Gastown, Vancouver BC

Gastown, a neighborhood in Vancouver, is a historic and trendy spot located in the northwest section of the Downtown Eastside. Gastown is actually the original settlement that became the heart of Vancouver, so you can imagine the history that’s packed into this place. It’s even a national historic site! The name “Gastown” comes from a Yorkshire seaman named “Gassy” Jack Deighton, who arrived in 1867 and opened the area’s first saloon. Cool, right?

Today, Gastown is a hub for arts, fashion, and all-around good vibes. You’ll find tons of fantastic restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries here. It’s a neighbourhood that’s full of life. 

In terms of real estate, Gastown is a highly desirable neighborhood in Vancouver. According to bode.ca¹, a website that allows homeowners to sell their properties without a REALTOR®, the average home price in 2023 is $1 million², a bit lower than the city average. Homes here are a bit smaller, with an average size of 1,400 square feet². But the perks of living in Gastown make up for it. You’ll be close to downtown Vancouver and all the amenities it offers. Plus, public transit and bike lanes are easily accessible. The community here is diverse, inclusive, and rich in history and culture. It’s a place where you can enjoy a high quality of life and feel safe.

Gastown is a buzzing commercial hub that supports local entrepreneurs and attracts visitors from all over the city. The Gastown Business Improvement Society³ is a non-profit organization that organizes awesome events like festivals, markets, and concerts. They’re all about promoting the interests of over 400 businesses and property owners in Gastown. 

Gastown is also a paradise for your taste buds. L’Abattoir⁴ is an award-winning restaurant that serves French-inspired West Coast cuisine. Their dishes are made with local and seasonal ingredients, like duck breast, lamb sirloin, and seafood tower. Oh, and their cocktails are out of this world! And for authentic Irish fare with a modern touch, check out The Irish Heather⁵. They’ve got classics like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips, plus a killer whiskey selection.

There are great options for education in Gastown. Lord Strathcona Elementary School⁶ is a public elementary school that focuses on multiculturalism, social justice, and environmental education. They even have a Mandarin bilingual program and an Aboriginal education program. If you prefer a Catholic school, St. Francis Xavier School⁷ is an excellent choice. They prioritize faith development, academic excellence, and personal growth. And don’t forget about Simon Fraser University’s⁸ downtown campus. They offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study.

So, if you’re looking for a historic and trendy community to live, work, or visit in Vancouver, Gastown is the place to be. You’ll soak up the rich history and culture, and meet some of the friendliest folks around. It’s truly Vancouver at its best.