Reviews of Gastown Steam Clock (Tourist Attraction)

Scott Kerrison

While its classic looks and steam power would suggest the clock harkens back to an earlier age of industrialisation, it was much more recently in 1977 that the clock was built. It does, though, attract a bit of a crowd, which apparently was part of the reason for its construction - also said to include preventing the homeless from sleeping on top of the steam grate that vented from the distributed heating system underneath. Unfortunately as a further deception, steam is no longer the primary means of the clock actually running - that proving to be too inaccurate and too noisy - with an electric motor originally intended to just be a backup providing the main power source. But at least it looks good and suits the look and feel of the area.

Manal Alrfooh

A nice historical clock that uses steam to run. You can see the inside physical system ,through the glass, which utilizes steam to make the clock work. I believe visiting the area and seeing the clock is best on rainy days as, I think, the steam that is coming from the clock will make you feel warm. :D

Violet

Interesting to go to. It’s a steam clock, whistles a tune every half-hour, I believe. Not too many people when we went but the area was really nice at night. I wouldn’t say it’s a “must-see” but if you’re in downtown Vancouver, then you might as well go see it.

Hitesh lalwani

This is an amazing clock from the history which works on steam.

Ness B

A mus-see in Vancouver ! A clock designed for the entertainment of everyone ???? The clock releases steam and makes music every 15 minutes for a short time, and every hour for a bit longer. Free to access of course, as it is at a street corner

izaaz 28

Nice clock to see but really don't see a point if your visiting Vancouver for few days. Best time to see and take pics is after the suns goes down.

Divya Kansal

Best experience in night! Loved the place the lightning the environment everything was awesome!

Chen li

Good to visit but careful when you come in night.

Emmanuel Ramirez

Raymond Saunders' first steam clock was built in 1977 at the corner of Cambie and Water streets in Vancouver's Gastown neighbourhood, to deter people from sleeping on top of steam grate of distributed steam heating system in cold weather.Although the clock is now owned by the City of Vancouver, funding for the project, estimated to be about $C58,000, was provided by contributions from local merchants, property owners, and private donors. Incorporating a steam engine and electric motors, the clock displays the time on four faces and announces the quarter hours with a whistle chime that plays the Westminster Quarters.The clock produces a puff of steam from its top on the hour.The clock is featured on the cover for the 2011 Nickelback album Here and Now. The steam engine that originally ran the clock is a Stuart #4 single expansion double acting 1" piston engine.This engine is still visible through the glass sides of the clock. However, owing to the clock's high noise levels and inability to keep accurate time, since 1986 the clock has been powered by an electric motor that was originally intended solely as a back-up system.

Somewhere Out There

you definitely wouldn't want to miss this when you're in Vancouver BC

Dev Patel

It was great experience. You can locate it easily but the problem is, it’s in the Vancouver downtown area. Sometimes in the peak time, you’ll have trouble finding the parking space. However, the steam clock will make you happy anyway.

James A

Travelled from. Toronto to Van just for this... Jk.... Its a good spot to take pictures and then head to some of the great restaurants in gastown

T W

I love seeing this fantastic steam powered clock! It's great to take a date and get a selfie with!

Nitin Thukral

Great opportunity to revisit part of Vancouver's distinguished history. Be sure to stay for the chimes that ring every 15 minutes and keep an eye open for the steam rising from the top of the clock!

Kristina Kouris

First time here and loved the ambiance!! Cobble stone streets, old times buildings and this steam clock! Can't believe how quickly we stumbled upon it and not crowded at all. Fun to look at and experience!

Davey TEO

Beautiful sight. I was lucky enough to walk by it two times before it started to do its thing. It is a must see for tourists in Vancouver. Love it.

Carlos Hof

Gastown is a really nice place in the Vancouver Island. Lot's of stores, restaurants and bars. The clock itself is a piece of artwork found in the corner of a street. Nice unusual clock to see. Worthwhile walking around the area.

Steve Pewsey

This Steam clock is famous. It a prime place for pictures. A must see on the tourist.

Joanne Bugeya

Interesting to watch history unfold as the Steamclock chimed the quarter hour. Nice to see that it still draws a crowd. It is so pretty and welcoming in a lovely part of Vancouver. Really enjoyed our visit.

Kirby-Lee Staltari

What a beautiful piece of art/history! Still working as a steam clock and it’s even more beautiful on a summers day. Gastown is a beautiful neighbourhood, too. Worth exploring! @spiffingtravels

Sabrina Hoq

A beautiful dreamy street to have a romantic walk with your partner or perfect find for your classic insta posts under sparkling lights in the evening.

Joe McNeely

Fun fact: this steam clock is electric, it doesn't run off steam and if you come to Vancouver and don't take a picture in front of it you didn't actually come to Vancouver

Lalitha Gonzales

Is pretty underwhelming. Much smaller than expected, nice visual on a cold night though. You can visibly see the steam evaporating from the top of the clock.

An D

It's quite small in size but is really loud. Kinda interesting to see

Jeremy Swartwood

Pictures can't describe it. Come at night, when it's dark. The steam coming out provides an atmosphere that fills your thoughts with the past. Its a clock that's (supposedly) powered via steam.

