Joshua ReyAre you a fan of convertible cars? How about a convertible…stadium? Yup! BC Place Stadium boasts the world’s largest retractable roof, revealing over 7,500 square meters of sky!
And when the sun sets, the Northern Lights Display uses thousands of LED lights to make the stadium alive, painting the Vancouver skyline with vibrant colors!
If you’re ready to watch an amazing game, show, or concert at this one-of-a-kind venue, keep reading!
- What is BC Place Stadium in Vancouver known for?
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- How to Get Around
- What to Do at the BC Place Stadium
- Where to Eat near the BC Place Stadium
- Where to Stay near the BC Place Stadium
- Tips When Visiting BC Place Stadium in Vancouver
- Apps to Download When Going to the BC Place Stadium
What is BC Place Stadium in Vancouver known for?
BC Place Stadium in Vancouver is a top spot for national teams and major international sports events. With its iconic retractable roof and modern facilities, it’s the ultimate hub for athletic excitement, drawing crowds from all over.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit BC Place Stadium in Vancouver depends on your jam. Check the schedule for games, shows, or concerts, then head over for a blast! Moreover, it’s best to arrive a bit early for the security screening.
Things to Know
Service Dogs & Animals: Certified service dogs (or service dogs in training) get the pass, but no other animals are allowed.
Drop-Off & Pick-Up: Swing by Section 147 on Pacific Boulevard for hassle-free drop-offs and pick-ups. Keep in mind that there’s no parking here, though!
Parking: EasyPark, Impark, and Westpark have accessible parking nearby, which ranges from $10 to $30 during events. There are limited spots, but there’s a special drop-off at Pacific Boulevard under Gate F for mobility device users.
Entrances: All entrances at the stadium except F are fully accessible.
Washroom Facilities: Family and universal washrooms are provided on each concourse or level within the stadium.
Accessible Seating: You can snag accessible seating throughout, and each ticket comes with one attendant ticket. If you need more, we suggest chatting with Ticketmaster.
Wheelchair Assistance: Limited wheelchairs are available for guests. Don’t hesitate to give the staff a heads up if you need help getting to your seat.
Stroller Parking: This is available at certain events at the stadium.
Sensory Awareness: There are sensory bags with fidget tools and noise-canceling headphones—grab one for free at any Guest Services Desk (just leave an ID!). And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to the staff to access a quiet sensory room.
How to Get Around
Trains: Hop on the SkyTrain’s Expo Line and get off at Stadium-Chinatown Station. From there, it’s just a quick 5-minute stroll to the stadium.
Buses: Bus routes 15 and 17 will get you right to BC Place Stadium.
Taxis: Taxis can drop you off right at the stadium’s doorstep. Just politely ask the driver to head to Section 147 on Pacific Boulevard.
Car: Driving here is made easy! Accessible parking is available in nearby lots. The stadium also has a drop-off and pick-up facility, but note that there’s no parking space there.
What to Do at the BC Place Stadium
Catch a Football Game
Website: https://www.bcplace.com/plan-exhibit/host-your-event/sports-events
Contact Details: +1 604-669-2300, [email protected]
When it’s game night for the BC Lions, BC Place Stadium is where all the Canadian football excitement goes down. The stadium serves as an iconic battleground where fans from Vancouver and beyond come together to support their team.
If you want to know a bit about the Lions, these guys are the kings of the Canadian Football League (CFL). They scored a whopping 6 Grey Cup victories and kept the playoff streak alive for 2 whole decades!
Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just curious to see what the fuss is all about, we’re pretty convinced that attending a BC Lions game would be unforgettable.
Cheer on Your Favorite Soccer Team
Website: https://www.whitecapsfc.com/matchday/bc-place
If you’re a fan of soccer, you may catch the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in action at the stadium! They’ve been kicking it since 1974, bringing loads of excitement to Vancouver’s soccer scene.
What’s really cool is how the team feeds off fans’ electric vibes. But be warned, you might get drained by the nonstop chants and cheers throughout the entire 90-minute game!
With affordable tickets and high-energy entertainment, we also think Whitecaps FC matches are perfect for fans of all ages.
See a Thrilling Concert
Website: https://www.bcplace.com/plan-exhibit/host-your-event/concerts-events
Contact Details: +1 604-669-2300, [email protected]
You know, BC Place Stadium isn’t just about sports games—it’s also the place to catch epic concerts from music icons like Paul McCartney and Taylor Swift.
With its awesome roof and huge space to party, we feel it’s like the heart of live entertainment for Vancouverites.
And speaking of tickets, the stadium’s got your back with Ticketmaster’s SafeTix system. They’ve made sure your mobile tickets are super secure, so no worries about them getting swiped or copied.
