BC Place, Vancouver
Facts and practical information
BC Place is a premier sporting venue located in the heart of Vancouver, Canada, and serves as a central hub for major sports events and entertainment in the region. This iconic stadium, with its distinctive retractable roof—the largest of its kind in the world—offers an all-weather facility for a wide array of spectacles, ranging from football and soccer matches to concerts and trade shows.
Constructed for the Expo 86 World's Fair, BC Place has been an integral part of Vancouver's landscape since its opening in June 1983. It is home to the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League (CFL) and Vancouver Whitecaps FC of Major League Soccer (MLS), drawing thousands of sports enthusiasts to its stands.
The stadium underwent a significant renovation that was completed in 2011, which included the installation of the new retractable roof, providing an open-air experience when the weather permits and a covered arena during inclement conditions. The upgrade also featured a revitalized interior with improved seating, state-of-the-art video screens, and enhanced amenities, ensuring a world-class experience for up to 54,500 spectators.
BC Place is not just a sports venue; it is a versatile event space that has hosted several high-profile events, including the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympics, the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup, and various concerts featuring international superstars. Its central location in downtown Vancouver makes it easily accessible by public transportation and provides stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains.
The venue is committed to sustainability, with initiatives such as waste reduction, energy conservation, and community engagement programs, reflecting Vancouver's green ethos. BC Place is open to visitors throughout the year, offering guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the stadium's facilities and operations.
BC Place – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Science World, Rogers Arena, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, Swing bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which popular attractions are close to BC Place?
How to get to BC Place by public transport?
Trolleybus
- Smithe St at Expo Blvd • Lines: 17 (4 min walk)
- Cambie Street at Robson Street • Lines: 6 (5 min walk)
Bus
- North Shore TransLink Layover (5 min walk)
- Pacific Blvd at Marinaside Cres • Lines: 23 (6 min walk)
Ferry
- Plaza of Nations Dock • Lines: Aquabus, False Creek Ferries Route 3 (6 min walk)
- Village Dock • Lines: Aquabus, False Creek Ferries Route 3 (11 min walk)
Metro
- Stadium–Chinatown • Lines: Expo Line (6 min walk)
- Yaletown-Roundhouse • Lines: Canada Line (13 min walk)
Train
- Waterfront (17 min walk)
- Vancouver Pacific Central (18 min walk)