![](https://insidevancouver.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Tourism-Vancouver.-Hubert-Kang-664x443.jpg)
Gastown sparkles after dark (Tourism Vancouver/Hubert Kang).
Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood blossomed from a single tavern founded by John “Gassy Jack” Deighton in 1867. Today, the district retains its historic charm with cobblestoned roads, Victorian architecture and vintage lampposts – but don’t let the quaint surroundings fool you. Gastown is also home to a thriving independent fashion scene, impeccably curated décor shops, galleries filled with exquisite First Nations art, and some of the city’s buzziest restaurants and cocktail bars.