Rogers Centre Travel Guide

Thinking about catching a game or event at Toronto’s iconic baseball stadium? The Rogers Centre stands out as one of North America’s most unique sports venues. It’s home to the Toronto Blue Jays and plenty more. If you’re curious, this 60-minute guided tour gets you into places regular fans never see—think the field, dugout, and some pretty exclusive stadium spots.

Right in downtown Toronto, Rogers Centre (some still call it SkyDome, honestly) has a fully retractable roof, so you don’t have to worry about the weather. The stadium information guide lays out details on food, accommodations, and cool features to make your visit smoother.

Before you head in for a game, maybe swing by Steamwhistle brewery. It’s only a two-minute walk from the stadium and the patio gives you a great view of the park and the CN Tower. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even take a 7-minute helicopter tour over Toronto and see the stadium from above—definitely a different perspective.

Overview of Rogers Centre

Rogers Centre sits in downtown Toronto, mixing innovative architecture with a storied baseball history. The stadium mainly hosts the Toronto Blue Jays, but it also gives visitors a memorable sports experience right in the city core.

History and Architecture

They opened the stadium as SkyDome back in June 1989, and it was the world’s first with a fully retractable roof. Pretty wild for the time. This roof, which weighs over 11,000 tons, opens or closes in about 20 minutes—so you can watch the sky change before first pitch.

You’ll find the stadium right by Toronto’s harbor and the CN Tower, so the skyline views are tough to beat. Guided tours let you check out exclusive field and dugout areas that most fans never see.

With about 49,000 seats for baseball, the place has all sorts of sections. Premium infield seats give you awesome views and sometimes autograph opportunities.

Naming and Ownership

The stadium started as SkyDome after a naming contest that drew more than 150,000 entries. A lot of locals and baseball fans still call it that, no matter what the signs say—SkyDome just has a ring to it.

In 2005, Rogers Communications bought both the stadium and the Blue Jays, and quickly rebranded the place as Rogers Centre. They’ve kept ownership since then and updated the venue quite a bit to keep things fresh for fans.

You can still explore the stadium with 60-minute guided tours that take you through the highlights. Whenever there’s a Blue Jays game, the place fills up—Toronto really loves its baseball.

Events and Activities

Rogers Centre packs its calendar with all kinds of events, from high-energy baseball games to big concerts. There’s always something happening here.

Toronto Blue Jays Home Games

The Toronto Blue Jays play their home games at Rogers Centre during the MLB season, which usually runs from April through September. On game days, the stadium buzzes with energy—there’s nothing quite like the crack of the bat and the crowd’s roar.

It’s not just about baseball, either. They run all sorts of promotions—bobblehead giveaways, fireworks nights, theme days.

If you’re a die-hard fan, try to grab seats behind home plate or along the base lines. If you’re looking to save some cash, the 500 level has decent views for less.

Arrive early for batting practice, usually about two hours before the game. You might snag a home run ball or catch a glimpse of players up close.

When it comes to food, you’ll find the usual ballpark classics plus Toronto favorites. Poutine and local craft beers are must-tries if you ask me.

Other Sporting Events

Rogers Centre isn’t just for baseball. The Toronto Argonauts of the CFL sometimes play home games here, which brings a totally different vibe.

The Buffalo Bills have played NFL games at Rogers Centre as part of their Toronto Series. These NFL games pull in fans from both Canada and the U.S.

Monster truck shows like Monster Jam show up regularly, turning the field into a wild obstacle course. They even run pit parties before the show so you can meet drivers and check out the trucks.

Wrestling fans get their fix too, with WWE events popping up a few times a year. The stadium’s flexible seating means you can see the action from just about anywhere.

Concerts and Entertainment

When the big tours come through Toronto, Rogers Centre often hosts them. The retractable roof means concerts go on, rain or shine, which is a relief if you’ve ever sat through a downpour at a show.

Major artists like The Rolling Stones, Beyoncé, U2, and Taylor Swift have all played here. Concert schedules usually drop a few months ahead, so keep an eye out.

Seating depends on the show. Floor tickets get you closest, but you’ll probably be standing. The lower bowl is comfier and still has great views.

Sound quality can be hit or miss—100 and 200 levels are usually solid, but up high you might notice some echo.

If you’re coming in for a concert, consider booking a hotel nearby. Shows can run late, and both the Delta Toronto and Marriott City Centre have indoor walkways straight to the stadium.

Trade Fairs and Conventions

Rogers Centre handles big exhibitions and trade shows, too. The climate-controlled space works year-round, which is handy in Toronto’s unpredictable weather.

You might find home and garden expos, car shows, or electronics fairs taking over the floor. These events usually bring in tons of vendors and interactive booths.

Sometimes, you can join guided tours during major convention setups to see how they transform the stadium. It’s honestly kind of fascinating.

