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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57-63 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "KORET LOFTS" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2578671
57-63 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 1K3 
$2,998,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2578671
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 3,047 sq. ft.
Exceptional Street-Front exposure at Koret Lofts in this flexible Live/Work space in the heart of historic Gastown! Unique layout offers 2 individually titled units in two levels. This One of a kind, large 3,047 sf. main and mezzanine level offers many options. Live-in, Rent, Invest...Beautiful Heritage conversion units mixing sleek modern design with restored original brick, sandblasted wooden beams and interior designer finishes. Unit is backing into gorgeous courtyard. 2 designated secured parking stall included. Please call for private viewing. More detailsListed by Rennie & Associates Realty Ltd.
- Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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708 27 ALEXANDER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "THE ALEXIS" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2574926
708 27 ALEXANDER Street Vancouver V6A 1B2
$1,688,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2574926
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,383 sq. ft.
Welcome to The Alexis, one of Gastown’s premier heritage conversion buildings. No expense has been spared in this 1 Bedroom 2 Bathroom luxury sub-penthouse condo that was meticulously renovated to the utmost quality by internationally acclaimed interior designer, Patricia Grey. With 1,383 square feet of exposed open living, this exceptional suite comes fully loaded with integrated lighting and remote-controlled Lutron blinds, new windows, radiant in-floor heating, theatrical performing sound system, custom kitchen, extensive built-in features, Miele and Sub-Zero appliances, built-in vacuum system, ample storage space, spacious, spa-like bathrooms with steam shower and Villeroy & Boch ceramic bathroom fixtures, communal rooftop patio, and two secure side-by-side parking stalls. As featured in some of home magazine’s leading publications - including Architectural Digest and Western Living, this striking condo offers jaw-dropping unobstructed forever water, city, and mountain views. More detailsListed by Angell, Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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273 COLUMBIA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2604756
273 COLUMBIA Street Vancouver V6A 2R5
$1,388,888Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2604756
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,587 sq. ft.
Expansive ground floor LIVE/WORK space of nearly 1,600 SQFT at Koret Lofts. In the Gastown Historic District, this HA-2 zoned unit allows a multitude of home and/or business uses. This unit showcases 15'9 ceilings, designer lighting, 3 tilt-in windows, integrated sound and an abundance of custom cabinetry. Heritage wood beams and custom concrete floors make this an inviting home, retail, office, or gallery space. Top-of-the-line commercial-grade kitchen with an extra-large island and GE stainless steel appliances. The loft up highlights an elegant master suite with extensive custom built-ins & storage. One secured parking spot. Excellent, well-maintained building features a stunning, two-grill courtyard patio; secure bike room; pets and rentals OK. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Crest Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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303 55 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Koret Lofts" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2586602
303 55 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 0A5
$1,188,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2586602
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,227 sq. ft.
Expansive NYC style loft in Gastown's coveted Koret Lofts. Recently renovated, this hip open concept space boasts gleaming concrete floors, large entertainment size living room w adjacent dining and kitchen, plus a flex area perfect for office, all adorned w exposed brick + old growth beams & mountain views! The pro chef’s kitchen is perfectly appointed w modern wht cabinetry, ss appliances, lrg gas range, wine fridge, stainless island. The master bedroom is hidden behind a beautiful custom built barn door, complete with lots of storage and large beautifully renovated spa-inspired ensuite bath w exposed bathtub + subway tiled shower. The building provides a great outdoor patio/seating/BBQ area for the owners' enjoyment. 2 pets ok. 1 u/g parking. More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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309 27 ALEXANDER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "ALEXIS" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2584702
309 27 ALEXANDER Street Vancouver V6A 1B2
$1,098,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2584702
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,109 sq. ft.
Alexis, a premier heritage building conversion in the heart of Gastown.One of only 3 ocean view lofts in the building. This sophisticated industrial style loft features 17 foot ceilings, exposed concrete columns & expansive views of the North shore mountains & Crab park. Towering 2 storey windows & walls perfect for your art pieces, feature gas F/P with an industrial metal notched facade & chrome diamond plate. Open kitchen has minimalist cabinetry, gas stove, Fisher & Paykel S/S fridge, Miele dishwasher and quartz countertops. Main floor bedroom has B/I double murphy bed/desk combination & thick frameless glass barn door. B/I storage under stairs, large primary loft bedroom with space for King bed with W/I closet, ensuite with separate seamless glass shower & soaker tub.1 secured parking. More detailsListed by Macdonald Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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203 55 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Koret Lofts" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2578395
203 55 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 0A5
$998,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2578395
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,200 sq. ft.
