Gastown-Chinatown Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, sights to see, and places to stay in Gastown-Chinatown. Plan your perfect trip to Vancouver's historic district with this ultimate travel guide.


Introduction to Gastown-Chinatown

Located in the heart of Vancouver, Gastown-Chinatown is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. This historic district is a hub of cultural diversity, featuring a unique blend of Victorian architecture, cobblestone streets, trendy cafes, and traditional Chinese eateries. Gastown is home to some of Vancouver’s top-rated tourist attractions, including museums, galleries, boutiques, and more. Here’s our comprehensive tour guide to help you plan your perfect trip to Gastown-Chinatown.

List of Places to Visit in Gastown-Chinatown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Vancouver Police Museum

Discover the history of law enforcement in Vancouver at the Vancouver Police Museum. Housed in a former coroner’s court and morgue, the museum showcases a variety of artifacts from the city’s past, including vintage police cars, forensic tools, confiscated weapons, and true crime stories.

2. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

Named after China’s founding father, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a stunning oasis of tranquility in the heart of Gastown. The garden features winding paths, flowers, bamboo, and pavilions that showcase traditional Chinese architecture.

3. Gastown Steam Clock

The Gastown Steam Clock is a popular tourist attraction. As one of the only steam-powered clocks in the world, it whistle chimes on the quarter-hour, half-hour, and full hour, making it a unique piece of history to experience.

Natural Attractions of Gastown-Chinatown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Harbour Centre Tower

Take the elevator up to the top of Harbour Centre Tower for an unparalleled 360-degree view of Vancouver city. From the observation deck, you can see the city’s skyline, the harbor, and the surrounding mountains.

2. Stanley Park Seawall

The 10km seawall around Stanley Park is an excellent place for a bike ride or walk. Enjoy stunning views of the park, the ocean and the city of Vancouver.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gastown-Chinatown

Cycle City Tours

Cycle City Tours offer guided biking tours of Stanley Park and Vancouver’s surrounding areas. They offer a variety of tours including the Stanley Park Rainforest Discovery tour, and the Hidden Downtown tour.

Best Things to Do in Gastown-Chinatown: Activities and Tours

Vancouver Food Tour

Explore the diverse and multi-cultural foods of Gastown with a guided food tour. You can expect to taste traditional Chinese dim sum, Canadian poutine, artisanal gelato, and much more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gastown-Chinatown

Day Activity
1 Arrive, check-in, and enjoy a sunset walk around Stanley Park.
2 Explore the historic neighbourhood of Gastown, starting with breakfast at Nelson the Seagull and then visiting all the attractions mentioned above. Finish the day with a drink at Steamworks Brewing Company.
3 Take a food tour of Chinatown. Visit Sun Yat-Sen Garden and enjoy traditional Chinese dim sum along the way. Finish the day by walking along the seawall and sunset on Kitsilano Beach.
4 Take a day trip to Squamish and hike up the Stawamus Chief.
5 Take a free walking tour of Vancouver. Visit the UBC Museum of Anthropology and eat your way through Granville Island.
6 Rent a bike from Cycle City Tours and bike over the Golden Gate Bridge to Grouse Mountain. Hike up to the peak and see a magnificent panoramic view of Vancouver.
7 Relax and rejuvenate at one of Vancouver’s best spas. Minerals Ledge is the perfect place to relax with other travelers before moving on.

Food and Drink Scene of Gastown-Chinatown

Must-Try Dishes

Chinese Hand-Pulled Noodles

Hand-pulled noodles are a traditional Chinese dish that has been mastered by Gastown-Chinatown’s noodle shops. Try the hand-pulled noodles at Peaceful Restaurant or New Town Bakery and Restaurant for an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine.

Poutine

As a Canadian favorite, Gastown-Chinatown’s poutine is a must-try. Mean Poutine has a variety of delicious poutine options to choose from.

Local Beverages

Craft Beer

Steamworks Brewing Company is just one of the breweries in Gastown-Chinatown. Try the Triple Threat Pale Ale, a Citra and Cascade dry-hopped pale ale that has won awards.

Bubble Tea

Any trip to Chinatown is not complete without a cup of bubble tea. Try Chatime Chinatown for an authentic Taiwanese bubble tea experience.

Where to Stay in Gastown-Chinatown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Budget

Cambie Hostel

Cambie Hostel is a popular choice among budget travelers as it’s conveniently located in the heart of Gastown-Chinatown. The hostel offers private and shared rooms, free wifi, and a lively on-site bar and restaurant.

Luxury

Fairmont Waterfront

Situated directly on the city’s harbour, Fairmont Waterfront is Vancouver’s premier luxury hotel. The hotel has an on-site restaurant, spa, fitness center, and stunning waterfront views.

What to Buy in Gastown-Chinatown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Local Art

Visit the galleries on East Hastings Street to find unique pieces to take home with you.

Tea

Visit Treasure Green Tea Company for premium Chinese teas that you can enjoy at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Gastown-Chinatown

Gastown-Chinatown is a diverse neighborhood with a melting pot of cultures. Respect the locals and their cultures by following local customs such as not touching objects in museums and temples, and removing your shoes when entering people’s homes.

Best Time to Visit Gastown-Chinatown

The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is at its warmest and driest, allowing you to enjoy all the outdoor activities that the area has to offer.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gastown-Chinatown

Do:

  • Do take a guided food tour of Chinatown.
  • Do take a stroll around Stanley Park and explore all that the area has to offer.
  • Do try the poutine and traditional Chinese dishes in the area.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photographs of the locals without asking for permission.
  • Don’t litter or smoke in public areas.
  • Don’t be loud or disruptive near residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gastown-Chinatown

Despite the area’s safe reputation, it’s still recommended to be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Gastown-Chinatown

There are no specific health concerns to worry about in Gastown-Chinatown but it’s always recommended to bring a first-aid kit that includes insect repellant and sunscreen, especially during the summer months when going outdoors.

Getting to Gastown-Chinatown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gastown-Chinatown

Vancouver International Airport is located just a short drive from Gastown-Chinatown. It is served by numerous airlines, including Air Canada and WestJet.

Bus Stations Near Gastown-Chinatown

Pacific Central Station is the closest bus station to Gastown-Chinatown, where you can find buses to and from cities throughout British Columbia and Alberta.

How to Get Around in Gastown-Chinatown

The best way to get around Gastown-Chinatown is by walking or biking. The area is easily navigable, with plenty of sidewalks and bike lanes.

Where to Go Next from Gastown-Chinatown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Vancouver Island

Take a ferry to Vancouver Island and explore the cities of Victoria and Tofino.

Whistler

Head up to Whistler to go skiing or snowboarding in the winter, or hiking in the summer.

Conclusion

Gastown-Chinatown is a must-visit district if you’re in Vancouver. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and diverse neighborhood. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your perfect trip and enjoy all that Gastown-Chinatown has to offer.

The Millennium Gate at Chinatown's entrance The Millennium Gate at Chinatown's entrance The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen gardens in Chinatown The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen gardens in Chinatown Maple Square in Gastown Maple Square in Gastown