Public Walking Tours of Downtown and Gastown 

Our 2023 public tours are now done for the season. Thanks to everyone who came out and joined us this year. Our public tours will restart around March 2024.

We are still accepting private tours, and if you would like to book one please use the inquiry form at the bottom of the page.

Explore the social history, architecture and urban design, public art, and contemporary urban processes of the city through these 2 FREE tours

COST: By tip

We want to keep our tours accessible to everyone. If you appreciate the tour you are welcome to leave a tip for the guide. The suggested donation is $20 per person if you found the tour enjoyable.

DURATION: 1.5 - 2 hours

WHEN: Check calendar below for schedule and availability.

Public Tours of Downtown and Gastown

  • A guide meets his tour group in front of a historic building for a walking tour

    Downtown Walking Tour

    Themes: Architecture, Urban Design, Public Art

    START TIME: 10 AM

    DURATION: 2 HOURS

    An exploration of Vancouver’s city centre as told through its iconic architecture, public art, and sweeping views over the Pacific . Winding our way from Downtowns highest point to the waterfront, this tour discusses Vancouver’s colonial history, the rapid rise of its commercial centre, the evolution of its quirky urban planning practices, the dark and hidden history of Stanley Park, and the staggering recent transformation of the waterfront.

    This 2 hour FREE tour includes:

    • šxʷƛ̓ənəq Xwtl'e7énḵ Square (formerly known as the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza)

    • Robson Square

    • Christchurch Cathedral

    • Public Art Murals and Installations

    • The Art-Deco Marine Building

    • Sweeping views of Burrad Inlet, North Shore Mountains, and Stanley Park

    Book Now
  • A guide greets his tour group in front of a historic building

    Gastown Walking Tour

    Themes: Social History & Contested Heritage

    START TIME: 10a.m

    DURATION: 2 HOURS

    Gastown is one of the most storied and engaging areas of Vancouver, where historical legacies and contemporary processes have shaped a diverse and at times contested neighbourhood. Renowned for its eclectic mix of historic architecture and eclectic character, it is a socially diverse community that was nearly lost to the bulldozers of urban renewal in the 1970s. Today it sits at the cross-roads of historic preservation and social transformation, as debates over revitalization and gentrification persist in its studios and cafes, rooming houses and bars.

    This 2 hour FREE tour includes:

    • Waterfront Station

    • Sinclair Centre

    • Water Street

    • Victory Square

    • Woodward’s

    • Lek Lek’i/ Maple Tree Square

    Book Now