Explore the BC Sports Hall of Fame
Website: https://bcsportshall.com/
Location: Gate A at 777 Pacific Boulevard South, near Beatty Street and Robson
Contact Details: 604-687-5520
Admission Fees:
- Adults (ages 15 to 64) – $20
- Seniors (ages 65+) – $16
- Youth (ages 5 to 14) – $12
- Students (with ID) – $17.50
- Kids (ages 4 and under) – no charge
- Family (2 adults and 2 youth) – $55
Ready to explore some sports history? The iconic Vancouver stadium offers you the BC Sports Hall of Fame, where you can discover the achievements of many Vancouver and Canadian athletes.
Inside, you’ll discover a treasure trove of artifacts, including items from legends like Terry Fox and Rick Hansen. Even if sports aren’t your thing, we say the colorful displays and fascinating memorabilia still make it worth a visit.
But if you’re serious about sports, we suggest joining Club 1966. This membership is your ticket to exclusive events and exhibits, plus sweet discounts on merchandise and facility rentals.
Experience Trade Shows and Exhibitions
Website: https://www.bcplace.com/plan-exhibit/host-your-event/consumer-shows
Contact Details: +1 604-669-2300, [email protected]
Beyond games and concerts, you can explore trade shows and exhibits at BC Place Stadium. It has a vast area of 162,000 sq. ft. column-free floor space, with an extra 80,000 sq. ft. for shows—no wonder it’s a prime location for major events here!
With its in-house teams overseeing BC’s biggest events since 1983, we feel pretty good about their honed expertise in managing these dynamic shows.
From the Vancouver International Boat Show to the BC Home and Garden Show, there’s always something exciting happening here. Who knows? You might discover a new interest or hobby during your visit!
Where to Eat near the BC Place Stadium
Frankie’s Italian Kitchen & Bar
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Website: https://www.frankiesitaliankitchen.ca/
Address: 765 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-688-6368, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Nestled right by BC Place Stadium, Frankie’s Italian Kitchen & Bar is like stepping into southern Italy with its cozy vibes and delicious eats. It’s named after Raffaele’s granddad, Francesco Raffaele Aiello, and you can feel that family warmth in every bite.
We think their menu is a real treat too—we recommend trying the homemade spaghetti and meatballs along with the hand-stretched Margherita pizza! And though their wine list doesn’t seem too fancy, we still like those Italian picks and local favorites.
And the best part? This Italian restaurant lets you chill out to live jazz and blues 4 nights a week! So whether you’re grabbing a bite before the big game or just looking for a laid-back dinner spot, Frankie’s is a delightful pick.
The Victor
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Website: https://www.parqvancouver.com/food-drink/the-victor/
Address: 39 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC V6B 0R3, Canada
Contact Details: +1 778-370-8600, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$$
The Victor isn’t just your run-of-the-mill restaurant near the famous sports arena—it’s a cool remix of surf and turf, with fresh seafood, awesome steaks, and even a sushi bar.
From the way we see it, Chef Garett here seems to know his stuff. From juicy wagyu meatballs to the mouthwatering green peppercorn steak, we believe it’s a flavor explosion! We’re pretty stoked about the cocktails too.
The restaurant’s also got all these fancy fixtures, oak tables, and comfy leather seats that make you feel like you’re dining in some old-school palace. We were also in awe of the views of False Creek, to top it all off.
Gringo Gastown
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Website: http://www.gringorestaurants.com/
Address: 27 Blood Alley Square, Vancouver, BC V6B 0C4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-673-0513, [email protected]
Pricing: $
Craving an affordable late-night feast after a long day at the BC Place Stadium? Gringo Gastown is the way to go! Think neon lights, classic ’80s and ’90s tunes, and an array of mouthwatering tacos and cold beers.
You’ll find big portions here too! Indulge in hearty tacos, oversized burritos, or quesadillas. Plus, there are tongue-in-cheek twists on Mexi-Cali classics, like Kung Fu (Kung Pao-marinated tofu) and Beany Baby (refried beans).
All in all, the simplicity of the food selection is handy for us, making it easy to decide on something quickly. We also love that the menu is ever-changing, so you won’t easily get bored.
Keto Caveman Café
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Website: https://www.cavemancafe.ca/
Address: 508 Abbott St, Vancouver, BC V6B 6N9, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-700-2504
Pricing: $
Conveniently located in the International Village Mall near the big dome, Keto Caveman Café is a gem offering a jungle-themed atmosphere and creative paleo, keto, and vegan dishes.
We’re hooked on their mouthwatering dishes, from the savory keto zoodles to the indulgent carrot cake. And despite the occasional hiccup like soggy pizza crust, we still find the array of delicious and diet-friendly choices here impressive.
And here’s the scoop: they even whip up custom cakes and cater for big celebrations! This looks convenient, especially if you want a post-game victory or just a craving for something extraordinary.
Alibi Room
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Website: http://alibi.ca/
Address: 157 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B8, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-623-3383
Pricing: $$
For over 25 years, the Alibi Room near BC Place Stadium has been a go-to for beer lovers and foodies. With 50 taps of local and global brews, plus curated wines and inventive cocktails, it’s a haven for alcohol aficionados.
Led by Head Chef Stefano Cipriani Roma, the kitchen dishes out comforting pub fare with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. For us, you can’t go wrong with their vegan and vegetarian dishes, such as the squash tacos and snack poutine, respectively.