Walton Weller

Steam sprays out gota see it to believe it lol

Ananthakrishnan Sannalan

If you are in vancouver you must find the best coffee place and walk through downtown, sea food is cheaper compared to toronto and delicious with wide varieties, also don’t forget to hear the Steam clock whistle :)

Didula Egodage

Unique piece of mechanical art. Take your time. Watch and examine the exposed mechanism. Wait for an hour marker to listen to the soothing whistles. It's fascinating.

David Kaufman

Nice place to visit, great city. If you are going to be in Gastown you might as well wait for the clock to chime. Sounds like a little train.

Garibaldi Sailing

Good part of the city and the old town. You have some nice coffee shops around. Try to going there, when it is not too busy, too much people try to do videos or pictures of the steam clock. That's a nice curiosity.

Jacob Connor

Cool clock. Amazing invention. Popular spot, generally some people around, but less in the morning.

Kayla Morin

I love Gastown! The clock is a must see for those of you that have never been! Try and go there just before the next hour to hear it whistle and steam away!! All kinds of lovely shops to browse and wander through as well as many nice places to eat and drink. You'll when you're in Gastown when you see the bubble lamps everywhere!!

Sam Mullis

Gastown is a great place to visit and this is a very cool landmark to stop by. It whistles on the quarter hour. Worth a few minutes of your time while touring.

Lady Boner69

You'll see 2 or 3 homeless people walking around. But no where near this ancient clock. Lots of people from Asia that's for sure.

Brian Presunka

It is always joyful to see the tourists enjoying the clock as much as I did the first time I saw it when I was a child, good memories getting better and it never cost me a dime

Francis Bourgouin

Nice but always surrounded by tourists ;)

Farid Pirani

Very cool clock! The steam whistle goes off every 15 mins (and a louder one every hour). The street it's on is also nice to walk around on. Lots of street parking as well (pay with coins).

Ishan Grover (Ishan Grover)

Amazing and extraordinary sight of one of a kind masterpiece that operates on natural steam escaping from the ground.

Vish Herath

Very cool clock! Felt like I'm in a steampunk novel, standing next to it ????????

LUIS LEBRUN

Gastown is one of my favourite parts of Vancouver. I've been to Vancouver several times and I never miss the chance of having either lunch or dinner down here. The environment at Gastown resembles that of the early european settlement of George Vancouver. I highly recommend strolling in the whereabouts of Gastown where one may bump into a cosmopolitan shoe shop here, a fancy gourmet restaurant there. The steaming clock while being mainly for tourist, still offers the mystic of the area. Do not miss it when it chimes at either o'clock or each quarter of an hour. I simply adore the tiled-sided walks, cobbled roads. Just a must !

R Broome

It was definitely a cool clock and the area is beautiful at night. The street gets lit up with nice lighting.

Brent Schile

Is a fun area to explore in the city with cool little shops to go into. The steam clock is very interesting to watch. It’s old with good history to it.

Matt Clarke

Sry nice piece of history well maintained - great area to walk around and explore with wide walkways and plenty of stores, cafes, restaurants, bars and more - can spend a few hours around here

hema priya a.g

Steam clock was good, but the streets were fully occupied by druggies. I went on walk from stadium china town station, the roads were full of them n too dirty. Didn't felt safe to walk.

Lovepreet Birdi

A great tourist place to hand out and especially during night time when the streets lit like it's Christmas. The steam clock is very iconic too which runs on a steam engine which is placed naked under the glass walls of clock, you can actually see the engine working. Every 15 minutes it'll make sound by emitting steam at different paces from the 5 outlets at the top. Every hour the music or sound generated by gas get's even more interesting and is a pleasure to see and hear. Apart from that you can see Vancouver lookout from there too and it's a great opportunity for photographers to get both of these in shots.

Priyanka Negi

It's very cool. The streets were so lighted up that it looked so amazing. Every 15 minutes it makes a short whistle and every another hour a longer one????. It's a place for the occasional shoot too. When we went there some couple photoshoot was happening so didn't get time for getting it clicked properly. Right in front of it, there is a restaurant called water street, don't go there. Not a worthy place. FYI.

Andrea Chocorrol

A historical and nostalgic place. By day it looks great from the steam and at night it looks even more beautiful.

Canadian Reviewer

The Gastown Steam Clock is a marvel piece of engineering from ancient times. Visit the clock when the time is on the hour, and you will hear the clock’s beautiful tune powered by steam.

Priyanka S

Loved Gastown! The clock is a must see for those of you that have never been! Plan and go there just before the next hour to hear it whistle and steam away!! Really cool. All kinds of lovely shops to browse and wander. Lots of nice places to eat and drink. Clock blows short whistles every 15 minutes and a longer one every hour.

Chris Lahey

This thing is awesome. It reminds me a bit of a Rube Goldberg machine, but it's a working clock. A really cool detail is that the slower chain that powers the actual clock only moves when the pendulum ticks. It's an excellent demonstration of the escapement mechanism.

