Esther Short Park is Vancouver, Washington’s historic public square and a vibrant event hub owned by the City of Vancouver. Spanning 5 acres in downtown Vancouver, this park serves as a focal point for community gatherings, cultural festivals, and family-friendly activities. Notable features include the 69-foot Salmon Run Bell Tower with a Glockenspiel and the adjacent Propstra Square. The park also features an inclusive playground and serves as the centerpiece of downtown events.

Whether you’re planning to attend a festival, a farmers market, or a community screening, Esther Short Park offers a central, accessible space with grass seating, easy access to amenities, and a variety of nearby lodging and dining options. We’ve got you covered with practical details on seating, parking, transit, and nearby hotels and restaurants to help you secure your plans with ease.

About the Venue

Location: 605 Esther St, Vancouver, WA 98660, in downtown Vancouver at the intersection near 8th St and Columbia St
Type: Public park / town square owned by the City of Vancouver
Size: 5 acres
Key features: Salmon Run Bell Tower (69-foot tower with Glockenspiel) and Propstra Square; inclusive playground
Primary annual uses: Vancouver Farmers Market (Downtown Market) adjacent to Esther Short Park — hours vary by season
Notable events: Vancouver Arts & Music Festival, Vancouver Wine & Jazz Festival, Saturday in the Park (LGBTQ Pride), Juneteenth celebrations, Friday Night Movies in the Park

Seating & Event Layout

For large festival days and community events, Esther Short Park offers general admission grass seating. There is no reserved seating. Attendees may bring low-back lawn chairs; tall chairs are not recommended in the central areas to maintain sightlines for performances. Capacity for events hosted in the park is estimated at around 9,000 attendees, so arrive early for the best space and access to facilities.

Parking & Transportation

Parking in the Esther Short Park area includes paid on-street options and nearby city garages. The Vancouver Farmers Market provides donation-based parking during market hours, which can help you park close to the park’s core. The park is served by C-Tran buses, making it easy to reach from across the region.

Nearby Hotels

When visiting Esther Short Park, you’ll find convenient lodging just steps away. The Hilton Vancouver Washington sits directly across from Esther Short Park at 301 W 6th St, offering a comfortable base for events, dining, and exploring downtown Vancouver.

Nearby Dining & Affiliate Recommendations

To complement your visit, consider nearby options that balance quality and value. We highlight affiliate partners for hotels and dining to help you plan with confidence. Always verify on arrival for current offers and hours.

Local Tips for an Easy Visit

Plan around market hours if you’re visiting this weekend—the Vancouver Farmers Market is a neighborhood staple with seasonal hours.
Check event pages for date-specific details, especially for RESCHEDULED or Date to be announced events.
Arrive early to secure your preferred grass area and to enjoy the park’s landmarks like the Salmon Run Bell Tower and Propstra Square.
Public transit options via C-Tran can help minimize driving and parking concerns.

Esther Short Park remains the historic heart of downtown Vancouver, offering a welcoming space for festivals, markets, and community gatherings. With its iconic bell tower, inclusive playground, and central location, the park is a reliable hub for residents and visitors alike. For those planning a trip, we’ve outlined practical details on seating, parking, transit, and nearby hotel and dining options to make your visit straightforward and enjoyable. Remember: dates and event specifics can change, so refer to official event pages for the latest information and RSVP details.

Whether you’re here for a summer concert, a weekend market, or a special city festival, we’ve got you covered with practical guidance to secure your plans and enjoy all Esther Short Park has to offer.

Esther Short Park Tickets

Upcoming Events at Esther Short Park