Esther Short Park Tours

Esther Short Park which includes a garden
Esther Short Park featuring a park and street scenes
Esther Short Park which includes a park
Esther Short Park which includes a park
Esther Short Park which includes a garden


Relax by fountains, shop in bustling markets and listen to concerts in a scenic park that has become the city of Vancouver’s premier outdoor public space.

Colorful flowerbeds and eye-catching artwork are just two reasons to visit Esther Short Park. Come to this picturesque square in the center of downtown Vancouver to browse charming markets, attend open-air concerts and celebrate at lively local festivals.

Wander around the park to see several monuments, some of which date back more than a century. Esther Short Park was established in 1853, but only became the popular cultural hub it is today after the city’s mayor revamped it in the late 1990s.

Explore the peaceful park and inspect all the artwork and architecture in it. Pioneer Mother, a bronze sculpture depicting a woman and three children, was created in 1929 as the city’s first piece of public art. Gaze up at the Salmon Run Bell Tower, a 69-foot (21-meter) campanile with moving dioramas depicting stories from Chinook culture.

Browse the displays in Gallery 360, located in Slocum House in the corner of the square. Admire paintings and photography by local artists. Children can have fun in the Victorian-styled play area. At the southern end of square is Vancouver’s slick and modern City Hall.

Attend one of the free open-air events that take place in the pavilion throughout summer. Watch a movie beneath the starlit sky or dance to live music. Jazz, beer and wine festivals are held here throughout the year. Watch from one of the nearby cafés as marathons and charity walks set off from this city hub.

Join locals hunting for bargains in the Vancouver farmers market, where over 250 vendors sell their goods. From March to October, the market takes place in the park every weekend, without fail. Buy some freshly baked goods or a handcrafted souvenir.

Esther Short Park is a 10-minute walk from Vancouver’s Amtrak station, while buses stop just outside the park. Check online before your visit to see what events will be happening in the popular open-air venue.

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Best Lodging Options Near Esther Short Park

Comfort Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown City Center

Comfort Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown City Center

2.5 out of 5
401 E 13th Street, Vancouver, WA
Comfort Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown City Center
Hilton Vancouver Washington

Hilton Vancouver Washington

3.5 out of 5
301 W. 6th Street, Vancouver, WA
Hilton Vancouver Washington
Hotel Indigo Vancouver Dwtn – Portland Area by IHG

Hotel Indigo Vancouver Dwtn – Portland Area by IHG

3.5 out of 5
550 Waterfront Way, Vancouver, WA
Hotel Indigo Vancouver Dwtn – Portland Area by IHG
Studio 6 Suites Vancouver, Wa - Waterfront

Studio 6 Suites Vancouver, Wa - Waterfront

2 out of 5
601 Broadway Street, Vancouver, WA
Studio 6 Suites Vancouver, Wa - Waterfront
AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront

AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront

3.5 out of 5
333 W COLUMBIA WAY, Vancouver, WA
AC Hotel Vancouver Waterfront
Oxford Suites Portland - Jantzen Beach

Oxford Suites Portland - Jantzen Beach

3 out of 5
12226 N JANTZEN DRIVE, Portland, OR
Oxford Suites Portland - Jantzen Beach
Holiday Inn Portland - Columbia Riverfront by IHG

Holiday Inn Portland - Columbia Riverfront by IHG

3 out of 5
909 N Hayden Island Dr, Portland, OR
Holiday Inn Portland - Columbia Riverfront by IHG
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Portland-Jantzen Beach by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Portland-Jantzen Beach by IHG

2.5 out of 5
2300 N Hayden Island Dr, Portland, OR
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Portland-Jantzen Beach by IHG
Modern Vancouver Townhome - Right on Main St!

Modern Vancouver Townhome - Right on Main St!

3.5 out of 5
Vancouver
Modern Vancouver Townhome - Right on Main St!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Esther Short Park

Esther Short Park in Vancouver, Washington, offers a variety of activities including biking, art exploration, and shopping. Visitors can enjoy movie nights and local events, making it a vibrant gathering place. The park also hosts outdoor experiences and a fall festival, ensuring a memorable stay for tourists. Whether you're looking to relax or engage with the community, Esther Short Park has something for everyone.

Shopping

The Vancouver Farmers Market, located 161m from Esther Short Park, offers fresh produce and local crafts. Jantzen Beach Center, just 1.6km away, features a variety of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out Alberta Street, 8.0km away, for unique local boutiques.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Moda Center, where you can catch a thrilling sports event. For a lively night out, McMenamins Crystal Ballroom offers great live music. If you prefer outdoor activities, enjoy a round of golf at Heron Lakes Golf Club, surrounded by beautiful scenery.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Portland International Raceway, located 3.2km from Esther Short Park. For a scenic hike, explore the Waterfront Renaissance Trail, only 805m away. For climbing enthusiasts, The Source Climbing Center, situated 483m from the park, offers exciting outdoor challenges.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Esther Short Park with a visit to the Hollywood Theater for family-friendly films or indulge in romance at the Roseland Theater. For some fun, head over to Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade for exciting games and a lively atmosphere perfect for all ages.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Esther Short Park

Esther Short Park in Vancouver, Washington, is a vibrant urban park ideal for outdoor activities and family fun. Visitors can explore local attractions nearby, including event and conference venues, as well as modern colleges and universities. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in the park or seeking a city experience, Esther Short Park offers a perfect blend of leisure and exploration for tourists.

  • Oregon Convention Center: Located 11.3km from Esther Short Park, this bustling venue is perfect for conferences and events. The modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere create a dynamic environment for networking and learning.
  • University of Portland: Situated 8.0km away, this picturesque campus offers a blend of contemporary architecture and scenic views. Enjoy the lively city vibes while exploring the university's beautiful grounds and engaging community.
  • Fort Vancouver National Historic Site: Just 1.4km from Esther Short Park, this historic site immerses you in the region's rich cultural heritage. Explore the reconstructed fort and learn about the area's pivotal role in Pacific Northwest history.

Best time to go to Esther Short Park

The best time to visit Esther Short Park is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June62.4°F (16.9°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July69.1°F (20.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August70.3°F (21.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November45.5°F (7.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December39.9°F (4.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Esther Short Park

To save money on your visit to Esther Short Park, plan your trip between December and February for lower accommodation rates, avoiding the pricier summer months. Book your stay on a Monday for the best hotel deals, and consider using Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options, including Eco-certified hotels. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can lead to additional savings. Take advantage of free activities in the park and explore the area on foot to minimize transportation costs.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Esther Short Park are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Esther Short Park is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Esther Short Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can sort your results to display the lowest prices first, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to filter by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Esther Short Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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