Deborah East

The area is really cute and nice to stroll around and shop. There must have been 25 souvenir shops on the portion of the street we walked on, so if that’s what you’re looking for they have it there. As for the steam clock, it was a nice clock. Interesting to look at for a minute. Surprisingly big crowd around the clock on a Saturday afternoon. I would go back to the area in general for the food and shopping and pause a second for the clock.

Paige Turko

Walked down here on our last day to see the clock and what a site! Very neat piece of history and the Gastown shops/streets were fun to explore as well!

刘恩祺

I LOVE GASTOWN，Every 30 minutes there would be a steam sound, but I remember there might be some inaccuracies.

jinky TravelDiaries

It's a tourist spot that you enjoy to walk around lots of restaurants in the area when you get hungry ????????

Lianne Cohen

Local scenic place... Gastown even on a rainy day

Keith Pang

2021.11 day and night has different feel. Open area. Lot of people

Jay Schappert

It's just a hint old a bit behind time but it's an iconic piece of Gastown not to be missed.

Ni N.

Pretty popular among tourists ????

LEONARDO BLENGINI

Its very beatifull and its history amazing, I never ssw this kind of vapor machine, really nice!!!!

Cp Jat

Its shopping street. Nothing fancy about it. Its a great picturesque place and tourist attraction. Not so great area to stroll around past mid night but definitely party place

Leon

Very nice area for photos with a beautiful towering building just behind the clock. At each hour the steam clock will play a tune and then sound a number of times (whatever time it is). Walking down Cambie Street, you'll see buildings that look like rusted red metal. There's a guy who does tours around this area that came by one evening.

runny maan

Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, Gastown grew from a single tavern founded by John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton back in 1867. Today, the district retains its historic charm and independent spirit. Victorian architecture houses a thriving fashion scene, impeccably curated décor boutiques, one-of-a-kind galleries and some of the best culinary fare in Vancouver. It’s a gathering place for stylish locals and an ideal neighbourhood to explore on foot. Gastown lies along the north of the downtown Vancouver peninsula, from Richards east to Main Street, and south to Hastings Street.

Dimitris Protsios

It's one of the nicest areas (Gastown) in the city so the clock is a beautiful addition to it. So is the sound of it.

Israel Rodriguez

Great place to take pictures. You better go at night so there's enough space to take photos with no one in front of the camera. But don't go too late because the clock doesn't whistle at around 11 PM.

Michelle Nye

We were walking through Gastown stopped quick to see the clock. It was pretty cool but I wouldn't go out of my way to see it.

Judy Spencer

A very interesting clock. We just happened by at 15 min to the hour and were greeted by a lovely melody and a fine mist spray. We were standing too close reading the plaque.

Shaiema Joseph

Fascinating. I was not expecting the chiming. It was worth each second watching the weights rotate and the gears spinning.

Vidhya S

The rare steam clock in gastown is supposed to be the second steam clock in the world and one of the few to be still functioning. The clock whistles every quarter of an hour and at every hour it whistles longer. It’s worth the wait. I enjoy the view whenever I get a chance and you would have also seen this in many movies and series too.

Ankit Rajvanshi

Gastown steam clock - built in 1977, this well-known, antique-style clock is powered by electricity to generate steam & whistles every hour. Situated in beautiful Gastown area this is a treat to eyes.

R

Great!! I've been visiting Gastown since first trip to Vancouver is 1986 and it has changed. Higher end shops now. Still fun. Clock is a must see.

Estonian Family

Cool historic area of the city. Nice shops and restaurants. Steam mechanism clock goes off every 15 minutes. Can watch the mechanism in the clock working before it goes off. Try to make it on the hour.

Aditya Samalla

One of the rarest functioning steam clock in the world! Must see attraction in Vancouver!

Baba Bhavesh (BabaBhavesh)

Vancouver history has very few shadows that reflect in present. This clock is 1 of them

Hersh Chandargi

World’s first steam clock. In an interesting old part of Vancouver.

Sergio Visneskie

Cool steam clock, in a cool neighborhood surrounded by great restaurants, highly recommend taking a stroll down here. Great photo of. It's popular for a reason.

Casey

I didn't even notice that was the clock. So tiny but weather and everything made it nice. I think planning a trip just for a clock is a waste. Drop by will be perfect

Shruty Reddy

Well maintained historical clock. One needs to wait just 15 minutes to enjoy the siren from the steam clock.

Fei Lin

It's so elegant. Must visit in Gastown.

Charlie & Christy Stilwell

A very cool piece of Vancouver history!

Hessam Etminan

It was a cute steam clock which can reflect the recwnt history of Vancouver in a very beautiful walking street.

xX WøłfįēXx

Nice winter scenery

Nicole Ong

This was the second time I visit Gastown. It was a nice street to walk and shop. Some of the shops have very nice souvenirs. If you wish to shop some souvenirs, walk and check the prices before you buy. ???? We went to this Hudson House to bought our souvenirs, they are cheaper and have more varieties.

Pucho A

Such a cool clock!

123 LSA

Best place to watch time

lotus s

Amazing to see this clock still going strong. Located in one of the oldest areas in Vancouver. Lots of dining places and variety of shops around. Must see place in Vancouver.

