Historic Neighbourhoods

Strathcona, Downtown Eastside (DTES), Chinatown, Gastown, and Yaletown are the oldest neighbourhoods in Vancouver. These historic neighbourhoods are a part of Vancouver's past, and will continue to play an important role in Vancouver's future. These vibrant neighbourhoods host a huge variety of interesting arts and cultural events, festivals, facilities, and services. Details on what's new and what's happening in Yaletown are found on our Downtown area page. You can stay up to date with news and events affecting our other historic neighbourhoods on the Hastings area page.

On this page, you will find information about city initiatives affecting these historic neighbourhoods and other heritage-related topics.

City Planning & Park Board initiatives

Carrall Street Greenway in the Downtown Eastside

Great Beginnings: Old Streets, New Pride

Creating projects that restore our founding neighbourhoods' original public appeal through improvements to public spaces, support for arts and cultural activities, celebrations, and street festivals for both residents and visitors.

Chinatown revitalization

The Chinatown revitalization plan will preserve Chinatown's unique heritage while bringing new life to the community.

Viaducts and the Eastern Core strategy

The Eastern Core strategy will transform the Eastern Core - False Creek Flats - into a sustainable green enterprise zone by reconnecting the area to surrounding communities.

Protecting Vancouver's views

The City is working to protect our spectacular ocean and mountain views, while permitting the development of taller buildings in strategic locations.

Aerial view of Woodwards building in DTES

DTES local area plan

Creating a vision and plan for the Downtown Eastside that focusing on ways to improve the lives of low-income DTES residents and community members. Learn more about the local area plan, and find out how to get involved.

Oppenheimer Park, the Downtown Eastside's backyard

Oppenheimer Park Commemorative Project

The Oppenheimer Park Commemorative Project is a celebration of the rich cultural history of this park in the downtown eastside of Vancouver.

Ask. Tell. Connect.

Phone 3-1-1 to ask, tell, and connect with the City

Outside Vancouver:
604-873-7000

Speak your own language

More ways to contact us

Interested in your home's history?

Search the City of Vancouver Archives online for records and other materials related to your home.

Find out how

Vancouver Heritage Foundation

The Vancouver Heritage Foundation is a registered charity dedicated to supporting the conservation of Vancouver's heritage buildings through public awareness and granting activities.

Visit their website