Planning a bike ride to Gastown? Start where it makes the most sense—right in the centre of Vancouver. Ride and Glide is located at 1351 Burrard Street, just a few blocks from the city’s most popular bike lanes and scenic routes.
From our shop, Gastown is only a 12–15 minute ride, and the route is straightforward, flat, and photo-friendly. You won’t need to figure out public transit or backtrack from a far-off rental location—we’re already where your ride should begin.
Whether you’re heading to Stanley Park, the Seawall, or Gastown’s cobblestone charm, you’ll be off and riding in minutes.
Bike Ride to Gastown: Route at a Glance
Getting from Ride and Glide to Gastown is quick, easy, and scenic—perfect for first-time visitors or casual riders.
🚴 Total Ride Time: Around 12–15 minutes
📏 Distance: ~2.5 km
🚦 Traffic Level: Low to moderate (bike-friendly lanes)
🗺️ Route Type: Mostly flat, paved, and safe for all skill levels
Must-See Stops:
- 🌉 Robson Square
- 🪨 Art Gallery
- 🌅 Cathedral of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary
- ☕ Gastown
- 🍻 Steam Clock
Here’s the step-by-step route:
◉ Start at 1351 Burrard Street
◉ Head north on Burrard Street
◉ Turn right onto Drake Street
◉ Turn left onto Hornby Street
📷 Photo spot (Robson Square), Hornby at Robson
📷 Photo spot (Art Gallery), Hornby at Georgia
◉ Turn right onto Dunsmuir Street
◉ Turn left onto Richards Street
📷 Photo spot (Cathedral), Dunsmuir at Richards
◉ Turn right onto Water Street
📷 Photo spot (Gastown Steam Clock)
- Start at 1351 Burrard Street
- Head north on Burrard Street
- Turn right onto Drake Street
- Turn left onto Hornby Street
- Turn right onto Dunsmuir Street
- Turn left onto Richards Street
- Turn right onto Water Street
- Arrive in Gastown, right by the Steam Clock
Easy Add-On Routes:
- Take a detour through Stanley Park’s shady forest trails for that “lost in the woods” feeling 🌲
- Cruise into English Bay for even more ocean views
You’ll pass scenic waterfront views, historic buildings, and a handful of photo stops on the way. It’s not just a ride—it’s a quick intro to what makes Vancouver so bikeable.
📸 Scenic Stops & Photo Moments You’ll Want to Capture
A bike ride to Gastown isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about everything in between. This route is packed with visual gems that beg for a photo (or three). Whether you’re riding solo or with a group, here are the must-stop spots that make the ride unforgettable:
🪨 Vancouver Art Gallery
You’ll pass by this landmark just after Robson Street. The old courthouse-style architecture, wide steps, and rotating public art installations make it a perfect backdrop. Tip: Morning light gives the columns a warm, cinematic glow.
👣 Robson Square
Only a minute or two further and you’ll hit Robson Square—a lively open space with skaters, buskers, and fountains. It’s one of those “blink and you’ll miss it” spots, so slow down and soak it in.
🌅 Cathedral of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary
It almost sneaks up on you—tucked between office towers—but the towering spires and Gothic details are hard to ignore. This cathedral adds a quiet, historical contrast to the urban vibe around it.
☕ Gastown Streets
Once you hit Water Street, everything changes. Brick roads. Hanging lights. Historic storefronts. Every block in Gastown feels like it was designed for slow rides and photos. Take your time here—there’s no wrong angle.
🍻 The Steam Clock
Yeah, it’s a tourist hotspot. But it’s a classic. The puff of steam every 15 minutes, the old-world look, and the crowd gathered around—it’s part of the Gastown charm. Get your photo, then grab a seat nearby and just people-watch.
And hey—don’t forget to tag us in your shots: @ridenglide.vancouver 📸
☕ What to Eat, Sip & Chill With in Gastown
By the time your bike ride to Gastown wraps up, you’ll be ready for two things: a photo by the Steam Clock and something good to eat. Luckily, Gastown’s got you covered—think cozy cafés, artisan bakeries, and patio spots that serve way more than just views.
Here are a few local favourites worth hopping off your bike for:
☕ Revolver Coffee
If you’re serious about coffee, this is your stop. Small, stylish, and full of pour-over charm, Revolver is a local staple for a reason. Pro tip: Grab a window seat and enjoy the people-watching.
🍞 Nelson the Seagull
Charming and rustic with big open windows—come for the sourdough toast, stay for the vibe. Their breakfast menu hits the spot after a morning ride.
🌮 Tacofino Gastown
A quick detour down Blood Alley (yes, it’s really called that) lands you here. Crispy fish tacos and bold flavours in a chill, graffiti-decorated space. Casual, quick, and delicious.
