BC Place

BC Place stands as one of Canada's most architecturally innovative and culturally significant sports venues, serving as a symbol of Vancouver's transformation from Expo 86 host city to international sports destination since opening in 1983. Located in downtown Vancouver at 777 Pacific Boulevard, this 54,500-seat multi-purpose facility has evolved from housing the world's largest air-supported dome to featuring the world's largest cable-supported retractable roof, demonstrating nearly four decades of continuous adaptation to meet changing sporting and entertainment demands. The stadium's origins trace to Vancouver's ambitious preparations for Expo 86, with construction beginning in 1980 under the direction of structural engineers Geiger Berger Associates. The original design featured an revolutionary air-supported roof covering 10.25 acres, held aloft by 16 giant fans and composed of two gossamer fabric layers just 1/30 of an inch thick. This engineering marvel, similar in concept to Minneapolis's Metrodome, created an enclosed environment that could accommodate the diverse requirements of a World's Fair while establishing BC Place as an iconic addition to Vancouver's skyline. The stadium officially opened on June 19, 1983, with its first major sporting event occurring the following day when the Vancouver Whitecaps hosted the Seattle Sounders before 60,342 fans. Three days later, the BC Lions played their inaugural game, defeating the Calgary Stampeders and establishing BC Place as the permanent home for both soccer and Canadian football in Vancouver. The venue's early years included hosting Pope John Paul II in 1984 and serving as the centerpiece for Expo 86, where Prince Charles and Princess Diana presided over opening ceremonies. Following the 2010 Winter Olympics, where BC Place hosted the opening and closing ceremonies, the facility underwent a transformative $563 million revitalization that replaced the aging air-supported dome with cutting-edge retractable roof technology. The project, completed in 2011, installed 36 steel masts weighing 120 tons each, 36 compression beams of 160 tons each, and 35 kilometers of steel cable up to 125mm in diameter. The retractable section measures 109 yards by 93 yards, covering the entire playing surface and requiring 20 minutes to fully open or close. This modernization established BC Place as home to the world's largest cable-supported retractable roof while maintaining its status as a premier multi-sport venue. The facility currently accommodates the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League, Vancouver Whitecaps FC of Major League Soccer, and the annual Canada Sevens rugby competition, demonstrating remarkable versatility in adapting to diverse sporting requirements. The renovation enhanced fan experience through comprehensive upgrades including 50,000 new seats, improved mechanical and electrical systems, enhanced concourses and entrances, and installation of one of the world's largest LED screens. The facility features over 40 concession options showcasing Vancouver's diverse culinary scene, from Bombay South Asian Kitchen to Seoul Food, while The Thirsty Pigeon offers rotating selections from local breweries. BC Place's downtown location provides exceptional accessibility through multiple transportation options, including Vancouver SkyTrain service to Stadium-Chinatown station, comprehensive bus connections, and False Creek Ferry service. The venue's integration with Vancouver's entertainment district places it steps from Rogers Arena and within walking distance of numerous restaurants, hotels, and attractions. For visitors, BC Place offers an immersive experience that extends beyond sports through the integrated BC Sports Hall of Fame, featuring interactive displays and exhibits celebrating British Columbia's athletic heritage. The venue's evolution from Expo 86 centerpiece to modern retractable-roof stadium reflects Vancouver's own transformation into a world-class international destination, making BC Place both a architectural achievement and a symbol of the city's enduring commitment to hosting major global events.