Under the Haint Blue Sky: The Lost Alley Walking Tour

Vancouver , Canada

Under the Haint Blue Sky: The Lost Alley Walking Tour

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About this experience

Vancouver once had a thriving Black community, and you should know about it. This immersive walking tour through Strathcona and the former Hogan’s Alley uncovers the untold stories of British Columbia’s first Black settlers, tracing their migration, resilience, and lasting cultural impact.
This experience combines archival materials, primary documents, and lived experience to bring history vividly to life. Guests receive access to a digital archive of photos and historic articles curated from much research in British Columbia’s archives.
You’ll reflect on how these histories connect to present-day realities for Black Canadians, and to our shared humanity.
More than a tour, this is a visionary journey of remembrance and understanding, delivered with warmth, professionalism, and a passion for truth. Every step offers a rare blend of academic insight, emotional storytelling, and five-star hospitality, ensuring a meaningful and unforgettable experience for visitors and locals alike.

Available options

Under the Haint Blue Sky: The Lost Alley Walking Tour

What's included

All prices include the 5% GST (Goods and Services Tax) required by the Government of Canada.

Detailed itinerary

We’ll begin our tour at Pacific Central Station, completed in 1919. This historic station was a place of work for Black men from Hogan’s Alley, many of whom served as porters, helping passengers navigate the railways and carrying their luggage with pride. As we explore the station, you’ll learn about their vital contributions to Vancouver’s development and hear stories of resilience, community, and excellence in a time when opportunities were limited.

At Trillium Park Playground, we’ll dive into the history of the first Black migration to British Columbia. Using historic archival photos, documents, and newspaper clippings, we’ll explore how Vancouver’s Black community, including Hogan’s Alley, came to be. While learning these powerful stories of resilience and community, you’ll also enjoy stunning views of the city skyline framed by the mountains—a perfect backdrop for reflection and photos.

Next, we’ll walk through what remains of Hogan’s Alley, the historic heart of Vancouver’s Black community. Its stories of resistance, resilience, and joy endure. We’ll pause at the Fountain Chapel building, founded in 1918 by Nora Hendrix, grandmother of Jimi Hendrix. While it no longer functions as a church, it still stands as a testament to the community’s spirit and cultural life. Along the alley, you’ll hear tales of everyday life, struggles, triumphs, and even the early life of Jimi Hendrix, connecting the past to the present in this poetic and powerful space.

As we continue through Hogan’s Alley, you’ll see some of the original houses that remain, quiet witnesses to the vibrant community that once thrived here. These structures allow us to connect with the lives and stories of the Black residents who built their lives in this neighborhood. Our walk brings us to the Georgia Dunsmuir Viaduct, a stark reminder of urban development’s impact: its construction led to the destruction of most of Hogan’s Alley and the displacement of countless residents. Here, we’ll reflect on the resilience of the community, honoring the lives disrupted and the legacy that endures through memory, storytelling, and surviving architecture.

We’ll conclude our tour in the colorful Strathcona neighborhood, walking down Union Street to witness what remains of Hogan’s Alley’s legacy. Along the way, we’ll stop at the site of one of the last Black-owned businesses in the alley, which closed following the displacement of the community. Our final stop is the Jimi Hendrix Shrine, located at the former site of Vie’s Chicken and Steakhouse: a cultural hot spot where Black musicians from the early to mid-1900s, including Diana Ross, Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, and Sammy Davis Jr., would gather when visiting Vancouver. Here, you’ll hear stories of music, culture, and community life that once thrived at the heart of Hogan’s Alley, leaving an indelible mark on Vancouver’s history.

Finally, we’ll walk just a few steps across the street, beneath the viaducts, to reflect on how these concrete structures were built and to understand in depth how their construction destroyed most of Hogan’s Alley and displaced its residents. This closing moment invites us to stand in the shadow of the viaducts and consider the lasting impact of erasure, memory, and the ongoing work to honor and reclaim this vital piece of Black history in Vancouver.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will meet at the entrance of Pacific Central Station.

About Vancouver

Vancouver is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and outdoor activities. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore Mountains, it offers a unique blend of urban living and wilderness adventures.

Top Attractions

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is a 400-hectare public park that boasts stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and the city skyline. It is one of the largest urban parks in North America and offers a variety of recreational activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free (Vancouver Aquarium has an admission fee)

Granville Island

Granville Island is a bustling hub of activity, known for its public market, artisan shops, and waterfront restaurants. It is a great place to sample local food, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy live performances.

Market/Entertainment Half day Free to explore, costs vary for food and shopping

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers a thrilling experience with its suspension bridge, treetop walkways, and cliffwalk. It provides a unique perspective of the lush rainforest and offers educational programs about the local ecosystem.

Adventure/Nature 2-3 hours Moderate (around $55 CAD for adults)

Gastown

Gastown is Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, known for its Victorian-era architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. It is a great place to explore the city's history, shop for unique items, and enjoy a variety of dining options.

Historical/Shopping Half day Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining

MuseuM of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is a world-renowned museum that showcases the art and culture of the First Nations peoples. It features an impressive collection of totem poles, carvings, and artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $18 CAD for adults)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Vancouver is renowned for its high-quality sushi, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and a large Japanese community. Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients are used to create delicious sushi rolls and sashimi.

Dinner Contains fish, seafood, and sometimes raw ingredients

Poutine

A Canadian classic, poutine consists of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Vancouver.

Snack Contains dairy and often meat-based gravy

Japadog

A Vancouver street food staple, Japadog is a hot dog with Japanese-inspired toppings such as teriyaki sauce, seaweed, and bonito flakes. It's a unique and delicious snack to try while exploring the city.

Snack Contains meat and sometimes seafood

Bubble Tea

Originating from Taiwan, bubble tea is a popular beverage in Vancouver. It consists of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls, served either hot or cold. There are many flavors and variations to choose from.

Drink Varies by flavor, often contains dairy and sugar

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Snowboarding Rock climbing Kayaking Spa Beach Picnic

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beaches and parks. It's also the peak tourist season with the most crowds.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Punjabi, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vancouver is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Vancouver International Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Pacific Central Station

By bus

Pacific Central Station, Greyhound Bus Depot

Getting around

Public transport

The SkyTrain is a fast, efficient, and affordable way to get around Vancouver. It consists of three lines: the Expo Line, the Millennium Line, and the Canada Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown West End Kitsilano Gastown Mount Pleasant

Day trips

Whistler

120 km from Vancouver • Full day to overnight

Whistler is a world-renowned mountain resort known for its skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor activities. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering stunning mountain views and a variety of recreational opportunities.

Victoria

100 km from Vancouver • Full day to overnight

Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia, known for its historic architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Steveston Village

25 km from Vancouver • Half day to full day

Steveston Village is a historic fishing village located in Richmond, known for its waterfront views, fresh seafood, and charming shops. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering a taste of coastal life and local flavors.

Festivals

Vancouver International Film Festival • Late September to mid-October Celebration of Light • July to August Vancouver Folk Music Festival • Mid-July

Pro tips

Use the SkyTrain and other public transportation options to get around the city efficiently and affordably
Visit Granville Island Public Market for a taste of local flavors and unique gifts
Explore Stanley Park by bike or on foot to enjoy the stunning views and natural beauty
Try local specialties, such as sushi, poutine, and Japadog, for an authentic Vancouver experience
Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak seasons and events