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Reviews, get directions and information for Gastown Steam Clock

Gastown Steam Clock
Built in 1977, this well-known, antique-style clock is powered by steam & whistles to tell the time.
Address: 305 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B9, Canada
Phone: (604) 873-7000
State: British Columbia
County: Metro Vancouver
City: Vancouver
Zip Code: V6B 1B9


Opening Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

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Reviews
It’s one of those landmarks that’s simple, iconic, and surprisingly fun—especially if you time it right and catch it “performing.” The clock whistles/steams on the quarter-hour, and the little crowd moment that happens around it makes it feel like a mini event every time. Great spot for photos, quick videos, and a memorable “we were here” stop.nnThe area around it is lively, walkable, and full of shops and cafes, so it’s easy to work into an afternoon in Gastown. It does get crowded, but the turnover is quick and it’s open 24/7, so you can swing by early morning or later at night for a calmer experience.nnIf you’re visiting Vancouver, it’s worth a stop—quick, free, and genuinely charming.
A charming and iconic spot in the heart of Gastown.nThe steam clock has a unique character, and watching it release steam and play its whistle is a lovely experience, especially for first-time visitors.nnThe surrounding area is full of character with historic buildings, cafés, and great photo opportunities. It can get busy, but that’s part of the atmosphere. Definitely worth stopping by if you’re exploring Vancouver.
The Gastown Steam Clock is one of those landmarks that feels quietly iconic rather than flashy. Sitting at the corner of Water Street, it blends naturally into Gastown’s cobblestone streets and historic brick buildings, giving the area a timeless, almost cinematic feel. It doesn’t try to impress — it simply belongs there, anchoring the neighborhood’s old-world character.nnEvery fifteen minutes, the clock draws a small crowd as steam rises and its whistles play a short melody. It’s a simple ritual, but one that never seems to lose its charm. Tourists pause, locals glance up, cameras come out, and for a moment the pace of the city slows. In a place as busy as downtown Vancouver, that pause feels surprisingly meaningful.nnMore than just a photo stop, the Gastown Steam Clock represents the spirit of the area itself — historic, slightly quirky, and full of personality. It’s a reminder that Vancouver isn’t only glass towers and ocean views, but also stories, craftsmanship, and details worth lingering over. Whether you stop intentionally or stumble upon it by chance, the clock leaves an impression that lasts longer than the visit.
A tourist attraction that is centered around a unique steam powered clock in the Gas Town district of Vancouver. The clock runs entirely on steam, and although as of October 2025 the clock is under maintenance, it still plays sound every 15 minutes. Thats the real attraction around this clock and you can time your visit.nThere is usually a long queue of tourists trying to capture their photo in front of the clock. The neighborhood and the road itself are really nice to be around. This has to be part of your Vancouver visit itinerary.
Go at night: It looks much cooler when the steam is backlit by the streetlamps, and there are fewer crowds.n​Listen, don't just look: The whistle plays something which is surprisingly loud and charming.
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Directions to Gastown Steam Clock with public transportation


Eastbound W Cordova St @ Homer St 90 meters
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Waterfront Station @ Bay 3 170 meters
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Westbound W Hastings St @ Hamilton St 180 meters
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Eastbound W Hastings St @ Homer St 190 meters
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Eastbound W Hastings St @ Abbott St 240 meters
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