Nathan Deschamps

It looks really cool... But in the end... It's just a clock ????

Howard Thomas

Fascinating steam driven clock. It whistles and 'chimes ' wver quarter of an hour.

Kelvin Surijan

A must photo if you come to Vancouver. Classic spot everyone wait ti hear the steam clock in the older area of Vancouver City. I was there in 1995 and when I came back again in 2018 with my wife, it’s a must to take a photo again there. Vancouver City doing a great job of maintaining it working properly. Many tourist take turn in order to take some photos here. Wait for every 15 minutes they make a sound. On the exact hour they steam play longer melody with the steam. Awesome technology back then.

prasad naik

Sunsets in summer here are pretty awesome ????

Terri

So cool, what a gem! Go check it out!

John Tait

An awesome piece of history everyone wants a photo op with. Can't help that though; it is what it is. People seem to try to allow others to have their quick shot though.

Darío Chaparro

This is the more magical place in town. I just love it. The best memories having living here were in this magical Clock.

EDGAR RUSEV

Lovely little piece of ingeneering . The vibe of old meets new in one lovely corner of a street

Michael Moriarity

While walking along Water Street a very noticeable Steam Clock collects visitors and Vancouver residents to gather as the clock shoots steam and then on the hour it provides a whistle to mark the time..apparently there are 6 other working clocks in the world..again it is a destination in Vancouver..

André Holdschick

Nice steam clock - sounds like big ben. On sunny days you‘ll not be alone. I recommend slightly rainy days - less people. You‘ll have the chance to make a picture without a lot people on it. the clock itself looks charming and you should be there at every full hour to hear the big-ben-sound

Teresa Koecher

Just a few blocks from the Seabus is this darling clock and the best part is the West Street Cafe across the street. It's a not-to-miss eatry. The staff is so proud they give tours and tell stories about the history of the building. Don't miss out!

Pia Selke

It's pretty cool that is steams and looks fancy, but that's about it. We almost missed it the first time because at a side on a crowded intersection. Go there, take a picture, and that's it. It is a good reminder of the towns history

Rafael Elias Melo Ramírez

The clock is a great spot to see Gastown but unfortunately too many homeless on the streets needing Shelter.

Najah Adreak

Never have enough of this energetic and romantic historical area. I usually come here for a walk after work. It's so magical! Beautiful buildings, mountains and water can be seen, great restaurants, shops, cafes! The whistling Steam Clock and the Victorian buildings are a delight to the eyes and give you a sense of nostalgia. What great vibes.

Rajvin Kaur

Famous landmark in Gastown

Rodrigo Morales

There are some great eateries and stores in the area, too bad it’s only a couple of blocks lo g and if you walk too far you end up in a very dodgy area

Daniel Choi

The Gastown Steam Clock is a quaint little steam clock that has captured the hearts of many tourists and is beloved by Vancouverites including myself. It's not exactly something you should go out of your way to visit, but it's nice to pass by and take a picture or two while strolling through Gastown. Gastown of course is a beautiful little area with cafes and restaurants with architecture that is reminiscent of a European town. I personally recommend visiting Gastown (and the Steam Clock) at night, when the sun's gone down and the lights have all turned on. It's especially beautiful in the rain. Take a look at the pictures I've attached. I love this place.

Adette Balot

One of the palopular tourist attraction in vancouver.

Rumana Afroz Sultana

I have been there for 2 times. Really enjoyed. But too much crowded!

Rob Macdonald

This is a nice old part of town in Vancouver. We were able to find parking easily. There are many restaurants and shops in the area. The one item that was very cool was the steam clock. Definitely stop down and see it. When we visited it wasn't too crowded. You just had to wait your turn for picture.

fernando ramirez

this is a nice little piece of Vancouver history. i thought it was much older but it actually wasn't which was okay. the clock is actually still in operation and makes noise and moves around. it's cool to take a peek inside and see all the inner workings of how this clock functions

Sebastian B

Interesting steam clock, it's unique and has a very nice design. It's creating steam continously and every 15 minutes is realeasing the steam through the chimneys and it's "singing" something. Nice tourist attractions, always full of people around and this time also a cute raccoon was watching it :))

Iman RP

I liked the street vibe and the restaurants.

Ashleigh MacDonald

Its what it is. An old steam clock. Be prepared to line up to take a photo. The area is nice but don't stay too far or you will find yourself amongst the homeless druggies.

Robert Stevens

I love clocks and I love old parts of town with shops and more. So, this area is well worth your time. The architecture in the area also piqued my interest.

Lina Di Giulio

Love this area in Vancouver. The steam clock is a must see.

Andre Renovato

This is a very interesting monument located in the heart of Gastown. It was originally built in 1977 it runs on steam and it produces a puff of steam on its top every hour. If you want clear picture you need to be patient, the monument is usually crowded and maybe you can get a cool shot if you wait enough. Also, I would say early in the morning is the best time to try without having to face the crowd.