Companies can book private events in different parts of the stadium, with catering and tech support for anything from meetings to huge conferences.

If you’re heading to a convention, check the Rogers Centre Information Guide for the right entrances and amenities. Each event uses specific gates and sections.

Location and Accessibility

You’ll find Rogers Centre right in downtown Toronto, so getting there is pretty straightforward. Its location puts you close to all the main attractions and transit options.

Getting to Rogers Centre

Public transit is your friend here. Union Station, the city’s main hub, sits just a 10-minute walk from the stadium. From there, you can connect to:

• TTC subway
• GO Transit trains
• VIA Rail
• UP Express to the airport

If you’re driving, you’ll find several parking lots around Rogers Centre—but they fill up fast on game days. Your options include:

• Official Rogers Centre garages
• Nearby public lots
• Some street parking (though it’s pretty limited)

Honestly, if you’re staying downtown, just walk. The PATH underground walkway connects you to the stadium, which is a lifesaver in winter.

Nearby Landmarks

Rogers Centre sits right next to some of Toronto’s best sights. The CN Tower is literally next door, and you can hit both in one trip.

Other nearby spots:

• Ripley’s Aquarium (2 minutes away)
• Steamwhistle Brewery (5-minute walk)
• Lake Ontario waterfront (10 minutes)
• Entertainment District (5 minutes)

The Harbourfront area along the lake has great walking paths and seasonal stuff to check out. Hotels like the Marriott City Centre and Delta Toronto are super close, so you don’t have to go far after a late event.

Accessibility Accommodations

Rogers Centre does a solid job with accessibility. The main accessible entrance is Gate 7 on the south side, but you can use any gate. Gate 7 just makes things easier if you need extra support.

They’ve got:

• Wheelchair seating throughout
• Elevators to all levels
• Accessible restrooms
• Staff to help with mobility needs
• Wheelchair service if you ask

If you need special accommodations, reach out when you buy your tickets. Staff can help you get to your seats if you need a hand. Accessible parking is available, but it’s smart to arrive early to grab a spot.

Tickets and Visitor Information

Buying tickets for Blue Jays games at Rogers Centre is pretty straightforward, and you’ve got a few options depending on your plans and budget.

Ticket Purchasing Options

You can grab Blue Jays tickets in a few ways. The official MLB website is the safest bet, with real-time seat maps and instant confirmation.

Prices change depending on who the Jays are playing, the day, and where you want to sit. Big games against teams like the Yankees or Red Sox usually cost more. Most games offer these sections:

• 100 Level – Closest to the field
• 200 Level – Club seats with perks
• 500 Level – Cheaper seats up top

Season tickets are the way to go if you’re planning to come often. They also sell mini-packs if you want to catch a handful of games.

Mobile tickets are standard now. Download the MLB Ballpark app—it makes getting in and finding your way around a breeze.

Box Office and Will Call

You’ll find the Rogers Centre box office at Gate 9, near the northeast corner. It opens three hours before weekday games and three and a half hours before weekend games.

Will Call is at the same spot. Bring your photo ID and the card you used to buy the tickets. Lines can get long for big games, so try to arrive early.

For groups of 20 or more, there’s a special window and you can get discounts or deals with food vouchers.

If you’re visiting from outside Canada, remember that ticket prices are in Canadian dollars and include HST. They take major credit cards and Canadian cash at the box office.

Parking and Transportation

Getting to Rogers Centre is pretty easy, with lots of transportation options. Just pick what works best for your schedule, budget, and how you like to travel.

Parking Facilities and Options

Rogers Centre has on-site parking in its underground garage, but the price is steep—$45 on game days. It’s definitely the most direct way in, though spots disappear fast, especially if you’re going to a big game.

You’ll find several cheaper alternatives nearby, all within a short walk. Some of the main options:

• Rees & Queens Quay lots
• Downtown parking garages
• Street parking (though it’s pretty limited)

If you want to save cash, try lots within walking distance. They usually cost less and still get you close enough. Most fans swear by arriving early, especially on weekends or if the Jays are in the playoffs.

Booking your parking spot online ahead of time can cut down on hassle and sometimes even save a few bucks. A few lots offer special rates for events, but you’ll want to check in advance.

Public Transit Access

Honestly, public transit is the easiest way to get to Rogers Centre. Union Station sits just a brief walk from the stadium and acts as the main hub.

Your main transit choices:

1. TTC Subway: Closest stop is Union Station on Line 1
2. GO Transit: Trains and buses from the suburbs roll right into Union
3. UP Express: Direct train from Pearson Airport to Union

You can get downtown pretty quickly on public transit, and before and after games, they run more trains and buses to handle the crowds.

