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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PH1 108 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "WOODWARDS" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2716063
PH1 108 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0G5 
$2,498,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2716063
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,658 sq. ft.
'PENTHOUSE ONE' has WORLD CLASS/DIRECT WATER VIEWS from ALL rooms/living spaces including the over 1500sf patio which is breathtaking/an entertainer's dream. The interior, boasting nearly 1700sf is open concept on the main floor, with clean lines, 9'2" foot ceilings, wood flooring, window seating, and a large guest bedroom/ensuite. Upstairs is a sanctuary, with a lounge, huge storage room plus a generous Primary Bedroom/Ensuite that is sure to impress. The private walk out patio is completely incredible/unique, drenched in sunshine, and has irrigation/natural gas plus room for 200 (or so) of your closest friends! This is a world class yet accessible PH, in a centrally located boutique building with amenities including a concierge, hot tub/spa and clubhouse/gym! https://vimeo.com/740480034 More detailsListed by Dexter Realty
- Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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31 120 POWELL Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Pilkington House" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2726406
31 120 POWELL Street Vancouver V6A 1G1
$2,250,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2726406
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 2,854 sq. ft.
BOUTIQUE HERITAGE LOFT CONVERSION This heritage building features 2 large suites per floor and a common rooftop patio. There are only 6 residential units, and one ground floor commercial office. Built in 1910, Pilkington House was once used as a glass distribution factory and converted to residential lofts in 1991. This bright NW corner three bedroom home is one of Vancouver's largest lofts at 2854 sq.ft. The suite features concrete floors, exposed brick walls, fireplace, heritage wood beams along with twelve large opening windows on the west side with three more 'hopper' style windows facing north. Two parking spots underground, rentals allowed. Located in the heart of Gastown near fine neighbourhood restaurants, galleries, shopping and cafe's. Unique! Open House Sunday, Oct 9th, 1-3pm More detailsListed by Coldwell Banker Prestige Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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PH2 36 WATER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "TERMINUS" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2695383
PH2 36 WATER Street Vancouver V6B 0B7
$2,199,800Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2695383
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,389 sq. ft.
Terminus sets a new standard in hip & historic Gastown. With views south, east & north from the 800+ SF private roof terrace - PH2 is a rare ownership opportunity, it has a grand feel from start to finish with 1389 SF of indoor space and soaring 10 ceilings filling the A/C space with natural light. Finished to a high standard with strand walnut hardwood floors & imported Dutch porcelain tiles. Two fully integrated Liebherr Fridge/freezers, Bosch cooktop, oven & dishwasher. Stainless steel counter, backsplash & Blanco sink. The large primary suite flows into a gorgeous spa-like bathroom with glass steam shower & separate soaker tub. Also included: Bosch Axxis washer & dryer. Rooftop outdoor kitchen with natural gas grill, U-Line outdoor fridge & Blanco undermount sink. Open house Sat/Sun, June 4 & 5 from 2pm-4pm More detailsListed by Oakwyn Realty Ltd. - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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PH3 36 WATER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "TERMINUS" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2723498
PH3 36 WATER Street Vancouver V6B 0B7
$1,949,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2723498
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,202 sq. ft.
The VIEW rooftop deck that sits above this beautiful penthouse is hard to come by. A coveted location in Gastown, this modern, warm home is bathed in natural light from full height windows and 10' ceilings, flooding the space w/an airy, light feel but stays cool w/AC. Quiet nights in or entertain away in your 1200 sqft interior & 1000 sqft of balcony & rooftop decks w/outdoor kitchen and gas hookups. Beautiful/interesting views from every space, in and out, from water & mtns, to historic & vibrant Gastown. The warmth continues w/ H/W floors, Geothermal heating/cooling & Nuheat floors in the baths. Fresh paint and the floors being refinished to bring them back to new, this home is move-in ready! Just steps to some of the best restaurants, and coolest fashion and design shops in the city. More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver - 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®# R2713322
708 27 ALEXANDER Street Vancouver V6A 1B2
$1,565,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2713322
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,383 sq. ft.
