Gastown Steam Clock

The Gastown Steam Clock, emblem of old Vancouver

At the corner of Cambie and Water streets, the Gastown Steam Clock is one of the stars of the historic centre of Vancouver. Every fifteen minutes, it whistles and releases a plume of steam, to the great delight of passers-by. The Vancouver audio-guided tour stops here to discover this curious mechanism that has become a symbol of the Gastown district.

A clock powered by steam

The Gastown Steam Clock stands in the heart of the oldest district of Vancouver. As its name suggests, it works partly thanks to steam, released regularly by its chimneys with a characteristic whistle. Installed to enliven the Gastown district, it quickly became a must-see attraction and one of the most photographed objects in the city.

What to see

The spectacle is the clock itself: you wait for the quarter hour to see it whistle and spout its steam, under the visitors' lenses. Set in the heart of Gastown, it is surrounded by cobbled streets, shops and restaurants that make the charm of old Vancouver. It is a playful and essential stop at the start of any visit of the historic district.

Practical information

The Steam Clock lies at the corner of Cambie and Water streets, in the heart of Gastown, in Vancouver, reachable on foot. It is an open-air monument, freely visible at all times, with no ticket office. On the level, it is discovered during a walk in the district; it is best to be there at the quarter hour to witness the whistle of the steam.

How does the Gastown Steam Clock work?

It works partly thanks to steam, which it releases regularly, about every quarter hour, with a characteristic whistle much appreciated by visitors.

Where is the Gastown Steam Clock?

At the corner of Cambie and Water streets, in the heart of the historic Gastown district, in Vancouver.