Welcome to this amazing, truly New York Style loft at the "Koret" building in the heart of Gastown. If you are looking for the perfect, stylish, unique and large loft, here it is. The open kitchen is a dream for entertaining and the dining area seats all of your friends at a large dining table. Walls of exposed brick, wooden beams and a beautiful historic ceiling make this outstanding loft a rare and unique find. Shower and bathroom are stylish, unique and practical. A huge, fully fenced and cozy common courtyard is equipped with BBQs and seating for your summer gatherings. This is the perfect place to create your stylish and creative abode, for working from home, having friends over or just to hang out. The loft comes with 1 parking and is on the quiet side of the building. More detailsListed by Macdonald Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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807 168 POWELL Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Smart" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2587913
807 168 POWELL Street Vancouver V6A 0B2
$965,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2587913
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,019 sq. ft.
Grab your safe 6 and prepare for a summer of BBQs and outdoor entertaining! This 2 bed, 2 bath penthouse with a massive rooftop patio, has been meticulously updated and renovated with luxury & practical living in mind. Featuring an open plan, with rooms that are designed for multiple uses, floor-to ceiling windows usher in natural light. Lots of custom touches and upgrades including Euro style kitchen, pot lights, engineered hardwood, closet organizers, seagrass feature wall, murphy bed, & glass framed staircases. PRIVATE ROOFTOP PATIO enhances city living with mountain and water views & comes fully furnished ready for summer relaxation. SMART by Concord, built with ecological and sustainable design, coupled with an amazing residence perched above the heart of the historic Gastown district More detailsListed by Sotheby's International Realty Canada - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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3106 438 SEYMOUR Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "CONFERENCE PLAZA" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2596844
3106 438 SEYMOUR Street Vancouver V6B 6H4
$938,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2596844
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 817 sq. ft.
Welcome to the Penthouse on 31st floor with 180 degree view of North, East & South. 244 sq ft of balcony/patio with the best view in Downtown. This unit has been totally remodeled with granite counters in the kitchen & both bathrooms. Excellent layout with 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom plus den. Comes with cozy gas fireplace. Perfect location: Walking distance to everything. A few blocks from Waterfront station, close to business district (future Amazon, Apple & Facebook office), shopping (Pacific Center), downtown SFU, BCIT and entertainment. Superb amenities: indoor pool, fitness centre, 24 hrs security. Open house July 18: Sunday 2-4pm More detailsListed by Century 21 In Town Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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310 12 WATER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "The Garage" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2585391
310 12 WATER Street Vancouver V6B 1A4
$848,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2585391
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 875 sq. ft.
Welcome to The Garage! Originally built in 1889 as the 'Water St Garage Ltd', this is one of the best heritage conversions located in the trendy Gastown neighbourhood. This boutique building of 34 units is zoned for live/work and centered around a vibrant & intimate courtyard with a great tea house, restaurants & more just steps outside your door. Inside you will find an open concept living space boasting 8'7 ceilings, with tons of natural light spilling in through floor to ceiling windows, while the exposed brick and beautiful hardwood floors throughout give this space warmth. Outfitted with Miele appliances, energy-efficient variable refrigerant heating & cooling, Bosch in-suite laundry and a flexible office/storage room, this is the ultimate downtown living. Pets and Rentals welcome. More detailsListed by Stilhavn Real Estate Services - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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503 36 WATER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "TERMINUS" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2597834
503 36 WATER Street Vancouver V6B 0B7
$829,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2597834
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 911 sq. ft.
Terminus : Modernist Loft Building in the heart of historic Gastown. An architecturally savvy boutique building newly redeveloped by reputable Salient Developments. A unique luxury 911 sq ft rarely available flat features natural sunlight and spacious room; perfect to entertain guests or curl up w/ your fav book. New high quality structure offers European styled kitchens equipped w/ Bosch appliances & stainless steel countertops, Air-conditioning. A spa-like bathroom w/ ceramic tiling, sliding glass walls and high end fixtures. Geothermal heat/cool system, landmark rooftop patio, distinctive lobby and attention to detail- makes Terminus one of the most sought buildings. Call to book your showing today! More detailsListed by Oakwyn Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
