Parks & Trails: Esther Short Park

Esther Short Park in downtown Vancouver dates to 1853 and is acclaimed as the oldest public square in the state. It sits amid a rejuvenated neighborhood that also features the popular farmer's market and a Hilton Hotel with the city's convention center. The four-square-block park is home to concerts and festivals throughout the summer. Most of the music and festivals at this urban oasis are free to the public, some at noon on week days, but most are in the evenings and on weekends.