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BC Place Stadium
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Landmark
BC Place Stadium is a prominent multi-purpose arena located in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, situated alongside False Creek. Opened in 1983, it was originally the world's largest air-supported domed stadium until a major renovation in 2011. This renovation introduced the world's largest cable-supported retractable roof system, which can open 7,500 square metres of sky above the playing surface. The stadium serves as the home for the BC Lions (CFL) and Vancouver Whitecaps FC (MLS) and was the primary venue for the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Its modern glass facade and advanced LED lighting system allow the structure to display bustling colours across the city skyline at night. It is a key hub for professional sports and a premier venue for major international concerts and cultural events in the Pacific Northwest.
- Location: Canada
- Top sights: Vancouver Police Museum · Chinese Canadian Military Museum Society · Queen Elizabeth Theatre
- Nearby: North Vancouver (City) (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 8 | 2 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 323 | 165 | 253 | 145 | 96 | 84 | 50 | 61 | 122 | 233 | 348 | 295 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
BC Place Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Vancouver, visitable during events. Behind-the-scenes tours are available on non-event days; advance booking is recommended.
Typical hours
The stadium typically opens two hours before event start. Tours are usually offered on weekdays at scheduled times published on the website.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the stadium's public areas, but during events restrictions on flash and professional gear may apply. The retractable roof is a popular subject.
Time needed
A stadium tour lasts about one hour. If attending a game, allow extra time for entry and refreshments.
Combine with
Combine the stadium visit with a walk to nearby Science World or along False Creek. The Olympic Village is also a short distance away.
Getting there
BC Place Stadium is downtown Vancouver, directly accessible by SkyTrain's Stadium-Chinatown station. Many bus routes also stop nearby, with limited parking.
Insider tip
Book tickets for games or tours in advance online, as they often sell out. For events, arrive early to avoid long queues at the gates.
Geography
Facts
- Opened on June 19, 1983, as Canada's first indoor domed stadium.
- The cable-supported retractable roof was installed between 2010 and 2011.
- The stadium's capacity for sporting events is approximately 54,500.
- The first Canadian venue to host an Olympic opening ceremony indoors.
- The exterior lighting features more than 1,700 programmable LED lights.
- The 2011 renovation cost roughly 514 million Canadian dollars.
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Sights in the town BC Place Stadium (15)
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Frequently asked questions
What kind of roof does BC Place have?
It features the world's largest cable-supported retractable roof of its kind.
Which teams are based here?
It is home to the BC Lions (CFL) and Vancouver Whitecaps FC (MLS).
Where is the stadium located?
It is located on the edge of False Creek in downtown Vancouver.
Was it used for the Olympics?
Yes, it hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Is there Wi-Fi in the stadium?
Yes, free high-speed Wi-Fi is available for fans during events.
BC Place Stadium: where is it located?
BC Place Stadium is located in Canada.
BC Place Stadium: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vancouver Police Museum, Chinese Canadian Military Museum Society, Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
BC Place Stadium: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
BC Place Stadium: why is it worth visiting?
BC Place Stadium is a prominent multi-purpose arena located in downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, situated alongside False Creek.
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