Steam Clock, Vancouver

If you find yourself in Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, Gastown, make sure to visit Steam Clock. Although the facade and machinery appear to hail from the Victorian era, the clock was actually built in 1977 as a tourist attraction, with great success. Only the second clock ever powered by a steam mechanism, and one of only six remaining in the world, the quaint timepiece not only attracts tourists, but it also once served a humane purpose--the steam warmed the area, and homeless people would sleep around the clock. Every 15 minutes, the clock whistles and shoots steam, so bring a camera with you and wait. Take a look at our Vancouver tour planner to schedule your visit to Steam Clock and learn about what else to see and do during your holiday.