BC Place tickets

Stadium history, capacity, and specifications

Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, the venue, which will be known as "Vancouver Stadium" throughout the World Cup, is known for its cutting-edge design and reputation for delivering world-class fan experiences.

BC Place opened its doors in 1983, with an original construction cost of CAD $297 million. Since then, the stadium has undergone extensive renovations, bringing the total investment to an estimated CAD $819 million. Now it boasts the largest retractable roof in the world and an exterior wrapped in thousands of LED lights to create a dazzling "Northern Lights" display at night.

Currently home to MLS side the Vancouver Whitecaps, BC Place is known for being more than just a sports venue, hosting everything from Olympic ceremonies to major concerts by artists like Beyoncé, U2, and Ed Sheeran. However, while BC Place is already an impressive venue, it will undergo some upgrades ahead of the World Cup, including:

• Replacement of artificial turf with natural grass grown in the Fraser Valley.
• Creation of new premium spaces, including the Field Club Lounge and Corner Club, featuring direct pitch views, private bars, and dedicated entrances.
• Improved accessibility with new elevators, upgraded entrances, and additional washrooms, including gender-neutral facilities.
• Renovations to suites, banquet rooms, press areas, and food courts for a better fan experience.
• Addition of new merchandise stores and enhanced connections to nearby hospitality venues such as the Parq hotel and casino complex.
• Estimated cost of $171–181 million CAD, marking the most significant upgrade since the 2011 renovation that introduced the retractable roof.

BC Place atmosphere and World Cup experience

Fans in Vancouver are renowned for their passion and pride for their local sports teams. That energy will carry straight into the World Cup, where a mix of international supporters and proud locals will create an electric atmosphere. Fans in this part of the country are celebrated for their passion, loyalty, and game-day traditions. Expect many to arrive hours before kick-off to enjoy the pre-match entertainment, food stalls, and fan zones while soaking up the atmosphere.

From the moment you step inside, you will be completely immersed in the occasion. BC Place's impressive retractable roof and panoramic views of Vancouver's skyline will provide a dramatic backdrop for the event, while the energy of the crowd will set the tone for an unforgettable matchday.

How to get to BC Place for World Cup 2026

If you are flying from the UK, the most convenient route is a direct flight from London Heathrow to Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The flight takes around 9½ hours, and YVR offers a range of transport options into the city and surrounding areas. The airport is located approximately 8 miles south of BC Place, with straightforward access by road.

To reach BC Place, rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available and provide a reliable option, particularly on matchdays. Travel time by car from YVR typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic, which can be busy around major events.

Public transport in Vancouver is well developed compared to many other World Cup cities. TransLink operates buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus services, and BC Place is within walking distance of Stadium–Chinatown SkyTrain Station, which connects to the wider network. Special event shuttles are also expected to operate during the tournament, offering a cost-effective choice if you are staying downtown.

Most visitors choose a mix of rideshare, public transport, or walking if they are nearby. You should allow extra time for matchday security checks, potential delays, and large crowds to ensure you arrive in time for kick-off.

Best seats at BC Place for World Cup 2026

Ahead of booking your tickets for a World Cup match at BC Place, you'll want to know exactly where you should sit. Below is a full guide:

Seat quality by section

Lower bowl seats offer the closest views and the most immersive experience. Upper tiers provide a panoramic perspective of the pitch and Vancouver's skyline. Behind-the-goal sections are great for atmosphere, while halfway line seats in the lower or middle tiers give the best balance of view and comfort.

VIP areas

Club seats on level 3 include private lounges, dedicated entrances, and food and drink service. Pitchside club seats in the first three rows offer proximity to the field and access to exclusive lounges. 50 private suites are available for groups, featuring concierge service and premium hospitality. Pitchside suites provide an on-field experience with perks such as post-match player interactions.

Best views

Seats near the halfway line in the lower or middle tier offer the clearest view of the action. Upper-tier seats provide a wide-angle view of the stadium and city backdrop for those who enjoy the full spectacle.

Restricted sight lines

Most seats have good visibility, but some high upper-tier or corner sections may have partial obstructions from support structures or screens. Avoid seats directly behind pillars or in extreme corners for an unobstructed view.

