Gastown
Cobblestone streets lined by ornate street lamps and trees provide a unique and picturesque atmosphere to this historic Vancouver neighborhood
Welcome to Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighbourhood. Designated a National Historic Site, this is where the city began. Named for "Gassy" Jack Deighton, a steamboat captain who opened the area's first saloon in 1867, Gastown quickly grew into a bustling hub of trade. Today, its beautifully restored Victorian buildings house a vibrant mix of independent shops, galleries, and some of the city's best restaurants and bars.
Why Visit Gastown?
- Historic Charm: It's a step back in time with its cobblestone streets, heritage architecture, and the world-famous Steam Clock.
- Unique Shopping: Forget big-box stores. Gastown is the place for independent boutiques, curated home decor shops, and First Nations art galleries.
- Food & Drink Scene: It's a culinary hotspot, offering everything from casual pubs and innovative cocktail bars to award-winning fine dining.
- Central Location: Located right next to Waterfront Station, it's incredibly easy to get to and serves as a great starting point for exploring downtown Vancouver.
What to See & Do
- See the Steam Clock: A must-see landmark. Arrive a few minutes before the top of the hour to hear it whistle and shoot steam.
- Wander Water Street: Stroll along the main cobblestone street, browse the shops, and soak in the historic atmosphere.
- Explore the Alleyways: Don't be afraid to duck into the alleys, like Blood Alley Square, which have been revitalized with unique restaurants and public spaces.
- Visit Maple Tree Square: See the spot where the city began, marked by a statue of "Gassy" Jack Deighton.
- Browse the Art Galleries: Gastown is home to numerous galleries showcasing contemporary and Indigenous art.
Food & Drink Options
- Fine Dining: Gastown boasts some of Vancouver's most acclaimed restaurants, perfect for a special occasion.
- Casual Eateries: You'll find a huge variety of options, including great pizza, tacos, and sandwich shops.
- Historic Pubs & Cocktail Bars: The neighbourhood is famous for its pubs and innovative cocktail scene, with many establishments located in historic buildings.
- Coffee Shops: Numerous independent cafes offer the perfect spot to rest and refuel.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Look Up: Don't forget to look above the ground-floor shops to appreciate the intricate details of the Victorian architecture.
- Visit Day and Night: Gastown has a different character at night when the vintage street lamps are lit and the bars and restaurants are buzzing.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Those charming cobblestones can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Canada Place: The iconic white sails of the cruise ship terminal are just a short walk west.
- Chinatown: One of North America's oldest Chinatowns is located a few blocks to the southeast.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: No
Hours: Shops and restaurants have varied hours.
Address: Vancouver, BC
Official Website: Gastown
Directions
| SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo or Canada Line | Waterfront Station | 1 Minute |
How to get to Gastown by SkyTrain
No bus needed. From Waterfront Station, take the Cordova Street exit. Walk one block east (left) 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.
Accommodations near Gastown:
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: 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: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VinceTraveller - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Stabbur's Master - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: adamshostack - cc license via Flickr