Housed in a century-old heritage building, the restaurant also gives off a cozy vibe. We think this is perfect, whether you’re popping in for a happy hour or just hanging out with friends.
Where to Stay near the BC Place Stadium
L’Hermitage Hotel
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Website: https://www.lhermitagevancouver.com/
Address: 788 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 0C7, Canada
Contact Details: +1 778-327-4100, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
L’Hermitage Hotel offers an elegant retreat after a tiring day at the event hub. Blending Parisian chic with West Coast vibes, it’s ideal for travelers seeking comfort and style.
Featuring plush bedding, Italian-marble bathrooms, and posh amenities like in-room Nespresso, we reckon modern comfort is at your fingertips here! In our opinion, the fully-equipped German kitchens also add a luxurious touch.
You can also enjoy perks like an outdoor pool, a fitness studio, and bikes. And with the hotel’s central location, you’re just steps away from the iconic landmark, Canada Place!
YWCA Hotel Vancouver
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Website: https://ywcavan.org/hotel
Address: 733 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-895-5830, [email protected]
Pricing: $
The YWCA Hotel is a welcoming and wallet-friendly spot in downtown Vancouver. It’s also big on supporting community programs for single moms and families—perfect for winding down after cheering on your favorite team at BC Place Stadium.
What’s cool for us is that they’ve got options for every budget. Comfy stays are the name of the game, and those fully-equipped guest kitchens? They’re a hub of community vibes and budget-friendly meals.
Sure, there are shared washrooms and snug rooms here. But here’s the redeeming factor—it’s super kid-friendly! They offer resources for family-friendly tours and activities for a hassle-free trip.
Georgian Court Hotel, WorldHotels Elite
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Website: https://www.georgiancourthotelvancouver.com/
Address: 773 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2M4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-682-5555, +1 800 663 1155 (toll-free), [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Just steps from the epic sports arena and other hotspots, the Georgian Court Hotel shines brightly in Vancouver’s boutique scene. With 180 spacious rooms and luxe penthouse suites, it combines old-world charm with modern comfort really well.
Fresh from a makeover, the hotel’s rooms are like a serene oasis in the heart of the city. With those high ceilings and thoughtful touches, we reckon you’ll feel right at home after a day of cheering at the stadium.
Sure, the hotel’s renovation contractors are here now and then, so parking can be a bit tight. But there’s a silver lining: we think those super comfy lounge chairs and fancy rain shower heads inside are worth raving about.
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Vancouver-Downtown
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/yvrhshx-hampton-suites-vancouver-downtown/
Address: 111 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2A8, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-602-1008
Pricing: $$
The Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Vancouver-Downtown offers a snug stay just steps away from BC Place Stadium. Rise and shine with amenities like a free hot breakfast and complimentary WiFi, plus a fitness center to keep you energized.
What’s really cool for us is that their rooftop terrace offers killer city views—perfect for those Insta-worthy moments. And speaking of convenience, they’ve got USB outlets in rooms and even a fitness center with a ping pong table! Talk about fun, right?
While parking might be a tad pricey, the hotel’s modern vibe, killer location near the best shopping spots, and those sweet in-room kitchenettes tick all the boxes for a fab getaway. They’re pet-friendly too—no need to leave your furry buddies behind.
Hotel BLU
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Website: https://www.hotelbluvancouver.com/
Address: 177 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2A8, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-620-6200, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Hotel BLU is all about that luxurious vibe and laid-back West Coast charm. They’ve got everything, from sleek rooms to eco-friendly touches. And from this hotel, you can practically roll out of bed and into the buzzing stadium!
Now, some folks are all about the breakfast—you know, digging into pancakes and bacon right at the hotel. But if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t sweat! There are plenty of cafes around too.
And if you’re bringing along your furry buddy, just make sure to peek at those pet policies—you don’t want any surprise fees later.
Tips When Visiting BC Place Stadium in Vancouver
Now that you know the stadium inside and out, here are some more handy tips to complete your experience:
Plan like a pro. Get ahead of the game! Check out event schedules, alternative parking options, and transit routes before you head to BC Place Stadium.
Keep it comfy. Slip into your coziest clothes and shoes so you can jump, dance, and cheer without any wardrobe malfunctions. And don’t forget to layer up—Vancouver weather likes to keep us on our toes!
Know your way around. Take a quick tour! Scope out the stadium layout, find the nearest bathrooms and snack spots, and make a mental note of those emergency exits.
Stay cool and hydrated. Bring along your trusty reusable water bottle and fill it up at one of the stadium’s handy water refill stations.
Connect and celebrate. Let’s get social, shall we? Strike up conversations with fellow fans, share your game-day excitement, and make some happy memories while you’re at it!
Apps to Download When Going to the BC Place Stadium
Ticketmaster: Buy and manage verified event tickets
iOs | Android
Transit: Track nearby transit options, departure times, and transit schedules
iOs | Android
