See & do · Landmarks & architecture
Gastown Steam Clock
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
Images provided by Google Places
Built in 1977, this well-known, antique-style clock is powered by steam & whistles to tell the time.via Google
One of only a few functioning steam clocks in the world, built in 1977 to cover a steam grate.
- Good to know
- Extremely crowded with tourists; best viewed quickly while exploring Gastown.
Reviews from Google
The Gastown Steam Clock is such a cool little landmark. It’s classic Gastown historic, charming and a mustsee for anyone visiting the area.Watching it whistle and release steam on the hour is surprisingly satisfying, and the surrounding cobblestone streets make it a really picturesque spot. Even if it’s touristy, it has that unique charm that makes it worth checking out. Perfect for a quick stop, some photos, and soaking in a bit of Vancouver history. It whistles every 15 mins, definitely worth the wait. :P
Visiting Gastown Steam Clock is a must when exploring Vancouver. Located in the heart of historic Gastown, this iconic landmark has a lot more history behind it than most people realize. Although it looks like a Victorian-era clock, it was actually built in 1977 by Canadian clockmaker Raymond Saunders to cover a steam grate connected to Vancouver’s underground heating system. Today, it remains one of the world’s most famous steam clocks. The best part is watching it come to life. Every 15 minutes, the clock whistles and releases steam while playing the Westminster chimes, drawing crowds throughout the day. On the hour, it puts on an even bigger display with a fuller musical sequence and larger bursts of steam. It gives Gastown a unique atmosphere and makes for a fun stop whether you are visiting Vancouver for the first time or rediscovering the city as a local. The surrounding cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively energy make the experience even better. It is touristy, but for good reason — the Gastown Steam Clock is a piece of Vancouver history that is still charming decades later.
A fun little stop if you’re exploring Gastown. The steam clock has a bit of history behind it too, originally built in 1977 and designed to add character to the neighbourhood’s historic charm. It’s one of those iconic Vancouver spots you kind of have to see at least once. Fun to catch it when it whistles and definitely a nice photo stop. It does get quite crowded with tourists, so don’t expect a quiet experience. Since it’s in the downtown area, it’s worth keeping an eye on your valuables as it can be quite busy and there are often people around who may be struggling with addiction or homelessness nearby. Still definitely worth a quick visit if you’re exploring Gastown
The clock is unique and charming, and watching it release steam is fascinating. The surrounding area of Gastown is lively with shops, cafes, and cobblestone streets, which made the experience even better. It’s a great spot for photos and to enjoy the historic vibes of Vancouver. I really liked visiting it.
Gastown is easy walk from Canada Place and perfect to get something to eat with lots of restaurants and bars as well as the famed Lee’s Donuts able also an array of fun stores ranging from tourist souvenirs to some nice local art. Good for families as the cobblestone streets and historic buildings make you feel like you stepped back in time. There also seems to be a renovation movement where the art scene is evolving and also residential apartments. Look forward to returning and seeing the changes. There is a fun Gastown sign where you can take selfies. Lots of different type of restaurants so great to try some different dishes.