Stunning expansive loft in prime Gastown location with magnificent mountain + water views. Commanding almost 1400 sf on one level, this extraordinary sexy suite was transformed by renowned interior designer Patricia Grey with the remarkable attention to detail featuring top of line kitchen, custom finishes, tons of glass slider storage, custom lighting/sound – a true marvel. Open concept kitchen leads to large living room + adjacent dining with large (new) windows showcasing the breath-taking views. Terrific large primary suite w exceptional spa-inspired double sink ensuite w steam shower. Featured in Architectural Digest + Western Living. Great building w common roof deck w BBQ + lounge. 2 side-by-side parking. Pets (2) allowed + rentals permitted. ONE-OF-A-KIND. More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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605 55 ALEXANDER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "55 Alexander" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2711449
605 55 ALEXANDER Street Vancouver V6A 1B2
$1,288,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2711449
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,172 sq. ft.
VIEWS & a HUGE private terrace make this 2 bedroom/2 bathroom home the perfect urban residence in the heart of downtown. A 300 square foot private terrace complete with a fire pit, overlooking unobstructed views of Canada Place, the harbour & North Shore mountains. Fantastic location !!! This sophisticated, spacious view home features a main floor that boasts near 17ft ceilings & floor to ceiling windows. Polished concrete floors, an open gourmet kitchen, anchored with high end appliances, granite counter tops & generous storage. Underground private parking and large storage room. Pets & rentals allowed with restrictions. Showings by appt More detailsListed by RE/MAX Crest Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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3203 128 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2728776
3203 128 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0E6
$1,199,900Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2728776
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,019 sq. ft.
Come check out this High Floor 1019 sqft Corner Unit 2 Bed 2 Bath with spectacular unparalleled panoramic views of Vancouver's Harbour, North Shore Mountains, Stanley Park, and Lions Gate Bridge. This large unit located in Woodwards W-43 is part of a building filled with architectural history that is nearby Gastown, known to be one of the most iconic parts of Metro Vancouver. Woodwards is a bridge between the upscale and modern parts of Downtown Vancouver and the trendy, hipster side of Gastown. Unit comes with 2 Parking Stalls and 1 Storage Locker. Building features roof top gym, hot tub and lounge area with panoramic views of mountain, sea and city. More detailsListed by Sutton Group - 1st West Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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801 27 ALEXANDER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "THE ALEXANDER" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2721653
801 27 ALEXANDER Street Vancouver V6A 1B2
$1,150,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2721653
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 894 sq. ft.
EXTREMELY RARE Penthouse with PRIVATE 348sq.ft. ROOF TOP Deck. North facing unobstructed water/Mountain/North Van views. A true Gastown gem at the heritage Alexander building. Exposed brick walls & polished concrete floors throughout. Updated Kitchen with all SS appliances. Multiple skylights giving amazing natural light and access through one to the rooftop. Situated in the heart of Gastown close to restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. Well maintained building w/common rooftop patio. Short Term Rentals and Pets OK (1). Showings only Saturdays 3-4pm by appointment. More detailsListed by Dexter Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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1809 108 W CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "Woodwards 32" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2722667
1809 108 W CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6B 0G5
$1,150,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2722667
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,014 sq. ft.
The ONE you've been waiting for! High above vibrant & historic Gastown - completely unobstructed 270 degree views of Burrard Inlet, North Shore mountains & City from every room of the only 2 bedroom floorplan at Woodward's 32. This NW corner suite is a high end unit featuring a sleek modern kitchen w/gas range, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, island seating & mirrored backsplash. 2 tiled balconies w/ epic views for entertaining, barbecues & container gardening are an absolute delight. 2 large & bright bedrooms have custom closets & spa inspired baths. Suite features white oak engineered hardwood, custom glass desk, designer wallpaper, new paint & mirrored entryway. Enjoy the Rooftop Club W amenities:lounge, media centre, hot tub, gym, BBQ area. Strata fee includes internet, heat, hot water. 1 parking spot included More detailsListed by RE/MAX Crest Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
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PH610 53 W HASTINGS Street in Vancouver: Downtown VW Condo for sale in "PARIS ANNEX" (Vancouver West) : MLS®# R2728700
PH610 53 W HASTINGS Street Vancouver V6B 1G4
$1,099,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2728700
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,589 sq. ft.
PENTHOUSE LOFT built in 2012 by Salient Group with 16 foot ceilings, features polished concrete floors, Italian cabinetry, composite stone countertops. The expansive floor plan of 1,074 sq ft creates an open and bright space with a loft master bedroom plus in-suite bath, full bath on main floor and 2nd bedroom/ flex space plus den! outdoor spaces totaling over 500 sqft are perfect for entertaining. space. 1 parking underground + separate storage locker. Pets & Rentals allowed. More detailsListed by Sutton Group-West Coast Realty - Aedis Realty
- 604-688-8669
- 604-657-1111
- Contact by Email
