Gastown: A Self-Guided Tour of Vancouver’s Oldest Neighborhood
Active
2h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Gastown’s historic cobblestone streets on this two-hour walking tour that reveals Vancouver’s complex identity as a Pacific port city.
Starting at Waterfront Station, you’ll see preserved architecture, confront issues like gentrification and houselessness, and visit key sites including Maple Tree Square, the Gastown Steam Clock, former Japantown, and the Astoria Hotel.
Key highlights include:
• Architecture saved by 1960s activists fighting urban renewal
• Contrast between upscale eateries like Ask for Luigi and vulnerable residents
• History of the Asahi baseball team and Japanese-Canadian internment
• Vancouver’s only legal tent city at CRAB Park at Portside
• Blood Alley’s transformation into a community space
• Strathcona’s evolution into a green neighborhood
• Vancouverism’s unique mixed-use urban planning approach
The tour offers a deep dive into the city’s history, activism, and ongoing development.
Available options
Gastown: A Self-Guided Tour of Vancouver’s Oldest Neighborhood
What's included
Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Detailed itinerary
1
Start the tour at Waterfron Station, and admire its grand 1914 architecture, explore nearby attractions like Canada Place and Gastown, and enjoy views of the harbor. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
2
Catch a glimpse at the Angel of Victory statue, a dramatic bronze angel lifting a fallen soldier, honoring Canadian Pacific Railway employees lost in WWI.
3
Pass by and watch one of the world’s few working steam clocks release puffs of steam and chime every 15 minutes, a popular photo spot and a charming symbol of Vancouver’s old-town character.
4
Stroll through the historic heart of Vancouver, where the city was founded, marked by a statue of “Gassy Jack” and surrounded by heritage buildings, cafés, and shops, it’s a great spot to explore Gastown’s roots and soak in its vibrant, historic atmosphere. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
5
Walk by and learn about its extensive craft beer selection and locally sourced menu. Set in a historic brick building near the railyards, a favorite spot for tasting BC brews and experiencing Vancouver’s laid-back food scene. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
6
Pass by and hear about this peaceful waterfront escape with stunning views of the mountains, harbor, and downtown skyline. Featuring a beach, walking paths, and a memorial for missing and murdered Indigenous women. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
7
Walk by this popular and cozy, Italian-inspired dining in a charming, casual setting. Known for fresh, handmade pasta and warm hospitality, this small eatery near the rail tracks offers a local favorite experience. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
8
Take a leisurely stroll through one of Vancouver’s oldest community parks, rich in local history and activism, hosting cultural events and sports, serving as a gathering place, reflecting the area's social challenges and strong sense of community.
What's not included
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Meeting point
This tour begins outside Waterfront Station, Vancouver's central train and seabus port - 601 W Cordova St, Vancouver. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking.
You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island is a stunning destination known for its rugged coastline, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxed coastal living, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and urban explorers alike.
Top Attractions
Butchart Gardens
A world-renowned botanical garden featuring stunning floral displays and themed gardens.
Nature
2-3 hours
$30 CAD
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
A stunning national park featuring rugged coastline, old-growth forests, and world-class surfing.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Free (parking fees apply)
Whale Watching Tours
Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, with opportunities to see orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales.
Adventure
3-4 hours
$100-$150 CAD
Must-Try Local Dishes
Spot Prawns
Fresh, sweet prawns caught locally and often served grilled or in pasta dishes.
Main Course
Contains shellfish
Nanaimo Bars
A no-bake dessert bar with layers of crumbly base, custard-flavored butter icing, and chocolate ganache.
Dessert
Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts
Salmon
Fresh, wild-caught salmon often served grilled, smoked, or in sushi.
Main Course
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
Kayaking
Whale Watching
Beachcombing
Spa Day
Picnicking
Wine Tasting
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the best time to visit Vancouver Island for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm and dry, perfect for exploring the island's natural beauty.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English, French, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
PST (GMT-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Vancouver Island is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid leaving drinks unattended
Getting there
By air
- Victoria International Airport • 20 km from Victoria city center
- Comox Valley Airport • 10 km from Courtenay city center
By bus
Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River
Getting around
Public transport
BC Transit offers bus services in major cities and towns on Vancouver Island. The services are reliable and affordable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Victoria
Downtown Nanaimo
Tofino
Day trips
Cape Scott Provincial Park
200 km from Victoria • Full day or overnight
A remote and rugged coastal park with stunning scenery, old-growth forests, and wildlife.
Goldstream Provincial Park
20 km from Victoria • Half day to full day
A beautiful park featuring waterfalls, old-growth forests, and hiking trails.
Horne Lake Caves
80 km from Nanaimo • Half day to full day
A network of caves offering guided tours and underground adventures.
Festivals
Victoria Jazz Festival • July
Pacific Rim Whale Festival • March
Tofino Ucluelet Winter Music Festival • January
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Rent a car for flexibility and access to remote areas
- Pack layers and waterproof clothing for variable weather conditions
- Book accommodations and popular tours well in advance
- Try local seafood and support sustainable fishing practices
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
