Neighborhoods We Love: Gastown

Why Do We Love It?

Not only does this neighborhood satisfy the foodie in me, it also offers the most picturesque streets in all of Vancouver. My favorite place to eat in Gastown is The Flying Pig right in the heart of the district. The lobster mac and cheese and shoestring fries make a great combination. Take a walk down Water Street where you’ll find a picture-perfect collection of old buildings with cobblestones streets. It’s on this street that you’ll find the famous Steam Clock (yes, it does run solely on steam). True to the tourist trap ways, there is a brewery right next to the clock named Steamworks Brewery. I was extremely surprised to walk in and find the brewpub to have two stories that both had massive windows over looking the bay and the whole place had a gentlemen’s club vibe. Beer not your forte? Check out Vancouver Urban Winery on the northern side of the neighborhood for a more classy happy hour. On your walk check out all of the First Nations Art Galleries that line the streets in Gastown. Rather look at the sights than art? Make the pilgrimage to the Vancouver Lookout on the west side of Gastown. Pay one admission and you are able to come back all day long. I went in the middle of the day and then back again at sunset. I suggest coming right when the sun is setting for the best colors and photo opportunities.

Places not to miss: