Gastown in Peace and War
Where Vancouver Began
Gastown, a National Historic Site of Canada, is the area northeast of Downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, within Hastings, Main, and Richards Streets and the Burrard Inlet waterfront. Vancouver’s first downtown core, where it all began and where the roots remain visible in cobblestone streets and antique streetlights, all of which look like a slice of history between the high-rises of Downtown and the waterfront train yard. Gastown’s name comes from legendary “Gassy” Jack Deighton, a steamboat captain who in 1867 opened the first saloon.
Early Gastown prospered as the site of a sawmill, a seaport, and, not least, an after-hours resort for loggers, fishermen, and the crews of sailing ships. In 1886, the town incorporated as the City of Vancouver but lost all but two of its buildings in the Great Vancouver Fire of that same year. The rebuilt area thrived again as an important ferry and steamship docking and staging area with Hastings and Main as the town centre.
Preserving the Visible 19th Century
After the Great Depression of the 1930s, Gastown fell into decay, decline, and disrepair as a skid row area of cheap beer parlours and flophouses. In the 1960s, citizen concern over preservation of Gastown’s distinctive architecture, which, as in nearby Chinatown and Strathcona, was to be torn down to clear space for a freeway into Downtown, drove a campaign that in 1971 persuaded the provincial government to declare the area an historical site to protect its heritage buildings.
Perhaps Gastown’s most famous landmark is the steam-powered clock at Cambie and Water streets. Built to cover a steam grate of Vancouver’s distributed steam-heating system, the clock prevents street people from sleeping on the grate in cold weather. The low-pressure downtown-wide steam heating network from a plant adjacent to the Georgia Viaduct powers a miniature steam engine in the clock’s base.
Entertainment and Hospitality
Gastown endured decades of neglect as the derelict part of town. Recent revitalization has turned skid row into a stylish destination of unusual enterprises in entertainment, gastronomy, and hospitality. On Alexander Street near Main in the northeastern corner of Gastown, the Alibi Room has “50 taps of local & imported craft beer,” some exclusive to the pub, for beer lovers. On Water Street, there are great meal deals at Pourhouse. On Blood Alley Square, a banner of an upside-down salt shaker beckons passersby to the Salt Tasting Room, a small, friendly tavern where patrons can “assemble a Tasting Plate from our chalkboard’s selection of 10 cheeses, 10 meats, and 10 condiments. The selections change constantly, making it almost impossible to have the same Salt experience twice.”
Visitor Parking
For visitors to Vancouver, parking is no easier and probably more difficult in the busy nightlife of Gastown than in any other part of Downtown Vancouver. Fortunately, the presence one block west of Richards and Water streets of the SkyTrain Waterfront Station and the terminal of the Seabus to North Vancouver makes Gastown access much easier than by car.
Gastown RiotGastown entertainment and hospitality were in unusually short supply on 7 August 1971, when hundreds converged on Maple Tree Square at Alexander, Powell, and Water streets to protest drug law raids. By 10:00 AM, the crowd numbered almost 2,000. After reports of broken windows, the police decided to clear the crowd. After the crowd ignored a warning to disperse, police officers on horseback and in riot gear took action in a battle with people throwing rocks and bottles. An investigation found that the crowd had not degenerated into a mob and that individual officers had used “unnecessary, unwarranted, and excessive force.” Investigator recommendations were to ban demonstrators from taking over public streets, to train police officers specifically for crowd control, to use horses for crowd control on sidewalks only, and to eliminate the use of plainclothes officers for crowd control. |
Information Links:http://vancouver.ca/green-vancouver/hastings.aspx http://vancouver.ca/home-property-development/dtes-local-area-plan.aspx
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New Gastown Live MLS Listings
Gastown, Vancouver, BC
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87 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "KORET LOFTS" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2619820
87 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 1K3 
$1,578,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2619820
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,741 sq. ft.
Your new digs is ow available at historic Gastown Koret Lofts, a century old remade warehouse. At 1741SF this street level TH/office/retail space comes with one-way mirrors for added privacy. Inside you feel the energy & history of original fir beams, brick wall, heritage floors mixed w/ concrete. The Lofts versatile experience has 2 bath, 2 levels w/ bdrm or boardroom upstairs and approx. 1100SF of living/retail/workspace on main. W/ lots of storage space feel assured of value alongside heritage charm w/18'ceilings; you will fall in love. This eclectic Koret community is welcoming to business', family & friends. Zoned for Commercial & Residential Koret Lofts is a special opportunity. Original owner is sad to move on move on but he is excited for the next experience this loft will bring. More detailsListed by Sutton Group-West Coast Realty
- Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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3003 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "WOODWARDS W43" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2643404
3003 128 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0E6
$1,298,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2643404
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,042 sq. ft.
Magnificent 270 degree unobstructed water & mtn views from every room in this highly sought after NE corner of Gastown's award wining Woodwards. This one of a kind residence offers 1,009 sqft of luxury living & located steps from the best of downtown Vancouver. Meticulously renovated to the highest standard in 2019. Wide plank oak floors, temp controlled wine wall, power shades, steam fireplace, Italian stone surrounds & storage galore w California closets. An entertainers paradise w an exceptional open plan incl 2nd bed conversion into additional living space (simple conversion to 2nd bed), sensational chef's kitchen w top grade appliances, 2 full spa inspired baths & private patio perfect for BBQ. 5 star amenities w rooftop 'Club W' (gym/htub/lounge), concierge & BONUS 2 parking! More detailsListed by Macdonald Realty Westmar - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2710 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "WOODWARDS" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2641234
2710 128 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0E6
$1,295,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2641234
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,158 sq. ft.
2710 - 128 W Cordova, V6B 0E6 "Woodwards" Quintessential Gastown living at its finest! This modern 2 BD 2 BA NW corner unit boasts expansive 1150 SF of luxurious living space. Unit has breathtaking views of the city, water, & mountains. Finishes incl. S/S appliances, gas cooktop, sleek subway backsplash tiles in kitchen & bathrooms, spa-like master bath w/soaker tub & separate shower & spacious outdoor balcony to take in the spectacular sunsets. High-end amenities incl. 24 hr concierge at your service, full gym (now closed because of Covid), hot tub, spacious workstations, lounge/media room, & a jaw-dropping outdoor kitchen all on the "Club W" rooftop on the 43rd floor. Steps from transportation to Waterfront Skytrain, the best cafes & restaurants & SFU. Pets OK, rentals min. 6 mos, 2 tandem prk stalls #15 & #16 (P2) Common pty, no storage locker. Contingency reserve $1.85M. Insurance deductible $250K More detailsListed by RE/MAX Crest Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1506 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "Woodwards 43" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2633362
1506 128 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0E6
$999,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2633362
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,166 sq. ft.
Gastwown's iconic WOODWARDS 43. Modern elegance in this impeccable 2 bedroom 2 bath SE corner + 1 Parking. Premium upgrades starting with white oak engineered hardwood, built in wardrobe systems & glass sliders in enlarged closets, porcelain wall tiled baths + Toto washlet toilets, custom bar with dual zone wine fridge, queen size Italian wall bed surrounded by custom cabinetry in the second bedroom, heat insulating window coverings plus Miele washer & dryer. True gourmet kitchen with updated LED lighting and quartz counter tops, FULL SIZE Fulgor Milano dual fuel range & hood fan, Liebher fridge, & Miele dishwasher. Enjoy partial inlet & North Shore mountains from your patio. NOTE: Strata fee includes HEAT, INTERNET, & GAS. W43 is a solid newer highrise with full amenities & 24 concierge. More detailsListed by Oakwyn Realty Encore - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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906 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "W43" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2641260
906 128 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0E6
$925,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2641260
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,143 sq. ft.
At 1143 sq ft, this 2-bed/2-bath + flex space corner unit in Woodwards is generously spacious. Enjoy living in the heart of downtown, close to restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and transit. This open-concept modern space offers engineered hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, floor-to-ceiling windows, and all the fabulous amenities of Club W (free WiFi in the gym and other areas). Includes 1 parking spot. The maintenance fee also includes WiFi and heat for the home. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Select Properties - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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406 55 ALEXANDER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "55 Alexander" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2643983
406 55 ALEXANDER Street Vancouver V6A 1B2
$875,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2643983
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 910 sq. ft.
Welcome to 55 Alexander in the historic district of Gastown! This 2 bed/2 bath VIEW unit boasts plenty of natural light and views of the North Shore mountains and Water/Harbour. The spacious 910 sqft floor plan features open concept kitchen, dining, and living area with cozy gas fireplace, gas range, hardwood floors, picturesque balcony, in-suite laundry, and charming bathrooms with white pebble tile. Primary suite includes walk-in-closet and 4-piece ensuite. Enjoy the building's rooftop deck with panoramic ocean, mountain, and city views. Centrally located near boutiques, skytrain, extensive restaurants and the waterfront lifestyle Gastown has to offer! 1 parking & 1 storage included. Pets & rentals allowed! Open House Saturday Jan 22nd & Sunday Jan 23rd 2-4pm by appointment. More detailsListed by Angell, Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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2401 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "WOODWARDS" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2645297
2401 128 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0E6
$850,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2645297
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 885 sq. ft.
Welcome to the Woodwards - Gastown most Iconic Landmark building by award winning developer Westbank. This elegant and modern 2 Bed, 2 Bath suite offers 885 sqft of luxurious living space and PANORAMIC WATER, MOUNTAIN & CITY VIEWS from every room. Featuring functional open concept floorplan, expensive floor-to-ceiling windows draw in plenty of natural light, in suite front loading washer & dryer, gorgeous S/S appliances, gas cooktop and spa-like master bath w/soaker tub & separate shower. High end rooftop amenities including indoor/outdoor lounge with amazing views, fully equipped fitness center, hot tub, media room and library. Central location! Only steps away from skytrain station, shopping, cafes, restaurants and SFU Downtown Campus. Definitely a must see! More detailsListed by Sutton Group-West Coast Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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404 55 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "KORET APARTMENTS" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2644819
404 55 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 0A5
$829,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2644819
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,079 sq. ft.
KORET LOFTS- a funky heritage conversion in historic Gastown. This spacious (1,070 sq ft) unit has all the features you would want in loft living...an open concept living space, concrete floors, high ceilings with large exposed fir beams, brick walls and views to the North Shore Mountains. The exceptional location is amidst some of Vancouver's trendiest restaurants, coffee shops, markets and boutiques. The building features a beautiful courtyard complete with bbq area, is pet friendly (2) and allows rentals (min. 1 year for unfurnished /min. 7 days for furnished). Please contact your realtor to inquire about viewings. More detailsListed by Royal LePage Sussex - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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514 555 ABBOTT Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "PARIS PLACE" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2642915
514 555 ABBOTT Street Vancouver V6B 6B8
$775,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2642915
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 833 sq. ft.
PARIS PLACE! Great home in the prime Crosstown neighborhood, this large 2-bedroom unit boasts a functional floor plan with updated floor and open-kitchen w/newer SS appliances. Very generous sized master bedroom with ensuite bathroom. The second bedroom is almost the same size as the master! Other highlights include: gas fireplace, large living and dining area, and an over-sized balcony. Amenities include swimming pool, gym, sauna, hot tub, games room, 24/7 security & full time building manager. Rentals & pet friendly. Great property for a families and investors alike! More detailsListed by Dracco Pacific Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1102 66 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2641747
1102 66 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0L2
$739,900Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2641747
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 820 sq. ft.
66 West Cordova by Westbank- a boutique concrete worry free building in the heart of Gastown. This 2 bed + 2 bath floor plan is sure to impress with city scape views & wrap-around covered balcony. Featuring a stunning custom full kitchen reno - too many upgrades to list! Tons of natural light with SE floor to ceiling corner windows. Opportunity to rent a pkg spot and easy hook up ready to go for insuite laundry. Heat and HW included in your Strata fee. Huge landscaped rooftop patio with amazing water, mountain and city views and has a gym, party room and BBQ. Pets Ok! Rentals Ok! (min 30 days). Steps to Prado, Nester's Market, transit and every convenience in trendy Gastown. Showings by Appt & Masks Pls. Thur, Jan 13th 6-7pm. Sat, Jan 15th 1-4pm. *note time change More detailsListed by Macdonald Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
