Photo by Jessica Greville |
Get a feel for Victorian architecture in Vancouver’s most historic neighbourhood. Cobblestone walkways wind to Gastown’s most elaborate boutiques, galleries, and many restaurants.
Photo by Mike Kirby |
The Water Street Stroll
Experience the Gastown aesthetic by walking down Water Street amongst vintage buildings, cobblestone walkways, authentic lampposts, visit the famous Steam Clock, and go for brunch at the Water St. Cafe. Located in the famous Edward Street Hotel this restaurant is a Vancouver landmark.
Location: Water St, Vancouver, BC
Photo by Steve Wong |
Flatiron Building
This iconic site was built in Gastown from 1908-1909 and is also known as Hotel Europe. It’s authentic charm was featured in the movie “The Changeling”, and drama, “Legends of the Fall.”
Location:43 Powell St, Vancouver
Statue of ‘Gassy’ Jack
The Gassy Jack statue commemorates the namesake of this treasured neighbourhood. Captain John Deighton was one of the first permanent settlers and the city’s founding father in 1867. Known for his lavish storytelling and talkative nature, he was given the name “Gassy Jack.”
Location: 1 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2H
The Rennie Collection
Photo by Mike (Flickr CC BY-SA 2).0)
For neat art exhibitions of the contemporary art world, spectrums of photography, painting, and bizarre artwork this is a must go place for the art finatics.
Address: The Wing Sang Building 51 East Pender Street, Vancouver
MacLeod’s Books
Wall-to-wall rooms filled of antique and rare books. If you are an avid reader visit this book paradise in Gastown.
Location: 455 W Pender St, Vancouver
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The Steam Clock
Gastown is home to one of the only functioning steam clocks in the world. It whistles steam every hour and announces each quarter with a chime melody also used by the Big Ben in London.
Crab Park
For a picnic by the water or chill on the wharf visit Crab Park. This hidden park has a great view of the north shore and port. Gravel paths make it an ideal place for biking and taking a stroll near the water.
Address: 101 E Waterfront Rd, Vancouver
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours
The heart of Gastown once had a jail and a gory history where over 40 people were publicly executed in the mid 1800s. As the oldest Vancouver neighbourhood it is said to be the most haunted. Learn more about its history with a haunted walking tour.
Address: 207 W Hastings St #1412, Vancouver
Restaurants:
The Flying Pig $$-$$$
Despite the name, this restaurant offers a variety of diverse cuisine comprised of local ingredients. From selections of meat, fish and vegetable dishes, The Flying Pig offers an upscale gastropub experience. The flavorful crispy brussel sprouts are a popular side dish or the classic Truffle mac and cheese appetizer.
Address: 102 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B2
Tacofino $$-$$$
This is Gastown’s taco bar inspired by the 70s Southern California. From chips and dips, fish tacos with chipotle mayo, and shrimp tostadas, Tacofino vibrant atmosphere is the go to spot for taco goodness in BC’s west coast.
Address: 15 W Cordova St, Vancouver
For late night dancing to 90’s and 2000’s hip-hop and RnB on weekend nights, watching a game, or simply enjoying food, The Charles Bar is offers a lively atmosphere for everyone located on the first floor of the Woodwards Building. Wings, Colony Poutine, a giant platter of nachos, and lots more to devour.
Address: 136 W Cordova St, Vancouver
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This cafe is raved as Vancouver’s favourite Avocado on Toast place and is the go to place for brunch in Gastown. It’s known for its ambient atmosphere and excellence in pastries, croissants, and fresh crafted bread.
Address: 315 Carrall St, Vancouver
This is Gastown’s go to sandwich shop. Their simple menu offers sandwiches with fresh bread and local favourites like the Porchetta sandwich and even the classic grilled cheese. It is also known for its interesting sauce collection such as the homemade mustard.
Address: 370 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1H7