The oldest part of the city, this quaint area stretches east from Canada Place to Maple Tree Square along Vancouver's harbor. Make sure that you include this in your visit to Vancouver. Entering Gastown is like taking a step back in time to 1867 when the city of Vancouver was founded. Back then it was named after a colorful saloon owner named Gassy Jack Deighton.

More than 100 years later, the area still features turn-of-the-century street lamps, cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and courtyards. Having undergone a massive restoration in the late 1960s, Gastown is now getting another facelift as old buildings are transformed into fashionable live-work spaces in the manner of New York lofts.

The area is known for its late-Victorian architecture, and for some superbly appointed stores and restaurants. Visit the Harbour Centre with its Lookout! Observation deck. A statue of the city's founding father oversees Maple Tree Square.

You might wonder where the music of chimes is coming from: the Gastown Steam Clock sounds the Westminster chimes on the hour every hour. Gastown is also famous for its nightlife. Water Street is home to many nightclubs and lounges, as well as exquisite restaurants.