First established in 1867, Vancouver’s Gastown is the site of where the city first began. Anchored by cobblestone streets, Victorian-era buildings, and the iconic Steam Clock, what started as a frontier trading post quickly grew alongside the arrival of the railway, laying the commercial and cultural groundwork for the vibrant neighbourhood it is today.
Nowadays, the history lives on, but with a distinctly modern edge. Heritage brick buildings now house independent boutiques, contemporary galleries, and design studios, while locally-loved cafes, acclaimed restaurants, and cocktail bars keep the neighbourhood buzzing from morning through night.
Here are some of our team’s favourite things to do in Gastown.
Stop in for a coffee at Revolver
We know a thing or two about coffee, but Revolver takes coffee-love to a whole other level. With an everchanging lineup of beans from roasters around the world, it’s well worth the daily drop-in just to try something new. Or, if you’re short on time, Revolver also offers a tasting flight – plus a knowledgeable and friendly team that would love to talk to you all about it.
Start the day at your own pace in their stylish, urban space, or take a cup to-go as you continue exploring the neighbourhood.
The cafe-by-day, wine-bar-by-night crawl
Everyone loves a two-in-one concept. First up: Birds and the Beets – by day, breakfast sandwiches that you’ll still be thinking about the next day; by night – the space transforms into Bar Tartare, a natural wine bar with a rotating line-up of guest chefs, ranging from global share plates, ingredient-driven menus, to playful “girl dinner” themed nights.
Another to add to your radar: European bistro Twisted Fork keeps brunch French-inspired until 2pm, while Breeze Bar steps in at 6pm with a menu that can only be described as “trashy and classy”. Think hot dogs with caviar. Champagne and skewers.
And while it’s not quite a cafe/wine-bar duo, Di Beppe is another chic Italian-inspired space with both a cafe and restaurant side. While many know them for their metre-long “al metro” pizzas, few know the cafe-side makes a mean mocha that deserves just as much love – especially when paired with a mid-day tiramisu.
Shop modern designs, vintage gems & everything in between
Retail therapy in Gastown looks a little like this: Independent boutiques with local designers, global brands with beautiful storefronts, and everything in between. Start at Neighbour and SIISTA for sleek and modern designs, while Out & About and One of a Few have no shortage of chic statement pieces.
Or if vintage finds are more up your alley, check out Community for a curated collection of clothing, accessories, and knick-knacks. Plus, your new favourite band tee is probably hiding at F as in Frank, while your vintage sneakers and streetwear collection is just waiting for an addition from From Another.
Explore Gastown’s historic buildings
Built in 1912, Le Magasin is one of the earliest shopping arcades in Vancouver, and to this day, still houses a few shops and galleries. The Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery is home to a beautiful exhibition of artwork and jewellery from both emerging and established Indigenous artists, while Menu Skate Shop is packed with boards, shoes & apparel.
Cocktails & jazz at Guilt & Co
For an evening of live jazz and cocktails, there’s no better venue than Guilt & Co. A Gastown institution for nearly two decades, the intimate space hosts two performances every night of the week ranging from classic jazz, Latin influences, reggae and more. Not to mention they know a thing or two about making a good cocktail.
Where to stay in Gastown
To really immerse yourself in Gastown, you need a base that holds just as much style and history as the neighbourhood itself. Newly opened in March 2026 as the neighbourhood’s only hotel, Block House is a loft-style apartment hotel set in a newly restored heritage building. Think chic, spacious apartments with exposed brick, modern appliances, mid-century furnishings, and a central location that puts you steps from Gastown’s best cafes, boutiques, and nightlife.
