Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours
Performance-theatre walking tours revealing Vancouver's untold histories.
About
Embark on a journey through Vancouver's most captivating and scandalous past with Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours. They offer immersive, performance-driven walking tours that uncover the city's hidden histories of crime, intrigue, and glamour. Explore historic neighborhoods like Gastown and Davie Village, and discover secrets from the Prohibition era and beyond.
Our Take
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Curious locals and visitors interested in vancouver's hidden histories, crime, and scandal.
Vibe
Intriguing, theatrical, historical, slightly edgy.
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Special events uncover Vancouver’s hidden history with special guests.
- Private walking tours available for groups.
- Gift certificates available for unique experiences.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Duration
90 minutes to 2.5 hours
Ages
Recommended for ages 10-12+ due to mature themes.
Neighborhood
Gastown, Downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park, Davie Village
Timed Entry
Yes
Featured Performers
- Zoe Salvin
- Christopher Salt
- Vanessa Lazare
- Joelle Wyminga
- Will Woods
- Cole Breckell
- Rachel Ruecker
- Aman Johal
- Sasha Leung
- Rob Teszka
- Aislynn Mede
- Emm Hanly
- Stuart Jansen
- Janet Glassford
- Alison Jenkins
- Rowan Jang
- Glenn Tkach
- Lenard Stanga
- Kennedy Goodkey
Organizer
Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours
Practical Information
Parking
Information on driving, transit, and parking can be found on each tour page's FAQ.
Accessibility
The Forbidden Vancouver Tour, The Sinners & Sweets Tour, and The Really Gay History Tour are wheelchair accessible. The Lost Souls of Gastown Tour is accessible to electric wheelchairs but challenging for conventional ones. The Dark Secrets of Stanley Park Tour and Secrets of the Penthouse are not wheelchair accessible.
Pet Policy
Service animals only
Food & Drink
The Sinners & Sweets Tour includes treats from local bakeries and chocolatiers. Other tours may have opportunities to purchase food and drink along the route.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as tours involve walking between 1-2 km (0.6-1.2 miles) at a moderate pace.
- Bring a rain jacket with a hood, as tours operate rain or shine; umbrellas can be awkward in groups.
- Book tickets in advance online, as tours have strict group size limits and often sell out.
- Allow an extra 15-20 minutes after the scheduled tour end time for questions and conversations, as tours can sometimes run slightly longer.
- Check the specific tour's FAQ for detailed start/end locations and information on bathroom breaks, as guides can accommodate unofficial stops.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if it rains?
Tours run rain or shine. A rainproof jacket with a hood is recommended. For fall and winter, tours are designed to take place mainly inside or under cover.
Which tour should I take?
The 'Lost Souls of Gastown' is the most popular, led by an actor in character. 'The Sinners & Sweets Tour' is the only one with snacks. Other tours focus on prohibition, indigenous history, or queer history.
Do I have to book in advance?
Yes, booking online in advance is required to reserve your spot due to strict group size limits.
What if I need to cancel my tour?
A flexible cancellation policy allows for date exchanges or full refunds with at least 24 hours' notice. Special event sales are final.
Are the tours wheelchair accessible?
The Forbidden Vancouver Tour, The Sinners & Sweets Tour, and The Really Gay History Tour are wheelchair accessible. The Lost Souls of Gastown Tour is challenging for conventional wheelchairs. Stanley Park and Secrets of the Penthouse tours are not accessible.