Tarun Gupta Akirala

Fun piece of history to watch. Cool to watch when it "bells" every hour (or 15mins)

Daljot Singh

Amazing historic artifact. It puffs out steam through its top and four side valves in a fashion which produces a nice melody. Every valve has a different tone when the steam comes out of it. Though I can't verify it, but I've heard that this full melody is played only at an hour's interval, a small one is played at every half an hour, and yet smaller one is played after every quarter. Though people are usually mindful of this but please wait for your turn to take a photo and don't stand in the way of the passersby.

Leesa Michelle

I don’t really see how Gastown is that dangerous like people say. We were there are night, on a nice night out, and there were some of your typical unique people, but nothing more than any other city. I would say it has less questionable people than your average city, actually. You’ll be just fine, especially if you're observant. There were a lot of other people out too. Do what you normally do in a city and you’ll be fine: stay alert, don’t look down at your phone, and don’t be an obvious tourist. It is a really cute area. The steam clock is beautiful and really cool to see in person. I love the vintage feel of the bricks and the street lights.

Ana Ribeiro

Historic place in vancouver, at night is a beautiful place to walk

Amr Amin

Love it , work by steam .. unique .. was rainging night but we enjoy it ..

Sabastian Prosa

Gastown is truly a treat. The cobblestone streets and trendy restaurants and shops lend themselves to a truly European-feeliny paradise. The steampunk click that sits in its center is a marvel of engineering and a fun timepiece.

Edyn Hope

Always a fun attraction on any day. Definitely check it out.

Henry Huynh

The second steam clock in the world. Love to hear when it sounding. Famous and must go place when visting Vancouver

Jack Kaz (HyeProfile)

Interesting and unique steam mechanical clock. While everybody's busy taking videos of the clock tooting (every 15 minutes I think), I was mesmerized by the internal working of this beauty...

DIKSHA DHAR

Must visit Gastown steam clock when in vancouver☺️ The street is happening with beautiful decorated lights and street lamps .Loved it

Sangeetha S

A walk by this lane would be cherished! Visit during the evening hours to witness the beauty of lightings nd also while the clock strikes hours to witness the mechanism of the clock.

Yagyaseni

Located amidst all the lights and people, this place has a completely different vibe! When you're here, you'll feel like you've walked into a fairy tale! It's free to visit and is quite the romantic place! My husband took me to this place and we had a lot of fun! Would recommend going to visit the Steam Clock at night! If you're in this area or close to Vancouver Downtown, you should definitely check out Gastown!

Richard Kwon

Very classic street and lots of memorial shopping and old city viewing.

Uday Pharate

Great attraction, specially on a rainy winter day, grab a coffee and go on a stroll in history. Fantastic and effortless photography opportunity. Contrast of today(the modem buildings in the backdrop) and the clock (in focus) is a sight to see. Kids love this place too and won't stop reading the signs and history behind the be clock.

Jithin

In Victorian buildings, there are numerous tiny souvenir shops, indie art galleries, and home décor stores. Chic cocktail bars and restaurants serve everything from gourmet sandwiches to local seafood as part of the trendy food and drink scene. Grab a cup of coffee and take a stroll to take in the gorgeous scenery. The unique steam clock in Gastown is said to be the world's second steam clock and one of the few that is still operational. Every quarter-hour, the clock whistles louder, and every hour, it whistles even louder. It'll be well worth the wait. Every 15 minutes, the clock blows steam to proclaim the time. It's incredible to witness it in operation and learn about the clock's history, which dates back to 1977.

Master iOqY

Smaller in real life but still pretty cool. Not as old as it looks - built in 1977. It's neat to see the complication through the glass on how the mechanics work beyond the steam works at the top of the hour. Actually powered by electricity, that moves the hydraulics that create the steam.

Trev’s Table

It’s a steam clock in a nice part of town

David Beilis

Amazing steam engine powered clock in the downtown of Vancouver. It is a must place to visit. The clock announces times by blowing steam every 15 min. It is amazing to see it in action and read history of the clock that was running from 1977. Please be careful with parking. City is checking for cars all the time.

Nejc Ravnjak

A interesting place to visit but a quite a turistic place. There are many people taking photos and waiting for the clock to sing its song. The location is quite good and many possibilities to eat and shop but also more homeless people as in other parts i visited.

Neto Nizio

Fun place to spend few minutes recovering from the walking and enjoy the clock announcement. There are good cafes around, so, you should grab some coffee or tea if you prefer, chill and wait for the full 15min or full hour to hear the clock bells. Have fun.

Yomad Hike

Iconic clock in the middle of gas town . Definitely worth a visit.

Les Bee

Checked it out on a Saturday around 12pm and it was not too crowed. The clock goes off every 30 minutes. It was cool to see.

Stevica Tesic

Nice place! Enjoyed in the street.

sayar samanta

It was a lifetime experience for me. I have never seen a steam clock so this was my first time. The clock was awesome and the sound of the clock was amazing. We have bought souvenir of the clock also. It is located in Gastown. It is a must visit for everyone. Will definitely recommend to all of my friends and others.

Dean Landeche

Interesting and fun It's not every day you see a steam clock, so if you're nearby in the city, why not? We found it crowded in early afternoon on our tour, so came back around 7 PM. There was no crowd, and the longer whistle time required for the later hour made it more interesting. You'll enjoy and appreciate it more if you read the background, and if you examine the inner workings. Our son enjoyed watching the mechanisms and large steel balls that rolled around on tracks.

