Gastown Things To Do Nearby: A City Guide for Tourists

Vancouver’s historic Gastown neighborhood is one of the city’s most popular attractions, with its cobblestone streets, vintage buildings, and iconic steam clock. It’s a vibrant neighborhood that’s known for its unique restaurants, galleries, bars, and shops. Visitors to Gastown can explore the area’s rich history and culture, take in the sights and sounds of the steam clock, and enjoy the many activities and attractions that the neighborhood has to offer.

A Brief History of Gastown

Gastown is one of Vancouver’s oldest neighborhoods and was originally founded in 1867 by an Englishman named John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton. Deighton built a log cabin saloon on the banks of what is now known as the Gastown Steam Clock, and it quickly became a popular gathering spot for sailors, lumberjacks, and local miners.

Gastown was the first area of Vancouver to be incorporated as a municipality in 1886, and it soon grew into a bustling center of commerce. By the 1920s, much of the neighborhood had been destroyed in a series of fires, but it was quickly rebuilt and eventually became a popular spot for artists and musicians.

Today, Gastown is a thriving neighborhood that is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and other attractions. It’s a great place to explore on foot, as its narrow streets and historic buildings make it one of the most picturesque areas in the city.

Things To Do in Gastown

Gastown is full of attractions and activities that are sure to entertain. Here are some of the top things to do in the area:

Explore the Gastown Steam Clock

No trip to Gastown would be complete without a visit to the Gastown Steam Clock. This iconic clock is powered by steam and chimes every quarter hour. It’s a great place to take a photo or just take in the sights and sounds of the neighborhood.

Go Shopping

Gastown is home to a variety of unique shops that are sure to please any shopper. From vintage stores to independent boutiques, there’s something for everyone in Gastown. Take a stroll down Water Street and explore the area’s many shops.

Dine Out

Gastown is known for its vibrant restaurant scene, with a variety of cuisines to choose from. From traditional Canadian favorites to international dishes, there’s something for everyone in Gastown. The area is full of great restaurants that are perfect for a night out or a casual meal.

Visit the Belkin Art Gallery

The Belkin Art Gallery is one of Vancouver’s most prominent art galleries and is located in the heart of Gastown. The gallery features contemporary works from local and international artists, as well as an interactive art space where visitors can create their own works of art.

Take a Brewery Tour

Gastown is home to several popular breweries, including Steamworks Brewing Company, Strange Fellows Brewing Company, and Red Truck Beer Company. Take a tour of one of these breweries to learn more about their beer-making process and sample some of their delicious brews.

Take a Walking Tour

The best way to explore Gastown is on foot. There are several walking tours available in the area that will give you an up-close look at the area’s history, architecture, and culture. Learn about Gastown’s past from knowledgeable guides and discover hidden gems that you may have missed otherwise.

Popular Tours in Gastown

Gastown is home to several popular tours that are sure to entertain visitors and locals alike. Here are two of the area’s most popular tours:

A Historic Pub Tour

Explore some of Gastown’s oldest pubs on this two-hour walking tour. Learn about the area’s history while sampling some of its finest craft beers. Your knowledgeable guide will show you some of Gastown’s most historic pubs and tell you stories about its past. Afterward, enjoy a pint at one of Vancouver’s oldest pubs while taking in the sights and sounds of the area. Book this Historic Pub Tour for an unforgettable experience in Gastown.

A Street Art Tour

Discover Gastown’s vibrant street art scene on this two-hour walking tour. Your guide will take you on a journey through some of Gastown’s most renowned murals and pieces of street art while giving you insight into some of Vancouver’s most prominent street artists. Afterward, you’ll have the opportunity to get up close with some of Gastown’s newest pieces while learning more about street art in general. Book this Street Art Tour for an educational and inspiring tour through Gastown’s vibrant street art scene.

Gastown is an amazing place to visit for tourists who want to explore Vancouver’s history and culture. With its cobblestone streets, vintage buildings, and iconic steam clock, it’s no wonder why this neighborhood is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Explore its many shops, restaurants, galleries, and activities on foot or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and culture. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or an educational experience, there are plenty of things to do in Gastown that will surely entertain you during your visit.