Seating map guide

BC Place has a circular seating bowl with sections numbered clockwise. Lower bowl sections are closest to the pitch, followed by middle and upper tiers. Premium areas, including club seats and suites, are concentrated on level 3 and pitchside rows.

Food and drinks at BC Place for World Cup 2026

A wide range of food and beverage options will be available at BC Place throughout the World Cup. Fans can expect classics like hot dogs, nachos, and burgers, along with dishes inspired by the city's multicultural roots, including poutine, gourmet sandwiches, and international street food options. While beverage stands will serve soft drinks, bottled water, and beer, alcohol sales will likely be restricted to designated areas.

Vegetarian food options are very likely to be available; however, vegan and gluten-free food may be more difficult to come by. If you do have specific dietary requirements, it might be a good idea to check what options are available to you closer to the time. In order to avoid long queues for food and beverages, it's best to try at quieter times, e.g after kick-off or 10 minutes before half-time. This means you will avoid the pre-kick-off and half-time rush.

Parking at BC Place for World Cup 2026

Although it doesn't offer on-site parking, BC Place does offer numerous third-party lots and garages within a few blocks of the stadium. The lots can cost between £6–£18 per vehicle, while parking lots further afield can cost between £3-£6. If you arrive early enough, you can use one of these parking lots, but spaces are limited and can fill up quickly on matchdays; therefore, it is strongly recommended that you pre-book where possible.

If you would prefer not to drive, there are plenty of other options available. Dedicated park-and-ride shuttle services are expected to operate from key locations across Metro Vancouver during the World Cup.

For fans travelling from further out, SkyTrain provides one of the easiest ways to reach the stadium. Stadium–Chinatown Station on the Expo Line is just a short walk from BC Place and connects directly to downtown and the surrounding areas. Yaletown–Roundhouse Station on the Canada Line is also nearby, offering another convenient option.

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are very popular and will have designated drop-off and pick-up zones close to the venue for added convenience. Cycling is another option, with bike racks available around the stadium and along the nearby seawall paths.

Entrance procedures for BC Place

See below for advice on your arrival at BC Place and how you can maximise your experience:

• The gates at BC Place will open approximately 2.5 to 3 hours before kick-off, allowing fans to soak up the pre-match atmosphere.
• All attending fans are advised to allow at least 90 minutes to get through bag checks, ID verification, and security screening, as this can take quite some time to clear.
• At the gates, all attending fans must present a valid match ticket and a government-issued photo ID. If you do not, you are likely to be denied entry and turned away.
• Bags larger than a small backpack may be restricted, and all items will be subject to inspection.
• Security staff will guide fans through metal detectors and bag checks, and contactless ticket scanning will be in place to speed up entry.
• Fans who arrive early will likely face shorter queues and be able to enjoy the pre-match entertainment on offer at the stadium.

Prohibited items and stadium rules

As with any top-tier stadium, there is a list of prohibited items to maintain the safety and enjoyment of fans in the venue. Below is a guideline of what you cannot bring into the stadium:

• Alcohol (except alcohol sold at the stadium)
• Animals (except assistance animals)
• Banners (any object that blocks the view of others)
• Beach Balls
• Beverages (except drinks sold at the stadium)
• Video cameras
• Aerosol cans
• Cool boxes
• Bottles
• Drones
• Food (except food sold at the stadium)
• Soccer balls
• Fireworks
• Frisbees
• Lasers and Laser pointers
• Batons and pepper sprays
• Motorised scooters and skateboards
• Noise-making objects, bugles, or cornets
• Canes, sticks, or projectiles of any kind
• Smoking or vaping
• Selfie sticks
• Strollers
• Tripods
• Umbrellas
• Weapons of any kind, knives, or explosives

You're free to dress as you like when attending a match at BC Place, as long as your outfit isn't offensive, inappropriate, or inflammatory. Dress comfortably; light, breathable clothing is recommended given the Vancouver climate during the summer and the stadium's retractable roof design. But, just be mindful that none of your clothing obstructs the views of others. Supporter gear and national colours are all encouraged.

Any aggressive, abusive, or disruptive behaviour could lead to your removal from the stadium. Therefore, just follow the instructions of the staff members who are there to help you, to avoid any hassle.

