The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour in Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver, Canada

The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour

Outty Ranking 85 4.9 · 498 traveler reviews1.5 hoursFrom $28
Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

85/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 498 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour worth booking?

The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour is a 1.5-hour experience in Vancouver, Canada, from $28 per person. It scores 85 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 498 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
85 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (498)
Duration
1.5 hours
From
$28 per person

Explore Vancouver’s dirtiest Prohibition-era secrets. From mobsters and rum runners to corrupt politicians, this historical walking tour winds through Gastown’s most historic streets and alleyways – and most illicit stories.

What you get

    About this experience

    Explore Vancouver’s dirtiest Prohibition-era secrets. From mobsters and rum runners to corrupt politicians, this historical walking tour winds through Gastown’s most historic streets and alleyways – and most illicit stories.

    What's included

    Included

    • Professional guide

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off

    What you'll see and do

    1. Cambie Bar & Grill

      A Vancouver institution, now a lively local bar, hostel and restaurant. The Cambie has history dating back to the Gold Rush!

      10 minutes here

    2. Hear about the tallest building in town in 1910!

      2 minutes here

    3. Learn about the Historic Woodward's building in Gastown. What role it had in the city over the last 100 years.

      10 minutes here

    4. Gastown

      The tour wraps up on the cobblestone streets of Gastown, the historic centre of Vancouver.

      30 minutes here

    5. Explore the main street in Gastown and learn about our Prohibition Commissioner - Walter Findlay.

      10 minutes here

    6. Hotel Europe

      Nestled in Gastown's historic Maple Tree Square, there was once a near beer parlour in this location.

      10 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Vancouver

    Meet outside 356 Water street at the entrance to historic Gastown at Water and Cordova Streets.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    The walking tour ends at one of the most amazing views of the Vancouver Skyline. The start point is a quick 5-10 minute walk away, and the guide can provide a map and directions if needed.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 20 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Forbidden Vancouver

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
    • Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time

    Photos

    The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour in Vancouver, photo 2Birds eye view!, The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour in VancouverWhat went down in the city's beer parlours? Find out on the tour!, The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour in VancouverSpilling the beans on Vancouver's prohibition past on the Forbidden Vancouver Tour!, The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour in VancouverStoryteller Lenard with a "then and now" moment., The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour in VancouverVisiting the Woodwards complex - one of Vancouver's most famous landmarks, The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour in Vancouver

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 498 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    8 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    7 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Traveler reviews

    498 verified traveler reviews for The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    452
    4 star
    35
    3 star
    5
    2 star
    3
    1 star
    3
    Sort
    dannycK2558VF · October 2026

    Highly immersive experience

    It was a wonderfully immersive experience. Our tour guide Zoe Salvin was such a joy. She was captivating and full of such interesting facts. Highly recommend, ask for Zoe if you can

    via Tripadvisor

    Kimberley_H · October 2026

    Great Historical tour

    This was a really interesting tour going through the history. I learned so much and the tour guide was great. She really enjoyed telling us the history and had great enthusiasm.

    Response from the operator: Hi Kimberly, Thank you so much for your review! We are so glad you enjoyed learning about Gastown history with us :)

    via Viator

    Janell_S · September 2026

    Informative and entertaining

    This tour is a great intro to the beautiful city of Vancouver and the historical Gastown district. Our guide, Ashlynn, entertained us with interesting history about the Prohibition period. Very enjoyable!

    Response from the operator: Hi Janell, Thanks so much for your review! We are so delighted to hear you had such a wonderful time on the Forbidden Vancouver Tour learning about Prohibition History in Vancouver :)

    via Viator

    O2533NJpaulp · September 2026

    If you are looking for something different

    Lennard is a highly informative amusing and personable guide. The tour covers many aspects of history that you might not expect but when put into context seems exactly right

    Response from the operator: Hi there, Thank you so much for your lovely review! So glad you enjoyed your time on tour with Lenard :)

    via Tripadvisor

    jessicasullivan2023 · September 2026

    Gastown History Brought to Life

    We had a great time on the Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tour! Marina was a fantastic guide—knowledgeable, engaging, and very entertaining. We learned so much about the history of Gastown, along with fun little secrets and stories we never would have discovered on our own. Marina really brought the history to life and kept the tour interesting from beginning to end. A fun and unique way to experience Vancouver. Highly recommend!

    Response from the operator: Hi Jessica, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! So glad you had such a great time on the Forbidden Vancouver tour with Marina and that she could provide such a memorable experience :) Thanks for joining!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    1.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Price range
    $28 to $39
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    174
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Forbidden Vancouver, who run 5 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 84.6 and 1 in the 90+ Club.

    See everything Forbidden Vancouver runs

    Why this scores 85

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)92
    Review evidence (18% weight)82
    Booking momentum (14% weight)79
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)59
    Local standing (8% weight)69
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Vancouver.

    How much does The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour cost?

    +

    Prices start at $28 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Vancouver usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour take?

    +

    Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Vancouver is not rushed.

    Is The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 85 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 498 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Vancouver, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour?

    +

    Around 174 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Vancouver can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Vancouver and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Vancouver within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Vancouver?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Vancouver experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Grand Bicycle Tour of Vancouver, The Stanley Park Bicycle Tour, Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Vancouver?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Vancouver?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour?

    +

    Included: Professional guide. Not included: Gratuities; and Hotel pickup and drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour?

    +

    Meet outside 356 Water street at the entrance to historic Gastown at Water and Cordova Streets. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; and All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Vancouver. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour?

    +

    Across 498 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for The Forbidden Downtown and Gastown Walking Tour.

    Pick your date