Historic Landmark / Neighbourhood

Gastown Steam Clock

Vancouver, BC

Steam-powered chimes every 15 minutesHistoric cobblestone streetsNearby design shops and eateriesPhotogenic Victorian-era buildings

About Gastown Steam Clock

The Gastown Steam Clock is a compact but much-photographed landmark that punctuates the cobbled streets of Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood. Every quarter-hour it emits steam and plays a short chime sequence, drawing small crowds of visitors and street photographers.

Beyond the clock, Gastown offers restored Victorian architecture, independent boutiques, art galleries and a lively restaurant scene—an excellent area for walking tours and historic exploration. The steam clock is a short, free stop that fits well into a broader Gastown visit.

Things to Do

Watch the clock’s steam whistles and short performance

Watch the clock’s steam whistles and short performance

Photograph the clock and surrounding heritage architecture

Photograph the clock and surrounding heritage architecture

Explore Gastown’s cobbled streets and boutiques

Explore Gastown’s cobbled streets and boutiques

Dine in nearby restaurants and cafés

Dine in nearby restaurants and cafés

Join a guided walking tour of Gastown history

Join a guided walking tour of Gastown history

Shop for local crafts and design items

Shop for local crafts and design items

Visit at quieter times for calmer photos

Visit at quieter times for calmer photos

Include in a broader downtown walking itinerary

Include in a broader downtown walking itinerary

Food & Dining

Din Tai Fung 鼎泰豐restaurant

Din Tai Fung 鼎泰豐

Cactus Club Caferestaurant

Cactus Club Cafe

Breka Bakery & Café - W Hastingsbakery

Breka Bakery & Café - W Hastings

Phnom Penh Restaurantvietnamese_restaurant

Phnom Penh Restaurant

Vietnamese-Cambodian institution draws fans with specialties including chicken wings & butter beef.

Cafe Medinacafe

Cafe Medina

Snug spot for coffee, & an eclectic daytime menu including waffles with unique toppings.

Nightingalerestaurant

Nightingale

Chef David Hawksworth's informal restaurant/bar serving modern Canadian fare & classic cocktails.

Jam Cafecafe

Jam Cafe

Huge portions of brunch fare are served with breakfast cocktails at this hip, bustling cafe.

SOCIAL CORNER YALETOWNitalian_restaurant

SOCIAL CORNER YALETOWN

Innovative Italian cuisine & Spanish tapas, plus gelato & craft cocktails in a contemporary setting.