Gastown Walking Gourmet Tour: Food, Drinks & Local History

Vancouver , Canada

Gastown Walking Gourmet Tour: Food, Drinks & Local History

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About this experience

Join us for a delightful culinary adventure through Vancouver's historic Gastown district. Our tour begins at the iconic Maple Tree Square, where you'll soak in the vibrant atmosphere and learn about the rich history of this charming neighborhood.

We'll visit the famous Steam Clock, a true landmark that delights visitors with its steam-powered whistles and fascinating engineering. As we wander through the intriguing Blood Alley, you'll discover the hidden gems and stories that make Gastown unique.

You'll have an enticing selection of tastings from savory Ukrainian-style wild boar, unique fusion cuisine that blends traditional Mexican flavors with contemporary twists, and coastal French-inspired cuisine, all made with locally sourced produce resulting in dishes that are both elegant and flavorful, highlighted with an exclusive make-your-own cocktail experience.

Join us for an unforgettable gastronomic journey that perfectly blends history, culture, and culinary delights!

Available options

Gastown Walking Gourmet Tour: Food, Drinks & Local History

What's included

3 Alcohol Pairings - Craft Beer, Wine, Cocktails

Interactive mixology experience

Dinner

An exclusive Printed Guide of foodie recommendations and discounts

Food Tastings - A progressive meal at 3 iconic Gastown restaurants

Detailed itinerary

A working steam clock, one of only a few in the world, located in Vancouver's Victorian Gastown.

Blood Alley Square is adjacent to Trounce Alley, one of Vancouver's original roads. Its narrow cobblestone lanes, historic streetlights, and brick buildings bring a unique sense of character unlike anywhere else in the city.

The central intersection of Gastown - great for patios and people watching! You'll see a cross-section of old, new, modern, and old-school living here!

Water St. Café offers classic Italian cuisine with influence from our beautiful West Coast, an award-winning BC-focused wine & beverage list, and live music.

Creative cocktails & seasonal fare served in a century-old warehouse setting with a 38-ft. bar.

The name refers to the ancient Mexican monarchy honouring the influence both his parents made on his culinary style. While his mother inspired our sister restaurant Ophelia, the familial tradition has continued here at Monarca where you’ll find playful dishes and a lively atmosphere inspired by Chef Higareda’s father.

Their commitment has always remained the same – to use only natural, local, and organic ingredients. The menu now features organic Sourdough, Chocolate Babka, pastries, as well as hot dishes like Borsch, Cabbage Rolls, Handmade Pierogies, and much more

The City of Vancouver is a coastal, seaport city on the mainland of British Columbia.

Stop 9 Pass by

Lively Gastown is known for its whistling Steam Clock and mix of souvenir shops, indie art galleries and decor stores in Victorian buildings. A trendy food and drink scene includes chic cocktail lounges and restaurants serving everything from gourmet sandwiches to local seafood. Hip eateries also dot the neighboring Downtown Eastside area, while the up-and-coming Railtown district is home to edgy fashion studios.

Downtown is Vancouver's primary business district, houses many arts, entertainment, and sports venues, and is close to several vibrant residential communities.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

22 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

215 reviews

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193

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Vegetarian and pescatarian options are available, please advise at time of booking if required

Please advise any severe allergies at the time of booking.

Please note we cannot cater to any other dietary restrictions, as there is not always a “next-best” option at our tasting locations. If possible, we encourage you to try everything on the tour as we have selected tastings that best exemplify the restaurants and food shops we feature!

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

Guests must be 19 years or older to partake in the alcoholic pairings. If non-alcoholic pairings are required, please note it in the booking.

Not recommended for celiac or gluten free diets

Meeting point

Looking for your smiling Foodie Tour Guide in a red shirt!

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

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