Accessibility at BC Place

BC Place is widely recognised for its commitment to accessibility, offering a comprehensive range of facilities and services to support fans with mobility challenges and other access needs, including:

• Wheelchair-friendly gates, elevators to all levels, and a dedicated drop-off on Pacific Boulevard.
• Platforms for accessible seating throughout the stadium with companion ticket options.
• Accessible and family washrooms on every level.
• Certified service dogs allowed.
• Sensory bags and a quiet room near Section 251.
• Accessible parking available in nearby lots within walking distance.
• Close to SkyTrain stations with step-free routes.
• New elevators, improved entrances, and gender-neutral washrooms added for the World Cup.

BC Place neighbourhood guide

BC Place is located in Vancouver, British Columbia, on the edge of False Creek and is well connected for a range of activities. The stadium is close to the Yaletown neighbourhood, which offers a mix of restaurants, bars, and cafés, and is only a short walk from Vancouver's downtown.

If you are looking for things to do nearby, the waterfront around False Creek is perfect for a walk, with scenic views and easy access to attractions like Science World and the Plaza of Nations.

For family-friendly activities, you could visit the nearby Vancouver Aquarium in Stanley Park or explore the park's gardens and trails. In the evening, you can head into Downtown Vancouver for a wide range of dining options, live music, and entertainment.

Vancouver is a walkable city in many areas, but distances between attractions can be significant. Public transport, rideshare services, or cycling are the most convenient ways to move around.

Stadium tours at BC Place

As of now, it has not been confirmed whether stadium tours will be available at BC Place during the 2026 World Cup, but it does look unlikely. However, if they do run, the tour will offer a behind-the-scenes look at key areas of the stadium, including the pitch, team locker rooms, premium zones, press areas, and the players' tunnel.

Tours typically start from £22, depending on the package, and take around 2 hours. It is strongly recommended that you try to book as early as possible if they do take place, as available spots can fill up quickly, especially when major events like the World Cup are taking place.

Fan safety and security measures at World Cup 2026

Fan safety will be a top priority throughout the 2026 World Cup, with enhanced security measures in place across all host stadiums. When entering the stadium, fans must go through thorough bag checks, metal detectors, and ID verification. To ensure a smooth entry, ensure you take a look at the stadium rules outlined earlier in the guide and allow plenty of time to get through security, in case there are delays, which can be common close to kick-off.

Once you are in the stadium, trained stewards will be present and there to help, while emergency procedures, including evacuation routes and medical stations, will be clearly marked and supported by multilingual signage.

As you get to grips with your stadium surroundings, fans are advised to follow the instructions of stewards, stay alert, and report any behaviour you find suspicious. The stadium will work with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of all fans and players at the game.

FAQs

Seating & view questions

What is the best section for viewing a football match at BC Place?

Seats near the halfway line in the lower or middle tiers offer the clearest view of the pitch and a great balance of comfort and atmosphere. These sections put you right in the heart of the action.

Are there obstructed-view seats I should avoid at BC Place?

Most seats have good visibility, but avoid extreme corners or seats behind structural pillars and screens. These areas can limit your view of the pitch.

What are the viewing angles like from club level seats at BC Place?

Club level seats provide excellent sightlines with added perks like private lounges, dedicated entrances, and food and drink service. They’re ideal for fans who want a premium experience.

What is the difference between the seating tiers at BC Place?

Lower bowl seats are closest to the pitch for an immersive experience. Middle tiers give a balanced view, while upper tiers offer a panoramic perspective of the stadium and Vancouver’s skyline.

Are there family-friendly seating sections at BC Place?

Yes, family washrooms are available on every level, and quieter spaces like the sensory room near Section 251 make it easier for families and those needing a calmer environment.

Accessibility & special needs

What wheelchair accessible facilities are available at BC Place?

The stadium has wheelchair-friendly gates, elevators to all levels, accessible seating platforms, and family washrooms. Certified service dogs are welcome too.

Where are the accessible parking spaces located at BC Place?

Accessible parking is available in nearby lots within walking distance of the stadium. Pre-booking is strongly recommended for busy matchdays.

Are there designated accessible entrances at BC Place?