Alaa Al-Eryani

Great landmark in a beautiful street in Vancouver. It’s overcrowded in the morning but at night it’s empty and just so much more beautiful with all the lights. Great area with lots of restaurants and shops.

Morgane Baudry

Cool neighbourhood! Gastown has its own vibe

Richard James Milne

The Famous Steam Clock was built in 1977 located in heart of Gastown in Vancouver's downtown. This is where it all began from a small community of Gastown named after Gassy Jack. In 1876 as it became the Town of Grandville. It wasn't until 1870 is was changed to the City of Vancouver. If your in Vancouver, Gastown is a must to visit.

Hooman Mashayekh

It was a fun experience, especially if you have a kid it would be interesting. It is a traditional steam clock with nice atmosphere.

Candice Grizzle

Must see. Glad we stumbled upon it. On the hour and half hour get a song. Fun experience.

Verónica Ruiz Badía

Its a beautiful clock but the fact that it's a tourist trap and not an actual historic artefact made it meaningless

Gabriel Richard

It's a really interesting piece of machinery. It's worth a small detour if your in Gastown and are wondering what it's all about. Stay for a while to hear the clock "rings" :P

Carolin Hanisch

Lovely steam clock in the heart of Gastown, Vancouver. Nice during the day and at night :)

Richard Kiefl

A true highlight to see in Gastown. Absolutely a must see. Best time is early morning.not many people around.

Anj Robinson

Very nice place to visit when in Vancouver , t'was especially nice that we so happened to be there at the right time., there was an artist doing photo sketch art for a very reasonable price. ????

Melissa Mondeel

The clock told the time and there was steam. It was intere-steam enough.

Andrew Bosio (Wolf79)

Live it...my passion for watches took me here as a must see and it was well worth it. First ever steam watch I saw. And we'll worth going to the steam brewery just beside it.

Rami

A great touristy place of where the original Vancouver city core used to be. I love historic places like this and seeing the old buildings with their architecture from their time now converted into office, lofts and trendy places. This is where you will find the steam clock and the old rail station.

Rebecca

This honestly is a polarizing attraction. People either think it's amazing, or they think it is the most ridiculous thing to get excited over. Personally, I think it's great. Definitely work taking a jaunt down water street to check out, even if you don't stick around to see it put on its little show.

Emerson Willer

It is an amazing place to take some pictures. The steam clock mechanism is curious and they kept the original one. The worse part was to face homelesses and junkies around the monument. Unfortunately, that situation is often in downtown. People on rich cities need to be better assisted.

hamed ashtari

Gastown is the original settlement that became the core of the creation of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Currently, it is a national historic site and a neighbourhood in the northwest end of Downtown Eastside, adjacent to Downtown Vancouver.

Kate puim

It's iconic and I see why. It's really nice and and in the evening it's magical. Its a must see and the whistle is cute too

Nicholas Gangloff

Good luck parking. This area has a lot of restaurants, bars, and small shops. Hence, most of these parking spots are taken or the open spots are quite expensive. Regardless, the clock is pretty cool and it is definitely worth seeing! I suggest going more in the morning as it gets very crowded quickly, and most people are all trying to take photos.

Arthur Cheng

Historical clock, pretty nice. Located at Gastown Vancouver. West Coast Express, bus, seabus, and skytrain stations nearby in short walking distance. Parking lots (not free) available in the area. Many small shops and a bit dinning options nearby. It is a nice place to visit.

Mandy K

Cute spot in Gastown for taking pictures. Beautiful lighting around makes the ambiance very cozy.

Mehwish Khan

It's a historic steam clock, very beautiful. PRO TIP - try visiting this place in evening, the street is full of beautiful lights. Plus the clock make some beautiful music in every 15 min. So try to stay there and record your lill video

Henry Tang

This is the world famous first steam clock located in gas town. Super nice view especially at night with surrounded street light.

Kimberly Pham

Love walking, bar hopping, and shopping in this area. This place reminds me of pioneer square in Seattle. Classic brick buildings, beautiful trees, lots of cool restaurants, and bars. Definitely a fun street to be walking around.

Vijay Shivdasani

The Steam Clock of Gastown in Vancouver is an iconic monument of Downtown Vancouver. The clock mechanism is powered by the steam emanating from the grate of the distributed underground steam heating system of Vancouver. It was installed there to prevent people from sleeping on the grate in the cold weather. We walked in to Gastown from the Waterfront Station to have a look at the clock at the corner of Cambie and Water Streets. As such it is not a very impressive structure, and we almost missed it but for the small crowd standing nearby. It is fascinating to watch when it blows it’s musical whistle and sounds like a hissing Big Ben. We had to wait for some time before it blew and then it was indeed fascinating to watch. Do not get too close to the clock with your cell-phone otherwise you are likely to get a spray of steam on yourself. The clock itself is not an antique as it was built in 1977, much after the settlement of Gastown, one of the earliest settlements of Vancouver, came into being. But there are very few such steam clocks in existence around the world as their mechanism is not very precise. This one too has an electrical back-up to keep it going. We could see the working mechanism of the clock which was enclosed in a glass casing, and the working was explained briefly on the plaques installed at the base.

