Mapple Tree Square

Maple Tree Square, the cradle of Vancouver

At the intersection of several streets in Gastown, Maple Tree Square marks the birthplace of Vancouver. It is here that the city took root, around a large maple tree and the first taverns. The Vancouver audio-guided tour stops here to go back to the origins of the city, in the time of the pioneers.

Where it all began in 1867

The history of Maple Tree Square goes back to 1867, when Gassy Jack, a figure who became legendary, opened his first tavern there for the workers of a nearby sawmill. Around this meeting point, in the shade of a large maple tree that gave the square its name, was born the hamlet that would become Vancouver. The square, located at the junction of several Gastown streets, remains its historic heart.

What to see

The square, at the junction of several cobbled streets of Gastown, keeps the charm of old Vancouver, with its old façades and its lively atmosphere. It is the ideal place to understand the origins of the city and explore the historic district, between shops, cafés and period buildings. An essential stop for those interested in the birth of Vancouver.

Practical information

Maple Tree Square lies in the heart of Gastown, at the junction of several streets, in Vancouver, reachable on foot. It is a public space open at all times, freely accessible and on the level. The cobbled streets around are explored on foot, between shops and restaurants; sturdy shoes are best to walk the historic district.

Why is Maple Tree Square the cradle of Vancouver?

Because it was there, in 1867, around a large maple tree and Gassy Jack's first tavern, that the hamlet that would become the city of Vancouver was born.

Where does the name Maple Tree Square come from?

From a large maple tree that once stood at this spot, a meeting point of the first inhabitants in the heart of today's Gastown.