Yes, there are wheelchair-friendly gates and improved entrances designed for easy access.

What accommodations exist for deaf or hard-of-hearing fans at BC Place?

Sensory bags and a quiet room near Section 251 are available, and staff are trained to assist fans with additional needs.

Are there quiet/sensory spaces available at BC Place?

Yes, a dedicated quiet room near Section 251 provides a calm environment for those who need it.

Parking & transportation

How much does parking cost at BC Place?

Nearby lots cost around £6–£18, while those further away are £3–£6. Pre-booking is advised as spaces fill quickly.

How many parking spaces are available at BC Place?

There’s no on-site parking, but multiple third-party lots and garages are within a short walk of the stadium.

What public transport options are available to reach BC Place?

SkyTrain, buses, and SeaBus all serve the area. Stadium–Chinatown Station on the Expo Line is closest to the venue.

How long does it take to get from the airport to BC Place?

It’s about 20–30 minutes by car from Vancouver International Airport, depending on traffic.

Are there park-and-ride options for BC Place?

Yes, dedicated shuttles operate from key locations across Metro Vancouver.

What are the drop-off procedures at BC Place?

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have designated drop-off and pick-up zones close to the stadium for convenience.

Food, drinks & dining

What specific food options are available at BC Place?

Expect stadium favourites like hot dogs, burgers, and nachos, plus local dishes such as poutine and international street food.

Are there local/regional speciality foods at BC Place?

Yes, Canadian classics like poutine will feature alongside global flavours reflecting Vancouver’s multicultural food scene.

What are food prices like at BC Place?

Prices are typical for major stadiums, so expect to pay a premium for meals and drinks.

Are there alcohol sales at BC Place?

Yes, alcohol is sold in designated areas only, with strict controls in place.

Stadium amenities & facilities

Are there Wi-Fi and mobile signal coverage at BC Place?

Yes, free Wi-Fi and strong mobile coverage are available throughout the stadium.

Are there charging stations for phones at BC Place?

Yes, charging points are located around the venue for fan convenience.

Are there medical facilities inside BC Place?

Yes, medical stations are clearly marked and staffed for emergencies.

What is the stadium's architectural design and unique features?

BC Place boasts the world’s largest retractable roof and an LED “Northern Lights” display that lights up the exterior at night.

Entry & security

What time do gates open at BC Place?

Gates open around 2.5 to 3 hours before kick-off, giving fans time to enjoy pre-match entertainment.

How long does security screening take at BC Place?

Allow at least 90 minutes for bag checks, ID verification, and metal detectors.

What is the bag policy at BC Place?

Small backpacks are allowed, but all bags will be inspected. Larger bags may be restricted.

Can I bring a camera to BC Place?

Small personal cameras are fine, but video cameras and tripods are not permitted.

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BC Place - World Cup 2026

City	Country	Capacity	Key Matches
Vancouver	Canada	54,500	Group Stage

Other World Cup 2026 Stadiums in Canada

Stadium	City	Capacity	Key Matches
BMO Field	Toronto	45,500	Group Stage

World Cup 2026 Qualified Teams

Pot 1 (Top Seeds)	Pot 2	Pot 3	Pot 4
Spain	Croatia	Scotland	Ghana
Argentina	Morocco	Egypt	Cabo Verde
France	Uruguay	Tunisia	South Africa
England	Colombia	Algeria	Curaçao
Portugal	Japan	Ivory Coast	Haiti
Netherlands	Senegal	Saudi Arabia	Panama
Brazil	South Korea	Qatar	UEFA Playoff (Path A)
Belgium	Iran	Australia	UEFA Playoff (Path B)
Germany	Switzerland	Uzbekistan	UEFA Playoff (Path C)
United States (Host)	Austria	Jordan	UEFA Playoff (Path D)
Mexico (Host)	Norway	Paraguay	Inter-Confed Playoff 1
Canada (Host)	Ecuador	Venezuela	Inter-Confed Playoff 2

Useful Links

• Official FIFA World Cup 2026 website
• World Cup tickets
• Canada World Cup tickets
• World Cup final tickets
• How to buy World Cup tickets guide
• Find your accommodation in Vancouver
• Route to BC Place