Brian Park

The clock was nice, lots of ppl spectating waiting for the hourly pop. Quaint little district meshing old with the new. Nice little tourist attraction. Make sure you stop by on the hour to see the clock do it's thing, I enjoyed it better in the evening.

Frank Hannig

One of the most visited stops amongst Vancouver tourists is the iconic Gastown Steam clock built in 1977 by the famous clockmaker Raymond Saunders. It Whistles the Westminster chime hourly and quarterly. A must see

Jessie Mo

It's a good place to take pic of Vancouver old street, but here always have lots of tourist. The steam clock is unique, u should stay close to see!!

Nathan Roques

One of the things you have to see when you visit Vancouver for the first time! Gastown is a national historic neighborhood full of vintage red bricks shops that make it looks like a small village 10-minutes walk from downtown Vancouver.

Rupi Kahlon

This is really cool ???? Street is so nice and bright. Good for a night walk if in vicinity. Clock blows short whistles every 15 minutes and a longer one every hour.

Kshitij Nair

No matter the weather, just carry a good camera and you'll have a great time, alone or with friends.

Huy An

It was a good evening when I did the Pre-wedding Photoshoot for my couple (I am wedding photographer for 48 Studio). For those of you who are about to get married either this year or next year. Gas Town could be a good location for some reasons. _ Easy to travel. _ Beautiful location either night time or day time. _ Many many hidden gems to check out (if your photographer is good enough) However, there are also some disadvantages (plus tips / tricks) _ Hard to find a parking. (Arrive 30 mins earlier and try to park near the Steam Clock) _ Too crowdy. (Yeah, again, if your photographer is good enough - then it's not a big deal) _ Parking Fee is quite a bit expensive (Park your car somewhere near by, and get an Uber or Skytrain to arrive there - with 6 people, I saved $25 for my couple :D ) Visit my work at 48 Studio. (fb, ig, or website) See ya.

Lukas

This sight seeing is kind of interesting because of how it works. The old clock works with steam and so does the bell. Every 15 minutes the steam clock is playing the westminister gong. You can watch it for some time but after 15 minutes it wasn't as great as in the beginning. So I think it's a nice little detail but nothing to watch longer. What do you think ?

Bita Nejati

Not as fun as I expected; I am interested in ancient architecture but nothing I found besudes an steam clock.

G Lim

Very nice. It was not raining.

Jen fer

Interesting place to walk/drive through. Filled with modern/antique styled shops/restaurants, it a great mix! Best enjoyed at nigh to see the view of cruise ships or the beautiful lights that adorn the street. Be sure to check out the steam clock, it's a fun attraction with a bit of history.

Ebby

Totally worth the visit I love it the whole neighborhood has this London vibe to it. The clock is also very fascinating.

Alexander Ingles

This defenetly has that steampunk feel and it's quite fun to hear its tone and think if when it was first installed. If your in the area you should defenetly check it out.

jean-philippe Vilpoux

Little clock in gastown, every 15mn , she sings

M Harpes

It's cool to see but not super exciting. There were also a lot of people taking pictures. The steam was pretty cool and it is very pretty.

Vinica Mordani

This is soo beautiful!! Recommended time is usually early to late evening ❤

EC

Nothing too exciting about this stop. It's a fun steam powered clock that has an interesting chime when the clock hits a specified time. For me it was around 6:45 in the afternoon. I wasn't part of a tour, so I spent 2-5 minutes getting photos and recording the chime.

M A

Always a crowd around the clock to take a video or picture with it..so you will have to wait your turn! Definitely need to see it once while In Vancouver.

Harry singh

world's first steam powered clock.

Tina Hu

Really nice place Recommend go there at night Is extremely beautiful However is really unsafe

Tess D

Beautiful area to visit. Watch and listen to the Gastown steam clock. There are lots of souvenir stores and restaurants to check out.

Finn Miles

sometimes the timing on which the whistles sound is not 100% so you may have to wait a few mins past the hour or 15 if it hasn't sounded yet but there is big crowds on the hour and it's spot for tour groups.

Colette Vallieres

A must see stop in Gastown ⏰ .. Impressive to see a first invention of this steam clock .. It whistles every 45 minutes .. Loved it!

Puchun Wang

They were fixing the clock when we get there this time. Feel the steam going to air!

Kazi Fauzia Hoque

Great HK boba tea! Absolutely kicking tea flavor with the perfect sweetness! Very good quality tapioca pearls!

MW MW (MW101015)

Crowded by the time Sunday brunch hour rolled around. Be careful not too venture too far off, it was pretty sketchy with homeless people for about 2 blocks on the way there from China town. Overall great shops and good souvenir shops.

Aylar A

It was wonderful to see how this brought such happiness to so many people for a moment..

jay yuen

Poongies all day n night WOAHHHH!!! CHU CHUUUUU CHUUUUU CHUUU!!!!! get your Instagram in . Lol fo realz gotta stop in at the Black Frog pub great spot.