🍸 The Flying Pig / Local Public Eatery
Need something a bit heartier? These Gastown favourites offer patio seating, comfort food, and solid drink menus—great for lunch or an early dinner after your ride.
Lock up your bike (yes, we include a lock with every rental), settle in, and enjoy the laid-back energy. Gastown is a place to linger—not just pass through.
📍 Looking to rent a bike, e-bike, or e-scooter for your ride to Gastown? Book now and pick up at our downtown location.
Quick Ride Stats at a Glance
Here’s everything you need to know about your ride from Ride and Glide to Gastown—all in one place:
| 📝 Detail | 🚲 Info |
|---|---|
| Start Point | Ride and Glide – 1351 Burrard Street |
| End Point | Steam Clock, Gastown |
| Distance | ~2.5 km |
| Ride Time | 12–15 minutes |
| Route Type | Mostly flat, protected bike lanes |
| Traffic Level | Low to moderate |
| Difficulty | Easy – beginner-friendly |
| Bike Lock & Helmet | Included with every rental |
| Coffee Included | ☕ Yes – for a limited time! |
| Best Time to Ride | Morning or late afternoon for photos |
Whether you’re planning a casual cruise or squeezing in some sights between brunch and a sunset view, this route is an easy win.
Ready to roll? Reserve your ride and head out from Vancouver’s best starting point.
Do I Need to Bring Anything? Not Much—We’ve Got You Covered
Planning a bike ride to Gastown doesn’t mean you have to pack like you’re crossing the Rockies. When you rent from Ride and Glide, we make it simple—helmet and lock are always included, no extra charge.
Here’s what we recommend bringing:
- 📱 Phone with data – for maps, photos, and tagging us, obviously
- 🧴 Sunscreen – even on cloudy days, Vancouver light can sneak up on you
- 🧥 Light jacket or layer – weather shifts fast near the water
- 🥤 Water bottle – stay hydrated, especially if you’re doing more riding afterward
- 📸 Camera or fully charged phone – the photo spots are too good to miss
- 🗺️ Optional: Phone mount – makes following the route way easier
Oh—and did we mention? Coffee is included for a limited time with every rental. Pick up your wheels and grab your free cup before you roll out. It’s a small detail, but when you’re riding through Vancouver’s morning breeze, that warm drink hits just right.
Have questions? Call us or swing by—we’re happy to help.
Why Gastown Feels Like Stepping Back in Time (But in the Coolest Way)
There’s something about Gastown that just feels different.
Maybe it’s the cobblestone streets, or the antique lampposts, or the way the Steam Clock hisses quietly like it’s keeping the rhythm of the neighborhood. Whatever it is, Gastown has this old-world vibe that somehow blends perfectly with Vancouver’s modern energy.
You ride in through Water Street and suddenly, glass towers give way to red-brick buildings. You hear footsteps on stone. Music from a café spills out onto the street. It’s like the pace slows down—not because you have to, but because you’ll want to.
It’s the kind of place where you park your bike, wander for an hour, and stumble into the best coffee you didn’t plan on having. Or a gallery you weren’t looking for. Or a view you didn’t expect.
So yes, Gastown is touristy. And yes, you’ll see cameras and walking tours. But you’ll also feel something you can’t quite explain—which, honestly, is kind of the point.
Just don’t rush it. Lock your bike. Walk slow. Look up.
Ready to Ride Gastown? Book Your Bike Today
You’ve got the route. You know the stops. The camera’s charged, the cafés are waiting, and Gastown is calling.
All that’s left? The bike.
Whether you’re looking for a classic cruiser, a smooth e-bike, or even a fun e-scooter, Ride and Glide has what you need to get there fast—and in style. Every rental includes:
- ✅ Helmet and lock
- ✅ Free coffee (for a limited time)
- ✅ Local tips from real humans, not kiosks
- ✅ The best starting point in downtown Vancouver
So skip the long walks, skip the guesswork, and start where it all connects.
👉 Book your bike now and make your bike ride to Gastown the easiest part of your day.
More Destinations Just a Ride Away
Gastown’s just the beginning.
When you rent from Ride and Glide, you’re right in the middle of Vancouver’s best cycling network. So if you’ve still got energy—or coffee left—why not keep going?
Here are a few more scenic routes to check out next:
- 🌲 Stanley Park Loop – One of the most famous bike paths in North America
- 🌉 Seawall to Granville Island – Coastal views, markets, and artist studios
- 🌅 Sunset Ride to English Bay – Best in the late afternoon with beach stops along the way
- 🛴 Explore by E-Scooter – For those who want the ride with zero pedaling
Wherever you’re headed, your ride starts here.
👉 Check out all rental options