Vancouver‘s Most Popular Neighborhood, known as Gastown, is a historic area of the city that is renowned for its Victorian-era architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and diverse selection of boutiques, restaurants, and bars, making it a must-see destination for tourists visiting Vancouver.
Early Morning
The day in Gastown begins early, as tourists and locals alike take advantage of the beautiful morning light to explore the neighborhood’s many sights. One of the first stops on any tour of Gastown should be the iconic Steam Clock, located at the corner of Cambie and Water Streets. This unique clock, powered by steam from the city’s underground pipelines, chimes on the hour and is a popular spot for photos.
Breakfast
After taking in the sights and sounds of the Steam Clock, it’s time to fuel up for the day ahead. Gastown offers a wide variety of breakfast options, from traditional Canadian fare at The Fish Counter to artisanal coffee and pastries at Revolver. For those looking for something a little more exotic, there are also several Asian-inspired breakfast spots, such as Matchstick Coffee and Bao Down Gastropub.
Shopping
Once breakfast is finished, it’s time to explore Gastown’s diverse selection of boutiques and shops. The neighborhood is home to a wide variety of independent retailers, selling everything from vintage clothing and handmade jewelry to unique home decor and local art. Some of the most popular shops in Gastown include:
– The Block, a curated collection of vintage clothing and accessories
– Old Faithful Shop, featuring a curated selection of men’s clothing and home goods
– The Apothecary, offering a wide variety of natural health and beauty products.
Lunch
After a morning of shopping, it’s time to take a break and grab a bite to eat. Gastown offers a wide variety of lunch options, from casual eateries like Meat & Bread and Tacofino to more upscale restaurants like L’Abattoir and The Fish Counter. For those looking for something a little different, there are also several Asian-inspired lunch spots, such as Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie and Phnom Penh.
Afternoon Activities
After lunch, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy in Gastown. The neighborhood is home to several art galleries, including the Kimoto Gallery and the Equinox Gallery, which showcase works by local and international artists. For those looking for a more active experience, Gastown is also home to several yoga and fitness studios, including Yoga on 7th and Gastown Fitness.
Happy Hour
As the afternoon turns into evening, Gastown comes alive with the sound of clinking glasses and lively conversation. The neighborhood is home to a wide variety of bars and pubs, offering everything from craft beers and cocktails to live music and DJs. Some of the most popular happy hour spots in Gastown include:
– The Diamond, a cozy speakeasy-style bar
– The Blackbird Public House, featuring a wide selection of local beers and ciders
– The Portside Pub, a popular spot for live music and DJs.
Dinner
As the night wears on, it’s time to sit down for a delicious dinner. Gastown offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual eateries like Vij’s Rangoli and The Fish Counter, to more upscale restaurants like L’Abattoir and The Fish Counter.
