Hotels near Gastown

Gastown grew from a single tavern opened by John 'Gassy Jack' Deighton in 1867 and is now Vancouver's most atmospheric neighbourhood. Cobblestone streets lined with restored Victorian buildings house independent boutiques, galleries, and some of the city's best restaurants. The [Gastown Steam Clock](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gastown_steam_clock) on Water Street whistles every 15 minutes and is one of the most photographed spots in Vancouver, though its steam mechanism is actually supplemented by electricity.

The statue of Gassy Jack stands in Maple Tree Square at the eastern end of Water Street. For food, The Flying Pig and Pourhouse are reliable choices on the main strip, while Ask for Luigi (on Alexander Street, just south) is one of Vancouver's best Italian restaurants. Gastown transitions into Chinatown to the south, where the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a five-minute walk away. The neighbourhood is compact and easily walkable in 1-2 hours.

Pro Tip: Visit Gastown in the morning before 11am when the cobblestone streets are quiet and the light is good for photography. The bars and restaurants come alive after 6pm, making it worth a return visit in the evening.