Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the waterfront, and as Gastown declined in importance it became rundown. By the 1960s
this historical district held nothing more than decrepit Victorian-era buildings and empty
warehouses. The government originally planned to redevelop the entire district, with in-
tentions to construct an expressway through the heart of Gastown. The public outcry was
loudandclear;Vancouveriteswerebecomingmoreawareoftheirheritage.Theplanswere
scuttled and Gastown was saved. A massive rejuvenation program commenced, and today
historical Gastown is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. Tree-lined cobble-
stone streets and old gas lamps front brightly painted, restored buildings that hold galler-
ies, restaurants, and an abundance of gift and souvenir shops.
WALKING TOUR: GASTOWN
Mostoftheactioncentersalong
Water Street,
whichbrancheseastoffCordovaStreetand
slopes gently toward the site of Gassy Jack's original saloon (now the Alhambra Hotel).
a rainy night in Gastown
As you first enter Water Street, you're greeted by
The Landing,
a seven-story heritage
building that has had its exterior restored to its former glory and its interior transformed
from a warehouse into an upmarket shopping arcade. It also holds several eateries and the
