About Historic Gastown:
Gastown is known as the birthplace of Vancouver. Located downtown, on the north-east corner, it remains a historic neighborhood in Vancouver. This part of downtown was established the same year that Canada was announced a nation. When visiting Vancouver it is a must-see activity because of its history, and features.
Bloody Alley and Gaolers Mews, date back to the 1850s and was the location of many bloody brawls. Jonathan Miller, Gastown's first constable would put ankle chains on the prisoners and locked them in a cabin in the Gaolers Mews and then had a one armed drunkard guard outside the door.
The Culture of Gastown:
Gastown is now inhabited by many people that work in the fields of architecture, design, web, entertainment, media, consulting, and art. It has its own unique nature and characteristics which you will pick up upon as you walk through the area. Tourists and locals connect to buses, trains, and ferries in Gastown, so they can commute around the city.
Attractions in the Neighborhood of Gastown:
Check out the statue of ‘Gassy Jack’ when you visit Gastown. Gassy Jack was given his name by a saloon keeper, a gold prospector, and a riverboat captain when he stepped onto the Vancouver shores with a barrel of whiskey, and built a saloon for the mill workers.
Gastown is a top Vancouver attraction and many hospitality outlets offer services in the area. When visiting, be sure to stop by the Steam powered clock and observe the clouds of steam it blows when it sounds the Westminster Chimes every hour. This famous clock was designed in 1875, but it was first created in 1977 by chorologist Raymond L. Saunders.
Historic Plaques:
Remember to check out the variety of historic plaques that are placed throughout Gastown. These plaques were put up so that visitors could learn more about the 19th century historic buildings of Gastown.
Gastown Art:
This historic neighborhood is host to many art galleries and native art boutique shops. You will find an enormous amount of souvenirs, and art to take home with you.
Close to Everything:
Close to everything, Gastown is surrounded by popular hotels and attractions such as Canada Place, Port of Vancouver, and the Convention Center. On the southside you will find GM Place, and BC Place, and on the east side you will find Dr. Sun Yat Sen Chinese Gardens, and Chinatown.
How to Get to Gastown:
You can take the sky train, the seabus, and the quick transit system of Vancouver, BC. The West Coast Express and other greyhound buses can be caught at the Pacific Central Station, which take you to other parts of the lower mainland.
