Gastown is where Vancouver started — literally. In 1867, John "Gassy Jack" Deighton opened a saloon at what is now Maple Tree Square, and the settlement that grew up around it became the seed of the city. Today the six-block historic district between Cordova Street and the waterfront is a National Historic Site of Canada, with red brick buildings, cobblestone streets, cast-iron streetlamps, and the famous steam clock on the corner of Water and Cambie.
The steam clock is the most-photographed object in Vancouver despite being built in 1977 and despite being more electric than steam-powered. It chimes every 15 minutes. Tourists gather around it waiting for the show; locals walk past without looking up.
The real reason to spend time in Gastown is the food and drink scene. Water Street and Alexander Street hold some of the most acclaimed restaurants in the country — L'Abattoir, Published on Main, Ask for Luigi, and a dozen others. The cocktail bar scene is even better, with places like The Diamond and Keefer Bar regularly named in international best-of lists. Come in the evening and make reservations well in advance.
One caveat for visitors: Gastown borders the Downtown Eastside, and east of Carrall Street the streetscape changes sharply. Stick to the heritage blocks west of Carrall and you'll have a perfect evening.
How to get there
A 5-minute walk east from Waterfront SkyTrain station (Expo, Canada, and West Coast Express lines converge there). The SeaBus from North Vancouver also arrives at Waterfront. By foot from most downtown hotels, Gastown is 10–15 minutes.
Local tips
- Make restaurant reservations at least a week ahead for weekends
- The steam clock chimes every 15 minutes — stand close for the best photo
- Stick to the heritage district west of Carrall Street
- Evening is when Gastown is at its best — during the day it's quiet