Aiden Carey

Cool atmosphere, the clock goes off, whistle sounds, super nice!

Angie Redmond

Actually love gastown area... the sheer contrast from the busy city centre..quite picturesque...a lovely stroll when it's not too busy..the clock is pretty cool and drfinitely worth a visit whilst in gastown.....

Anastasiya Potapovych

Even on a rainy day, this is a must see! Such a beautiful neighborhood with gorgeous architecture and lovely brick sidewalks. You can really get lost in the city. It’s not busy or crowded so definitely check out this beautiful clock while you stroll the streets of Gastown

Khushboo Dordi

The world’s first steam clock Amazing ????

Hutash Amaria

Very popular tourist attraction a bit overated in my opinion.

connie smith

Over rated. Some cool shops but a real homelessness problem and not.much to offer. Think it's s tourist trap. Great photo ops thought of the cruisers against the backdrop of the sea and mountains.

Sam Tsien

Again, a must do in Vancouver but there isn't much to do if you don't plan ahead by including visiting a cool cafe, bar or eatery… another thing is… is it me or everyone feel the same that there are so much more homeless in Vancouver nowadays and they seem to all hangout in the Gastown area

Saeid

A must to visit in Vancouver! You should go there at night to fully experience the magic!

Noortaz Chowdhury

Never saw a steam clock before!

Vl16b “vl16b” Lee

My favorite spot in Vancouver is the Gastown Steam Clock. The Gastown Steam Clock has been designed by Raymond Saunders and the whistle goes off every 1 hour and 15 minutes

Richie Felipe

The Steam Clock is fascinating to see even though the street is busy, the beautiful Steam Clock and its surrounding makes it great. I really wanted to come here and enjoy the scenery. Its perfect to go because the weather in Vancouver is fantastic.

Bogdan Marin

Nice . The main attraction is of course the steam clock and the red buildings with the boutiques

Rhett Amin

Kind of interesting, but isn't that big of an attraction overall. It's a nice stop if you're passing by but nothing worth putting on your list

Raad Saadi

One of my favourite spots in Vancouver. Walking here, whether day or night, during any time of the year, literally feels like being in a movie. The steam clock adds an amazing vibe to the whole area, and there's all kinds of bars cafes, restaurants and gift shops in the area. Highly recommended spot whether you live nearby or you're just visiting.

Jaji Paji

It was a lively place in the evening with a variety of patios and restaurants. I thought the clock would he bigger than it is but the steam coming out of it was cool. It also whistles every 15 minutes for a couple of seconds.

Ipshi Sahu

Beautifully designed masterpiece - there is something very riveting about a creation that goes back to the basics. Often seen tinkering nearby, the creator of the steam clock often stops by. A very fascinating time keeping piece.

Adam Thompson

Interesting part of town during the day, the clock and buildings are great to look at, lots of shops. We happened to walk by at 8 and the steam whistles were alright. We didn't feel comfortable a few blocks away. Seems to be in the edge of a rougher part of town.

Evie C.

Looks very European and great for photos. It's nice that steam came out as I dont remember that happening on other occasions.

Robin

Always crowded but a must see in the city.

Shahid Mehmood

Beautiful old Town experience, you will love the walk specially in winters. Lots of small souvenir shops, indie art galleries and decor stores in Victorian buildings. A trendy food and drink scene includes chic cocktail lounges and restaurants serving everything from gourmet sandwiches to local seafood. Grab a coffee and walk the walk to enjoy the breathtaking experience.

Nima E

Beautiful area, old vancouver! Great place for short walks, lots of bars and restaurants around.

Antje S

Nice lokation, steams and sounds every 5 minutes. A must seen in Gastown

Erik

This is a good little area to shop around and find some quick food. You can knock out most of the shops that you want to go to and walk around in 2 hours or less. I would not recommend going more south and east, it’s pretty rough and sketchy area. It reminded us of the Tenderloin area in San Francisco.

Vanessa Bassole

Gastown is a nice neighbourhood with interesting streets and buildings. The steam clock is nice but has nothing special to me. It still worth the visit. During covid it’s not crowed so you will be able to take pictures without too many people around. There are a few shops, cafes and terraces around if you want to sit and enjoy the view.

Zeinab Rashed

I went during COVID time, it was very quiet (I prefer the quietness). The clock looks cool with all the steam. I recommend going to it at night to enjoy the lights and night vibe. Every 5 min the clock will have sounds and it’s nice to check it out.

Jessica Z

It's just a clock, not very special or with exquisite design.

Biswajit Singh

It's one of a kind. It always fascinating. Loved it ????????????????

Clair Smith

Gastown Steamclock goes every 15 minutes steam signal goes off for about 3 or 5 .Every hour it goes longer. Must visit when visiting Vancouver.

Bua Pitcha

Gas town areas at night time was beautiful and night life around old town Vancouver are not bad. I was afraid to went there coz lots of homeless but there are so friendly.

Ashley M

This was a nice little stop in our travels. Stay kong enough to hear the whistles it's quite neat!

Paul McLeod

Clock is really cool, but not in a great neighbourhood - lots of homeless people down in this part of town.