in Esther Short Park – the oldest public square in Washington State.
From mid-March ’til October, this popular marketplace is a must-visit. Whether it’s seasonal fruits, artisanal crafts, or a taste of local charm, the market has it all. As you stroll through the market with your eco-friendly shopping bags, take a moment to appreciate the rich history beneath your feet – it adds a special charm to your experience, I assure you.
Getting to Esther Short Park
Transportation and Accessibility
Tucked away as a tranquil escape amidst the urban landscape of Downtown Vancouver, Esther Short Park is not just a hub for historical allure and a kids’ paradise, but it’s also remarkably accessible. For community members and visitors eager to experience the charm of Clark County’s premier public square, getting there is a breeze—no matter your mode of transportation. Whether you fancy a brisk walk, a leisurely bike ride, a simple drive, or hopping on public transit, Esther Short Park is worth it.
The park’s central location means that those living or working nearby can easily integrate a stop into their daily routine. If you’re driving, you’ll find convenient parking options around the vicinity, while public transit offers a more environmentally friendly alternative with stops not far from Esther Short’s green embrace. The recent upgrades to the park, including the wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round, ensure that everyone has the chance to enjoy this community gem.
For visitors staying at the Hilton Vancouver, you’ll be able to relax in this 5-acre park just a short walk across the street. You can easily reach the newly renovated waterfront, where the scenic Columbia River awaits—just a short stroll of under 10 minutes away. You’ll also discover another vibrant downtown park featuring a children’s play area complete with a sandbox – but we’ll dive into that in another blog post! 🙂
Park Facilities & Amenities
For convenience and comfort, the park’s commitment to modern amenities is evident with the latest upgrade—the Portland Loo restrooms. These sleekly designed and permanent installations ensure that visitors can spend extended time in the park while accessing clean and stylish facilities.
Whether it’s about engaging in leisure activities or simply enjoying the outdoors, present-day Esther Short Park’s continued improvements & park renovations further establish its role as a key player in the city’s recreational landscape.
Walkability and bike-friendly routes
Esther Short Park shines especially bright for those who prefer to commute on foot or two wheels. Downtown Vancouver endorses a pedestrian-friendly ethos, and Esther Short Park is a testament to that, emboldening the city’s push for revitalization through its walkable design.
Cyclists, too, will find their journey hassle-free—with bike-friendly routes leading straight to the park. And let’s not forget about our Thursday night regulars; the lovely folks from the running club rub grub and chug group, who add to the park’s vibrant atmosphere with their weekly 5k and 10k runs down the scenic Vancouver Waterfront Trail.
So, slip on those sneakers or hop on your bicycle, and within minutes, find yourself wrapped in the park’s welcoming arms. Whether you’re dashing in for fresh fare from Vancouver Farmers Market or heading to Harper’s Playground for a day packed with laughter and play, the park’s accessibility stands as a proud testament to Vancouver’s commitment to community and inclusivity.
What’s near Esther Short Park
Esther Short Park isn’t just a lush retreat in Downtown Vancouver, it’s also the perfect start to a day of exploration with history, shopping, and eating experiences just a few blocks away. Dive into Vancouver’s rich past at nearby sites, sift through unique retail offerings, and satisfy your taste buds with a variety of dining establishments that dot the surrounding streets.
Cultural sites and museums
After wandering through the trees and taking in the historical vibe of Esther Short, you’re merely a 5-minute drive from broadening your historical horizons at the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, where the stories of Vancouver’s frontier roots come to life. Get a deeper dive into the local narrative by popping over to the Clark County Historical Museum, where the past is preserved and presented in an insightful array of exhibits.
Nearby Dining and shopping options
Hungry after your park stroll? Downtown Vancouver has got you covered. Thai Orchid and Elements bring flavors from afar right to our doorstep, while Grays Restaurant & Bar caters to those craving an American fare with a refined twist. And for those spur-of-the-moment foodies, Little Conejo and Joe Browns Cafe provide that casual yet scrumptiously satisfying fix.
But maybe you’re in a shop-till-you-drop mood. In that case, Second Hand Solutions Thrift Store and Divine Consign are the go-to havens for treasure hunting, where you can score some seriously cool finds. Not to mention, when the Vancouver Farmers Market pops up in the park, it’s like a mini-festival of fresh produce, vibrant cut flowers, and the hand-crafted works of local artisans. It’s a shopping experience you can’t get anywhere else.
Whether it’s relics of the past, a new favorite dish, or a unique boutique item, Esther Short Park has something to make the most out of your Vancouver USA experience.
Why Esther Short Park is Worth Visiting and Living Nearby
Let’s be real—Esther Short Park is the unsung hero of Downtown Vancouver, and living close by is like hitting the local jackpot. From its lush green grass to the iconic Bell Tower, this public square is the heartbeat of our vibrant community.
In January 2022, Esther Short Park faced a challenging moment marked by vandalism, leading to the unfortunate sign stating, “Park closed due to vandalism.” However, this difficult chapter ultimately became a silver lining for the park.
The entire area underwent a complete rebuild, resulting in a revitalized space that beautifully integrates modern design with its historical significance. Today, visitors can enjoy new features and improved ammenities which enhance the park’s overall appeal. The spirit of Esther Short Park remains unbroken, and it has emerged stronger and more inviting than ever.
For Esther Short Park devotees and those of us lucky enough to call it our neighbor, it’s not just an urban oasis—it’s a slice of Pacific Northwest paradise that’s entwined with our daily living. Trust me, you’ve got to experience it!
Why Visit/Live Near Esther Short Park?
- Heart of Downtown Vancouver
- Historical charm with the Bell Tower
- Inclusive play area updated at Kid’s Park
- Scene of community & special events
- Weekly ‘Rub Grub and Chug’ running group
- Easily accessible park next to Vancouver City Hall
- Green oasis amidst an urban setting with a growing Rose Garden.