If you’re coming from out of town, the GO Train connects a bunch of suburbs to Union Station, so you don’t have to worry about parking. On game days, trains run often, and your GO ticket covers the return trip within a certain timeframe.

Food and Beverage Options

Rogers Centre gives fans a bunch of choices when it comes to food. Whether you’re after classic ballpark eats or something with a Toronto twist, you’ll find it inside the stadium and all around downtown.

Concessions Inside Rogers Centre

You’ll spot tons of food stands on every concourse level. The usual suspects are there—hot dogs, fries, pizza, ice cream, and snacks—easy to grab and go.

Some of the more interesting picks:

• Cotton candy fries and the Plakata Skewer tribute to Vladimir Guerrero
• Canadian classics like poutine and maple-flavored snacks
• Premium sandwiches and burgers made with local ingredients

They’ve got gluten-friendly, halal, vegan, and vegetarian options too, which is nice. And if you bring your own bottle, you can refill it at water fountains around the concourse.

Prices are, well, stadium prices—kind of rough. Sometimes it’s just easier on the wallet to eat before you go in.

Nearby Dining and Bars

Downtown Toronto’s packed with great spots for food and drinks before or after the game, all within walking distance.

Fan favorites nearby:

• Steam Whistle Brewing – Right across from the stadium, with craft beer and classic pub food
• Real Sports Bar – Huge sports bar with a million screens and a solid menu
• King Street West – A whole row of restaurants, about a ten-minute walk away

Prince Street Pizza on Front Street (just west of Spadina) is a big hit with fans. Their Spicy Spring pizza gets a lot of love and costs less than stadium grub. You can even bring a whole pizza inside Rogers Centre—pretty sweet.

On game days, the area outside the stadium buzzes with food trucks and pop-up stands. Lots of bars nearby run Blue Jays drink specials and pre-game deals, hoping to draw in fans.

Seating and Sections Guide

Rogers Centre has a range of seating options, so you can usually find something that fits your budget and how you like to watch the game. Knowing the layout helps you pick your ideal spot, whether you’re there for the Jays or something else.

Types of Seating

You’ll find a few main seating areas. The 100 level premium infield seats put you right by the action—great for autograph hunting and feeling close to the game.

The “In The Action” seats behind home plate or the dugouts really immerse you. If you need accessible seating, portable chairs are available in several sections.

Upper deck (the 500s) is more affordable but still gives you a decent view. Outfield seats are fun if you’re hoping to catch a home run—right field gets a lot of action.

You can check your section ahead of time with the downloadable seating map from the Blue Jays’ site.

Best Seats for Different Events

For Jays games, seats behind home plate (TD Comfort Clubhouse) offer the best view of pitches and plays. If you’re bringing kids, try the 100-level outfield—lots of foul balls and home runs end up there.

For concerts, the 100-level sides usually have the best sound and stage views. Floor seats sound cool, but unless you’re up front, you might not see much.

For other events, 200-level seats often hit a sweet spot between view and price. Interactive seating charts let you preview your view before you buy.

The roof (open or closed) can change how comfortable some sections feel, especially if you’re in the sun during a day game.

Tips for an Enjoyable Visit

You’ll have a much better time at Rogers Centre if you plan ahead. Knowing what to expect helps you focus on the game instead of scrambling at the last minute.

Stadium Policies and Security

Rogers Centre takes security seriously. Don’t bring bags bigger than 9″ x 10″ x 2″—they won’t let them in. Security checks all bags at the gates.

You can bring outside food if it’s wrapped, bagged, or in a safe container. Sealed plastic water bottles up to 600ml are fine.

No smoking inside, including vapes and e-cigs. If you need to smoke, use the designated areas outside certain gates.

Rogers Centre doesn’t allow professional cameras with detachable lenses, selfie sticks, or drones. Regular cameras are okay for your own photos.

Weapons, laser pointers, noise makers, and hard-sided coolers are a no-go. Security uses wands at every entrance, so showing up early means you won’t miss the start of the game.

Suggested Items to Bring

Essential Items:

• Tickets (digital or printed)
• Photo ID
• Credit/debit card (a lot of vendors don’t take cash anymore)
• Small clear bag for your stuff
• Sunscreen (especially for day games or if your seat’s in the sun)
• Baseball cap or hat
• Light jacket (stadium air conditioning can get surprisingly chilly)

If you’re sitting in foul ball territory, why not bring a baseball glove? It makes things more fun and honestly, it’s smart for dodging those fast-moving balls.

During those hot summer games, a refillable water bottle is a real lifesaver. You’ll find water fountains all over the concourse, so you can fill up whenever.

If you’re bringing kids, toss in some small snacks, hand sanitizer, and maybe noise-canceling headphones if they’re sensitive to loud noises. The crowd can get pretty wild during big plays—some kids love it, but for others, it’s a bit much.