As Vancouver’s first neighbourhood, Gastown is a popular tourist destination that hugs the waterfront area of downtown Vancouver.
This historic area has it all: restaurants, shops, and attractions so you can easily spend a day walking along the cobblestone streets and seeing what you can find!
If you prefer doing some research beforehand, this guide will go over some of the highlights of Gastown and why this is not a spot you should overlook on your next trip to downtown Vancouver!
The name “Gastown” comes from seaman and barkeep John Deighton, better known as “Gassy Jack” because of his talkative nature. In 1867 he opened a saloon in the area and soon the area became known as “Gassy’s Town”, which later evolved into the current name of the area.
Aside from the saloon, the area was also known for the local sawmill and seaport. Many workers and sailors would come visit the area when they were off work to drink and relax.
In the 1960s, businesspeople, property owners, and protestors alike came together to preserve the distinctive and historical architecture in Gastown, as nearby neighbourhoods were planned to be demolished to build a freeway.
The combined efforts of the people and businesses convinced the civic, provincial, and federal government to declare Gastown a historical site and had it designated as a National Historic Site of Canada in 2009, ensuring its historic buildings would be preserved for years to come.
When people think of Gastown, the iconic steam clock is probably the first thing that comes to mind. Designed and built by Canadian clock maker Raymond Saunders in 1977, the Gastown steam clock is always surrounded by curious onlookers and tourists.
This steam clock is built over a steam grate and it uses the steam to power the whistles that chime from the clock on the top of every hour.
While Maple Tree Square may seem like an ordinary square located in Gastown with the historic Hotel Europe overlooking the area, this area holds more history than meets the eye.
Not only was Deighton’s pub located close to this square, this site was also where the first ever city of Vancouver council meeting was held. The meeting was held under a large maple tree, giving the square its name. Many people consider this spot the origin of Vancouver.
Unfortunately, the historic maple tree and several historical buildings were destroyed in the Great Vancouver Fire of 1886.
One of the great ways to explore Gastown is to join a walking tour! Whether you have an interest in history, film, or you just enjoy a walk, there are numerous walking tours in Gastown and the surrounding area that suits your preferences.
Here are some walking tours you can join:
Whether you want a quick bite or want to take a short break while exploring, Gastown and its surrounding areas has no shortage of cafes with artisan coffee and pastries:
The Old Spaghetti Factory in Gastown is the chain’s first restaurant in Canada. Opened in 1970, this American-Italian style restaurant is a staple in Gastown to this day. With its affordable all-inclusive menu and historical décor, its a great option for a meal.
Rumor has it the Old Spaghetti Factory in Gastown is haunted…
Don’t let looks fool you, this restaurant’s menu is entirely plant-based! Founded in 2014 by three Vancouver restaurant alumni, MeeT has quickly become a hit with the local community.
With 8 Golden Plates Awards from the Georgia Straight and hundreds of glowing reviews from vegetarians, vegans, and meat lovers alike, this place is a must-try for those who are curious about plant-based meat alternatives.
Can’t decide where to eat? Join the Gastronomic Gastown Tour where you will taste a variety of Vancouver-centric multicultural dishes while learning about Gastown!
This tour is all age friendly while those who are over the age of 19 can try alcohol pairings with their meals. This tour can also accommodate dietary restrictions with advanced notice.
Of course, no trip is complete without some shopping! Gastown features a variety of shops that sell vintage and specialty items, gifts, furniture, and everything in-between.
You can check the full list of shops on Gastown’s website but here is a list of some of our recommendations:
Due to Gastown being a historic site, you may notice the road is paved with stone unlike the asphalt you may be used to seeing on roads.
We recommend wearing comfortable shoes as it may be easy to trip on the uneven roads if you’re not careful! For those who are thinking of driving to Gastown, we recommend parking nearby and walking to Gastown instead as parking is limited and the roads are quite bumpy.
Gastown, being a historic site in downtown Vancouver, receives a large number of visitors year round. We recommend arriving around brunch or earlier to avoid the crowds and the lines for food.
Some places even offer great brunch deals if you’re looking to save some money!
The layout of some older buildings may mean some shops are hidden from the street. If you don’t see a shop that you’re looking for, take a peek inside and you may see a sign pointing to a hidden basement level or upper floors.
The old architecture in Gastown also provides hidden gem photo spots along its brick walls and alleys. Have your camera ready!
Next time you’re in downtown Vancouver, take a stroll through Gastown. From it’s historic architecture to the numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops, Gastown has something for everyone!
What are you waiting for? Grab a camera and visit the origin of Vancouver city today!
If you’re an international student in Canada, check out our other guides on what to see and experience in Vancouver!
AC BlogIf you’re a current student at AC who loves to explore Vancouver, contact us at social@alexandercollege.ca and you may have a chance to be featured in a future blog and video.
Alexander College acknowledges that the land on which we usually gather is the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. We are grateful to have the opportunity to work in this territory.
Alexander College acknowledges that the land on which we usually gather is the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. We are grateful to have the opportunity to work in this territory.
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