Gastown
Cobblestone streets lined by ornate street lamps and trees provide a unique and picturesque atmosphere to this historic Vancouver neighborhood

Gastown, Vancouver's original 'downtown' is rich in history, unique shops, restaurants and clubs. Named after a steamboat captain and barkeeper named 'Gassy' Jack Deighton who opened the first saloon in the area, the area became the site of a sawmill and seaport making it the centre of trade in the area.
After becoming incorporated as the City of Vancouver in 1886 all but two of Gastown's buildings were consumed by a huge fire. The district was rebuilt and continued to grow as Vancouver's center until the Great Depression. After the Depression Gastown began to decline and fall into disrepair into the 1960's. In 1971 it was designated a National Historic Site which has protected its many heritage buildings. Over the last few decades Gastown has been growing into an even more vibrant neighbourhood with many new unique shops and superb restaurants opening.
Today heritage buildings house many contemporary shops and boutiques, restaurants, clubs, art galleries and studios, music studios, and film schools. Many of the exclusive shops offer unique products including fashions, jewellery, home decor, gifts and souvenirs that you will not find anywhere else. The cobblestone streets and ornate street lighting add to the historic atmosphere. The steam-clock located at the intersection of Cambie and Water Street is a popular tourist attraction this is completely powered by a miniature steam engine in its base. It is a complex work of art and engineering that is well worth checking out.
Facts For Your Visit
Official Website: Gastown
Fee: NoSome attractions may have reduced hours or be closed due to COVID-19. Please verify opening hours with the attraction before visiting.
Category: Landmarks & Historical Buildings
Address:
318 Homer Street
Suite 210
Vancouver, BC V6B 1E8
Canada
Phone: +1 604-683-5650
Reviews
Lauren L. Apr-07-2020
I am all for the community, but what is a community without people? In this day and age of Covid-19 and social distancing it's something that has been... Read More
Justine S. Sep-23-2020
Didn't spend too much time here except to see the clock and walk around a bit. I was too afraid of falling into the wrong neighbourhood to explore further,... Read More
Andy F. Nov-28-2019
Gastown was one of the neighborhoods to visit on my trip to Vancouver. There were a lot of interesting stores, and many coffee shops and bars. This area is... Read More
Accommodations near Gastown:
Directions
SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
---|---|---|
Expo or Canada Line | Waterfront Station | 1 Minute |
How to get to Gastown by SkyTrain
No buses needed. From Waterfront Station exit onto Cordova Street and walk to your left just one block to Water Street which runs through the heart of Gastown.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Photo Gallery
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Steam Clock at Night in Vancouver's Historic Gastown cc licensed photo by Michael Rogers -
Statue of 'Gassy' Jack in Gastown cc licensed photo shared by Mikano Photo Credit: Yelp Photo Credit: Yelp Photo Credit: Yelp -
Photo Credit: MassiveKontent - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: adamshostack - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: IQRemix - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: IQRemix - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: IQRemix - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: dronepicr - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: roland - cc license via Flickr